Curtin University has backed a prominent Universities Australia campaign aimed at preventing sexual assault and harassment by screening the film The Hunting Ground on campus this week.
Michelle Rogers, Director of Support Services and Head of the Safer Community Team, said Curtin was committed to providing a safe environment for all staff, students and visitors to campus and screening the film promoted discussions around sexual assault and discrimination.
“The campaign – Respect. Now. Always. – seeks to prevent sexual assault and harassment by raising awareness, promoting support for students in need of help, and giving bystanders the confidence to speak up,” Ms Rogers said.
“The safety of our students, staff and visitors to our campuses is one of Curtin’s biggest responsibilities.
“With this in mind, we’ve initiated a number of systems to ensure appropriate access to our Safer Community Team at all times. These include the Safezone security app, swipe cards and door keys, security escorts, on campus breakdown assistance, a well-lit campus, security patrols, and a strong reporting system.
“We also have counselling services available to support anyone who has experienced any type of incident if they need it.
“Screening the film is another way Curtin expresses its commitment to safety, respect and consent and ensures students and staff are educated about sexual assault and sexual harassment.”
Following the film, the Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry introduced a panel discussion led by members of the Curtin community, in order to raise awareness of the comprehensive support services offered by the University.
Other institutions supporting this initiative include Australian Human Rights Commission, the UNSW Australian Human Rights Centre, The Hunting Ground Australia Project Team and other universities around Australia.
Visit www.respectnowalways.edu.au for further information on the Universities Australia campaign.
