Sexual assault and sexual harassment

MIT is committed to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive environment to all students, staff and visitors.

We have a zero-tolerance stance against sexual assault and sexual harassment, and treat reports or concerns seriously and sensitively. Our counselling department has a range of support services for people who have experienced sexual assault or sexual harassment so they can get the help that they need.

Sexual assault occurs when a person is forced, coerced or tricked into sexual acts against their will or without their consent, including when they have withdrawn their consent.
Sexual harassment is any unwanted or unwelcome sexual behaviour, which makes a person feel offended, humiliated or intimidated. Sexual harassment is not interaction, flirtation or friendship which is mutual or consensual.

Sexual assault and sexual harassment are crimes and are not the victim survivor's fault.

MIT has a range of policies and procedures providing a framework to its commitment in providing a safe, respectful and inclusive environment including:

MIT has reaffirmed its strong commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful and inclusive community for all students, staff and visitors. As part of this commitment, the institution continues its partnership with White Ribbon Australia, a national organisation dedicated to preventing men’s violence against women and families and promoting gender equality.

The announcement reinforces MIT’s zero-tolerance approach to gendered violence, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, coercion, intimidation and any behaviour that threatens the dignity or safety of others. Such behaviour has no place in the MIT community and will be addressed promptly through fair and robust processes.

MIT recognises that creating a safe environment is a shared responsibility. All members of the community are encouraged to uphold the highest standards of respect and professionalism, challenge inappropriate behaviour, support those who may experience harm and contribute to a culture where people feel safe to speak up.

To support those affected by gendered violence, MIT provides confidential counselling services and clear reporting pathways. Trauma-informed responses ensure that anyone seeking help is treated with care, respect and confidentiality.

Support contacts:

Melbourne: Counsellor@mit.edu.au | 03 8600 6723
Sydney: Counsellor.syd@mit.edu.au | 02 8267 1400

Staff can also access MIT’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Telus Health (formerly Benestar) on 1300 360 364.

MIT’s commitment is supported by key policies including the Support for Victims of Domestic Violence Policy, Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Response Policy, Equal Opportunity Policy, Staff Health and Wellbeing Policy, Staff Code of Conduct, and the Student Charter.

Chief Executive Officer Dr Shesh Ghale, Honoris Causa emphasised the importance of addressing domestic and gendered violence openly.

“I am committed to breaking the silence around domestic violence against women,” Dr Ghale said.

MIT will continue to review its policies, training programs and prevention initiatives to ensure they align with best practice and regulatory expectations and foster a community built on dignity, respect and safety for all.

(Download the fact sheet here)

What is sexual assault?

Sexual assault occurs when a person is forced, coerced or tricked into sexual acts against their will or without their consent. The act is often perpetrated by someone known to the person and can leave them feeling threatened, uncomfortable or frightened. Sexual assault is a crime and is not the victim’s fault.

Consent must be given and it should be informed and free from intimidation. A person who is asleep or under the influence of drugs or alcohol cannot give informed consent.

Examples of sexual assault:

Unwanted touching, hugging, fondling, or kissing
Being made to look at, or pose for, pornographic photos
Public exposure
Voyeurism (e.g. being watched doing intimate things without permission)
Incest
Rape

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is when a person makes an unwelcome sexual advance, or an unwelcome request for sexual favours to another person, and/or engages in any other unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature in relation to another person.

Examples of sexual harassment:

Intrusive questions or statements about a person’s private life
Repeatedly asking a person for sex or dates
Offensive sexual comments or jokes
Sexually suggestive behaviour such as leering or staring.

If you experience sexual assault or sexual harassment

If you have experienced sexual assault or sexual harassment, there are some steps you can take.

Seek urgent help if you are in immediate danger

Report the incident

Consider having a medical examination

Seek advice and support

Support on campus

Counselling Department

You can access support and advice, request an intervention or report an incident on or off campus with Manager of the Counselling Department.

Melbourne Campus:

t: +61 3 8600 6758

Sydney Campus:

t: +61 2 8600 6402

MIT security services

Contact campus security services for emergencies on campus.

Melbourne Campus:

t +61 3 8600 6723

Sydney Campus:

t: +61 2 8267 1414

Student counselling

If you are struggling with a personal, emotional or mental health difficulty, whether related to your studies or your life away from university, counselling may help. Register and make an appointment with MIT’s counselling services.

Melbourne Campus:

t: +61 3 8600 6723
e: counsellor@mit.edu.au

Sydney Campus:

t: +61 2 8267 1414
e: counsellor.syd@mit.edu.au