University of Melbourne releases 2023 Sexual Misconduct Annual Report
The University of Melbourne has published its third Sexual Misconduct Annual Report highlighting the University’s commitment to transparency in how it responds to and eliminates sexual misconduct within its community.
The report includes outcomes of investigations and the consequences for those who breached University of Melbourne policies, together with the progress the institution has made in preventing and combatting sexual harm and sexual harassment.
University of Melbourne Provost, Professor Nicola Phillips said the University has made significant progress since the first report was published three years ago, but there is more work to be done.
“Sexual harm has physical, psychological and emotional impacts on the members of our community. We know that headline numbers do not describe the suffering that sits behind the data, and it is incredibly important that we do not lose sight of this.”
“We are determined to provide a safe environment for our community members, free from sexual misconduct,” Professor Phillips said.
“The publication of the 2023 Sexual Misconduct Annual Report is critical to achieving the transparency and accountability necessary to eliminate sexual misconduct in any form at our University.
“Education is the cornerstone of our approach. In Semester One this year, we launched our new mandatory module for all students and graduate researchers, ‘Preventing Sexual Misconduct’. This was developed in consultation with our students and subject matter experts, ensuring alignment with current research and relevance to our university context.
“Delivery of the University’s Respect Education Program continues at pace, with more than 8,100 staff participating in the last 12 months. This program equips people to take action to create safe and respectful working and learning environments.”
Professor Phillips encouraged any members of the university community wishing to access support or raise concerns to contact the Safer Community Program or to use the Speak Safely online portal.
“I’d like to thank all our students and staff members, and especially acknowledge the victim-survivors, who are working with us to address and eliminate sexual misconduct from our community. I encourage anyone with concerns to connect with our Safer Community Program, with the assurance that all issues will be handled in a respectful, fair and confidential manner.”