A group of male UNSW students caused uproar after footage of their annual “Boys’ Night Out” last Friday night was videoed and leaked to the media.
There are claims the University of NSW is far from alone when it comes to the sexist actions of students.
In the wake of last week’s UNSW Baxter College controversy, University of Wollongong graduate Lex Guider says a party bus that ferried students from UOW accommodation to local pubs during her time at uni was regularly the scene of degrading songs and chants. Ms Guider lived in International House between 2008 and 2010, and graduated in 2012.
Her claims have been supported by a current student, who asked to remain anonymous.
“Everyone is usually drunk and sexually charged, so any sense of politically correctness goes out the window. Though I know of some girls who have made some ‘I wish that all the fellas’ in protest,” she said.
“I’d like to think they will stop, but I don’t think they will. I think people don’t see the harmful nature of the chants, or see it as perpetuating rape culture – they see it as enjoying sex or just as funny.”
Ms Guider says there needs to be an Australia-wide culture change around respect for women.
The University of Wollongong today released this statement:
“The University of Wollongong is committed to its students’ welfare and does not tolerate any form of hazing, harassment or sexist behaviour in its student residences or on its campuses.
The University’s expectations of resident students are clearly outlined in the Student Conduct in Residence Policy, which is available in the accommodation section of its website and provided to all resident students.
UOW has clear policies to protect students and staff from all forms of sexual harassment, bullying and other forms of misconduct, both in its residences and on its campuses.
UOW has strict procedures for handling complaints and takes great care to fully investigate allegations made by students in accordance with those procedures.
The University has, and will continue to, take prompt action to investigate and address any formal complaints made about the conduct of UOW staff or students.
UOW has very limited jurisdiction to address offensive or illegal behaviour occurring off the University’s premises. Such behaviour should be reported to NSW Police or other relevant external authorities.”
