About the First Responder Network
Why should I contact a First Responder?
First Responders offer a safe and supportive environment so that you can receive information on the support services that are available to you. First Responders will:
- listen without judgment;
- help you find relevant support services on and off campus;
- respect your right to choose services and whether to make a formal report to UQ or the police and
- provide information about UQ's policies and procedures about sexual misconduct.
Limitations of First Responders
The First Responder Network is not an emergency response or counselling service.
If you need to see a counsellor our Sexual Misconduct Support Unit (SMSU) has dedicated counsellors who specialise in supporting survivors of sexual misconduct. Book an appointment with the SMSU.
If you are in immediate danger you can contact the police on 000, call UQ Security 07 3365 3333 or Australia's sexual assault hotline 1800 RESPECT for counselling and guidance 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Who are First Responders?
The First Responders Network (FRN) is a group of dedicated volunteers from all cross-sections of the UQ community who are committed to ensuring UQ is a safe and respectful environment, free from all forms of sexual assault and misconduct.
These volunteers are committed to the University’s stance of ensuring that the work and study environment for all employees, students and volunteers is safe, respectful and free from all forms of sexual assault, and misconduct.
You can find a full list of First Responders under our First Responder Directory.
Other roles
First Responders also often have other roles that centre on supporting members of the UQ community in a number of ways.
UQ Allies
Members of the UQ Ally Network provide a safe zone for students and staff identifying as LBTQIA+ and promote the University's commitment to developing a safe and inclusive work and study environment. Find out more about the UQ Ally Network.
Mental Health Champions
Mental Health Champions are trained in Mental Health First Aid and can provide information and guidance on mental health support services provided by UQ, as well as external organisations, events, initiatives and ways to promote mental health and wellbeing. Find out more about the Mental Health Champions Network.
Discrimination and Harassment Contact Officers (DHCOs)
Dscrimination and Harassment Contact Officers (DHCOs) are trained UQ staff members who can provide support with enquiries related to discrimination, harassment and bullying, including about UQ policies, grievance resolution procedures and access to support services that are internal and external to UQ. Find out more about the DHCOs.
How do I contact a First Responder?
You can find a list of First Responders on our First Responder Directory.
If you would like to get in contact with a First Responder please email them with a short summary that responds to the following questions:
- Are you a student or staff member?
- Are you reaching out in reference to an experience that happened to you or someone else?
- What type of support are you seeking?
- Information on the policy and procedure regarding sexual assault and misconduct;
- Advice on the report options available to survivors and the process at UQ;
- Information on support services available at UQ including counselling and appropriate adjustments; or
- Something else - please provide a brief summary of the type of support you are seeking from a First Responder.
You can contact any member from our FRN and are not limited to talking to a First Responder from your Faculty or Unit.
Please note that First Responders are not counsellors, if you require counselling please book an appointment with the Sexual Misconduct Support Unit.
Privacy information
If you choose to engage with any of the support services available at The University of Queensland, it’s important to note that basic information from your interaction will be logged.
The University of Queensland needs to monitor interactions regarding incidents of sexual assault and misconduct. This information will be used to help improve our policies and support services.
This information can be kept anonymous and no further action needs to be taken. The choice is with the survivor on how they intend to proceed with the support services available.