The University of Melbourne in Australia received 11 complaints of sexual misconduct by staff and faculty in 2022. Nine were formally investigated, resulting in the dismissal of four people and the initiation of disciplinary proceedings against two others. In most cases, the allegations were made by women—including both employees and students—and were aimed at men. The figures were reported in the second edition of the university’s annual report on sexual misconduct, released at the end of March. The institution recorded 20 complaints against students, resulting in seven suspensions.
“We hope that the action we are taking and our transparency on this issue will help build trust in our systems and processes to eradicate this issue from our community,” said Nicola Phillips, provost professor at the institution. According to Phillips, more than 4,500 employees have already taken part in an educational program created to foster a safe and respectful environment at the university. Cases of sexual harassment are common in Australian higher education institutions. A 2022 survey of 44,000 undergraduate students in the country found that 1.1% had been sexually assaulted in the previous 12 months—and 5% had at some point during the course of their university studies (see Pesquisa FAPESP issue no. 316). According to the results of the survey, more than 85% of aggressors were male and 5% were university employees.
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