The Australian National University is to establish a new central coordinating unit for sexual assault and sexual harassment (SASH) management, prevention, policy, training and reporting
The Respectful Relationships Unit will have a budget of about $660,000 a year and will be managed by staff experienced in sexual harassment and sexual assault case management, policy development, education and training.
Pro-Vice Chancellor (University Experience) at ANU, Professor Richard Baker said the Unit would provide a single point of contact for all services and policy relating to SASH at the University.
“The Unit will not provide health and counselling services, which will continue to be available through the University’s healthcare providers and existing counselling services, including the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre,” Professor Baker said.
He said the Unit embedded the cultural change the ANU was driving.
“The Respectful Relationships Unit will support survivors, hold perpetrators to account, change attitudes, empower bystanders and encourage culture change across the University,” Professor Baker said.
“It will be a critical part of the University’s ongoing commitment to making ANU a more safe and respectful campus.”
He said the Unit was established following consultation with student representative bodies and the ANU Respectful Relationships Working and Steering Groups.
It will be housed in a central location on campus, and recruitment for the positions will begin shortly.
