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If something has happened that has left you feeling uncomfortable, unsafe or unsure, you may not know what to do next.
Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and supported at Curtin. As part of the Respect Starts With You initiative, Curtin is committed to creating a community where students feel comfortable seeking support, asking questions and speaking up when something doesn’t feel right.
Some students worry that talking to someone will automatically trigger a formal process. Others stay silent because they’re not ready to make a report.
But there is another option.
You can speak with a support service, ask questions and explore your options without making a formal complaint. Reaching out does not mean you have to take a particular path – you remain in control of what you share and what happens next.
What does “Tell Someone” mean?
“Tell Someone” is about starting a conversation.
It means sharing a concern, experience or situation with someone who can listen, provide information and help you understand your options.
You don’t need to have all the details, know exactly what happened or be ready to take action.
Sometimes the first step is simply talking to someone about what’s been on your mind.
Speaking up can help you access support, better understand your options and contribute to a safer and more respectful Curtin community.
What’s the difference between talking, telling and reporting?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but they can mean different things.
Talking means seeking advice, support or information about a situation.
Telling someone means sharing an experience or concern so you can better understand your options and access support.
Reporting is a formal process where information is provided to the University or another organisation so action can be considered.
You can talk or tell someone without making a formal report.
The Respect Starts With You webpage provides more information about support options, reporting pathways and how Curtin works to create a safe and respectful environment.
Why can sharing an experience help?
Many students find it helpful to talk through an experience with someone they trust.
Sharing what happened can:
- Help you make sense of the situation
- Reduce feelings of isolation
- Provide clarity about available options
- Connect you with support services
- Help you decide what, if any, next steps feel right for you
There is no right or wrong way to respond to a difficult experience, and there is no timeline for seeking support.
How can the Safer Community Team help?
The Safer Community Team can listen to your concerns and explain the support and reporting options available to you.
They can:
- Provide advice and information
- Discuss safety concerns
- Connect you with support services
- Explain reporting pathways
- Help you understand what different options involve
Their role is to support you in making informed decisions, not to pressure you into taking action.
Seeking support is an important step in looking after yourself and helping build a community where everyone feels safe and respected.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to make a report if I contact the Safer Community Team?
No. You can seek advice, information and support without making a formal report.
What if I’m not sure what happened?
You can still reach out. You don’t need to know whether something “counts” before seeking support.
What if it happened a long time ago?
Support is available regardless of when an incident occurred.
Can I contact someone about a friend?
Yes. If you’re concerned about someone else, support services can provide advice on how best to support them.
What if I don’t know what I want to do?
That’s okay. Many students reach out before they’ve decided what, if any, action they want to take.
Tell Someone
Share what happened and explore your options without starting a formal process.
Visit the Respect Starts With You webpage to learn more about speaking up, accessing support and creating a safer Curtin community.
If you’re not ready to report
That’s okay. Support is still available.
You don’t have to go through this alone or have all the answers right away. If and when you’re ready to talk, Curtin’s Safer Community and Student Wellbeing teams are here to help on your terms, at your pace.
If you ever feel unsafe or want to talk to someone about an incident of sexual harassment, sexual assault or any other form of gender-based violence, please reach out. Curtin is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for every student, every day.
If someone discloses gender-based violence to you
LISTEN to them with compassion.
SUPPORT them and ensure their immediate safety and wellbeing.
CONNECT them with support services:
- Safer Community Team – (08) 9266 4444
- Student Wellbeing Advisory Service – 1800 244 043
If you also need support, you should contact these services too.
Supporting someone else starts with respect, compassion and helping them access the support they need.
