Disclaimer: This article does not contain legal advice and includes discussions
of sexual assault and consent, which some readers may find distressing. If you
need to reach out to seek help or support, please contact 1800RESPECT.
The topic of consent and sex education is widely debated, especially regarding whether it should be present in primary and secondary schools. The implementation of consent education differs throughout different states and territories. However, the significance of sex education in tertiary education often goes overlooked. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2.8 million Australians experienced sexual violence since the age of 15 (2021-2022). This alarming statistic underlines the urgency to continue consent education into adulthood.
As I and thousands of other students embark on their first year of university, we enter a new phase of life. It is filled with various experiences such as meeting new people, joining school clubs, attending parties, and navigating academic and work environments. Amidst these changes, it is imperative that we have knowledge regarding consent, particularly understanding boundaries and demonstrating respect in university settings.
In Victoria, numerous universities have demonstrated their commitment to preventing sexual violence through various initiatives. These may include mandatory consent modules, engaging and informed guest speakers as well as support services for survivors of sexual harassment. The increasing prevalence of such programs underlines the importance of showcasing what consent entails in day-to-day interactions. Additionally, it is crucial for students to undertake their own research on consent education. We need to emphasize the personal responsibility to comprehend and adhere to consent laws. This would foster an empowered environment for students and can contribute to spreading further awareness on this topic.
Moreover, it is also imperative that staff are just as educated as students when it comes to consent. This helps maintain professional boundaries while on campus and prevents the occurrence of abuse of power and ensures that there is mutual respect. Through knowledge on informed consent, those who work on campus may also be able to recognize signs of sexual misconduct or coercion. Using observation to identify the possible presence of sexual violence on campus is essential for enforcing effective prevention strategies. Therefore, they can respond appropriately to prevent or put a stop to any form of violation toward another individual.
Drug- facilitated sexual harassment is an extreme concern for all age groups, particularly in university settings. When an individual is drugged in a social setting, they become unable to give affirmative consent. This means that they can be forced into sexual activity as they are vulnerable to predators. This reiterates why it is so vital that universities take proactive measures to end all types of sexual violence both on and off campus.
It is vital for all universities across Australia to not only acknowledge the presence of sexual assault on campus but to also take active measures to prevent it. This can include a system that allows students and staff to report incidents of sexual violence. It is an ethical obligation that must be met and taken extremely seriously. A range of support for victims, accessible reporting and prompt investigations is what contributes to ending all forms of sexual misconduct and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
As university students, understanding and actively promoting a culture of consent means that we can prevent the occurrence of sexual assault. Whether or not consent education is present within your university, learning and conducting your own research can mean that you are confident in your knowledge and therefore your decision making. Consensual behavior in a university setting, where all students can make their own decisions regarding sexual activity, should be the standard. This collective effort is essential for creating a safe and more respectful university experience for all. If everyone on campus takes positive actions to educate ourselves and others, we can make Universities a place for young people to thrive in an inclusive environment.