Getting support for Sexual Misconduct
At UQ we strive to ensure our campuses are a safe and respectful environment for all students and community members.
We expect that all UQ community members accept a shared responsibility, and conduct themselves in accordance of the University’s Student Charter.
Sexual misconduct (sexual harassment and assault) is not tolerated at UQ.
If you have an experience of sexual harassment and/or assault, support is available.
UQ has implemented a public health model and strategies to address concerns of sexual misconduct; UQ Respect and the Sexual Misconduct Support Unit (SMSU). UQ Respect is a health promotion project aiming to create an awareness and create positive change to ensure UQ community members are treated with respect, dignity, and care. The SMSU is a support service for UQ student survivors of sexual assault and harassment with specialist psychologists and counsellors.
Sexual Misconduct Support Unit
The University of Queensland's Sexual Misconduct Support Unit (SMSU) is a safe and supportive place for the UQ community to receive guidance around sexual assault and misconduct.
Book a confidential appointment with the Sexual Misconduct Support Unit counsellors for personal support:
UQ Respect
UQ Respect is a program implementing a public health model, and early intervention and prevention framework to sexual misconduct and safety on campus. UQ Respect provides training about consent, how to be an ethical bystander & intervene during harmful incidents, and how to respond to disclosures of sexual misconduct to UQ staff and students.
UQ Respect also has a group of student Respect Ambassadors who promote this message of safety and respect and provide awareness of supports available to UQ students. To find out more information about how you can get involved, and about the UQ Respect program, visit the UQ Respect website.
Further support
The First Responder Network offers a safe and supportive environment so that you can receive information on the support services that are available to you.
Need emergency support?
If you are experiencing an emergency or have just experienced sexual assault and misconduct then you can call:
- +61 7 3365 3333 UQ Security for on campus emergencies
- 000 for immediate police or ambulance assistance
- 1800 Respect 1800 737 732 for 24/7 counselling support
- External community support options in Queensland
Student counselling services
If you are having a personal crisis and need to speak to someone urgently, contact the UQ Counselling and Crisis line:
If you call 1300 851 998 between 8am and 4:30pm, Monday to Friday, our trained staff will connect you to the right support. Outside of these hours, a trained crisis counsellor will answer for immediate assistance.
You can also text 0488 884 115 between 4:30pm and 8am to chat with a crisis counsellor.
Book a confidential appointment with our counsellors for personal support:
Step one:
Complete the counselling intake form. This form must be completed prior to your first appointment.
Step two:
Book a counselling appointment
Note: For students at Gatton and Herston campuses, please ensure any face to face appointment is at your preferred location.
If you're having trouble booking online, contact Student Services.
Phone Student Services on 1300 275 870
Visit Student Central (Building 42, St Lucia campus) or Student Services Gatton (Level 1, N.W. Briton Administration Centre Annexe, Building 8101A)
Live chat with us (8:30am—4:30pm)
Further support
You can speak to your GP, a psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor outside of UQ.