Formal policy and procedure introduced that establishes Safer Community Service as the central point for receipt and management of reports. Review of student misconduct procedures has commenced. Counselling Capacity University counselling resources were increased in 2017 in response to increasing demand and lengthening waiting times. This has resulted in maximum waiting times of approximately 7 days in peak periods and same day access to service for students in genuine crisis. Independent auditor has been engaged to complete this review commencing December 2017. Deakin Residential Services External independent reviewer engaged. Review scheduled to commence December 2017. violence supporting attitudes bystander intervention. Ensure education and information will: target all levels of the organisation - current and future students, staff, residential colleges, public transport to/from university, sports clubs, student societies and student unions be based on best practice and research be developed and delivered by individuals and/or organisations with expertise in sexual violence prevention be developed in consultation with university students, be readily understood by students from different cultural and language backgrounds (plain language review; key messages translated; cultural context) be readily understood by students with differing levels of sex education and general understanding of sexual assault and sexual harassment integrated into mainstream activities and programs include based promotional campaigns (e.g. White Ribbon). Integrate information and education within existing relevant programs such as programs to address: gender equity forms of harassment and disrespectful behaviour celebration and promotion of value of diversity. Disclosures, reports and response Establish central point for reporting, disclosing, referring incidents relating to sexual harm for coordinated response. Provide an option for students to disclose/report using an online form. Review and test accessibility and effectiveness of information and disclosure processes with assistance from: Deakin University Students Association International students from variety of backgrounds External organisations with expertise. Ensure contract providers of student services including GPs, Advisory Service, Security, Fitness Club Operators are trained and informed of relevant University processes and support options. Map and manage relationships with external services (local sexual assault service, local hospital) to enable referral of students to these services where necessary. Review capacity and expertise to provide response that is sensitive to the distinct of different student cohorts (e.g. Indigenous, LGBTIQ etc.).
working group is looking at key areas such as education and awareness. It is led by the Provost, supported by a dedicated project officer and reports to the Vice-Chancellor. In addition, a Concerning Behaviours and Intervention Team (CBAIT) brings together representatives from a range of support units around the university, meeting fortnightly or as needed. A Student Consultative Group has been established, with diverse representation, to ensure ongoing dialogue with students relating to sexual assault and harassment initiatives. Preliminary discussions with government departments responsible for transport and education have taken place, to look at opportunities for collaboration. Student rules have been amended, to specifically include sexual assault, indecent assault and sexual harassment as types of misconduct, and linking these specific behaviours to possible penalties including expulsion and rescission of academic awards conferred by the university. Changing attitudes and behaviours Representatives from all ActivateUTS clubs receive training in identifying, preventing, reporting and responding to sexual assault and harassment. Mandatory student education around consent is planned for 2018. An ongoing calendar of student-focused communications has been developed regarding topics such as sexual consent, bystander behaviours etc. UTS has updated onboarding resources for new staff, promoting a zero tolerance culture around sexual assault and harassment and reporting responsibilities. Our Equity & Diversity Unit provides a confidential grievance resolution process for students or who experience harassment or discrimination. The Student Services Unit provides counselling services for students. We have established a 24/7 UTS trauma-informed Sexual Assault Support Line on 1800 531 626. We have refocused our 24-hour security guard engagement on early intervention – to prevent rather than react to incidents. A security officer patrols the precinct by bicycle from 6pm to 6am, allowing fast response. The hours of our Security Shuttle Bus service, in place for a decade now, have been expanded by two hours to 2am. Our security team meets regularly with local and specialist police units. CCTV monitoring of the UTS precinct has been expanded from 12 hours to 24 hours, 7 days a week. University responses to sexual assault and sexual harassment