Murdoch University has committed to becoming a sector leader in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion by raising the voice, value and agency of diversity groups across the organisation.
The 2023-2030 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Sub-Strategy, launched today, paves the way for achieving the commitments outlined in the University’s Strategy, Building a Brighter Future, Together – Ngala Kwop Biddi.
The targets outlined in the sub-strategy include increased diversity in student and staff populations, improved retention and advancement of those from diverse backgrounds, increased representation of diverse leaders, and increased use of social impact assessment tools across research.
Vice Chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks said the sub-strategy was about building on that history to affect change that needs to take place, both within the higher education sector and beyond.
“I’m really excited to announce this new and ambitious roadmap for the strategic theme of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion,” Professor Deeks said.
“This is about celebrating and modelling a genuinely inclusive community where everyone can reach their potential, demonstrating a strong commitment to social justice and social inclusion in all that we do.
The impact of achieving this will reverberate far beyond our campuses.”
Vice Chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks
The sub-strategy was shaped through a co-design process involving key stakeholders across the core areas of education, research, and engagement. It also underwent a thorough review process involving broader feedback from the wider University community.
Pro Vice Chancellor Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Dr Rebecca Bennett said that realising their vision requires careful, deliberate and specific action from all members of the University community.
Achieving our goals requires deep self-reflection by everyone and an openness to let go of preconceptions, unpack stereotypes, and address one’s relative privilege and cultural bias in a given context.”
Pro Vice Chancellor Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Dr Rebecca Bennett
“This isn’t always easy or comfortable, but it drives the compassion, collaboration, innovation, motivation, and expansive thinking needed for us to create the fair, inclusive world we all want to see.”
The sub-strategy reiterates that Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is a collective responsibility and invites everyone to discover how they can contribute to building a more inclusive community.
“Together, we can make Murdoch University a place where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential,” Dr Bennett said.