Combating Antisemitism at Notre Dame

Dignity of the human person and antisemitism

The University of Notre Dame Australia affirms the dignity of every human person and actively supports persity across its communities of learning, research, and outreach. Grounded in our Catholic ethos, we take a clear and active stance against antisemitism in all its forms.

Definition of antisemitism

The University of Notre Dame Australia provides university education within the context of Catholic faith and values (Objects). As such, the University “decries hatred, persecutions and displays of anti-Semitism directed against Jews at any time and by anyone.” (Nostrae Aetate, 4)

The University defines Antisemitism as any form of hatred, discrimination, persecution, or exclusion directed against Jews because they are Jews. It considers antisemitism to have the following characteristics:

  • It promotes hatred, discrimination, or persecution based on racist ideologies that reduce persons to categories rather than honouring their innate dignity.
  • It limits religious freedom, denying the right of Jewish inpiduals and communities to live, worship, and bear witness to their faith without fear or coercion.
  • It restricts civic freedom, excluding Jews from full participation in social, cultural, political, or economic life.
  • It stifles dialogue, undermining the mutual understanding and respectful encounter to which Jews and Christians are called by their shared history, values, and moral responsibility.
  • It denies the inherent dignity of every human person, created in the image and likeness of God - a foundational belief shared alike by Judaism and Christianity.
  • It rejects the God given unity of the entire human family, fragmenting humanity through hostility and exclusion.

Antisemitism awareness and prevention

The University unequivocally opposes antisemitism and is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive community where all members are treated with dignity and respect. We continue to strengthen this commitment through clear behavioural expectations, accessible support pathways, and a strong culture of respect across teaching, research, and community life.

The University also delivers antisemitism education and awareness training for staff and students, as well as maintains strong engagement and dialogue with the Jewish community.

  • UNDA policies and procedures

    The following policies and procedures establish a clear framework defining unacceptable behaviours related to racism and antisemitism, and outline the standards expected within the University community. They provide guidance on identifying and responding to antisemitism, including reporting and support processes.

    The policies emphasise respectful, inclusive conduct and promote fairness and dignity for all individuals. Together, they reinforce the University’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment, ensuring all members are protected from racism, discrimination, harassment and harm.

    Conduct and Responsibilities

    Health, Safety and Wellbeing

    Academic Context

    Grievances and Appeals

    We are currently reviewing relevant policies to ensure that the University’s definition of antisemitism is clearly reflected and consistently applied.

  • Education and awareness training

    The University is strengthening its commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment by implementing antisemitism education and awareness training in partnership with Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism. This collaboration ensures that the training is informed by national expertise and aligned with broader efforts to address antisemitism across the community.

    This includes:

    • Training for senior leaders and staff with student-facing responsibilities
    • Sessions delivered across campuses in Sydney and Fremantle
    • Programs that inform ongoing policy and practice development

  • Community engagement

    Notre Dame has a strong tradition of engagement with the Jewish community, including in teaching, research, and public dialogue through the Centre for the History of Philosophy (CHOP), a leader in the University’s positive promotion of Jewish thought and culture.

    Our initiatives include:

    • Courses and research in Jewish philosophy
    • Public lectures and events
    • Interreligious dialogue, including initiatives such as Abraham Days
    • Collaboration with Jewish community organisations

    We are also supporting the development of Jewish student clubs to strengthen connection, visibility, and support on campus.

Disclosure, support and reporting

Notre Dame recognises that making a complaint or report about experiences of antisemitism can be difficult. Our intention is to ensure that anyone who comes forward is met with care, fairness, respect, and appropriate support.

Reporting and support mechanisms are accessible to all members of the University community. We are committed to responding in a way that prioritises safety, upholds dignity, and acknowledges the impact of these experiences on individuals and the broader community.

  • Raise a concern

    If you wish to make a complaint or raise a concern, you can do so through the University’s formal processes.

    Raising a concern can be difficult, but support is readily available for students and staff who experience or witness antisemitism, through student health, safety and wellbeing services and speaking with trusted staff members.

    We are improving how complaints processes are coordinated and presented, so that it is easier to understand options and find the most appropriate pathway. All concerns are handled with care, fairness, and respect.

  • Accountability and reporting

    The University is strengthening governance and transparency through:

    • Regular reporting on student complaints and wellbeing to governance committees
    • Ongoing review of complaint processes and support services
    • Work toward public reporting of de-identified complaints data

Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism

Appointed on 9 July 2024, Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism, Ms Jillian Segal AO, provides advice to the Australian Government on addressing antisemitism, promoting public awareness of its impacts, and engaging with stakeholders across all sectors to respond to its prevalence.

Notre Dame acknowledges its responsibility to contribute to these efforts, including monitoring and reporting on incidents of antisemitism within its community.

The University is also committed to supporting transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in preventing and responding to antisemitism, while fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students and employees.

Learn more about the work of the Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism.

Contact us

For additional information and assistance with the ending employment process, please contact our team. We are available to provide support and answer any inquiries.