Learn about the National Code and how Deakin remains committed to addressing gender-based violence
We are always committed to making sure you and everyone in our community feels safe, respected and included while you’re with us at Deakin.
This will continue and be strengthened with the Australian Government’s proposed introduction of the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence (also known as the ‘National Code’), which is expected to pass into law.
This National Code will officially establish required standards and best practices for how higher education providers (including universities) will prevent and respond to gender-based violence.
What is gender-based violence?
The National Code addresses ‘gender-based violence’ as a broad term, as opposed to the previously used terminology of ‘sexual harm and family violence’.
Gender-based violence is defined as ‘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 of the deprivation of liberty’.
Changes to policy and procedures
Deakin is proactively reviewing and updating our own policies and procedures, including the Sexual Harm Prevention and Response Policy and Procedures, to make sure we meet the National Code requirements.
The current policies are still active, and further communications will let you know once they have been updated.
Contributing to a safe environment
We all have a role to play in helping Deakin be a safe and supportive environment free from gender-based violence.
If you hadn’t yet had the chance, complete your Respect, Belong, Thrive at Deakin module, available in CloudDeakin, to learn more about respectful relationships, bystander intervention and the support services available at Deakin.
Also keep an eye out for further information we’ll provide on the National Code and policy changes.
If you have any further questions, you can reach out to the Equity and Inclusion team at respectbelongthrive@deakin.edu.au.
Support available to Deakin Students
Talking about gender-based violence and harassment can be distressing. For support at Deakin, contact Safer Community – Monday to Friday, 9am to 4 pm – on 03 92443734.
You can find out more information about Deakin’s respect and gender-based violence program of work.
If you’re experiencing, or at risk of experiencing violence, you can contact:
- 1800RESPECT by calling 1800 737 732
- Safe Steps by calling 1800 015 188.
If you’re experiencing, or at risk of experiencing sexual assault, you can call the Sexual Assault Crisis Line on 1800 806 292.
For additional support, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit the Lifeline website.