Cultural Diversity
People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds (CALD)
UWS is one of the most culturally diverse universities in Australia with more than 100 cultural and ethnic backgrounds represented in our student community and over 20% of staff coming from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
The University is guided by:
- The principles of multiculturalism which are enshrined in state law "The Community Relations Commission and Principles of Multiculturalism Act (2000) of NSW (opens in a new window)"
and - The Federal Government's The People of Australia - Australia's Multicultural Policy (opens in a new window)
The University's commitment to promoting a positive and supportive learning and working environment for staff and students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds is:
- embedded in the University's Strategic Plan and the UWS Equity and Diversity Plan
and - progress reports on the implementation of multicultural services and strategies are included in UWS Annual Reports
Dates of Cultural and Religious Significance
To celebrate and promote awareness of the diversity of the UWS community, Equity and Diversity have produced the 2013 UWS Equity and Diversity Calendar.
The calendar lists cultural and religious days celebrated in Australia and around the world.
Copies of this calendar are available on request from Equity and Diversity.
UWS has a commitment to providing leave for staff to participate in significant cultural and religious events and ceremonies which are not covered by public holiday provisions. Options include personal leave, flex leave, leave without pay and time in lieu.
The Community Relations Commission for a Multicultural NSW has a 2013 Calendar of Days of Religious Significance (opens in a new window) which assists managers and supervisors to anticipate and plan for their employees religious and cultural commitments.
UWS Muslim Harmony Reference Group
In 2005, UWS established the Muslim Harmony Reference Group to build greater understanding and cooperation between Muslim and non-Muslim people, including students and their families, UWS staff and the broader Greater Sydney community.
The Group sponsors an annual Ramadan Iftar event and has fostered a number of initiatives to promote understanding between the University and the Muslim community.
Guidelines for Addressing Cultural Issues for Events at UWS
Demonstrating respect for cultural diversity assists in building stronger relationships. Guidelines for Addressing Cultural Issues for Events at UWS provides practical advice for event organisers on how to ensure that everyone who comes to a UWS function feels welcome and respected.
