University of Tasmania has spoken about how Australian universities are combating issues of sexual assault and harassment at campuses, as part of The Examiner’s Hands Off campaign.
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The nation’s universities, including UTAS, have come together in their own campaign, Respect. Now. Always, which was launched in 2016 to gain an understanding of the prevalence of sexual assault and sexual harassment.
It began in September, when thousands of students were selected to participate in Australia's first-ever survey on university experiences of sexual assault and harassment, run by the Australian Human Rights Commission.
Students who weren't selected for the initial survey were given the opportunity to provide an anonymous online submission until December last year.
The purpose of the research was to give universities a clearer, evidence-based understanding of the prevalence of issues on campuses, and to pave the way for preventative measures to be put in place. All of that information is now being worked through by researchers, and findings will be released later this year.
"We have zero tolerance to sexual assault and harassment and, where they align with these values and beliefs, have been active in supporting and promoting any campaign which serves to highlight, engage and inform," UTAS's Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Brigid Heywood said.
"We seek always to improve what we do and this includes education, providing reporting avenues and support services, and ensuring the physical nature of our campuses is conducive to safety.”
If you need help, you can contact Laurel House Launceston’s 24/7 crisis line on 0409 800 394.
