Protocol for Managing Staff Criticism in the Media
1. Purpose This protocol provides a structured approach for responding to situations where
Australian National University (ANU) staff members are criticised in the media. It aims
to ensure fair treatment, institutional integrity, and appropriate communication while
upholding academic freedom and due process.
2. Scope This protocol applies to all university staff, including academic and professional
personnel, who are the subject of media criticism relating to their professional role or
association with the university.
3. Principles
• Fairness and Support: The university will provide support to staff and ensure a
fair process before drawing conclusions.
• Institutional Integrity: Responses will align with the university’s values and
policies.
• Freedom of Expression: The university acknowledges the importance of
academic freedom and open discourse.
• Proactive and Timely Response: Timely and strategic communication is essential
to minimise reputational damage.
• Confidentiality: Sensitive matters will be handled discreetly to protect all parties
involved.
4. Response Procedure 4.1. Monitoring and Identification
• The ANU Media team will notify the staff member and their manager about a
direct enquiry received from media.
• The ANU Media team will actively monitor coverage to identify any criticism
involving staff.
• Staff members are encouraged to notify their manager and the media team if
they become aware of critical media coverage.
4.2. Initial Assessment
• The media team, in consultation with relevant senior leaders (e.g., Vice-
Chancellor, People and Culture, Legal Counsel), will assess the nature and
severity of the criticism.
• Factors considered include accuracy, potential reputational impact, legal
implications, and the staff member’s well-being.
4.3. Internal Communication
• The affected staff member and their manager will be contacted and given an
opportunity to provide context.
• Senior leadership will be briefed on the situation and potential response
strategies.
• The People and Culture Division and ANU Security will be notified to provide
support and guidance to the staff member as required.
4.4. External Communication
• The university will determine whether a public response is required, balancing
transparency with discretion.
• If a response is warranted, it may take the form of a statement or engagement
with key stakeholders. Any statement will be shared with relevant areas of the
university to ensure a coordinated response.
• Media enquiries will be directed to the designated spokesperson (e.g., Vice-
Chancellor, Head of Public Affairs).
4.5. Legal and Risk Considerations
• If legal risks are identified, the Legal Counsel will advise on appropriate actions.
• Defamatory or false statements may warrant legal responses or corrections.
4.6. Ongoing Support and Review
• Counselling, legal support, or professional guidance will be provided to the
affected staff member if needed.
• The university will assess the situation over time and adjust its approach, if
required.
• A review will be conducted post-incident to refine future responses.
5. Notification Email Template
Subject: Media Enquiry – [Staff Member’s Name]
Dear [Staff Member’s Name] and [Head of School’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. We have received a media enquiry about [Staff
Member’s Name] in relation to [brief description of the issue].
We understand that media scrutiny can be challenging, and we want to assure you
that the university is here to provide support. We would appreciate the opportunity
to discuss this matter with you and understand any relevant context you may wish
to share.
Please let us know a convenient time to connect. Additionally, if you have already
received media enquiries, please direct them to
xxxxx@xxx.xxx.xx or call the
ANU Media team on 02 6125 7979.
Should you require any immediate support or guidance, please do not hesitate to
get in touch. You may also like to access the ANU employee assistance program
for support:
https://services.anu.edu.au/human-resources/wellbeing/employee-
assistance-program. Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[University Name]
[Contact Information]
6. Conclusion The ANU is committed to handling media criticism of staff with professionalism,
fairness, and strategic foresight. This protocol ensures that responses are timely,
measured, and aligned with institutional values.
