University Sexual Assaults National
Sexual harassment and sexual assault on campus can have a devastating impact, physically, emotionally and psychologically. Our mental health support team and No Win No Fee* abuse lawyers are ready to help you access justice and right wrong.
Sexual assault on campus
Sexual violence, sexual assault and sexual harassment should never be part of any student’s university experience. Landmark 2017 research into the type and extent of sexual harassment and sexual assault on Australia’s 39 university campuses resulted in the Change the Course report.
More recently, the National Student Safety Survey findings showed that since starting university:
1 in 6 students have been sexually harassed on campus
1 in 20 students have been sexually assaulted on campus
The survey also found that the students more likely to have experienced sexual assault on campus included:
Female students, transgender students and non-binary students
Students aged 18-21
Students who live in student accommodation or residences
Students with a disability
Students who speak mainly English at home
Where do sexual assaults on campus occur?
The National Student Safety Survey found that:
Sexual harassment on campus happen mainly:
On general campus areas
In lecture theatres and laboratories
In university libraries
Sexual assaults on campus happen mainly:
At university club or society events or spaces
At student accommodation or residences
In private homes or residences
What is sexual assault on campus?
Sexual assault on campus and elsewhere is sexual behaviour that you haven’t consented to. It doesn’t have to be physical (such as rape) and can include being shown pornographic images or sharing intimate images.
Under Australian law, sexual harassment is any unwelcome:
Sexual advance
Request for sexual favours
Conduct of a sexual nature (this can be spoken or in writing)
The sexual harassment makes you feel offended, humiliated or intimidated.
Why consent matters
Consent is required for any sexual activity or behaviour. Sexual consent must be informed, and voluntarily and freely given. It can be retracted at any point. People cannot give consent if they’re:
Under the age of consent
Intoxicated or incapacitated by drugs or alcohol
Unconscious
Not awake and alert
What to do if you’ve been sexually assaulted on campus?
Important first steps after sexual assault on campus
It’s common for students to feel ashamed, guilty or anxious after a sexual assault on campus but it’s important to understand that what happened to you was not your fault. Help is available. Here are some important first steps to consider:
Tell your GP
Access counselling support or report your harassment or assault to your university (find your campus via Universities Australia)
Contact a support service (e.g. 1800 RESPECT)
Confide in someone you feel comfortable and safe with
Contact the National Student Ombudsman
Report your sexual assault to the police
Contact Shine Lawyers
If your sexual assault on campus has caused physical or psychological harm, consider contacting Shine Lawyers’ Abuse Law team. Our expert, compassionate abuse lawyers can listen to you, advise on your situation and help you understand the abuse process and your options to claim compensation.
You may be entitled to claim compensation. Start the process with our simple and free online tool.
What we will ask:
Questions to help us understand your experience and how your life has been impacted. Your responses will help us define the best course of action for your claim.
What happens next:
Either book a no-obligation appointment with an abuse law expert right away or,
Speak with our team about your options
How Shine can help
We have helped thousands of Australians right wrong and access more than $1 billion per year in entitlements and compensation through our expert services.
95% of the cases we represent are settled without the stress of going to court.
We offer access to affordable legal advice including on a No Win, No Fee* basis and an obligation-free initial consultation so you can understand your rights and know where you stand.
We are ready to take action, supporting your choice not to be silenced and right wrong.
*Conditions apply
Do you have a claim?
We’re here to make the claims process as simple and stress-free as possible.
Sexual assault on campus FAQs
Can you get compensation for being abused?
Can you get compensation for being abused?
You may be eligible to make an abuse claim for compensation following sexual assault on campus. Our compassionate, expert abuse lawyers can give you advice tailored to your circumstances. Get started with our free online claim checker or contact Shine Lawyers.
Do you need an abuse lawyer?
Do you need an abuse lawyer?
It’s possible to represent yourself for your abuse claim. However, at a challenging time, an experienced abuse lawyer and mental health support team are invaluable. They have the knowledge, compassion and empathy to help guide your abuse claim and support you.
Are there abuse lawyers near me?
Are there abuse lawyers near me?
With over 40 branches across Australia, location is no barrier when it comes to finding an expert abuse lawyer. Get in touch to arrange a confidential, obligation-free first meeting. A member of Shine’s Abuse Law team can meet with you to hear your story and advise you based on your circumstances.
A guide on supporting your loved one
We’ve created a conversation guide, to help you support your loved one through their childhood sexual abuse claim. The guide can help you understand the emotional impact of making a claim, a little about the legal process and where you can both find support.
