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Former University of Adelaide VC Peter Rathjen . Photo : Supplied
‘ We must do better ’
University apologises to sexual harassment , assault victims .
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South Australian university head has apologised to victims who were sexually harassed or assaulted at the institute , vowing to “ do better ” in future .
The University of Adelaide announced it would change its policies , processes and culture as part of a series of measures to improve the way it handles reports of sexual assault , sexual harassment and other inappropriate behaviour .
The policy amendments were one of 22 recommendations following an Independent Commissioner Against Corruption investigation in August last year .
It revealed the university ’ s former Vice-Chancellor , Peter Rathjen , sexually harassed two colleagues at a work function in April 2019 where he allegedly hugged and deliberately touched the two women ’ s bottoms and kissed one on the lips .
Current Vice-Chancellor Peter Hoj has now apologised to all victims who experienced sexual assault , harassment and inappropriate behaviour at the University of Adelaide .
“ Sexual assault , sexual harassment and other inappropriate behaviour are found across our society – and Australia ’ s higher education sector is no different ,” he said .
“ This behaviour is not acceptable in our society , and there is no place for it here at the University of Adelaide .”
The ICAC report , commissioned by external consultants KPMG Australia , found there were underlying problems with the university ’ s culture , with some staff and students claiming they did not feel safe reporting sexual assault , harassment or inappropriate behaviour .
There were also people who said they were “ unhappy ” with how their situation was handled after reporting such behaviour .
“ We are listening to these voices in our community , and they are telling us we need to do better ,” Professor Hoj said .
“ These issues need to be addressed . We will and must do better .”
The university will adopt all 22 recommendations from the report and prioritise five for immediate action . ■
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