THERE have been 15 alleged rapes, 19 complaints of sexual misconduct and just one suspension at Charles Sturt University (CSU) campuses, but the university says it is working to support a culture of safety and respect.
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The CSU cases are among 575 reported sexual misconduct cases at 27 Australian universities between 2011 and 2016.
Cases included sexual assault, rape, attempted rape, sexual harassment, indecent behaviour and filming without consent.
“Charles Sturt University (CSU) is continuing its work to support a culture of safety and respect, where staff and students can achieve success while feeling comfortable and secure,” CSU deputy vice-chancellor (Academic) Professor Toni Downes said in a statement provided to the Western Advocate.
The university will continue to take appropriate action when allegations have been substantiated.
- CSU deputy vice-chancellor (Academic) Professor Toni Downes
Fairfax Media reports that universities have also been accused of “actively covering up sexual assaults” in a submission to the Australian Human Rights Commission, which alleges there have been just six expulsions in the past five years despite more than 500 complaints.
Prof Downes said CSU has policies in place for when sexual assault or misconduct is reported.
“Sexual misconduct against any student or staff member is unacceptable and the university supports victims to make a report to police, if they wish to do so, and to access appropriate counselling and sexual assault services,” she said.
“The university will continue to take appropriate action when allegations have been substantiated as required under the General Misconduct rule.”
CSU campuses have on-campus and mobile security patrols, 24/7 emergency response and static guarding.
“CSU offers free and confidential counselling services for students, by registered health professionals through the Office for Students, and for staff through the Employee Assistance Program,” Prof Downes said.
Universities Australia (UA) launched an initiative last year to support universities in addressing sexual assault and sexual harassment, with student survivors of sexual assault and sexual harassment encouraged to tell their stories to the Australian Human Rights Commission.
A UA spokesperson said all 39 member universities, including CSU, asked the Commission to undertake this work to guide continuing improvements in support services and policies.
The Commission will publish its report by mid 2017.