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The University of Western Australia is implementing a set of strict rules for the conduct of student camps following claims of inappropriate behaviour at a camp organised by the Student Guild.

UWA Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Johnson said a number of claims had been made relating to alcohol abuse and binge drinking, peer pressure and bullying, and inappropriate sexual behaviour.

"This type of behaviour is totally abhorrent," Professor Johnson said.

"While there have been no official complaints lodged with the University, I have made it clear to the Student Guild that such behaviour from UWA students will not be tolerated.

"The University has a very clear Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct which apply equally to staff and students.  We also have robust mechanisms to deal with misbehaviour by students under a strict Charter of Student Rights and Responsibilities and I have made it clear that I am prepared to use those mechanisms to deal with misconduct at University or Student Guild activities," Professor Johnson said.

The Student Guild is established under the UWA Act as an autonomous body with statutory and financial independence from the University.

The Vice-Chancellor said that as a result of the claims, the University Executive has been in discussion with the UWA Student Guild to implement a set of strict rules for the conduct for future camps.

"I have made it clear to the Student Guild that the University expects it to adopt a very strict approach to ensure future events are properly managed to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all who attend."

The University's position includes:

• Advice to the Student Guild that Statute 17 of the UWA Act which relates to Student Discipline, the University's Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct, and the Charter of Student Rights and Responsibilities apply to all activities. Breaches of the Statute and codes will be treated in line with the provisions of the associated policies and regulations. With regard to Statute 17, student misconduct can lead to fines, withdrawal of privileges, withholding of results, loss of re-enrolment rights, suspension and expulsion. The University has advised the Guild that it is prepared to use the provisions of the Statute in full in relation to Guild camps and activities.

• Advice to the Student Guild that any future camps must be held at a safe site with access to medical and other facilities, good communications and responsible supervision. The University does not believe that the Nanga Bush Camp (or similar isolated sites) are appropriate.

• The Student Guild has been advised that if under-age drinking and the sale and service of alcohol to under-18s cannot be regulated and enforced then camps cannot be open to 17-year-old students. The University has also said that Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) standards must be set including, for example, the use of trained and sober serving personnel.

• The University is insisting that compliance with all aspects of Event Management Plans (EMP) needs to be monitored by a Student Guild employee in attendance at all camps with the explicit role and authority to monitor adherence and intervene where necessary. The University is also seeking attendance at camps of an independent representative of an appropriate organisation to provide advice and assistance as required.

• The University has asked the Student Guild to ensure that all camps are attended by trained ‘medical' officers, appointed by the Guild, with current First Aid certification. In addition, training in RSA and EMP requirements will be mandatory for all club/society organisers and leaders, and all leaders/servers are required to be alcohol-free during any camp. Equity and diversity training for organisers must be provided by the Guild.

• The University has told the Student Guild that it will not continue to provide it with access to revenue from the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) if the University is not satisfied that the funds are responsibly used. The University will consider redirecting SSAF funding to ensure appropriate student services and amenities are provided by the University, including orientation activities.

Media references

Michael Sinclair-Jones (UWA Public Affairs)  (+61 8)  6488 3229  /  (+61 4) 00 700 783