February 17, 2026
Quotes attributable to Group of Eight Chief Executive Vicki Thomson:
"The Australian Human Rights Commission's Racism@Uni Study makes for sobering reading. It presents confronting evidence that racism is experienced by too many students and staff, with profound impacts, and that institutional responses have not always met the seriousness of the harm described. These accounts demand that universities listen carefully, acknowledge where we have fallen short, and take responsibility for doing better."
"The findings reinforce a hard truth: policies and frameworks, while necessary, are not sufficient on their own. Trust is rebuilt through action – through fair and transparent complaints processes, visible and accountable leadership, and everyday decisions that demonstrate respect and inclusion in practice, not just intent."
"As ASIO Director‑General Mike Burgess has warned, Australia is experiencing a serious erosion of social cohesion, with growing polarisation, mistrust and division placing pressure on institutions and communities. Universities are not immune from these forces, but nor are we passive observers of them."
"As Australia's leading research‑intensive universities, Go8 institutions recognise the responsibility we hold to respond credibly and constructively. We accept the Commission's challenge to move beyond frameworks to implementation – strengthening complaints processes, improving racial and religious literacy, and ensuring our campuses are places where academic freedom and safety genuinely coexist."
"Go8 universities reject all forms of racism, discrimination, harassment and vilification, and remain committed to sustained, transparent action to ensure our campuses are safe, inclusive and respectful places for all."
