39 universities, 30,000 students in Australian University, 50% sexually assaulted
Australian universities sexual harassment cases increase
A disturbing national study by Australian Human Right Commission suggested that, more than half of university students in Australia were sexually harassed last year.
A report conducted on behalf of 39 universities including more than 30,000 students said, women were three times as likely as men to be assaulted sexually and twice as likely to be sexually harassed. These shocking incidents take place majorly on the campus, or while going to or coming back from the university. Off campus events and social gatherings are also a part of it.
The Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Kate Jenkins concluded that Sexual assaults and harassments are occurring at unacceptable rates at Australian universities. The disproportionately higher rate of sexual assault to women clearly states that women at university are not safe.
The report explained that most of the assaults happened at the university ground or in teaching spaces and university social events. Many of those affected did not report the incident, while the vast majority said their university did not provide enough guidance on where to seek support.
Immediate actions are the need of the hour, a 10 point plan to tackle the issue was announced, 24/7 support line, new training staff to recognize the problem and deal with it, a commitment to a follow up survey were announced by Universities Australia, the body representing the country’s university sector.
"We send a strong and clear message today that these behaviours are not acceptable. Not on our campuses -- and not in Australian society," Universities Australia chair Margaret Gardner said.
"We have listened, and we will act."
—PTC News 
