Cultural and linguistic diversity
Western Australia is one of the most culturally and linguistically diverse states in Australia, with around 32% of Western Australians born overseas and 18% speaking a language other than English at home.
Reflecting this, we aim to promote among our students the ability and desire to develop personal, social and ethical awareness in an international context, to respect diverse cultures and acquire the cultural intelligence they need to be globally literate.
We also aim to support and celebrate our culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) staff, embed cultural literacy as part of an inclusive leadership framework and engage effectively with new and emerging CALD communities.
Policies
Recognising the religious and cultural diversity of our community, we offer entitlements to assist staff in managing their work and cultural/religious commitments. UWA has an inclusive definition of family that encompasses a wide range of relationships; family responsibilities include responsibilities associated with extended families and religious or community structures.
Initiatives
We support cultural and religious diversity through initiatives such as:
- cultural literacy training
- explicit recognition of the need for cultural and religious leave for staff
- a dedicated prayer room for Muslim staff and students, and halal food on campus
We encourage our undergraduates to participate in student exchange at our partner universities. Our Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) students are provided with a scholarship-supported, study abroad experience.
The Student Guild’s International Students’ Department looks after the welfare of international students studying at UWA. Each year it organises Multicultural Week, which celebrates the diversity of our students and increases awareness of cultural diversity in the community
