Student Intranet - News

Thursday, 19 March 2026

This year, ECU is joining Curtin University, the University of Western Australia, Murdoch University, and Notre Dame University to celebrate Respect at Uni Week from 23 – 27 March. The week is an initiative by the Victorian Tertiary Primary Prevention Network, bringing universities together to promote respect, equality, and inclusion across our campuses and online spaces.

At ECU, we believe every student deserves to feel safe and respected – not just this week, but every day. Read on to find out what that looks like in practice and how you can help shape the future.

What does respect look like?

We all contribute to making our campuses safe and respectful places. It might look like checking in on a classmate who seems to be struggling, focusing on ideas rather than people when you disagree, or challenging a demeaning comment when you feel safe to do so.

Respect also means understanding how everyday behaviours connect to bigger issues. When we dismiss someone's voice, ignore boundaries, or stay silent in the face of harmful behaviour, we contribute to a culture where gender-based violence can take hold. When we speak up, intervene, and hold each other accountable, we help prevent it.

A new law for student safety

ECU’s Gender-based Violence Prevention and Response Plan outlines how we’re working to prevent gender-based violence and support people who have been impacted.

The Plan is in alignment with a new law called the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence (National Code). The National Code has been introduced to prioritise safety and proactively address the factors that drive and contribute to gender-based violence in universities.

Learn more about respect

We strongly encourage all our students to complete Respect Matters, our online training program co-designed by subject matter experts to equip you with essential knowledge about understanding consent, recognising and preventing gender-based violence, supporting your peers and building a culture of respect and inclusion

We also have a range of training opportunities coming up over the next few weeks.

• Respect in Practice: Preventing gender-based violence – 14th April
  Join us for an interactive workshop to unpack what healthy, respectful and safe relationships look like and how students can look out for each other in everyday uni life.  Connect with your campus community after the session with a FREE lunch.
• Confidence Between the Sheets – 16th April
  Supportive wellbeing program to help you create more comfortable, connected and enjoyable experiences in the bedroom.
• City After Dark City Tour – 22nd April
  Learn about personal safety and security around Perth City, with a FREE dinner included.

You can find all our wellbeing activities and equity socials on our Semester 1 planner.

Get involved

ECU is developing our gender-based violence prevention work in partnership with students. We’re inviting students, including those with lived experience or a passion for this area, to join advisory committees, review policies and training, and help shape our approach. All work will be acknowledged financially.

Expression of Interest: Gender-based Violence Prevention and Response Consultation – Fill out form

Questions? Contact Lisa Gibb, Student Wellbeing and Respect Coordinator: lisa.gibb@ecu.edu.au

Where to go for support or to report gender-based violence

If you’ve experienced gender-based violence, including sexual harassment or sexual assault, know that you are not alone – help is available. Our priority is to ensure that all students and staff have access to safe and confidential support services. Whether you need someone to talk to, guidance on what to do next, or wish to report an incident, ECU is here for you.

• Seek support at ECU: Visit our website to access support services.
• Disclose an incident to ECU: Fill out the Gender-based Violence, Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Disclosure Form (anonymous reporting available) or call ECU Security on 6304 2282.
• Housing and Financial Support: If your housing is at risk or you are experiencing financial hardship, you can book an appointment via your Student Portal – My Appointments or explore options at our Accommodation and Financial Support Resources pages.