The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is under scrutiny as the National Student Ombudsman (NSO) investigates its handling of sexual harm and gender-based violence complaints. Despite four reviews since 2022, allegations persist that UTS has not effectively improved its response mechanisms. This investigation follows a broader movement among Australian universities to address sexual assault, sparked by a 2021 survey revealing that 16% of students experienced sexual harassment, yet only 3% filed formal complaints.
The low reporting rate led to the establishment of the NSO and the introduction of a stringent new code mandating universities enhance their complaint response systems by the following year. The investigation into UTS was initiated by a complaint from Mia Campbell, President of the UTS Students’ Association, who expressed frustration over internal reform efforts.
“I tried absolutely everything else and I just have completely lost faith in university management to take this issue seriously without significant external pressure,” Ms. Campbell stated.
Challenges in Reporting and University Response
Students at UTS have voiced concerns about the university’s handling of their complaints. Hailey*, a student who reported sexual harassment, described the communication process as inconsistent and prolonged, impacting her academic performance and sense of safety on campus.
“They had so many different people reach out to me throughout this entire process and I don’t think I ever had one clear direct form of communication,” she said.
Similarly, Holly*, another student, reported an incident last year and has yet to receive a resolution. She highlighted the lack of updates unless she proactively contacted the university.
“I literally have a diary reminder every two weeks to chase it up in the hope that one time when I do, there will be an outcome,” Holly said.
In response, UTS Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Kylie Readman acknowledged the shortcomings and expressed the university’s commitment to reform. She noted the hiring of support workers to provide complainants with a single point of contact.
“We’ve employed safety case workers for all complainants to work with so that they don’t have to retell their story at multiple stages,” Ms. Readman explained.
Multiple Reviews and Recommendations
Since 2022, UTS has conducted four reviews to assess its response to sexual harm. The most recent review, completed in May, warned of potential reputational damage due to inconsistent policy application. The NSO’s current investigation seeks to understand why numerous recommendations from these reviews remain unimplemented.
Ms. Campbell emphasized the urgency of implementing changes, noting the reviews indicate progress is too slow. Professor Readman expressed appreciation for Ms. Campbell’s advocacy and reiterated the university’s dedication to enacting all recommendations.
“Mia has been an excellent advocate and has played a fantastic role as president to bring the attention of the university to student concerns,” Ms. Readman said.
National Code and Future Implications
As universities across Australia prepare to implement the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence by January 1, 2024, UTS faces significant pressure to comply. The code, passed by parliament in August, mandates a comprehensive organizational approach, including a 45-day turnaround for reports and trauma-informed staff training.
“I think at the rate they’re going, they’re definitely not going to be compliant with the code by the 1st of January,” Ms. Campbell commented.
Despite the challenges, Professor Readman expressed confidence in UTS’s ability to meet the new standards by the deadline. The outcome of the NSO’s investigation and the university’s efforts to align with the national code will be closely watched as indicators of progress in addressing gender-based violence in higher education.
*Names have been changed to protect privacy.
