Adelaide University Reviews Santos Building Name Amid Climate Criticism
The newly formed Adelaide University is actively considering the removal of the Santos name from one of its campus buildings, following the expiration of a long-standing sponsorship agreement. This move comes amid growing criticism from students and environmental groups who argue that promoting the fossil fuel company is inconsistent with modern sustainability values.
Background of the Santos Partnership
In 1999, Santos entered into a $25 million sponsorship deal with the University of Adelaide, which has since merged with the University of South Australia to create Adelaide University. This agreement funded the construction of the Santos Petroleum Engineering building, established a professorship, and provided student scholarships for at least two decades. However, the School of Petroleum Engineering no longer exists, with its courses now integrated into the broader engineering department.
University's Stance and Climate Concerns
Professor Nicola Phillips, who became vice-chancellor in January after the merger, confirmed that the university had already been reviewing the naming rights prior to recent protests. "That process of consideration was already under way," she stated, emphasizing that as Adelaide University, they must assess whether the naming aligns with their current reality. Phillips noted that the institution maintains a positive relationship with Santos but has engaged in discussions about the situation, particularly in response to staff and student concerns about climate change.
On Saturday, a rally organized by students and the Conservation Council South Australia (CCSA) took place outside the Santos building, demanding the name be dropped. Darcey McNamara, a student and CCSA campaigner, labeled the promotion of Santos as "shameful," citing the company's gas expansion plans that she claims harm First Nations communities and exacerbate climate pollution. The CCSA is also advocating for the South Australian government to end Santos's sponsorship of the Tour Down Under cycling event.
Public Opinion and Legal Context
A recent poll commissioned by the Australian Conservation Foundation, involving 1,242 South Australians, revealed significant public support for holding gas companies accountable. Specifically, 36% strongly agree and 38% somewhat agree that companies like Santos should pay for environmental damage caused by their operations. In February, Santos successfully defended itself in a greenwashing case, where it was accused of misleading claims regarding its net zero plans, highlighting ongoing controversies around its environmental practices.
Contrasting Views on Indigenous Language
In a separate but related development, the university faced criticism from Cory Bernardi, a One Nation upper house MP and state party leader, who mocked signs using the Kaurna language on campus. Bernardi posted videos during the state election campaign questioning the use of phrases like "Niina Marni" (a common greeting meaning "hello, how are you?") and "Ngangkiku Ngartuku Kukuwardli" (referring to a healthcare facility for women and children). Kaurna elder Lynette Crocker condemned these comments as damaging and discriminatory.
In response, Vice-Chancellor Phillips firmly distanced the university from Bernardi's views, highlighting their commitment to First Nations communities. She pointed to the university's adoption of a Kaurna-gifted name, Tirkangkaku, enshrined in its act, and the appointment of Adnyamathanha/Narungga man and football legend Adam Goodes as a First Nations ambassador. "I think all of that stands for itself as an indication that we would not share the views that have been expressed," she asserted, emphasizing that such commitments are core to the university's identity and values.
Future Considerations
As Adelaide University continues to evolve post-merger, the review of the Santos building name represents a broader effort to align institutional practices with contemporary ethical and environmental standards. The outcome of this deliberation will likely influence the university's stance on corporate partnerships and its public image in the context of global climate debates and social responsibility.
