Transgender Student Information

In 2008, the Human Rights Commission released To Be Who I Am, a report on discrimination against trans individuals in New Zealand. This report includes recommendations for cementing the processes and pathways available to students at New Zealand universities who wish to change gender and/or names and for ensuring that trans students are able to take an active part in University life (HRC 2008).

Below you will find essential information for trans students including;

• changing details in university records;
• rights and obligations as students.

This information was researched at the University of Otago, but certain pathways are common between tertiary institutions. Where a reference is specific to Otago, you may need to locate a similar organisation or position at your tertiary institution. Check the contacts section for groups that may be able to assist you if you're stuck.

Ethical Behaviour

All universities and training institutions have an ethical behaviour policy in some form. The policy protects all students and staff from harassment, discrimination, and abuse of authority. For example, a portion of Otago University's policy reads:

'The objective of this policy is to promote ethical dealings between members of the University community and to provide an environment of safety, respect and dignity so members can participate fully in all aspects of University life'.

Other Independent Services for Tertiary Students

Student Health

The name you use to enrol will initially be used on student health records. It can be changed by your doctor. Student Health is able to alter your recorded gender/sex on their records but your national health index number will remain the same.

Student Associations

Universities supply gender data to their student associations. Therefore, associations such as OUSA do not 'officially' collect gender data. Filling in gender data on surveys is optional. There is an increasing awareness of issues such as whether trans women are eligible to run and/or vote for the women's representative position on student executive.

Clubs and Societies and Recreation Services

Gender items on surveys are optional. Most activities are not gender specific, but participation in gender segregated activities is in accordance with a student's enrolment gender at the university. Competitive sports clubs recruit their own players independent of Clubs and Socs. Uni Games has men's and women's divisions; Uni Sport has stated that they allow students to self-identify their genders.

For more information about your rights, potential sources of support, or to join others in lobbying for change, see the contacts list.

Gender

The Ministry of Education requires universities to cite 'original' gender documentation to align citizenship with enrolment details for funding purposes. 'Gender' is recorded for statistical purposes. It does not show on management systems such as PIMS, Myvictoria, and nDeva. Gender details rarely appear on study records.

Original Assessment on Birth Certificate

Students can not apply to have a gender, other than what is on their birth certificated, recorded on enrolment.

X Passport/Statutory Declaration

Neither can be used as an alternative for a new birth certificate.

Changed Birth Certificate

Can be used as if it were the original birth certificate to record listed gender on enrolment.

Names

The University of Otago is aware of the relationship between names and gender presentation. The following standards can also be used at other universities.

	PREFERRED NAME	LEGALLY CHANGED
ENROLMENT	A student can register a 'preferred' name at any time by contacting the University Information Centre. The preferred name does not appear on class lists, graduation certificates, diplomas, or transcripts. It does appear on the student's ID card and the database of student information.	Once name is legally changed, all records are changed. Previous names are kept under a restricted record. You must contact the Student Records Office to request that previous names are not printed on transcripts or course approval forms.
USER NAMES / STUDENT INDEMNITY	At present, a 'preferred' name may not be used to make the user name.	Student user names can be changed by clearly stating, in writing, why the change is required. Contact University Student Services Director or similar positions at your university.
GRADUATION CERTIFICATES	 	Re-issued with official documentation of 'gender change'. Contact the Manager, Student Administration.