Information and resources for staff and students.
How you can help prevent GBV
When it comes to gender-based violence we all play a role. With our actions we are part of creating a culture which contributes to the prevention of GBV, or perpetuating an environment which supports it.
When we challenge harmful stereotypes - such as the expectation that men must always be dominant or that women should be passive - we create space for healthier, more respectful relationships.
Preventing GBV begins with rethinking the messages we may have inherited about gender and calling out harmful behaviour.
| Perpetuating GBV | Preventing GBV |
|---|---|
| Sharing jokes, memes or group chat messages that degrade women or LGBTIQA+ people | Calling out disrespectful online behaviour and setting a positive tone in group chats. |
| Making assumptions about someone’s gender, sexual identity based on their appearance | Learning how to respectfully use pronouns |
| Dismissing someone’s experience of sexual violence or sexual harassment as 'not a big deal', or blaming them in some way for what they have experienced | Believing people when they tell you they have experienced sexual harm |
| Not saying or doing something when a friend keeps hitting on someone who’s clearly uninterested | Stepping in when you see harm |
| Believing behaviour such as catcalling or persistent requests for dates are just "flattery." | Understanding the definition of sexual harassment |
| Believing that 'men are always up for it' | Discovering why gender stereotypes can be harmful to everyone |
| Not practising affirmative consent | Knowing what affirmative, enthusiastic consent is, and practicing it all the time |
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.