Respect at Uni

Respect Week 2026

Universities and TAFEs nationwide are coming together to highlight the importance of respect, equality, and inclusion in our campus communities and online spaces. We're committed to creating safe environments free from violence, and each of us plays a vital role in preventing and addressing issues like gender-based violence and inequality. 

This Respect Week, ACU’s theme is Fruit for Thought: Growing a Culture of Respect. The Safeguarding and Student Safety team have crafted some intriguing, thought-provoking, and engaging interactions and events for both staff and students to encourage conversations about how we can all champion respect, inclusion and equality across our diverse community. 

What's Happening

Fruit for Thought Pop-Up Events

Join us on your local campus for stimulating discussions, snag some food and merch, and have your say on future safety and respect initiatives. You can also learn more about ACU's support and reporting services.

Growing a Culture of Respect – Pot Plant Decorating

Students and staff are invited to drop in to take a break from study and work to recharge and connect by decorating a mini plant pot. You’ll then get to plant your very own edible herb to take home afterwards (no prior art or plant ownership experience required!).

Safe and Respectful Relationships Webinar

5:00PM AEST, Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Do you have questions about relationships or sexuality? Victoria University is hosting a free, confidential webinar open to all university communities. This webinar will be presented by expert community educators from the GenWest Health Service. Come along and get all your questions answered!

Click here to register for the webinar.

eSafety Commissioner Webinar – Exploring the online experiences of boys and young men

This session has been organised by Deakin University, and is open to all universities.

12:30PM – 1:15PM AEST, Tuesday, April 21, 2026

For boys and young men, the internet can be a place where they seek connection, validation and guidance as they explore what it means to be a man today. However, it also exposes them to risks like harmful content, online exploitation and the growing influence of misogynistic ideologies. This presentation will share practical strategies that educators and people working with boys and young men, to build critical thinking, challenge harmful narratives, and create open conversations that empower boys and young men to navigate the online world safely and respectfully.

Click here to register for the webinar.

Contribute to our Pledge Wall

Preventing gender-based violence starts with a culture of respect – now and always. Share your answer to the question 'What does Respect mean to you?' on our Respect Week 2026 pledge wall to help make our communities safer.

Click here to contribute to the Pledge Wall.

Promote it on socials!

Help us!

Let's band together to make Respect Week 2026 a roaring success! Your involvement is key as we collaborate to foster a culture of respect and safety on our campuses. We look forward to seeing you around campus.

For any questions about the event, please email the Safeguarding and Student Safety Team on respectandsafety@acu.edu.au.