What is gender-based violence?
Gender-based violence means 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.
Our commitment
Gender-based violence is all too common in Australia, posing a significant emotional and financial cost to individuals, families and communities. The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that 8 million Australians – 41% of our population – have experienced physical or sexual violence since the age of 15. As a nation, we must do better.
As an important part of broader Australian society, universities have a particularly important part to play in preventing and responding to gender-based violence. At Curtin University, we believe in creating a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for everyone in our community. Our commitment to preventing and responding to gender-based violence is grounded in the values of respect, responsibility and leadership.
With the introduction of the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence, we are reinforcing our dedication to addressing this critical issue. Curtin is actively working to align with the Code’s requirements, which will guide us in further enhancing our prevention strategies and support systems. Our goal is to have campuses that are free from violence and discrimination and that when members of our Curtin community experience gender-based violence -on campus, or off campus, that our support systems facilitate healing and recovery.
We know that attitudes towards gender equality are linked to attitudes towards, and acts of, violence. We understand the shocking reality that rigid views on gender and gender roles continue to increase the risk of violence and that these attitudes extend throughout Australian society. As a university, we have a unique opportunity to drive broader social change through education. We must confront that these attitudes can exist among our staff, students and partners.
Gender-based violence has no place in our community and we are committed to eliminating sexual harassment, assault and all forms of violence. We take all reports of gender-based violence seriously and provide accessible, trauma-informed support to those affected, ensuring that all individuals feel safe and supported at every step.
Our Prevention and Response Plan
Our Prevention and Response Plan sets out the actions and strategies we will take to create lasting change. This plan is informed by extensive consultation with students, staff, and internal and external experts.
Through ongoing training, the establishment of dedicated support services and a whole-of-university approach, we are working to equip Curtin students and staff with the knowledge and tools to prevent and respond to gender-based violence. We will also continue to advocate for national collaboration between universities, as well as the sharing of resources across the sector to guide our efforts and encourage best practice.
Our University’s leadership is fully engaged in this work and we are committed to continuous improvement. We are actively assessing and refining our processes to respond to emerging needs and best practices. At Curtin, we are not simply meeting compliance standards — we are striving to build a culture where respect, safety and inclusion are fundamental to everything we do.
Together with our students, staff and the wider community, we will continue to challenge harmful behaviours, raise awareness and provide safe spaces where everyone can thrive.
Professor Harlene Hayne CNZM
Vice-Chancellor, Curtin University