April 2018 Update

April 2018 Update

Last month I released the University’s Action Plan in response to the  Australian Human Rights Commission’s national report (PDF) on sexual assault and sexual harassment at Australian Universities. The Action Plan (PDF, 389.1 KB) is a living document, and will be updated to reflect the latest initiatives that are being developed to implement the report’s recommendations, and carry these into the future.

The Action Plan is being driven by my Advisory Committee, specially established to implement the report’s recommendations.  We are making good progress on many of these actions so far, including the launch of the anonymous reporting mechanism, and anonymous question and answer section on this website.

I’m encouraged by the level of support and engagement from students for the Respect. Now. Always. Campaign. during Wellness Week in February. We had several guest speakers, including Dr Renee Hamilton from Universities Australia, and a lively panel discussion featuring stakeholders from UNE and the community, including the Armidale police.

Vice-Chancellor Annabelle Duncan, adding a flower to the Fabric of Respect art installation

Vice-Chancellor Annabelle Duncan, adding a flower to the Fabric of Respect art installation

A highlight of O-Week this year was the Fabric of Respect art installation (pictured), coordinated by artist and UNE curator Narelle Jarry, which demonstrated our collective commitment to building up a culture of respect at UNE. By participating in the project, I and many others in the UNE community pledged our zero tolerance of sexual assault and sexual harassment at UNE.

In April, I am looking forward to welcoming Ms Kate Jenkins from the Australian Human Rights Commission, who will be visiting UNE to give a presentation to all staff and students on the Change the Course Report findings.

By the end of April, I’m also expecting to be presented with the final report from the Audit that is underway into the University’s counselling services, and their ability to support students who have been affected by sexual assault or sexual harassment. I’m looking forward to considering the report and UNE’s response.

As always, I welcome your feedback and input into the Respect.Now.Always. campaign. This is a collective effort, and we need to keep the discussion open and inclusive. Please submit your ideas or questions via the anonymous Q and A function, or by emailing respectnowalways@une.edu.au. I look forward to bringing you my next update soon.">