Statement from Sancta on the 2021 National Student Safety Survey Report, released 23 March 2022
Trigger warning: This statement mentions sexual assault and sexual misconduct and may cause distress to some readers.
The 2021 National Student Safety Survey Report released yesterday is an alarming insight into the issue of sexual violence that impacts the University sector. The report demonstrates that whilst society is becoming more aware of the issue of sexual violence, the societal and cultural issues that drive it are far from treated.
At Sancta, we express our disappointment at the unacceptable level of progress reflected in the report. We express our empathy and support for all victim-survivors, past and present, who have had their university years disrupted by experiences of sexual violence, and in many cases have been traumatised by the consequent social and institutional responses to their claims.
Sancta is determined to be a leader in promoting genuine cultural and systemic change in the hope that real progress will emerge. This leadership starts with what is within our immediate control: Sancta’s own preventative measures, our policies, our response to claims and our ongoing support to victim-survivors. We believe that we must continually seek to improve these aspects of college life using a trauma-informed, victim-centric approach.
Our work to date includes:
- ongoing awareness, training and empowerment programs for residents on consent, healthy relationships, bystander culture, anti-bullying, body image, alcohol and other drugs, inclusivity and anti-racism
- complete implementation of the recommendations of the Broderick Review, including more robust policies around alcohol and other drugs
- annual reviews of our sexual misconduct, complaints and grievances, and bullying, harassment and hazing policies
- ongoing professional development on consent, healthy relationships, body image and other youth issues to ensure in-depth understanding at staff level
- continued streamlining and strengthening of our reporting lines and systems, utilising the Resident Assistant network, pastoral care staff and external support such as counselling services, Police and the Safer Communities Office of The University
- regular engagement between The Principal and other Heads of College for ongoing conversations and joint initiatives aimed at preventing and responding to sexual misconduct and assault and its associated harms
Sancta commends the work of advocates for victim-survivors of sexual assault, and the bravery of victim-survivors who are prepared to relive their trauma in order to promote action so that others can feel safe and supported. We acknowledge that advocacy action has largely been led by young people and we commend their determination and courage. Reports such as the National Survey on Student Safety are in themselves a sign of progress, and we encourage such tools to be regarded, and action to be taken.
Links to support
The University of Sydney Support Sexual Assault Support Services
Sancta Contacts
Fiona Hastings, Principal