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
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
Review your claim 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:
Book a confidential, obligation-free appointment with an experienced abuse lawyer, or
Speak with our team about your abuse claim options
Why choose Shine’s abuse lawyers?
Large abuse lawyers team
Shine Lawyers’ experienced and dedicated abuse law team is committed to supporting survivors of abuse and challenging institutions.
No Win No Fee* abuse lawyers
If you become a Shine Lawyers’ client, our dedicated abuse lawyers will provide expert legal advice, tailored to your situation, on a No Win No Fee* basis. We’ll work with you to build your abuse law claim and explain each step of the abuse process.
*Conditions apply
Trauma-informed abuse claim support
We recognise your courage in speaking up. Wherever possible, we’ll work with you to minimise the stress and inconvenience of the abuse process.
Our abuse lawyers are trained to work in a trauma-informed way. Our mental health support team help reduce the trauma of the abuse process for both our lawyers and clients. We’ll be with you, every step of the way.
Is there a time limit to report sexual assault on campus?
Time limits do exist in Australian states and territories to make a civil abuse claim for compensation. The time limit is generally three years from the date your abuse occurred. We encourage you to seek legal advice as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.
There’s no time limit for reporting your sexual assault on campus to the police.
Access justice with Shine Lawyers
Shine Lawyers has successfully advocated for many survivors of sexual assault on campus. Get in touch for advice specific to your circumstances and to see if Shine Lawyers can help you seek justice and right wrong.
Access justice with Shine Lawyers
Shine Lawyers has successfully advocated for many survivors of sexual assault on campus. Contact us for advice specific to your circumstances and to see if we can help you seek justice and right wrong.
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.
