Griffith University main policy or policies regarding freedom of speech and academic freedom.

The University’s Council approved the Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech Policy effective from 1 July 2020.

The policy outlines the University’s commitment to the protection of academic freedom and freedom of speech and applies to all University staff and students and to external and invited visitors to the University. It is closely aligned to the French Model Code.

16 Peace, justice and strong institutions

Sustainable Development Goals

Griffith University is aligned with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is committed to promoting the values of peace, justice and accountability, to contribute to a more just and equitable world where everyone can enjoy their fundamental rights and live in harmony.

University support for a culture committed to freedom of speech and academic freedom including engagement with student representative bodies to promote their adoption of similar policies.

The University’s support can be demonstrated as follows:

  • Clause 49 of the  Griffith University Academic Staff Enterprise Agreement 2023 – 2025 outlines the rights and responsibilities of academic employees of the University with respect to Intellectual and Academic Freedom.
  • In March 2021, the Vice Chancellor published a co-authored book Open Minds Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech in Australia.  The Vice Chancellor has spoken at a number of forums including to University HR Directors and AHEIA (Australian Higher Education Industrial Association) to promote adherence to freedom of speech and academic freedom in universities.
  • In 2023, Griffith University expressed its support for an Indigenous Voice in the terms set out in the proposed referendum change to the Constitution. In doing so, Griffith also expressed its commitment to academic freedom, acknowledged the diversity of views within the Griffith community on the Voice and reiterated staff right to respectfully articulate those views.

Describe any issues of concern that have come to the attention of the governing body regarding freedom or speech and academic freedom.

No significant issues have been raised over the course of 2023.

Report student, staff and stakeholder responses to survey questions about management of freedom of speech and academic freedom on campus

No issues have been raised over the course of 2023 and the staff engagement survey did not reveal significant concerns about academic freedom or freedom of speech. More focused surveys of staff and students on these matters have not yet been undertaken.