Ally Network

Be an Ally

The Ally Network is a university-wide commitment to the inclusion, success and celebration of our students and colleagues of diverse genders, sexes and sexualities. Each Ally contributes to raising awareness at the University by making support for diversity visible and advocates for an environment free from harassment or discrimination based on a person’s sexuality, sex or gender identity.

An Ally is a point of contact for a student or staff member who may have a query or concern about aspects of their experience at University relating to their gender identity or sexuality diversity. Allies are members of the University community with a genuine commitment to the principles of equality and social justice and who volunteer to take on this role.

An Ally may not or may not identify as a person of diverse gender, sex or sexuality and actively support inclusiveness and equality at the University by:

  • being visible in affirming inclusion and respect for people of diverse gender, sex and sexuality,
  • maintaining confidentiality while assisting students and staff with matters they wish to discuss,
  • seeking to expand their knowledge and understanding of issues of concern for persons of diverse gender, sex and sexuality.
  • working in alignment with existing policies and practices that provide a framework for equality at SCU

Staff Allies act as a confidential point of contact for a student or staff member who may have a query or concern about their University experience relating to their gender identity, sex or sexuality diversity. Contact details for Staff Allies at each campus are listed online.

Student Allies act as a support and safe place for their peers through visibly supporting events and activities; by individual example and personal awareness and by helping peers navigate to the supports and services they need.

The Network is open to everyone, and we encourage people with diverse lived experiences to join. All staff and students are welcome to participate and stand together as allies, including those who identify in LGBTIQ+ communities and those who do not.

Allies are recruited and trained on an ongoing basis. The revised training will be available soon, register your interest in training by emailing equity@scu.edu.au

To join the Ally Network, you will need to:

  • Complete the Understanding Gender and Sexuality Diversity eLearning
  • Submit the Ally Network EOI form (provided upon completion of the training)

Understanding Gender and Sexuality Diversity eLearning

This training is an overview of gender and sexuality diversity and strengthens your understanding of diverse identities and LGBTIQA+ peoples and communities. It will introduce you to the LGBTIQA+ acronym and expand your understanding of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. It will allow you to reflect upon the unique lived experiences of LGBTIQA+ people and how to engage as an ally effectively. The interactive eLearning is delivered under three main topics: Awareness, Understanding and Action.

Both staff and students are welcome to complete this training for self-education and professional development. It is compulsory for staff and students who join the Ally Network.

Staff: training will be available via SCOUT in November 2023.

Student: training will be available via Blackboard Student Self-help and Resources Hub in October 2023.

If you have a query or concern relating to your University experience, please feel free to contact any of the staff Allies for support. The list of Allies will be available soon via the Student Self-help and Resources Hub in MySCU.

Alternatively, you can contact the Equity and Inclusion team at equity@scu.edu.au

Are you a student needing help?

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