Why does the Code matter? Here is the short of it:
- The Code is not just bureaucracy; it’s a cultural reset for higher education.
- Framed by the Universities Accord, it makes GBV a compliance, reputational, and WHS issue.
Part 1: The “Do’s”: What organisations must prioritise
1. Embed Accountable Leadership
- Establish board-level responsibility.
- Publish prevention and response plans.
- Allocate resources proportionately.
2. Create Safe Environments
- Require staff declarations on prior GBV findings.
- Build systems to make alternative arrangements for safety.
3. Build Knowledge and Capability
- Deliver evidence-informed, trauma-informed, culturally appropriate training.
- Include students, staff, survivors, and experts in program design.
4. Prioritise Person-Centred Support
- Offer timely, confidential, survivor-informed support pathways.
- Make academic adjustments to help students continue learning.
5. Ensure Transparent Processes
- Ban NDAs unless survivor-driven.
- Implement Ombudsman recommendations.
- Publish progress reports.
6. Use Data Responsibly
- Collect, analyse, and publish prevalence and outcomes data.
- Use evidence to refine prevention and response strategies.
7. Extend Standards to Accommodation
- Align student housing providers with Code standards.
Part 2: The “Don’ts”: Common pitfalls to avoid
- Don’t treat compliance as paperwork.
- Don’t silo responsibility in HR — leadership must own it.
- Don’t rely solely on disciplinary processes; use trauma-informed approaches.
- Don’t silence survivors with NDAs or reputational concerns.
- Don’t ignore intersectionality — international, First Nations, LGBTIQA+, students with disability need tailored strategies.
- Don’t delay — the Code commences in 2026 for major providers.
Part 3: What this means for leaders
- Compliance is baseline — culture is the real measure.
- Reputational risk is high: mishandling GBV complaints has already damaged major universities.
- Leaders must show that safety, dignity, and respect are non-negotiable.
Conclusion: Beyond compliance to leadership
The National Code sets the floor, not the ceiling. The “do’s” ensure compliance; the “don’ts” highlight traps that erode trust. But the real question for higher education leaders is this: will you merely comply, or will you lead?
