Marketing and Communications Policy

1. The purpose of our policy

This policy sets out the principles that govern marketing and communications activities undertaken on behalf of Adelaide University.

It establishes the governance-level responsibilities for ensuring these activities are conducted lawfully, ethically and consistently with our brand, values and strategic priorities.

This policy provides authority to maintain the:

• Marketing and Communications Procedure. 

2. Who our policy applies to

This policy applies to all members of the Adelaide University Community who create, publish or approve marketing or communications that represent Adelaide University.

3. Our marketing and communication principles

3.1 We ensure our communications align with Adelaide University’s purpose and values

Marketing and communications must reflect Adelaide University’s vision, mission and values and contribute to the University’s reputation, strategic objectives and engagement with its communities.

Where appropriate, communications respectfully acknowledge First Nations Peoples as the traditional custodians of the lands on which Adelaide University campuses are located.

3.2 We present Adelaide University consistently

All marketing and communications representing Adelaide University must present the University’s brand, messaging and achievements consistently across audiences, markets and communication channels.

Communications should reflect regional, cultural and social contexts while maintaining the integrity of the Adelaide University brand.

3.3 We communicate accurately and responsibly

Marketing and communications must be truthful, accurate and not misleading. They must comply with applicable legislation, regulatory requirements and Adelaide University policies.

Adelaide University promotes Australian higher education responsibly and does not engage in marketing practices that involve direct negative comparisons with other institutions or partners.

3.4 We protect the Adelaide University brand

The University’s name, brand assets and identity are valuable institutional resources that must be used consistently and appropriately.

All use of the Adelaide University name, logo and brand elements must comply with approved brand standards and must not misrepresent the University or its activities.

Sponsorship arrangements must reflect the purpose, priorities and values of Adelaide University. We partner only with organisations whose activities are consistent with our vision and whose involvement will positively contribute to our reputation, community relationships and strategic goals.

3.5 We communicate with integrity and accountability

Marketing and communications undertaken on behalf of Adelaide University must be authorised through appropriate governance arrangements and undertaken by individuals acting within their roles and responsibilities.

Members of the Adelaide University Community must not represent personal views as official positions of Adelaide University unless authorised to do so.

3.6 We manage communications risks responsibly

Marketing and communications activities must consider reputational, legal, ethical and operational risks.

Communications that may have significant reputational, legal or public interest implications must be escalated and managed in accordance with the University’s governance arrangements and relevant procedures.

4. Definitions used in our policy

Please refer to our Adelaide University glossary for a full list of our definitions.

Adelaide University Community refers to a broad range of stakeholders who engage with Adelaide University (and includes but is not limited to) all students, staff, and non-staff members of Adelaide University including alumni, honorary title holders, adjuncts, visiting academics, guest lecturers, volunteers, suppliers and partners who are engaging with and contributing to the work of Adelaide University.

The approved Adelaide University Brand comprises all representations that identify Adelaide University, including its official title, the logo, trademarks, brand elements, business names and domain names.

Marketing and communications means activities such as advertising, media and public relations, social media, publications, digital communications, websites, media liaison, presentation materials (such as displays) and merchandise. They also include any other published promotional communications designed to generate interest in and engagement with Adelaide University.

5. How our policy is governed

This policy is categorised, approved and owned in line with the governance structure of Adelaide University and the offices and officers listed below.

6. Legislation and other documents related to our policy

Refer to the Delegation Policy for all delegations at Adelaide University.

7. History of changes

At the time of writing, some organisational details within Adelaide University are still evolving. Square brackets [ ] are used to indicate placeholders or areas where information may be refined, clarified, or confirmed. These will be updated as the University’s arrangements are finalised.