The University of Wollongong has committed to the Greater Cities Commission Women’s Safety Charter for women and girls to feel safer.
The Women’s Safety Charter guides organisations, businesses, government agencies and not-for-profit organisations to make public spaces safer for women, girls, and everyone.
The Charter advocates for women’s safety and plans to change and develop public spaces including parks, playgrounds, streets, and public facilities.
Chief Integrity Officer Professor Trish Mundy said the Women’s Safety Charter is a great way for UOW to demonstrate how important it is for people to feel safe.
“The Greater Cities Commission’s Women’s Safety Charter is another tangible and visible way for UOW to show its commitment to addressing the issue of gender-based violence and discrimination,” she said.
The Charter aims to point out gender inequity in all 43 local government areas (LGA) to create a welcoming environment.
Professor Mundy said the Charter will be a way to collaborate with those who are willing to learn about women’s safety and for students at UOW too.
“Our commitment to the Charter will, we hope, foster further collaboration across private, government and community spheres so that we can shift behaviour and attitudes around women’s safety in public spaces.
“Particularly safety on public transport and in online spaces, two really key areas of student life,” she said.
The University of Wollongong has services and resources for students to use if needed including Safe and Respectful Communities (SARC)
SARC provides support to students through any form of sexual harm, harassment, domestic or family violence, bullying and more.
A first-year student at UOW Marwa Sulaiman said seeing security around the UOW campus makes students feel safer.
“There is a lot of security walking and driving around the uni during studying hours that can students to feel safe…and comfortable with their surroundings,” she said.
If students need help with first aid or security escorts to and from the car or public transport, they can contact UOW Security 24/7 via the SafeZone app or call 4221-4900.