Federal, State and Territory Education Ministers this morning endorsed the final Action Plan Addressing Gender-based Violence in Higher Education.
This is a historic moment for progress towards ending violence in university communities – including on campus and within student accommodation.
Currently 1 in 6 students experience sexual harassment and 1 in 20 students experience sexual assault while studying at university.
National violence prevention organisation Our Watch was a consultant to the plan, and Acting CEO Cara Gleeson is available for interview to discuss the key recommendations and what this means for universities, students, staff and preventing violence against women.
Key recommendations:
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A new National Student Ombudsman
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A requirement for universities to deliver a whole-of-university approach to preventing gendered violence including delivering respectful relationships education and embedding respect and gender equality throughout their policies and systems.
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A new National Code of Conduct, that includes student accommodation
Our Watch Acting CEO Cara Gleeson is available for interview.
For more information see the final Action Plan Addressing Gender-based Violence in Higher Education.
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*If you cover this story, or any story regarding violence against women and children, please include the following tagline:
“If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.”
To access guides for reporting about violence against women and their children, visit Media Making Change.
About Our Watch
Our Watch is the national leader in Australia’s work to stop violence against women and their children before it starts. The organisation was created to drive nation-wide change in the practices, norms, and structures that lead to violence against women and children.