Marketing Unit
Events protocol
The events team has a mandate to manage events professionally, to reflect the image of Macquarie University as a professional, reputable and high-quality institution.
To achieve a high level of professionalism, staff are requested to follow certain protocols. These will help in managing events that involve the Vice-Chancellor, Chancellor, distinguished guests or the media.
Vice-Chancellor or Chancellor events
VIP guests
Welcome to country
Media interest, controversy, security risks
Vice-Chancellor or Chancellor events
If you would like the Vice-Chancellor or Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellors and Executive Deans to host or to play a role in your program:
1. Complete the Event brief sheet (PDF 50KB)
This brief has all necessary information about the role of the executives and external VIPs at your event, such as speech topics, meeting VIPs beforehand, and group photography.
2. Email it to Emma Norton, Events Manager: emma.norton@mq.edu.au
This document will help executives consider your request in relation to their schedule. When they confirm their availability:
3. Check the Vice-Chancellor requirements sheet (PDF 92KB)
4. Prepare a full event brief (see sample VC brief, PDF 153KB)
5. Send this to Losalini Kelei, Senior Event Officer (Protocol): lo.kelei@mq.edu.au.
We will assist you with the details of protocol.
VIP guests
If notable VIPs are attending, you need to advise University Security and the Senior Event Officer (Protocol) - see above. There is protocol for access to campus, parking and liaison services for VIPs.
The University's VIP categories are broadly defined as:
- Government - federal and state Members of Parliament, government ministers, shadow ministers, local government and international politicians.
- Diplomats and senior public servants.
- Royalty, Vice-Regal representatives and international dignitaries.
- Heads of major companies and organisations.
- Notable academics (Nobel prize winners, presidents, vice-chancellors, chancellors, or equivalent of other universities).
- Heads of churches.
- Local or international celebrities whose presence could affect the profile of the University.
VIP procedure
Follow the same steps as for the Vice-Chancellor. You can adapt the forms above for your particular event.
Welcome to country
Welcome to country guidelines and suggestions
Media interest, controversy, security risks
Some events, including those with large audiences, may generate public or media interest or controversy, or present security issues. If you think your event falls into this category, contact the Senior Event Officer, Protocol (see above).