Victoria University takes a strong stand against violence in any form, including sexual and gender-based violence.
Gender-based violence is a serious social issue driven by gender inequality and enabled by sexist behaviours and attitudes.
We work to build a culture of safety and respect, where students and staff are empowered to become change agents to help stop gender-based violence at the University and in the wider community.
The Respect and Responsibility program implements the University’s Building Respectful Futures Together strategy. We deliver programs and initiatives that challenge gender stereotyping and help change attitudes and behaviours around sexual assault and sexual harassment.
The Building Respectful Futures Together strategy promotes gender equality as a key action to prevent gender-based violence. It pursues gender equality transformation within and beyond the University. By engaging with student leaders, students and staff, framing respectful relationships as a core 21st-century skill for graduates, building and contributing to community violence prevention strategies and connecting researchers with one another, the strategy seeks to embody the vision and moral purpose of VU.
VU’s strategy to prevent gender-based violence is aligned with the ‘Change the Story’ national framework, and takes place across four interlinked domains of action:
Some of the Respect and Responsibility program achievements since 2016 include:
Future program initiatives include:
Email [email protected] if you would like to be an active part of this important work, or would like more information on our program.
Find Our Voices, Reclaiming Our Spaces mural painted by students and staff at Footscray Park Campus on International Women’s Day 2018.
Sexual assault and sexual harassment are very common. If your friend, classmate or colleague tells you about unwanted sexual contact, there are some simple things you can do that will really help.
Believing someone when they tell you about sexual assault or sexual harassment is really important. It takes a lot of courage for someone to talk about sexual assault or harassment. Let your friend know that you believe them, and tell them that it’s not their fault.
Let the person talk, and really listen. Don’t focus on your reactions. Don’t ask for details of the assault, or ask questions like “Why did you go there?” or “Were you drunk?” Just listen, and let them know you want to support them.
Getting support as soon as possible is important. See the important contacts listed on this page (below). Sexual assault or harassment of any kind is unacceptable. You can report an assault anonymously if you wish to Safer Community.
16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign that happens every year between 25 November (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) and 10 December (International Human Rights Day).
VU has participated in 16 Days of Activism in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021.
Read about VU's program of free events to highlight gender equality and preventing violence against women.
For more information about Respect and Responsibility programs, initiatives and training please contact:
Email: [email protected]
