20. Academic freedom, freedom of speech and protected disclosure

20.1.  The parties to this Agreement recognise that the exercise of academic freedom and freedom of speech are defining features of and fundamental to the operation of the University.

20.2.  Academic freedom comprises the following elements:

1. the freedom of academic staff to teach, discuss, and research and to disseminate and publish the results of their research;
2. the freedom of academic staff to engage in intellectual inquiry, to express their opinions and beliefs, and to contribute to public debate, in relation to their subjects of study and research;
3. the freedom of academic staff to express their opinions in relation to the higher education provider in which they work or are enrolled;
4. the freedom of academic staff to participate in professional or representative academic bodies.

20.3.  Freedom of speech comprises the freedom of staff to engage in all forms of lawful expressive conduct including oral speech and written, artistic, musical and performing works and activity, communication using social media, and to participate in professional or representative bodies.

20.4.  The parties will uphold the principle and practice of academic freedom and freedom of speech in accordance with the highest ethical, professional and legal standards.

20.5.  Academic freedom and freedom of speech exercised in accordance with this clause will not constitute misconduct or serious misconduct, nor attract any penalty or other adverse action.

20.6.  In addition, the University supports the ability of all staff to raise matters relating to alleged corrupt conduct or maladministration in accordance with the ANU Protected Disclosures policy.