One of the identified areas where the reporting of sexual assault has been highlighted as a problem is in Australia’s tertiary education sector.
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Universities Australia this week launched a research experiment aimed at shedding light on the breadth and severity of the problem on Australian campuses.
The peak body will attempt to uncover student experiences of sexual assault and sexual harassment on campus.
A representative sample of students from all Australian universities will be asked to complete this survey while those not selected can share their experiences anonymously. High profile campaigns and law changes in the United States have set the precedent.
This study is to be encouraged and applauded in Australia. It should be noted, central Victorian institutions do not have a significant history of on-campus abuse and they have been constructively pre-emptive on the issue.
Indeed, this week La Trobe University took another positive step forward in becoming one of several Victorian workplaces to commit to the prevention of violence against women.
The university is participating in the Victorian Workplace Equality and Respect Project, run by peak prevention body Our Watch. The project aims to promote women’s participation and opportunities; challenge violence supportive attitudes, gender stereotypes and roles; and encourage critical thinking about structures that might reinforce inequality.
Sexual violence is an abuse of power which most often comes from rigid gender stereotypes. While sexual violence can happen to anyone, regardless of sex, sexuality and gender identity, women and children are statistically more likely to be victims and perpetrators are usually male.
La Trobe University Bendigo head of campus Robert Stephenson is correct in saying staff and students should be able to work and study in a safe environment.
Universities Australia’s intention is the data from the survey will serve as even stronger evidence for prevention strategies and education. An encouraging step toward the safety and well being everyone should expect.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. Emergency, call 000.