Avondale is committed to providing a safe and respectful learning, working and living environment free from sexual harm and gender-based violence.
Lake Macquarie Campus Security: 02 4980 2333
Sydney Campus Security: 02 9487 9988
In an emergency call: 000
Sexual harm is an umbrella term which encompasses sexual assault, rape, sexual harassment, gender-based violence, and any other inappropriate and unwanted conduct of a sexual nature whether online or in person.
Sexual harm is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in the University community. Sexual harm may constitute a criminal offence under state and federal legislation.
Sexual harm can be physical, verbal, sexual, emotional or psychological, socio-cultural, spiritual, financial or economic, and can be experienced by people of all ages, cultures, genders and sexualities, within or outside a relationship. Some forms of sexual harm can occur online including through email, websites, online meetings, social media, games or other forums.
Avondale is committed to supporting all members of the University community affected by sexual harm by making available trauma-informed support, responding with care and compassion, and taking reasonable steps to prioritise the needs, safety and wellbeing of disclosers of sexual harm.
If you have experienced sexual harm, gender-based violence or sexual assault, your safety and wellbeing is our highest priority. The choice to disclose or report sexual harm is up to you. To get help or to make a disclosure or report of sexual harm to Avondale, email [email protected], or speak directly with any staff member from the Wellbeing team/counselling service.
Avondale will treat all disclosures of sexual harm seriously, whether recent or historic, conducting prompt, impartial and confidential investigations where appropriate.
Avondale will ensure that all parties can present their perspectives, and have access to advice and support.
1800RESPECT (1800 737 732)
NSW Rape Crisis
Crisis, Rape and Domestic Violence Services Australia: 1800 424 017
Avondale is committed to creating an environment where all community members, regardless of culture, diverse ability, or background, feel safe, valued and supported.
Avondale’s Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Response Plan has been established in accordance with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence.
Our prevention efforts focus on addressing the drivers of gender-based violence, including disrespect, inequality, harmful attitudes, and abuse of power, and strengthening protective factors such as student belonging, community engagement, spiritual wellbeing and early intervention.
Avondale’s Sexual Harm Prevention and Response Policy and Procedure defines sexual harm, sexual harassment and consent, and outlines the process to make a disclosure or report of sexual harm and what support is available. The following policies may also be helpful:
Avondale University diligently monitors and moderates its social media channels, fostering an inclusive online environment where respectful dialogue flourishes. Avondale's Social Media Guidelines ensure the safety and wellbeing of all users, cultivating a digital space that upholds integrity and compassion on our social channels.
