Our Values & Commitments

Our Aims

Showcase projects involving Victorian institutions related to biodiversity (everything from local to global projects).

Strengthen networks between Victorian institutions working on biodiversity (academia, industry, not-for-profit and government).

Highlight the exceptional work of early career researchers and professionals, while providing networking opportunities with those more established in their careers.

Sustainability

VicBioCon is committed to minimising its environmental impact through sustainable practices. We pride ourselves on prioritising vegetarian and low-impact catering options, reducing waste and promoting the use of reusable materials. We continually strive to improve the sustainability of our conference and ensure our actions reflect our environmental values.

Diversity & Inclusion

The Victorian Biodiversity Conference (VicBioCon) seeks to ensure an inclusive, welcoming, safe and accessible environment for all participants, regardless of age, culture, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, national origin, physical or mental difference, politics, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, or subculture. This environment includes the physical, social, virtual and cultural environment. We believe in the need for interdisciplinary study, both in terms of disciplines and participants, and in biodiversity in both ecosystems and membership.

We promote diversity in all areas of activity. VicBioCon will provide an inclusive, welcoming and safe environment for all delegates, and will not tolerate harassment in any form. We will vigorously and proactively reject prejudice and stereotyping wherever we encounter it in our profession. The VicBioCon committee has endorsed this statement, and all participants are responsible for behaving in accordance with the Society’s principles of inclusivity. We reserve the right to sanction or expel participants who do not behave accordingly.

Collaboration & Community

VicBioCon values collaboration over competition, recognising that ecological knowledge is strengthened through shared ideas, experiences and collective effort. We strive to foster a welcoming and supportive community that encourages collaboration, mutual respect and professional development among students, researchers, practitioners, Traditional Owners and the wider biodiversity community.

Code of conduct

 

All participants are expected to adhere to the Victorian Biodiversity Conference code of conduct.