The University is committed to securing Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom for its members. Speech will be protected where it is lawful and doesn’t otherwise contravene the University’s policies, including those referenced in terms and conditions of study or employment contracts. Academics must have the freedom to lawfully challenge existing ideas and put forward new and unpopular ideas in pursuit of generating new knowledge.
In 2023, we adopted a Freedom of Expression Code of Practice and pursuant to the Act, we are required to draw this to the attention of staff and students annually. In 2025, we adopted a Policy on Public Statements on behalf of the University. The University has long had a statement on our commitment to Academic Freedom.
Lawful speech cannot be restricted at an institutional level. Restricting free expression on the basis that it is offensive (without it constituting, for example, unlawful harassment or discrimination) would be inconsistent with the law. Universities should be spaces where different, sometimes competing, views and beliefs can be shared, without fear of censorship or adverse consequences. We also have a responsibility to ensure that people do not self-censor in an environment where an orthodoxy of views prevail, creating a chilling effect on their free speech (for example, the expression of a dominant narrative that it’s unacceptable for people to support a particular political party, or practise a certain religion, might induce people to avoid expressing a counter-view). The context in which speech takes place will be important, with certain contexts (eg academic discourse) likely to have a far higher degree of protection than others.
The University remains committed to providing an inclusive environment for all of our staff and students. The changes do not lessen our desire to tackle bullying, harassment and hate, which remain unacceptable at our University. The right to free expression brings with it the responsibility to exercise that right responsibly, respectfully and considerately.
The University is reviewing policies, processes, guidance and training in light of guidance issued by the Office for Students last month.
The Office for Students has produced a quick guide on securing free speech, including guidance specifically for students.
The Director of Legal Services and the Executive Director of EDI have published blogs exploring the topic further on the EDI Blog.