When someone experiences sexual assault or harassment, the people they choose to talk to about it play a vital role.

Some survivors wish to disclose their experience while other survivors choose to disassociate from the experience and avoid recognition or engagement with the topic. All of these reactions are normal and it’s important to support a survivor in making choices that feel comfortable to them.

It can be difficult to know how to respond and you may be unsure about how to help. Read the steps below or download our guide (PDF, 1.1 MB) to make sure that your response is non-judgemental, compassionate and supportive. 

4. Report

If the survivor gives you permission to share their experience, you can submit an anonymous form to the Sexual Misconduct and Support Unit (SMSU) so that we can appropriately track and report on incidents of sexual assault and misconduct.

Submit an anonymous disclosure

Why should I submit a report?

To improve our policies and support services, UQ needs to track and report on incidents of sexual assault and misconduct.

Reports can be kept anonymous and no further action needs to be taken. The choice is with the survivor on how they intend to proceed.

Need emergency support?

If you are experiencing an emergency or need urgent support in relation to an experience of sexual assault or harassment, 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
  • Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) 07 3646 5207 for 24/7 Acute Response
  • External community support options in Queensland

UQ Respect