Deakin hosts and takes part in many key activities and events on and off campus each year, to promote and highlight key days of significance and the importance of diversity of our community.
Highlighting the importance of diversity
Our events are built upon our commitment to bring together staff, students and the wider community to celebrate our diversity, reflect on the past and build an inclusive environment for all. Discover what’s on and how you can be involved.
Important dates
International Women's Day
International Women's Day recognises the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Find out how Deakin is supporting female staff and students through the Gender Equity Action Plan.
International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT)
May 17 marks the date the World Health Organization removed homosexuality from the Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. Deakin runs its own events to acknowledge IDAHOBIT each year and celebrate LGBTIQA+ people globally.
National Reconciliation Week
First full week in July each year
Deakin is proud to be part of National Reconciliation Week each year – time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
NAIDOC Week
Sunday 3–Sunday 10 July
NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Deakin each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Deakin celebrates NAIDOC week with events and our annual NAIDOC week art competition.
National Science Week
August each year
Each year, organisations including Deakin and other universities, schools, research institutions, libraries, museums and more participate in National Science Week – an annual celebration of all things science and technology.
Wear it Purple Day
Friday 26 August
Deakin wears purple to celebrate Wear it Purple Day, an annual LGBTIQA+ awareness day that highlights the importance of creating safe and inclusive environments for our young LGBTIQ+ people.
World Access to Higher Education Day
Thursday 17 November
World Access to Higher Education Day (WAHED) is the only established global initiative tackling issues of inequity in access and student success in higher education. Deakin is committed to expanding tertiary education, employment and research opportunities to all. Find out more about our student access and equity initiatives.
16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
Friday 25 November–Saturday 10 December
During the 16 Days of Activism, the Deakin community unites to raise awareness about gender-based violence, challenge discriminatory attitudes, and call for improved laws and services to end violence against women for good.
Social Inclusion Week
Saturday 19–Sunday 27 November
Social Inclusion Week aims to connect communities, workplaces, family and friends by addressing isolation and marginalised groups within the community