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What should I do if I feel unsafe or have been a target of unwanted behaviours at Swinburne?

Published 03/03/2016 02.50 PM   |    Updated 07/05/2026 07.19 PM

Swinburne is committed to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive environment.  We treat experiences of disrespect, gender-based violence (including sexual harm, harassment, stalking) and other unwanted behaviours seriously.

If you feel unsafe or have experienced unwanted behaviour, support is available.

You do not need to manage this alone.

Safer Community is a dedicated service that prevents and responds to inappropriate, concerning, and threatening behaviours within the university community.

Contact Safer Community if you:

  • Feel lost lonely, hopeless or have thoughts about hurting yourself or others
  • Feel unsafe or threatened
  • Are worried about someone else’s safety
  • Have experienced bullying, harassment or discrimination
  • Have experienced stalking, gender-based violence or sexual harm
  • Are unsure what to do next

Safer Community can provide:

  • Confidential and personalised support and advice
  • Safety planning
  • Referrals to other support services
  • Help managing concerning situations

You can also submit a report anonymously.

Need urgent help?

  • Emergency services: Call 000
  • Swinburne Security (24/7): (03) 9214 3333

Support at Swinburne

Support in the community:

  • 1800 RESPECT (24/7): National domestic, family and sexual violence counselling. Call 1800 737 732
  • Orange door: Support for families and their children experiencing family violence. Call 1800 271 150 or email
  • Lifeline (24/7): Crisis support, suicide prevention and mental health support services. Call 13 11 14 |Text 0477 13 11 14 | Live chat

Prevention and education

All students must complete the Respect e-learning module in Canvas. This module is designed to build understanding of respectful behaviours, consent, support options and how to be an ethical and active bystander.

Swinburne also runs programs and campaigns that promote respect and safety across the university community.

You can learn more and get involved via the University’s prevention initiatives landing page.

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