At UOW, preventing gender-based violence is both a legal responsibility and a moral imperative. UOW is committed to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive community where gender-based violence is not tolerated.
UOW commitment to student safety
UOW supports the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence which sets national expectations for how universities prevent gender-based violence and respond when it occurs in university-related settings, both on campus and online.
The National Code sets the standard for prevention, response and support across the sector.
What is gender-based violence?
The National Code defines gender-based violence as any form of physical or non-physical violence, harassment, abuse or threats based on gender that results in, or is likely to result in, harm, coercion, control, fear or deprivation of liberty or autonomy.
Gender-based violence includes harmful behaviours directed at a person or group because of their gender, gender identity or expression, or behaviours that unfairly affect particular genders more than other.
Gender-based violence can be physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, social or economic. It may occur as a single incident or a pattern of behaviour and can happen in person or online. It may involve peers, staff, supervisors, partners or others in university and non-university related contexts.
Examples include:
- Sexual harassment and sexual assault.
- Stalking and cyberstalking.
- Intimate partner or family violence.
- Coercive control and abuse of power.
- Tech-facilitated abuse.
- Gender-related threats, intimidation or harassment.
UOW Gender-based Violence Prevention and Response Plan
UOW is refining its Gender-based Violence Prevention and Response Plan, to be published in mid 2026.
The Plan will:
- Strengthen prevention and education .
- Improve clarity around reporting and support options.
- Support trauma-informed, person-centred responses.
- Build on existing UOW services, policies and programs.
Support is available
If you or someone you know is affected by gender-based violence, support is available through SARC (Safe and Respectful Communities). You can access help whether you choose to make a formal report or not.
Have your say
The National Code sets the standard, together we will set the culture.
By taking part in consultation, you can help shape how UOW prevents and responds to gender-based violence now and into the future. We’re inviting students to join catered focus groups, all participants receive a gift voucher as a thank you for their time.
Register your interest and be part of building campuses defined by respect, accountability and care.