Diversity and Multiculturalism
Charles Sturt University (CSU) recognises and supports cultural and religious diversity. We are committed to ensuring all students and staff feel a sense of connectedness and inclusion in the University community regardless of their religion and cultural beliefs.
CSU aims to embrace diversity on its campuses through the Equity Goal:
"to enhance the capacity of CSU to contribute to Australia's social, cultural, political and economic vitality and strength through action which embraces the full diversity of the community and results in a student profile that fairly reflects that diversity"
Diversity in Australia
Multiculturalism
Australians have a reputation for being friendly and generally welcoming of people from other countries and cultures.
Did you know that :
- approximately one in four people living in Australia were born overseas?
- around 17% of Australians speak a language other than English at home?
- Indigenous Australians account for 2.5% of the total population (2006 Census)?
The national celebration of diversity, Harmony Day, is celebrated on 21 March each year. Harmony Day celebrates the cohesive and inclusive nature of our nation and promotes the benefits of cultural diversity, respect, fairness and a sense of belonging for everyone through cultural, racial and religious intolerance.
Laws
The Australian government promotes public acceptance of diversity and multiculturalism. Australia has equal opportunity laws that prevent any person from being discriminated against because of race, culture, religion, gender, marital status or sexual orientation.
Religion
Australia is home to a diverse range of religions and the Australian constitution protects an individual's right to freely practise their religion. You can celebrate your religious holidays and festivals openly in Australia.
Diversity at Charles Sturt University
Our campuses offer a variety of support and services to encourage diversity and multiculturalism.
Support services
- A Student Community Coordinator provides students with links to the community and student religious and cultural groups in the towns/regions in which our campuses are located.
More about Student Community Coordinator
- English Skills Advisors are available to support students who need assistance with the English language in grammar and writing. Translators are also available.
More about English Language Skills
Religious services
- Christian services are held during the study sessions at our regional campuses
- An active Islamic Study Centre is located on the Wagga Wagga Campus, and at the Albury-Wodonga and Bathurst campuses there are Muslim prayer rooms available
- Various student clubs support students of Christian, Baha'I, and Islamic faiths
- Students can also access other religious services in the local communities of our campuses
More on religious and spiritual support
Residences and catering services
The University has a variety of canteens, cafes, dining rooms and convenience stores that offer different styles of food. Halal and vegetarian food is available upon request.
CSU residences mostly have single rooms, however the accommodation is uni sex (male and females living in the same building, sharing common areas). If this is unsuitable, international students are encouraged to make contact with their International Student Support Officer to get advice about finding alternative housing off campus prior to arrival.
Student Social Clubs
On each campus, active student clubs provide a range of social support for students; whether it's sporting, cultural, recreational or social, we have a club to suit you. The International Student Club in particular aims to help students connect with the Australian community and increase their understanding of different countries and cultures.
More on social and sporting clubs
Indigenous Australians
The University acknowledges the traditional owners of the land, and provides support services to Indigenous students both on campus and those studying by distance education.
Where to go next:
Prospective Student Inquiries
Australian campus business hours are Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm, Australian Eastern Time (GMT +10).
info.csu can provide support and guidance to prospective students on everything you need to know on the University, courses, fees, accommodation, etc.
within Australia 1800 334 733
International + 61 2 6338 6077 Fax (02) 6338 6001