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Gender Based Violence
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Our Commitment to Safety and Respect
At Southern Cross University, we are dedicated to ensuring that every member of our community feels safe, respected and included. This commitment underpins everything we do and will be further strengthened by the Australian Government’s introduction of the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence (the National Code), which has now passed into law.
The National Code sets clear standards and best practice requirements for how universities must prevent and respond to gender-based violence. This includes prioritising safety and proactively addressing the factors that drive and contribute to gender-based violence in the University community.
Frequently asked questions
Gender-based violence is defined broadly under the National Code as any form of physical or non-physical violence, harassment, abuse or threats, based on gender, that results in, or is likely to result in, harm, coercion, control, fear or deprivation of liberty or autonomy.
This replaces the previous terminology of ‘sexual harm and family violence’ to reflect a more comprehensive approach.
The University is currently reviewing and updating its policies and procedures, including the Sexual Misconduct (Prevention and Response) Policy, to ensure we meet the requirements under the National Code. This Policy will be developed through consultation by students, staff and experts.
The University is also preparing its Whole-of-Organisation Prevention and Response Plan. This Plan is intended to be co-designed through a whole of institution approach and reflect the needs of different student and staff groups, particularly those members who are disproportionately affected by gender-based violence.
We all have a role to play in helping SCU to be a safe and respectful community free from Gender-based Violence.
We invite all community members to actively engage with the development of SCU’s Prevention and Response Plan.
Please contact us if you would like to get involved or provide feedback.
Where to get support
Southern Cross University is committed to supporting students and staff experiencing gender-based violence to continue to participate in their study and work.
If you are experiencing gender-based violence (including physical, sexual, financial, verbal or emotional abuse by an immediate family member) or know someone who is, support is available.
Who to contact
Immediate crisis response
For help in an emergency, contact:
Police and Ambulance - 000
OR
On-campus security - 1800 SC HELP/ 1800 72 4357 (free call from any campus phone)
Student Support
For further information about making a report or getting support please refer to the Sexual Assault and Sexual Harrassment webpage.
Staff Support
Staff members who experience domestic or family violence, please refer to the Staff Domestic and Family Violence Support webpage for the information and support available.