RUSU Statement

Solidarity With Survivors Of Gender-based Harm

19 MARCH 2021
 

RUSU Stands in Solidarity With Survivors Of Gender-based Harm 

On January 14th, 2021, former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins bravely came forward and publicly alleged that she was sexually assaulted by a colleague in Parliament house. Shamefully, the Government has not held those responsible to account, and has instead chosen to protect the perpetrators and cover up their crimes. 

This systematic concealment, at even the very highest corridors of power in this country, has shone a spotlight on the abuse of women everywhere.

Since then, many more women have come forward with their experiences, and shared their stories of abuse. Thousands of protesters have marched in support of women, and to call on our parliamentary leaders to be held accountable for their actions, and to listen to, and respect, women's voices.

In Australia, gender-based harm is endemic in our culture. On average, one women a week is murdered by her current or former partner. Many more experience physical and sexual violence, and young women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, and women with disabilities are even more likely to suffer gender-based harm. (Source: https://www.ourwatch.org.au/quick-facts/)

A justice system that does not protect women from gender-based harm is a justice system that is broken. Enough is enough. Gender based harm must end.

RUSU stands in solidarity with Brittany Higgins, and with all other survivors of gender-based harm. RUSU is committed to preventing gender-based harm at RMIT, and will continue to work towards creating a safe campus for everyone. We reaffirm our commitment to creating a safe workplace, free from gender-based harm and abuse, and we will hold RMIT to account over its sexual harm policies and their response to the Respect. Now. Always. Survey. https://www.universitiesaustralia.edu.au/project/respect-now-always

If you or someone you know is feeling impacted by gender-based harm, sexual abuse or family violence contact: 
 

Community Supports: 

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RMIT Supports: 

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RUSU Supports: 

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As of the 6 October 2021, RUSU is an incorporated organisation, verified under Section 8 of the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012. RMIT University Student Union Incorporated identification number: A0114140A

EMAIL rusu@rmit.edu.au
CALL +61 3 9925 1842
POST PO BOX 12387 Franklin Street, Melbourne, VIC 3006

Visit our contact page for locations, office hours and more information

RMIT University Student Union acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nations on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT University Student Union also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where it conducts its business.

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