Gender-Based Violence, Sexual Harassment and
Respectful Relationships

At UWA India, everyone has the right to feel safe, respected and supported.

We are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where students can participate fully in university life without fear of harassment, discrimination, violence or intimidation. Gender-based violence and sexual harassment are not tolerated at UWA India.

If you experience, witness or are affected by inappropriate behaviour, support and reporting options are available.

What is gender-based violence and sexual harassment?

Gender-based violence and sexual harassment can take many forms, both in person and online. Examples include:

• Unwelcome sexual comments, jokes or advances
• Unwanted physical contact
• Requests for sexual favours
• Sharing explicit images or content without consent
• Repeated unwanted messages or online harassment
• Stalking or persistent unwanted attention
• Taking photos or videos of someone without their consent in situations where privacy is expected
• Sexual assault, coercion or any form of non-consensual sexual activity

These behaviours can happen between students, staff, contractors, visitors or members of the broader university community.

Understanding consent

Consent means freely and voluntarily agreeing to participate in an activity.

Consent must be:

• Clearly communicated
• Ongoing throughout an interaction
• Given without pressure, intimidation or coercion
• Able to be withdrawn at any time

Silence or a lack of resistance does not mean consent. A person cannot give consent if they are unconscious, asleep or significantly affected by alcohol or other drugs.

Respecting consent is an important part of maintaining a safe and respectful community.

Building a safe and respectful community

Creating a safe campus is everyone's responsibility.

As members of the UWA India community, we all play a role in fostering an environment where people feel respected, included and supported. We encourage students to:

• Respect personal boundaries and consent
• Treat others with dignity and respect
• Challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours when it is safe to do so
• Support friends and peers who may need help
• Contribute to a culture of inclusion, equality and belonging

Through education, awareness and collective action, we can help create a campus where everyone feels welcome and safe.

Recognising concerning behaviour

Sometimes inappropriate behaviour can be difficult to identify, particularly where power differences exist.

Examples may include:

• Pressure linked to grades, assessments, internships, employment opportunities or references
• Behaviour that makes you feel uncomfortable, unsafe or intimidated
• Persistent contact after you have indicated it is unwanted
• Pressure to participate in activities you do not want to engage in
• Disrespect for personal boundaries, either online or in person
• Misuse of a position of authority to influence or pressure another person

If something does not feel right, support is available.

Your right to feel safe

As a UWA India student, you have the right to:

• Learn and participate in university life in a safe and respectful environment
• Be treated with dignity and respect
• Access support services if you experience or witness concerning behaviour
• Report incidents without fear of victimisation or retaliation
• Receive fair, confidential and respectful handling of complaints

Where appropriate, supportive arrangements may be made to help you continue your studies while a matter is being addressed.

If you witness concerning behaviour

You do not need to be directly affected by an incident to seek advice or support.

If you witness behaviour that concerns you, or if a friend, classmate or colleague experiences gender-based violence or sexual harassment, you can:

• Check in with the person and listen without judgement
• Encourage them to access support services
• Help them understand available reporting options
• Seek advice yourself if you are unsure how to respond

Support is available for students both directly and indirectly affected by gender-based violence and sexual harassment.

Reporting an incident

If you experience, witness or become aware of gender-based violence or sexual harassment, we encourage you to seek support and report your concerns.

Reporting options may include:

Student Wellbeing Support

You can speak confidentially with a member of the Student Wellbeing team to discuss your options and access support.

You do not need to make a formal complaint to receive assistance.

Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) manages formal complaints of sexual harassment in accordance with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.

Campus Security

If you are concerned about your immediate safety, contact campus security or emergency services.

External Reporting

You may choose to report a matter directly to police or other relevant authorities.

Under Indian law, a Zero FIR may be lodged at any police station regardless of where an incident occurred, allowing a report to be registered and transferred to the appropriate jurisdiction if required.

Support available

Students affected by gender-based violence or sexual harassment can access:

• Counselling and wellbeing support
• Information about reporting options and processes
• Academic support and adjustments, where appropriate
• Assistance accessing medical services
• Referrals to external specialist services and legal support
• Assistance connecting with legal support and advice services

Support can be accessed regardless of whether you choose to make a formal complaint.

Our Commitment

UWA India takes reports of gender-based violence and sexual harassment seriously.

When concerns are raised, the University will respond fairly, sensitively and in accordance with relevant laws, policies and procedures. We are committed to providing clear reporting pathways, appropriate support and a respectful process for all parties involved.

Behaviour that breaches university policies may result in disciplinary action.

Related Policies and Resources

• UWA India Gender-Based Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• Prevention and Redressal of Sexual Harassment Statutory Guidelines
• Chapter V (Offences Against Women and Children) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
• National Women’s Helpline: call 181 or 112 (for immediate assistance from police, ambulance, or fire services)
• Local emergency services and police contacts