Student complaints of discrimination and sexual harassment

Deakin University does not tolerate discrimination or sexual harassment. Such behaviour is unacceptable and may be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with University policies and procedures.

The University will ensure that all complaints of discrimination and sexual harassment will be treated in a sensitive, fair, and timely manner, that confidentiality of all parties is respected, and that people involved in all aspects of the resolution of complaints are protected from victimisation.

About discrimination and sexual harassment.

1. Get advice

The University has trained Harassment and Discrimination Contact Officers who can provide advice, support and information for people with discrimination or sexual harassment complaints.

If you feel that you have been discriminated against, harassed, bullied, sexually harassed, victimised or vilified at Deakin University please contact a Harassment and Discrimination Contact Officer.

2. Consider addressing the issue directly

Telling someone that you find their behaviour inappropriate can be an effective way to resolve some complaints, especially where inappropriate behaviour is caused by ignorance or insensitivity rather than malice.

Harassment and Discrimination Contact Officers can assist you with the following strategies:

• staying calm and polite

• seeking advice prior to acting on your complaint

• focusing on the behaviour not the person

• indicating the effect of the behaviour on you

• being clear on the outcome you seek

• including a clear request that the behaviour not happen again

3. Lodge a complaint

If the matter can't be resolved informally, staff may make a complaint using the University's discrimination and harassment complaint forms.

If you are staff and feel that the matter can't be resolved informally, complete the Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Complaints Form or Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Complaints Form.

If you are a student please visit the student complaints web pages to find out how to lodge a complaint. A Harassment and Discrimination Contact Officer can assist you with this process.

Note: You may choose to make a complaint to an external agency at any time.