UniSA
Ally Network

Why do we need an Ally Network at UniSA?

The University of South Australia has always been committed to welcoming and supporting all students and staff to be part of our community, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, ability or sexuality.

The establishment of an Ally Network at UniSA represents a significant step towards creating a culture that respects and celebrates sexual and gender diversity. We want to create a University community where all students, staff and visitors feel safe, supported and empowered to be who they are.

To this end we have set up a Working Group which will be responsible for the initial establishment and oversight of UniSA’s Ally Network. This group is comprised of staff members and student representatives from across the University.

What does a UniSA Ally do?

The UniSA Ally Network is a voluntary network of staff and students who are a visible presence in support of our rainbow community.

Allies can be people who are of diverse genders, sexes or sexualities, and those who are not. All Allies must be committed to upholding and supporting the rights of people who identify as gender or sexually diverse, and are expected to undertake awareness training as part of their commitment. The importance of safe and non-judgemental contacts across all levels of the University is vital to supporting our gender and sexually diverse colleagues and students to thrive.

Once training has been completed, a list of Allies and their contact details will be maintained by the Ally Network Working Group and published on this website for easy reference.

An Ally IS ✔

Someone who may or may not identify as sexually or gender diverse.
Someone who can provide a culturally safe contact point for staff and students.
Someone willing to listen without judgement or assumption.
Someone willing to model inclusive language and behaviours whilst encouraging others to do the same.
Committed to understanding and challenging their own biases and assumptions about sexuality and gender.
Committed to ongoing learning in relation to the unique history and culture surrounding gender and sexual diversity, implicit privilege, and marginalisation.
Committed to celebrating diversity and creating a culture of respect, safety and inclusion.

An Ally is NOT ✘

An expert in sexuality or gender.
Expected to counsel or provide professional advice to others.

How do I become a UniSA Ally?

If you are interested in becoming a UniSA Ally please complete the details below and we will contact you with further information:

What are Pronouns?

You Can't Ask That: Gender

Got a question?

Email your query to allynetwork@unisa.edu.au.

If you are not sure/ready to become a registered Ally yet but would like to improve your understanding and knowledge of the issues affecting the gender and sexually diverse community, we have provided some useful links and resources below:

NEW ELECTIVE available online in SP5 - 2020

'Gender, Sexuality, and Representation' by Dr Naomi Merritt. This course is open to all students across the university so register before it's too late and get a head start on your learning!

Find out more