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Diversity Festival 2024

A week of free in-person, online and hybrid events to ignite important conversations and celebrate the diversity of our community

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Festival highlights

Talk | Monday 16 September | 12 - 1pm 

Ahead of the US presidential election, as the world faces the possibility of Trump 2.0, this event discusses the societal impact of the presence and absence of equity, diversity and inclusion.

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Performance & Presentation | Wednesday 18 September | 3 - 5pm

What happens when you combine LGBTQIA+ research expertise with generative AI and improv comedy? 

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Talk | Wednesday 18 September | 11am - 12pm 

Join Jessy Dame for this event exploring how the intersectionality of diverse cultures, sexualities, sexes and genders contributes to inequitable ageing experiences.

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Workshop | Tuesday 17 September | 5 - 7pm

Join this fun and engaging workshop to learn some Auslan skills to help you communicate more inclusively.

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Monday 16 September

Talk | Monday 16 September | 12 - 1pm | Tyree Room, John Niland Scientia Building

Ahead of the US presidential election, as the world faces the possibility of Trump 2.0, this event discusses the societal impact of the presence and absence of equity, diversity and inclusion.

Host, Verity Firth, Vice-President, Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement, will be joined by former BBC foreign affairs correspondent, journalist and author Nick Bryant, UC Law San Francisco's Chief Diversity Officer, Mario Lopez, and Frances Voon, Executive Manager of the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law.

Organised by EDI in the Division of Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement.

Panel Discussion | Monday 16 September | 10 - 11am | Galleries, John Niland Scientia Building and Online

This Speak Out session will delve into the complex and pressing issue of forced migration, through a conversation with members of լи's Justice Inclusion Access (JINA) community.

You'll hear from people in the լи community with lived experience of forced migration, fostering a deeper understanding of their stories.

The panel will be chaired by Madeline Gleeson and feature Dr Parisa Glass, Abang Anade Othow, Sherine Al Shallah and Frances Voon.

Join online or in person. 

Speak Out is a content series that provides a platform for people to share their own experiences with injustices. It calls on the community to become active bystanders and aims to foster a culture of allyship within the լи community.

The Speak Out series is part of the Be A Better Human campaign, which encourages our community to do more when it comes to understanding, preventing and responding to disrespectful behaviours.

Organised by EDI in the Division of Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement.

Showcase and Q&A | Monday 16 September | 9 - 11am | Tyree Room, John Niland Scientia Building

Join us as լи educators who teach inclusively present their work at this showcase, followed by a Q&A session. The showcase is a unique opportunity for the լи teaching community and others to learn about different inclusive technologies and practices and how to incorporate them into their teaching and learning to make them more accessible. 

Inclusive Education comprises practices that make teaching and learning more accessible to all students. It is framed by the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to increase the accessibility of tertiary education to a wider population of students.

The quick style format of this event will enable you to hear from a diverse range of speakers from across different areas of the University. 

Organised by the լи Arts, Design & Architecture (School of Education) and the Disability Innovation Institute լи.

Panel Discussion | Monday 16 September | 2 - 3.30pm | Tyree Room, John Niland Scientia Building

Floods, fires and other climate related crises are becoming more regular occurrences. Yet, when we talk about disaster preparedness and community resilience, disability is often overlooked or misrepresented. 

Join us as we gather experts to spark discussion into disability and natural disasters. Tackling issues of inclusion, representation and empowerment, our speakers will share their experiences and insights on this important topic, encouraging further discussion within the wider community. 

This hybrid event will feature closed captions online and AUSLAN interpreters. A recording and transcript will be made available after the event.

Organised by the  and the .

Community Stall | Monday 16 September | 10am - 2pm | Library Walkway, լи Kensington

Many people with non-Anglo names face stigma and discrimination, often feeling alienated in everyday situations. Whether it’s in the coffee line, during class, or seeing a red underline under their name, marked as ‘incorrectly spelled’, we see how some names – and people – are made to feel different. This type of subtle micro-aggression can make anyone feel excluded. 

This activation, “My Name is…”, aims to decolonise our understanding of names and start conversations to create a space where everyone feels seen and heard.

Share your story or dive into the experiences of others. Let’s celebrate the rich diversity here at լи.   

“My Name is…” is part of the ADA Stories: Reimagining Inclusion on Campus project, an initiative that aims to make լи a more inclusive place. 

No registration needed.

Organised by լи Arts, Design & Architecture.

Talk and Workshop | Monday 16 September | 1.30 - 3pm | Science Theatre, լи Kensington

Join artist Michelle Teear at the exhibition Future in Focus: Contemporary Alumnae Artists in the Science Theatre, as she discusses her practice as a queer disabled artist working in egg tempera.

She’ll explore how she uses the controlled act of mark making in painting to connect with deeper conversations on her identity, why she visits remote landscapes as a way to isolate her sense of identity from social discourse, and how this contributes to broader conversations on inclusiveness and removing limitations of stereotypes.

Michelle will delve into how she began working as a painter that is allergic to paint. She’ll then uncover her ritual of making paint using earth pigments through a workshop, where you can learn how to make your own natural paint. 

Image: © Michelle Teear

Organised by լи Art Collection.

Tuesday 17 September

Workshop | Tuesday 17 September | 12 - 2pm | Rooms 5 and 6, Roundhouse

Whether you're looking to improve your communication skills or simply want to learn more about the Deaf community, this workshop is for you. The session offers the opportunity to learn from a Deaf person with the support of an Auslan interpreter.

In this 2-hour workshop, you will:

  • Learn effective communication strategies for interacting with Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals
  • Discover ways to be respectful, inclusive, and accessible in your everyday interactions
  • Get introduced to some basic Auslan to help bridge communication gaps

This workshop is designed to be informative and enjoyable, providing you with practical skills that make a difference. 

Organised by Arc in collaboration with Signpedia.

Workshop | Tuesday 17 September | 5 - 7pm | Rooms 5 and 6, Roundhouse

Discover the world of Auslan in our fun and engaging workshop at the Roundhouse! This session will provide you with a fantastic opportunity to learn from a Deaf person, with the support of an Auslan interpreter.

In this workshop, you will:

  • Be introduced to what Auslan (Australian Sign Language) is and how to use it respectfully
  • Learn some Auslan basics, including greetings, the alphabet, numbers, common questions, and conversational signs

Whether you're a beginner or just looking to refresh your skills, this workshop is designed to be both informative and enjoyable. Gain valuable insights and practical skills that will help you communicate more effectively and inclusively with Deaf individuals.

Join us for an evening of learning, connection, and fun. We look forward to seeing you there!

Organised by Arc in collaboration with Signpedia.

Community Morning Tea | Tuesday 17 September | 9 - 11.30am | Galleries, John Niland Scientia Building

Kettle of Community brings together լи community members who identify as women and/or are from forced displacement backgrounds to share a coffee or other hot beverage with each other to promote belonging. Women guests and mentors, including the organisers, community organisations and mentorship associations will drop in to share their wealth of experience and promote an inclusive experience for participants. In many cultures, inviting someone for tea or coffee is equivalent to opening up your home and bringing them in. This event will bring together community members with shared experiences and foster an environment of inclusivity at լи to feel at home here.

Pop by Kettle of Community for a hot beverage and some delicious treats!

Image: © Maya Fidawi 

Organised by Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, Women in Research Network (WiRN) and Justice Inclusion Access (JINA).

Community Stall | Tuesday 17 September | 10am - 2pm | Library Walkway, լи Kensington

Many people with non-Anglo names face stigma and discrimination, often feeling alienated in everyday situations. Whether it’s in the coffee line, during class, or seeing a red underline under their name, marked as ‘incorrectly spelled’, we see how some names – and people – are made to feel different. This type of subtle micro-aggression can make anyone feel excluded. 

This activation, “My Name is…”, aims to decolonise our understanding of names and start conversations to create a space where everyone feels seen and heard.

Share your story or dive into the experiences of others. Let’s celebrate the rich diversity here at լи.   

“My Name is…” is part of the ADA Stories: Reimagining Inclusion on Campus project, an initiative that aims to make լи a more inclusive place. 

No registration needed.

Organised by լи Arts, Design & Architecture.

Talk | Tuesday 17 September | 12.30pm - 1.30pm | Galleries, John Niland Scientia Building

Join us in conversation with Peta MacGillivray, Kalkutungu and South Sea Islander lawyer and Senior Research Fellow with Yuwaya Ngarra-li, and Gemma McKinnon, Barkindji lawyer, լи Graduate, and Principal Solicitor - Closing the Gap at the Aboriginal Legal Service NSW/ACT. 

Following on from last year's Diversity Festival keynote, , which was chaired by Peta, the conversation will continue to constructively challenge the ideas of diversity, belonging and inclusion while examining how we can put the best parts of these concepts into practice in large institutions. Peta and Gemma will lead a practical conversation, suggesting solutions that can work to make institutions a better place for everyone while still grappling with larger issues of power and privilege.

Organised by Yuwaya Ngarra-li in the Division of Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement.

Wednesday 18 September

Social painting event | Wednesday 18 September | 10am - 4pm | Courtyard, Paddington Campus

Take a break from your routine and join us for a chill day of painting, music, and good vibes in the Courtyard! We’re providing everything you need to unleash your creativity—paints, brushes, easels, and canvases will all be available.

To keep the good vibes going, we'll have a DJ playing live music to create the perfect backdrop for your artistic endeavours. There will also be a free BBQ provided to keep you energised as you create your masterpiece!

This is a free event, open to everyone who wants to enjoy a relaxing day of painting and music. Bring your friends or come solo - we can't wait to see what you can do!

Organised by Arc.

Clubs event | Wednesday 18 September | 11am - 3pm | Helen Maguire Lawn (Quad Lawn)

Get ready for the biggest Clubs Takeover yet! As part of Diversity Festival, we're doubling the fun by featuring 10 amazing clubs. This special edition of Clubs Takeover is all about celebrating the rich diversity of our student body!

Join us on the Quad, where our vibrant societies will be taking over to host a variety of fun and engaging activities. This is your chance to explore a variety of cultures, meet new people, and celebrate the unique experiences that make our community so special.

Enjoy a day filled with exciting activities and free food. Whether you're a regular at Clubs Takeover or a first-timer, this event is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the spirit of the Diversity Festival and connect with fellow students.

Want to register as a society for this event? Apply  by telling us how your club champions diversity at լи!

Organised by Arc.

Social event | Wednesday 18 September | 6 - 7pm | Main room, Roundhouse

We are inviting լи singles to put their hearts on the line to find love with our live dating show. As the audience, you get to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. There will be free drinks provided for the first 100 spectators to arrive, so get in quick before they're gone!

This event is for people aged 18+ only and is free for Arc Members.

Organised by Arc.

Workshop | Wednesday 18 September | 11am - 2pm | Helen Maguire Lawn (Quad Lawn)

Join us for an inclusive paint your own art workshop! Attendees can create their own art in a paint-and-sip style setting, with options to paint on canvas, tote bags, or magnets, all while surrounded by inspiring artworks. 

Our pop-up art gallery is not just an exhibition; it will strive to be a purposeful celebration of diversity, inclusion, and belonging. By highlighting underrepresented voices, we foster a sense of community and creativity, ensuring all attendees feel valued and inspired. 

No registration needed. 

Organised by լи Women’s Collective. 

Performance and Presentations | Wednesday 18 September | 3 - 5pm | Tyree Room, John Niland Scientia Building

What happens when you combine LGBTQIA+ research expertise with generative AI and improv comedy? During this event, you will witness a professional comedian improvising short research talks based on slides created using generative AI and prompts taken from the work of լи staff and students. Following each hilarious improvised presentation, the real authors of the work will describe the actual details of their research. In doing so, the researchers will help us to uncover important questions about the (in)ability of generative AI to represent LGBTQIA+ realities in nuanced ways.

Organised by the լи Community of Practice for Inclusive Research with Queer and Trans People, and People with Innate Variations of Sex Characteristics (COPQTI).

Interactive and Collaborative Art | Wednesday 18 September | 4 - 6pm | Foyer, John Niland Scientia Building

The Peer Connections Team have carefully curated a space for exploring how we connect. Join us in Connections, an interactive and collaborative art piece that revolves around one key theme: human connections and how we make them.

Sweet and savoury snacks and a tea station will be provided, so drop by, contribute to any or all three of the pieces and join us in igniting broader conversations about how we can foster a more inclusive society over a bite and a warm drink after a day of study and work.

Organised by the Peer Connections Team in the Pro-Vice Chancellor, Student Success Division.

Talk | Wednesday 18 September | 11am - 12pm | Galleries, John Niland Scientia Building

How does the intersectionality of diverse cultures, sexualities, sexes and genders impact ageing across the life course?

Intersectionality is the idea that people have multiple parts to their identity - such as race, gender, or social class - and that these parts can overlap to create unique experiences, especially when it comes to facing challenges or discrimination.

Ageing in Colour aims to share experiences and raise awareness regarding the impact of intersectionality on ageing and older people. This event will explore how intersectionality contributes to inequitable ageing experiences, particularly in areas like dementia, health care quality, aged care, and social issues such as isolation and ageism.

This event will include international perspectives from , a pround Two-Spirit, Métis, Certified Registered Nurse from Vancouver, Canada. Jessy is Lead of the Indigenous Sex and Gender Team (Vancouver Coastal Health), Director of Two-Spirit Health with the Community Based Research Centre and Advisory Member at the Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity (University of British Columbia).

Organised by լи Ageing Futures Institute.

Community Stall | Wednesday 18 September | 10am - 2pm | Library Walkway, լи Kensington

Many people with non-Anglo names face stigma and discrimination, often feeling alienated in everyday situations. Whether it’s in the coffee line, during class, or seeing a red underline under their name, marked as ‘incorrectly spelled’, we see how some names – and people – are made to feel different. This type of subtle micro-aggression can make anyone feel excluded. 

This activation, “My Name is…”, aims to decolonise our understanding of names and start conversations to create a space where everyone feels seen and heard.

Share your story or dive into the experiences of others. Let’s celebrate the rich diversity here at լи.   

“My Name is…” is part of the ADA Stories: Reimagining Inclusion on Campus project, an initiative that aims to make լи a more inclusive place. 

No registration needed. 

Organised by լи Arts, Design & Architecture.

Musical performance | Wednesday 18 September | 12 - 12.30pm | Helen Maguire Lawn (Quad Lawn)

Celebrating cultural harmony through music and art!

Join AvaZan for a unique musical experience that celebrates cultural diversity. This Sydney-based group of female musicians will blend traditional and contemporary sounds from the Middle East and beyond, creating a vibrant and unifying performance.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience their soulful music and celebrate multicultural harmony. 

No registration needed. 

Choir performance | Wednesday 18 September | 12.30 - 1pm | Helen Maguire Lawn (Quad Lawn)

myEnglish Choir is a choral ensemble consisting of international students who are music and language enthusiasts.This performance is the culmination of the choir’s collaborative work on a short program, which aims to bring together լи students, staff and the wider community through music, create harmony, encourage inclusion through diversity and strengthen a sense of belonging to լи.

myEnglish Choir will perform a program of well-known popular songs, resounding with hope, peace, inspiration and love. All the myEnglish Choir members, including the vocal coach, Emma Davison, are current լи students.       

No registration needed. 

Stall | Wednesday 18 September | 11am - 2pm | Helen Maguire Lawn (Quad Lawn)

Explore neurodiversity at լи with the Diversified project! Build your own sensory profile, learn about neurodivergence, discover the accommodations and support available to you, and grab a Sunflower Invisible Disability Lanyard. Plus, find out how you can join our community of neurodivergent staff and students making լи a more inclusive place for everyone.

Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself or an ally, this is your chance to connect, learn, and help create a more inclusive լи.

No registration needed. 

Craft stall | Wednesday 18 September | 11am - 2pm | Helen Maguire Lawn (Quad Lawn)

Join us on the Helen Maguire (Quad) Lawn to claim your free bucket hat and make it truly yours by adding patches and badges.

Our second year of What's Your Superpower? is to raise awareness for Neurodiversity and Mental Health.

Laugh with us, talk about allyship and spend some time in our picnic circle. Bring your favorite snacks, relax, and soak in the positivity (and sunshine!)

No registration needed. 

Social event | Wednesday 18 September | 10am - 12pm | Tyree Room, John Niland Scientia Building

Students are invited to join a collaboration between 5 engineering student societies, celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community at լи and connecting queer students to the wider engineering industry.

There will be speeches and a panel with speakers from a range of companies, followed by networking and morning tea.

Organised by the Civil and Environmental Engineering Society (CEVSOC).

Stall | Wednesday 18 September | 11am - 2pm | Helen Maguire Lawn (Quad Lawn)

Fun Meets Awareness! 🌈

Decode cool visual clues and dive into thought-provoking trivia. Challenge yourself, learn something new, and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community at լи!

Best of all, enjoy an abundant supply of enamel rainbow badges, stickers, and wristbands, available for all attendees.

No registration needed.

Organised by լи Business School EDI Student Reps.

Thursday 19 September

Workshop | Thursday 19 September | 2.30 - 4pm | Tyree Room, John Niland Scientia Building

Join Dr Chantal Bostock & Dr Anna Rowe for a targeted, interactive workshop on class participation, which will help staff engage more with students.

In this 1.5 hour collaborative workshop, we will present preliminary research findings on the student experience of class participation at լи. Our goal is to share with you what we have learnt so far about the facilitators and inhibitors of class participation, as well as provide practical, evidence-based tips for encouraging and supporting students. There will be activities throughout the workshop, which will allow you to apply what you have learnt to your own teaching contexts.

Organised by լи Law & Justice and Dr Chien Gooi, լи Science (School of Psychology) in collaboration with PVC Education and Student Experience.

Panel discussion | Thursday 19 September | 5 - 6.30pm | AGSM Courtyard Café

What's something you want to know about dating in Australia? Want to know the do's and don'ts from a panel who has learnt the hard way?

Join us where you'll hear from a diverse panel of international students who will openly share their dating experiences here, shedding light on the joys and challenges of cross-cultural relationships. Whether you're in a new relationship here in Australia, or trying to understand the modern mysteries of dating, all international students are welcome to come along. 

This free event will feature food, fun and freebies, but registrations are essential. 

Organised by the Health Promotion Unit, from PVC Student Success. 

For more SEXtember events, visit .

Training workshop | Thursday 19 September | 12 - 2pm | Tyree Room, John Niland Scientia Building

Delivered in partnership with , this session will build cross-cultural capability, racial literacy, and racial equity competencies for լи students.

The program has been designed to instil advanced cultural awareness and create a culturally sensitive and racially literate learning environment where all students can confidently and competently discuss and address themes of culture, race, bias, and cohesion.

This session is open to all current լи students.

Organised by EDI in the Division of Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement.

Training workshop | Thursday 19 September | 9.30 - 11.30am | Tyree Room, John Niland Scientia Building

Delivered in partnership with , this session will build cross-cultural capability, racial literacy, and racial equity competencies for լи staff.

The program has been designed to instil advanced cultural awareness and create a culturally sensitive and racially literate workplace and learning environment where staff can confidently and competently discuss and address themes of culture, race, bias, and cohesion.

Organised by EDI in the Division of Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement.

Community Stall | Thursday 19 September | 10am - 2pm | Library Walkway, լи Kensington

Many people with non-Anglo names face stigma and discrimination, often feeling alienated in everyday situations. Whether it’s in the coffee line, during class, or seeing a red underline under their name, marked as ‘incorrectly spelled’, we see how some names – and people – are made to feel different. This type of subtle micro-aggression can make anyone feel excluded. 

This activation, “My Name is…”, aims to decolonise our understanding of names and start conversations to create a space where everyone feels seen and heard.

Share your story or dive into the experiences of others. Let’s celebrate the rich diversity here at լи.   

“My Name is…” is part of the ADA Stories: Reimagining Inclusion on Campus project, an initiative that aims to make լи a more inclusive place.

No registration needed.  

Organised by լи Arts, Design & Architecture.

Story collection launch | Thursday 19 September | 4 - 6pm | The Lounge, լи Library

The Centring Lived Experience project showcases, celebrates, and amplifies stories from students with a diverse range of lived experiences through supported storytelling for impact, giving voice to students whose stories are often unseen or unheard.

Following a selective EOI process, several students were supported by an expert facilitator through a series of group workshops and individual consultations to develop compelling stories. The stories have now been compiled and published in a printed collection.

This event will celebrate these stories and launch the collection, which will be used and drawn upon in լи Diversity and Inclusion trainings, resources and other relevant materials.

Join this event to hear from the student authors, as well as լи staff who helped guide the shaping of these stories.

Organised by EDI in the Division of Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement.

Friday 20 September

Social sport tournament | Friday 20 September | 9am - 4pm | լи Village Green

Join us for a fun day at this friendly racket sports competition. The event will be a doubles tournament, so you can enter as a team or pair up with new friends on the day!

The games will be played in 2-hour blocks. Rackets and all necessary equipment will be provided, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm! Between matches, refuel with a free BBQ; plus, exciting prizes are up for grabs!

Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, this tournament is all about having a great time. 

A draw will be made once registration closes. Each sport will have its own draw, and you will receive this via email.

We can't wait to see you on the court! 

Organised by Arc.

Panel Discussion | Friday 20 September | 10am - 12pm | The Galleries, John Niland Scientia Building

Mosaic of Cultures: Celebrating Unity in Diversity aims to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures within our university community and create an environment where diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated.

The event will feature a panel discussion with AGSM MBA students as panellists, followed by an open Q&A with the audience and closing with a networking brunch. The panel discussion will provide լи undergraduates with a platform to engage with our diverse cohort and gain an understanding of different working styles, cultures, and opportunities available around the world.

Organised by AGSM Student Association.

All Week

Social media campaign and student competition | Online

Join us on the  this Diversity Festival as we celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with two exciting components: an art competition and a video campaign. Discover creative artworks and personal stories from students across different cultures, showcasing how they honour this special time of year. Participate in the People's Choice voting, happening both online and in the foyer of Scientia from 16  - 18 September. Don’t miss out on this celebration of creativity and tradition!

Organised by լи Culture.

Student art competition | Enter online

All current լи undergraduate and postgraduate students are invited to design and submit their visual pieces of art which represent concepts of equity, diversity and inclusion.

The winner will receive a $5000 prize, and the artwork will be used in լи’s EDI-led online training materials and resources.

Organised by EDI in the Division of Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement.

Learn more and enter

Parking, maps and accessibility

Check the accessibility of լи venues, along with important information on getting here, parking, maps, alternative arrivals, seating and accessible bathrooms.

Explore previous festivals

Diversity Festival 2023

Diversity Festival brings students and staff together to foster a sense of belonging within our community. Each year, the festival works to enrich identity, ignite conversations, and celebrate the diversity of our community.

Diversity Fest 2022

An exciting range of free events and activities took place at լи for Diversity Fest 2022. Events addressed topics including age and gender diversity, cultural and linguistic diversity, disability inclusion, First Nations knowledge, LGBTIQ+ inclusion, mental health and neurodiversity.

Diversity Fest 2021

Over 50 free events and activities took place as part of Diversity Fest 2021. Events addressed topics including age diversity, cultural and linguistic diversity, disability inclusion, gender diversity, First Nations knowledge, LGBTIQ+ inclusion, mental health and neurodiversity.