Welcome

Here at Deakin University we have a rich and diverse student and staff profile that brings enormous cultural, educational and social benefits to us all.

However, delivering teaching and support services to an increasingly diverse student and staff population is not easy. As the University grows we must build the capacity of Faculties, Institutes and Divisions to respond positively to diversity and the opportunities that it presents. This requires a "built in" rather than a "bolted on" approach to curriculum design and service provision that ensures that we attract and retain the best students and staff.

The Equity and Diversity Unit has a key role to play in helping the University to achieve its strategic goals through the promotion of, and support for, inclusive approaches to employment, teaching and service delivery. These approaches are not only more cost effective but have the potential to improve educational and employment outcomes for all.

There is a clear link between staff and student equity. A diverse staff profile informs the development of inclusive curricula, provides role models for students and greatly enriches university culture. Similarly, improving the accessibility of information and the physical environment for people with disabilities brings significant benefits for other students and staff.

I look forward to working with you to build:

• a University culture that values diversity and promotes fairness
• a campus environment that is physically accessible and free of discrimination
• education and employment practices that provide opportunities for students and staff from all backgrounds to achieve successful educational and employment outcomes.

Dr Nadine Zacharias
Director, Equity and Diversity Unit