The National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022–2032 lays out the shared vision of Australian governments to end gender-based violence in one generation. It is the blueprint for the next 10 years setting out the work needing to be undertaken by all governments and all sectors across the country – including higher education providers and student accommodation providers – to achieve this vision.

Students and staff in higher education deserve to be and feel safe. Over the last several years, evidence has shown that sexual assault and sexual harassment continue to occur in university communities at significant rates. Along with the negative effects on victim-survivors’ mental health and wellbeing, this violence can also negatively affect students’ educational outcomes: they may be less able to attend or participate in classes and in some cases, will withdraw from their study. This directly challenges the core mission of universities and the education they provide.

The action plan principles also recognise the unique role that higher education providers can and must play in driving broader social change, as well as the distinct responsibilities they hold in relation to creating safe study, work, social and living environments.