Dear staff,
I wanted to provide staff with an update on the protest camps at St Lucia and remind our community about our obligations to provide a safe and respectful environment.
Student and staff safety
Predominantly, the activities have been civil, with the vast majority of people exercising their right to protest peacefully and respectfully. There have, however, been a few incidents from a small number of individuals that have gone beyond the limits of what is acceptable.
The most significant of these included harm to members of our community. We are providing support to the people impacted and the matters have been reported to Queensland Police. Other actions included the display of an inappropriate flag and damage to property.
As part of our engagement with the protest organisers, we have spoken to them about these matters to outline our concerns and reaffirm our expectation that the safety of our staff and students is paramount.
As a university, we are absolutely committed to freedom of speech – people expressing and exchanging views goes to the very essence of what universities stand for, but there are limits to this.
As a community, we are required by law, and UQ’s policies, to behave in a civil way, ensuring that our actions do not harm others and we do not prevent others from accessing University activities and facilities.
Increased security on campus
In response to the recent incidents, we have sought the removal of inappropriate material and we have increased security on campus to both monitor activities and ensure members of our community feel safe. We are also in direct and frequent engagement with the camps to address any activities of concern.
Support for staff and students
I know that this is a difficult time for some in our community and I want to remind staff and students of the free and confidential support available:
- For staff: speak with their manager/supervisor, access the Employee Assistance Program (available 24/7) or contact the HR team directly by emailing askhr@uq.edu.au or telephoning (07) 3365 2623.
- For students: Student Services team on 1300 275 870 (8:30am to 5pm) or the UQ Counselling and Crisis Line on 1300 851 998 (available 24/7).
In an emergency, UQ Security can be contacted on (07) 3365 3333 or via the UQ SafeZone app 24/7.
With best wishes
Debbie
