UNSW@ADFA - Equity Unit

ALLY Program

Resources and Networks

The ALLY program at UNSW aims to create a more supportive and inclusive culture for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning heterosexual and intersex (LGBTQI) students and staff.

ALLY@UNSW is an active network that meets regularly to keep abreast of issues that may affect LGBTQI students and staff. It also hosts events and invites guest speakers to talk on topics of interest throughout the academic year.

Volunteer staff and student leaders undergo training to become Allies and come from a a cross-section of the diverse UNSW community. They affirm the rights and experiences of LGBTQI people, challenge homophobic and heterosexist values and raise awareness about issues that LGBTQI face. They are also a confidential referral point for students and staff to access LGBTQI specific community services or organisations.

Allies are recognised by displaying the ALLY@UNSW logo in their work area or by wearing an ALLY badge.

ALLY@UNSW is a joint initiative of the Student Equity and Disabilities Unit, Human Resources and is supported by Arc.

Role of UNSW @ADFA Allies

The ALLY@UNSW program is a visible network of volunteers who support the UNSW commitment to make the campus an environment where all members of the university community can work and study safely, free of harassment or discrimination.

The ALLY network is made up of empathic people prepared to become allies of students and staff who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning heterosexual or intersex (LGBTQI). Allies undertake a short training program where they are exposed to the unique and divergent issues that face members of the LGBTQI community. They commit to developing their knowledge and understanding by maintaining their connection to the network, attending ALLY@UNSW seminars, professional development opportunities and other events.

ALLY@UNSW is open to all staff and aims to bridge cultural divides surrounding sexual orientations and gender identities by developing campus awareness and challenging stereotypical views to dispel myths, fears and prejudices around difference.

Allies are not sexuality or gender identity experts, nor do they need to identify as LGBTQI. Rather, Allies understand the importance of advocating on behalf of people who may be less empowered to speak on their own for fear of being discriminated against or harassed.

Allies provide a safe place for LGBTQI students and staff by having access to appropriate resources and referral information. A trained ALLY can be found wherever the ALLY@UNSW logo is displayed in a work area. Allies volunteer to undertake their role with the knowledge that they're making UNSW a better place to study and work for everybody.

Other ALLY Programs

For information on ALLY at other Universities please explore the links below:

Glossary of [Queer] Terms

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Equity Office

ALLY Program

Resources and Networks

Role of UNSW @ADFA Allies

Other ALLY Programs