Who is conducting this research?
The research is being conducted by the Social Research Centre (SRC) a research organisation run out of the Australian National University. Specifically, the research is being conducted by RMIT’s Associate Professor Anastasia Powell, a leading researcher and expert on sexual violence prevention.
Why is this survey being conducted?
In 2016, the Australian Human Rights Commission completed the first survey into student experiences of sexual assault and harassment. This research found that around half of students surveyed experienced sexual harassment and 6.9% experienced sexual assault in the previous year.
As a result of this research, a summary report was published in 2017 which included nine recommendations for universities to improve support and reporting responses. One of these recommendations was that universities conduct this survey at three-yearly intervals to track progress in reducing the prevalence of sexual violence in higher education.
The covid-19 pandemic prevented this survey from going ahead in 2020 and as such, it will go ahead this year.
What did UNSW change after the first survey?
After the release of the Australian Human Rights Commission’s initial report, UNSW implemented a number of changes to sexual misconduct processes and procedures to better support students. Some of these changes include:
The drafting of a stand-alone sexual misconduct policy
The establishment of a comprehensive sexual misconduct reporting portal
The creation of a network of first responders, staff members trained in responding to disclosures of sexual violence
Introduction of consent training modules for all commencing students as well as specialised training for students in on-campus accommodation and Arc club settings
Introduction of first responder training for staff members and student leaders in direct contact with students
Why should I complete this survey?
The data from this survey gives universities an understanding of the prevalence of sexual assault and harassment on campus and in university contexts. This data will be used to suggest ways in which universities must change their policies and procedures to better support student survivors of sexual assault and harassment.
There are very few opportunities for students to have a real say on the decision making that occurs at their university. If you wish to have an impact on the way your university responds to sexual assault and harassment, definitely consider completing the survey.
What if I haven’t experienced sexual assault or harassment?
Even if you haven’t had any experiences of sexual assault or harassment, you should still complete the survey because this information is also relevant for universities to understand. Additionally, a section of this survey asks about student attitudes to gendered violence and sexuality, and as such, contributions from everyone are important.
If this survey is distressing to you in any way, here are some resources:
1800RESPECT – 24 hour phone counselling service for people who have experienced or are supporting someone who has experienced sexual or domestic violence. | 1800 737 732 |
Lifeline – 24 hour personal crisis and suicide prevention phone counselling service. | 13 11 14 |
UNSW Psychology & Wellness – free counselling service for all UNSW students. | student.unsw.edu.au/counselling 9385 5418 |
UNSW First Responder Network – trained UNSW staff who can act as a listening ear and help you decide what you want to do next. | |
UNSW Sexual Misconduct Reporting Portal – you can report any incident of sexual assault or harassment through this portal even if it wasn’t connected to the university. Reports can be anonymous if you wish and can be recent or historical in nature. | |
Arc Legal & Advocacy – legal professionals who can give advice on police or university reporting processes and/or help you navigate special considerations and other university processes. | advice@arc.unsw.edu.au |
UNSW Student Support Advisors – these advisors can support you with any academic or wellbeing issue you may be having while studying at UNSW. |
