Discrimination Policy
At AAIC, we are committed to promoting equal opportunities for all individuals. Discrimination in any form is not tolerated. There are two main types of discrimination:
- Direct Discrimination: This involves treating someone less favorably based on factors such as age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, race, pregnancy status, or any other identifiable group protected by equal opportunity legislation.
- Indirect Discrimination: This occurs when everyone is treated the same way, but the result is that one group is disadvantaged.
Discrimination may manifest in various ways and can hinder your ability to participate or succeed in your chosen course of study. Examples of discrimination include:
- Harassment and bullying by staff members or other students.
- Exclusion of a potential student from a course or failing them due to their inability to fulfill standard course requirements, without making reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilities.
- Excluding someone from a course based on assumptions about their employability.
If you experience discrimination, we encourage you to take the following steps:
- Speak directly to your trainer about the issue.
- Seek advice and support from a student counsellor.
- Follow the complaint and appeal process to address the problem.
- Contact the Equal Opportunity Commission if you believe AAIC is not adequately resolving the situation.
Harassment and Bullying Policy
Harassment is unacceptable at AAIC, and we are committed to providing a safe and respectful learning environment. Harassment may involve conduct, comments, or displays that cause fear, humiliation, offense, embarrassment, degradation, or any other form of harm. Examples include unwelcome remarks, racial slurs, threats, or condescending behavior.
If you experience harassment, you may face various adverse effects, including difficulty concentrating, fear for your safety, reduced confidence to participate in class, and increased stress and anxiety.
To address harassment:
- Speak to your trainer about the issue, if you feel comfortable doing so.
- Seek assistance from a student counsellor to understand your options and the complaint process.
- If the harassment persists despite your efforts, mediation or investigation may be necessary, which could result in disciplinary action against the harasser.
Sexual Harassment Policy:
AAIC is committed to preventing sexual harassment and ensuring a safe learning environment for all students. Sexual harassment is unlawful under the Commonwealth Sex Discrimination Act. It includes any unwanted and unwelcome sexual attention that causes fear, offense, anger, or humiliation.
Examples of sexual harassment include leering, persistent advances after refusal, offensive jokes, unwelcome comments about sex life, touching without consent, or pressuring someone into sex.
If you experience sexual harassment:
- Seek guidance and support from student support staff, who will handle the issue with seriousness and confidentiality.
- The alleged harasser will be made aware of the unacceptable nature of their behavior.
- After investigation, further actions may be taken if necessary.
Racism Policy
At AAIC, racism is strictly prohibited, and we uphold clear codes of behavior and discipline to combat such behavior. Racial discrimination involves disadvantaging individuals based on their racial or ethnic background. Racial harassment is based on false assumptions or social myths.
Examples of racism include racist graffiti, demeaning jokes about a person’s racial or ethnic background, or physical assault.
If you experience racism, we encourage you to speak out against it and utilize the complaint and appeal policy to address the issue effectively.