The SPERA2026 Conference is dedicated to providing a positive respectful conference experience for everyone regardless of their gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, socio-economic background or religion. We want to provide an environment that is free from discrimination, vilification, harassment, bullying and victimisation and characterised by respect.

Harassment is unlawful under both federal and all Australian state anti-discrimination laws, and as such, people suspected of such misconduct may be reported to the relevant authorities. Adherence to this Code of Conduct is a requirement for all conference participants and covers all aspects of this event, including conference sessions and breaks, all social events and all communication, including that via email, social media, official and unofficial channels.

Therefore, we do not tolerate unlawful discrimination and harassment of SPERA2026 Conference participants in any form.

Unacceptable behaviour includes, but is not limited to:

• Offensive verbal or written comments (related to gender, gender identity and expression sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, religion).
• Sexual images in public spaces.
• Deliberate intimidation.
• Stalking and / or following.
• Unwanted photography or recording (if you are asked to stop photographing or recording someone, please do so; if someone indicates that they do not want to be photographed or recorded, do not record or photograph them).
• Sustained disruption of talks or other events.
• Inappropriate and / or unwanted physical contact.
• Unwelcome sexual attention, which can include inappropriate questions of a sexual nature, asking for sexual favours or repeatedly asking for dates or contact information, harassment by electronic (and social) media.

All attendees are subject to this Code of Conduct policy, as well as should comply with the ANU Code of Conduct.

Participants asked to stop behaviour considered as unlawful or harassing are expected to comply immediately. If a participant engages in harassing behaviour, the SPERA2026 Conference organisers may take any action they deem appropriate, including warning the offender, cutting short their presentation or expulsion from the conference.

If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have another concern, please contact one of the conference organisers immediately or have a confidential discussion with the Organising Committee.

The organisers can contact ANU Security, help participants to contact police, provide escorts, or otherwise assist anyone experiencing harassment to feel safe for the duration of the SPERA2026 Conference.

We value your attendance and appreciate your active support in making our SPERA2026 Conference inclusive.