Communicating with VU

Social media

Acceptable behaviour online

Remember that if you are using Victoria University's name (or a derivation of it such as VU or Vic Uni) please ensure that you do not tarnish or misrepresent VU. This means images and comments should abide by applicable laws, legislation and policies including Victoria University's Student Charter and our Discrimination, Harassment and Bullying Policy.

Basically, comments that are racist, sexist, promote illegal activity or degrade a group or individual should not be made in the first place, or should be removed as soon as possible. Students who are being harassed by other VU students should seek support from counselling or student advisory. Stalking and harassment claims will be treated seriously and the offender may face disciplinary action.

We understand that many slang terms are used colloquially and in good fun but please remember that they often have other meanings and may be taken offensively by others.

Social media can be seen by a range of people (including potential employers) so think about how you are representing yourself.

Tips for online behaviour

When you are using these sites, here are some things to look out for:

• Make sure you know where to set your privacy settings, and set them to a comfortable and secure level.
• Don't post your or other people's private/confidential or identifying information online. For example, you may not want to use a photo of yourself as a profile picture
• You should be aware of copyright and other intellectual property issues when uploading video, music, images, logos, designs, and text that others have created. Make sure that you have the right to use the intellectual property or ask for permission. Be sure to cite the creator/owner. There are copyright-free alternatives such as Creative Commons licensed work.
• Keep your participation respectful. Cyberbullying or other kinds of harassment will not be tolerated. Your behaviour is still bound by the Student Charter.
• The quality and accuracy of your posts matters. Do not make disparaging remarks about others. Remember that you are participating as a student of VU.