Charter of Academic Freedom

The campuses of Western Sydney University sit on the traditional lands of the Darug, Eora, Dharawal (also referred to as Tharawal) and Wiradjuri First Nation Peoples. Acknowledging the traditions and learning cultures of these peoples, Western Sydney University declares its commitment to academic freedom and freedom of speech as fundamental to foster intellectual, cultural and scientific activity for the advancement of society. The University affirms its responsibility to promote intellectual freedom in all areas of scholarship in accordance with its mission. Furthermore, the University is committed to ensuring all members of its scholarly community, inclusive of academic staff, adjunct and visiting fellows, students and their representative bodies, have the opportunity to freely inquire, discuss and challenge ideas.

The success of the University and the Western Sydney region is dependent on the ability of scholars to pursue knowledge for its own sake, to debate and deliberate freely through informed discussions and to protect these rights within the academy. These freedoms are to be exercised responsibly and with tolerance in accordance with the law, the Model Code and the obligations, codes and policies of the University.

The University, consistent with its mission, values and principles, asserts the freedom of its scholars to:

Western Sydney University adopts the Principles in Part 2 of the Model Code for the protection of academic freedom and freedom of speech and declares its commitment to upholding these Principles.