Freedom of expression and academic freedom at the University of Auckland

In late 2025, the University Council adopted a Freedom of Expression statement that applies to all our staff and students.

The statement reaffirms our role as critic and conscience of society, promotes lawful and constructive debate, and commits to institutional neutrality on matters outside our core roles, functions, and duties.

• Read our Freedom of Expression statement
• What are freedom of expression and academic freedom?

Staff and students

If you believe your or another university member's freedom of expression or academic freedom has been restricted you have several options for seeking resolution. 

• Find out what to do if you have a freedom of expression/academic freedom dispute or complaint

From 2026 onward, all New Zealand universities are required by the Education and Training Act 2025 to:

• Survey staff and students on their ability to exercise freedom of expression and academic freedom at their university
• Report the number of ‘Freedom of expression disputes/complaints’ made by either staff or students annually

More information about how the University will report this will be shared with staff and students at a later date.

Additional resources

The 8-12 minute course for current students, Understanding freedom of expression, is now available on Canvas.

Resources are also being developed for academic staff, and will be available on TeachWell.