A new policy and whole-of-organisation prevention and response plan are part of work across UNSW to shape how we respond to gender-based violence.
UNSW is committed to creating a safer community by addressing gender-based violence. To achieve this, we are strengthening our ability to prevent, identify and respond across the entire University community.
From 1 January 2026, a new Policy and Procedure on Preventing and Responding to Gender-based Violence at UNSW will take effect. A Whole-of-Organisation Prevention and Response Plan that will guide actions throughout 2026 and beyond will follow.
These initiatives reflect our commitment to long-term cultural change and align with the Australian Government’s new National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence.
“Preventing and responding to gender-based violence is a responsibility we all share. As a university, we’re in a unique position to not only ensure our campuses are safe but through our graduates entering our workforces across Australia, and our expert researchers developing evidenced-based approaches, we influence broader cultural change,” said Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Attila Brungs.
“We welcome the new Code, which provides a strong framework for our sector to improve how we respond to and prevent gender-based violence. We’re acting now to reduce harm and build a culture of respect, safety and inclusion.”
Since 2020, UNSW has reported annually on reports of gender-based violence and our prevention and response work. The 2024 Gendered Violence Prevention and Response Annual Report includes information on actions the University takes to make campus safer and more respectful for everyone.
What is the new Code?
The Code defines enforceable standards for all higher education providers to prevent gender-based violence in their communities.
Gender-based violence includes 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.
The Code requires us to achieve organisation-wide improvements, including by addressing both the causes of and responses to gender-based violence in all areas of the University, including teaching and learning, research, student activities and events, business operations, partnerships and employment.
Who does the Code protect?
The Code covers everyone at UNSW, including students, employees, contractors, their employees, and volunteers.
Its seven Standards address every aspect of the University’s operations, including:
- Accountable leadership and governance
- Safe environments and systems
- Knowledge and capability
- Safety and support
- Safe and timely processes
- Data, evidence and impact
- Safe student accommodation.
How will UNSW put the Code into action?
Work is already underway to address the Code and implement changes at the University.
UNSW is creating a Whole-of-Organisation Prevention and Response Plan, coordinated by the Safer Communities team, to detail the actions we’re taking to meet the goals of the Code and reduce and address gender-based violence across our community and the timeframes for implementation.
“We’re working to go beyond compliance, embedding prevention and response into everyday practice at UNSW and sharing what we learn,” said Clair Hodge, Chief Assurance and Legal Officer.
A steering committee* is overseeing extensive cross-organisational collaboration as the University continues to develop its approach. This will include increased resourcing to develop and evaluate student and staff education and trauma-informed processes.
This work is laying the foundation for the ongoing University-wide approach to addressing and responding to gender-based violence. More information will be shared throughout 2026.
What’s next? A new policy and whole-of-organisation plan
As part of our work towards the National Code, a new Policy and Procedure on Preventing and Responding to Gender-based Violence at UNSW will be effective from 1 January 2026, and a period of UNSW-wide consultation will commence in the first quarter of the year. The policy will be published on the UNSW Governance site.
The policy defines gender-based violence, makes clear that it is unacceptable and outlines the University’s position that people of all genders deserve equal respect and safety.
It identifies factors that contribute to gender-based violence and provides information about trauma-informed support options and safety planning available for students, staff and members of the public, including procedures for managing, investigating and responding to reports.
UNSW’s first Whole-of-Organisation Prevention and Response Plan will be released next year.
How can you contribute?
Everyone at UNSW will play a role in implementing the Whole-of-Organisation Plan.
Further UNSW-wide consultation and engagement will take place for the policy and plan in 2026. If you would like to support this work, please complete this Expression of Interest form.
If you have any questions about the program of work, contact Safer Communities.
Help is available
Support is available for anyone affected by gender-based violence.
You and anyone you know can access confidential help via the Gendered Violence Portal to connect with trained staff in either the student or staff support teams. Your report can be anonymous.
* Steering Committee membership
Clair Hodge, Chair and Program Sponsor, Chief Assurance and Legal Officer, Office of Assurance and Integrity (AANDI)
David Cami, Faculty Executive Director, Arts, Design & Architecture
Professor Andrew Lynch, Dean, Law & Justice
Professor Sarah Madison, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education & Student Experience
Gemma Martin, Chief People Officer, People and Culture
Kathryn Taylor, Director of Health & Safety, AANDI
Professor Bruce Watson, Pro Vice-Chancellor Inclusion, Office of Societal Transformation and Equity
Dr Fiona Yardley, Director, Policy and Projects, Vice-Chancellor’s Office
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