Diversity Week
Curiosity. Conversation. Community.
This event has been postponed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Diversity Week celebrates our commitment to creating an inclusive and connected university community that embraces our diversity on campus.
About Diversity Week
In light of the emerging COVID-19 situation and continuing policy statements from the State and Federal Government, the University is adopting a series of changes to reduce rates of infection in the community. The health and wellbeing of our community is of paramount importance. Therefore, all University events have been postponed or cancelled from midnight, Tuesday 17 March. This includes Diversity Week which will be postponed. We will continue to follow expert and health advice and look forward to rescheduling this important event. We will be in touch once a new date has been confirmed. Thank you for your understanding as we endeavour to keep our community members safe during this uncertain time. More information.
Diversity Week has the 2020 theme: Curiosity. Conversation. Community.
Proudly presented by the Faculty of Arts, the week invites all students to embrace and celebrate our curiosity, our conversations and our community. Diversity Week will have an exciting program of opportunities, performances, workshops and social events.
Come along to celebrate our curiosity, our conversations and our community!
Come along to celebrate our curiosity, our conversations and our community!
Faculty of Arts Global Leaders Program
Are you an international student looking for professionals leadership opportunities. Would you like to share knowledge and experiences about your home country?
The Global Leaders Program brings together domestic and international students to develop authentic and enduring connections between international students and students travelling overseas on University of Melbourne Overseas Subjects (UMOS). The Global Leaders Program will draw on the experiences and expertise of international students to support their peers before, during and after travel to the international students’ home country.
All international students can apply to become a Global Leader through the online application form below. Applicants will also be invited to attend a brief interview with the program coordinator. Selected Global Leaders will then be matched to peers enrolled into an overseas program and provided with professional development and leadership opportunities.
More information and application
Exchange Enabling Scholarships
This funding is provided to students in the Faculty who might not be able to consider an overseas experience because of financial constraints or those who could benefit from additional financial support to enhance their experience. Students who meet the eligibility criteria and undertaking an approved university of Melbourne overseas exchange, Study abroad or overseas intensive program will be considered.
Applications open in April 2020
More information and application
Feedback
Do you have any feedback, comments about Diversity Week 2020? Do you have any suggestions on what you might like to see delivered in the Faculty of Arts for future Diversity Programs? Please drop us and email and let us know!
Online
Faculty of Arts Life in OZ podcast episodes
Would you like to share your story and experiences with peers. Are you interested in being involved with our future Faculty of Arts Podcast Series. If so please email Arts student programs.
From India, Mexico, to Vietnam and China, how do our peers on campus celebrate their important days and traditions?
From Holi, Diwali, Day of the Dead, Qingming, to the Mid-Autumn, and the Spring Festival, different cultures and nations celebrate different traditions, and yet we are all so similar in ways that we value family time, food, symbols. In this episode, Faculty of Arts students Anisha, Alejandro, and Alain chat to Xia about the cultural traditions they celebrate, and share their go-to places for authentic Indian, Mexican and Vietnamese eats. More information...
Alain: My crazy Aussie Asian life!
Alain is currently studying his final semester at the Faculty of Arts. In this episode, he shares stories of what it’s like growing up as a 2nd generation Vietnamese Australian: family, expectations, struggles and aspirations. More information...
Life far away from home - Interview with Olabisi
It wasn’t easy for Olabisi to move to Melbourne to pursue her study. The long flights, expenses, not to mention being a single mum and leaving her 7 year old daughter behind in Sierra Leone. Yet she’s on her own mission, and is determined to overcome whatever barriers that come along. In the meantime, she also enjoys all the fruits that are now available to her :)
What’s it like to be a student of the world?
Aren’t you always amazed at how diverse the university campus has now become, and the fact that you can no longer tell where a person is from, judging from their appearances?! In this episode, Yixia shared her story travelling to study from China, to Netherlands, Belgium, US, and now to Australia. More information...
Tuesday 24 March 2020
In light of the emerging COVID-19 situation and continuing policy statements from the State and Federal Government, the University is adopting a series of changes to reduce rates of infection in the community. The health and wellbeing of our community is of paramount importance. Therefore, all University events have been postponed or cancelled from midnight, Tuesday 17 March. This includes Diversity Week which will be postponed. We will continue to follow expert and health advice and look forward to rescheduling this important event. We will be in touch once a new date has been confirmed. Thank you for your understanding as we endeavour to keep our community members safe during this uncertain time.
Curatorial floor talk
Description
Regarded as one of the most important anthropological collections in the world, The Donald Thomson Collection was donated to the University of Melbourne in 1973. Consisting of over 7500 artefacts and 2000 biological specimen, the collection is significant for its detailed documentation linking objects, images, language and customary practices.
On display until October 2020, Awaken showcases a significant selection of objects from the Donald Thomson. Go behind the scenes of the exhibition with one of the curators Rosemary Wrench who has worked closely with the collection for several years.
Light refreshments will also be provided.
Balnhdhurr – A Lasting Impression
Description
In the far Eastern corner of Arnhem Land sits Yirrkala Print Space, where, for over twenty years, the art of printmaking has prospered.
Balnhdhurr – A Lasting Impression celebrates this space with works from 50 artists, providing a privileged insight into the nuanced world of Yolngu people of Northeast Arnhem Land.
Wednesday 25 March 2020
In light of the emerging COVID-19 situation and continuing policy statements from the State and Federal Government, the University is adopting a series of changes to reduce rates of infection in the community. The health and wellbeing of our community is of paramount importance. Therefore, all University events have been postponed or cancelled from midnight, Tuesday 17 March. This includes Diversity Week which will be postponed. We will continue to follow expert and health advice and look forward to rescheduling this important event. We will be in touch once a new date has been confirmed. Thank you for your understanding as we endeavour to keep our community members safe during this uncertain time.
Learn a language in 15 minutes - French
Description
Mini workshop and brief introduction to the French language.
K-Film Screening
Description
Korean film screening
Thursday 26 March 2020
In light of the emerging COVID-19 situation and continuing policy statements from the State and Federal Government, the University is adopting a series of changes to reduce rates of infection in the community. The health and wellbeing of our community is of paramount importance. Therefore, all University events have been postponed or cancelled from midnight, Tuesday 17 March. This includes Diversity Week which will be postponed. We will continue to follow expert and health advice and look forward to rescheduling this important event. We will be in touch once a new date has been confirmed. Thank you for your understanding as we endeavour to keep our community members safe during this uncertain time.
Balnhdhurr – A Lasting Impression
Description
In the far Eastern corner of Arnhem Land sits Yirrkala Print Space, where, for over twenty years, the art of printmaking has prospered.
Balnhdhurr – A Lasting Impression celebrates this space with works from 50 artists, providing a privileged insight into the nuanced world of Yolngu people of Northeast Arnhem Land.
Wilin Jams
Description
Wilin Jams is an open invitation for everyone to come together, jam and celebrate the pivotal contribution of Indigenous artists throughout Victoria.
The first 2020 Wilin Jams session features neo-soul supergroup Izy. Fresh off their Moon single launch, don’t miss their dynamic original set from 6.30pm. Following Izy, the jam will open from 7pm inviting jammers to style up on the Wilin stage. With mics, guitars, PA, aux-input, keyboard, amps and drum kit provided, you just need to sign up your act on the night.

Amplifying Many Voices: Diversity Week Panel Discussion
Description
Join us for a dynamic discussion on intersectionality, community, and systemic challenges with staff members of diverse identity and experience from the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music. We’ll ask pressing questions such as: what is diversity? What is inclusion? And what are the implications of those terms? We will talk about hierarchies and barriers within the University and try to imagine a different future.
This thought-provoking conversation will be led by Alyson Campbell, Associate Dean (Diversity and Inclusion), and engage students and faculty members alike in opportunities for self-reflection, inspiration, debate, and community building.
Film Screening: ‘In My Blood it Runs’
Description
Four years after Gayby Baby (MIFF 2015), Maya Newell crafts another powerful, essential portrait of Australian youth, putting the plight of the Northern Territory’s Indigenous children in the spotlight.
“I was born a little Aboriginal kid,” explains Dujuan. “That means I had a memory – a memory about being Aboriginal.” Never more excited than when he’s talking about his heritage and homeland, the precocious 10-year-old has a strong connection to his culture, speaks three languages and works as a healer. But he also struggles with school, acts out in class, and attracts attention from the police and the welfare system.
Intimate and impassioned, In My Blood It Runs follows Dujuan’s attempts to reconcile the traditions he holds dear with the colonised world he’s forced to inhabit. A personal documentary told with a perceptive eye, poetic imagery and made in collaboration with Dujuan and his family, it’s also an account of the NT’s harsh treatment of Indigenous youths, a situation that’s never far from the boy’s mind.
Friday 27 March 2020
In light of the emerging COVID-19 situation and continuing policy statements from the State and Federal Government, the University is adopting a series of changes to reduce rates of infection in the community. The health and wellbeing of our community is of paramount importance. Therefore, all University events have been postponed or cancelled from midnight, Tuesday 17 March. This includes Diversity Week which will be postponed. We will continue to follow expert and health advice and look forward to rescheduling this important event. We will be in touch once a new date has been confirmed. Thank you for your understanding as we endeavour to keep our community members safe during this uncertain time.
Indigenous weaving workshop
Description
Donna Blackall is a Yorta Yorta/Taungurung woman who has been weaving for over 10 years and was taught by Gunditjmara woman and master weaver Bronwyn Razem.
Presented as part of the 2020 Faculty of Arts Diversity Week, using a variety of grasses and materials, join artist Donna Blackall in creating your own woven piece using the satin stitch basket weave technique.
Light lunch will also be provided.
Arts Students Society (M-ASS) cultural picnic and games
Description
Come along and Join M-ASS on the Lawn and get involved in the cultural picnic and games. Students are encouraged to bring along a dish or food from you culture (Sweet or Savory) to share and any games ie: card games, board games. There will also be a playlist of songs recommended by you!
Please complete the registration form and tell us what you would like us what song you would like to hear at the picnic. This is a free event and all welcome!
Student panel Q&A – queer student experiences
Description
Come along and hear from peers who would like to share their experiences of being queer student at the university of Melbourne. There will be an opportunity to ask questions, share tips and advice. There will also be free food and drink provided at this event.
Wellbeing and support services
Safer Community Program
The Safer Community Program is here to help.
If you, or someone you know, have experienced discrimination, bullying, sexual harassment, sexually assault, or other concerning, threatening or violent behaviours, the Safer Community Program provides support, referrals and information to assist you.
Contact us
Security escorts
University security officers staff the Security Control Room and patrol the campus 24 hours a day. They are available to escort University staff and students to their car, closest public transport/taxi pickup point, college or other locations on or in the near vicinity of the central campus. If you can, pre-book this service or give us a call on +61 3 8344 4674 or 1800 246 066.
Campus security
Trained Security Officers patrol the Parkville campus 24 hours a day and are responsible for the safety of the University community and the security of its property. Report any incidents or suspicious activity immediately.
- General enquiries: +61 3 8344 4674
- In an emergency: +61 3 8344 6666 or 1800 246 066
Blue emergency telephones
Blue emergency telephones around the campus give you direct intercom access to Security and are monitored by video surveillance. To activate, just press the Emergency button.
Stop 1: connecting students and services
With our staff working side-by-side, you'll be able to access the right service when you need it - online, on the phone and in person.
Counselling and psychological services
Counselling and Psychological Services provides professional counselling, workshops, and consultancy services for students and staff. Counsellors are experienced psychologists and social workers, offering a confidential, responsive and respectful service, regardless of your cultural background, beliefs or lifestyle. The Counselling and psychological services website contains details of our range of services and online resources, all aimed at maximising your full academic and/or working potential.
Counselling and psychological services website
Student equity and disability support
Student Equity and Disability support works with students, academic and professional staff and relevant members of the broader community to recommend and implement reasonable adjustments in accordance with the University’s policies and relevant State and Federal Government legislation.
Student equity and disability support website
Student housing, financial aid, and student support
Student welfare is at the centre of all of our services. We understand that housing, finances and wellbeing are closely connected to your success as a student and we're here to help you achieve your best.
Health service
The University of Melbourne Health Service provides health care for both local and international students, staff and their dependents.
Chaplaincy
Chaplains are representatives of different faith groups in the wider community, who are placed in the University by their respective faith group with the approval of the Vice-Chancellor. Chaplaincy is one way that religious groups connect with and serve the University community.
Occupational Health and Safety
Health and Safety information and resources for staff, students and contractors of the University of Melbourne.
University of Melbourne Student Union (UMSU)
The Student Union is a diverse and exciting place committed to supporting all students, and to providing quality experiences on campus that create a community for students, staff and visitors.
Students automatically have access to all Union services, including:
- a community of other like-minded students
- art, culture and fun
- support services to provide help when you need it
- representation on the issues that affect you
Sign up to our newsletter to find out what's on, on campus.
Graduate Student Association (GSA)
The University of Melbourne Graduate Student Association Inc. (GSA) is the student representative body for postgraduates at the University of Melbourne. The GSA supports graduate students and speaks up within the University and in the wider community to help graduate students and improve postgraduate education, research and welfare.