University of Melbourne Sexual Misconduct Annual Report

The University of Melbourne has published its 2022 Sexual Misconduct Annual Report, reflecting the University’s ongoing commitment to transparency regarding its efforts to address and eliminate sexual misconduct from its community.

Now in its second year, the report includes outcomes of sexual misconduct investigations and consequences that offenders have faced, and the progress that has been made in the past two years.

Four staff members left the University in 2022 following a finding of serious misconduct, and two others are progressing through disciplinary proceedings. Seven students were suspended, with conditions placed on re-enrolment, and two reprimands were issued.

University of Melbourne Provost Professor Nicola Phillips said that the University remains resolutely committed to eliminating sexual misconduct from the University community, and is prioritising the safety and wellbeing of anyone who experiences it.

“We hope that the action we are taking and our transparency on this issue, with the publication of our second Sexual Misconduct Annual Report, will help build trust in our systems and processes to eradicate this issue from our University community,” Professor Phillips said.

“A cornerstone of our approach has been an education program that has seen more than 4500 staff members, starting with the senior executive, participate in workshops to equip individuals to help create a safe and respectful working and learning environment.

“We are also working hard to encourage more people who experience or witness any form of sexual misconduct to report it so that we can support them personally and take action.”

Publication of the University’s 2022 Sexual Misconduct Annual Report coincides with Respect at Uni Week where universities across Victoria are coming together to promote the importance of respect, equality and inclusion throughout campuses, online spaces and communities.

The University of Melbourne’s 2022 Sexual Misconduct Annual Report, and the previous report can be viewed via this link.

The Respect Education Program will continue to be delivered to all staff throughout 2023, and a version for students is being developed for delivery in 2024.

The University encourages anyone wishing to access support or raise concerns to do so by contacting the Safer Community Program.