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Support from graduates, staff and students of The University of Western Australia for steps to introduce strict new rules for future undergraduate orientation camps has strengthened the University's resolve to eliminate inappropriate student behaviour.

UWA Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Johnson wrote to more than 60,000 UWA staff, students and alumni earlier this week to outline the action the University had taken in response to claims of inappropriate behaviour at undergraduate orientation camps organised by the UWA Student Guild.

"Of almost 200 responses, the overwhelming majority have been supportive of the action taken by the University.  They have also revealed further claims of inappropriate behaviour at orientation camps - not only at the 2012 camp but also in years past," Professor Johnson said.

"The correspondence to date contains general information and observations and does not provide specific allegations against named individuals that would enable the University to take action under a University statute relating to student behaviour.

"However, taken as a whole, the claims reinforce the likelihood of this behaviour being an entrenched pattern for orientation camps.  The behaviours described are clearly not an appropriate introduction to university student life.

"Until we can be satisfied that the camps provide an important and positive contribution to University orientation activities, we will not allow them to continue."

"In consultation with the Guild, we have decided to suspend undergraduate orientation camps pending the outcome of a review of all orientation activities undertaken by the University and the Guild.

The review - initiated by UWA following claims of alcohol abuse and binge drinking, peer pressure and bullying, and inappropriate sexual behaviour - will be conducted by a panel which will include at least one member external to the University and will examine:

• the planning, conduct and overall quality of the events examined in relation to the aims of orientation and the needs of commencing students;
• the range of events provided for the diverse commencing student population;
• the approach to identification and management of risk;
• compliance with relevant University policies and laws (including the responsible service of alcohol).

It will examine both University and Guild events and those of affiliated clubs and societies.

The UWA Student Guild is established under The University of Western Australia Act 1911 as an autonomous body with statutory and financial independence from the University.

"It's a great shame that the reputation of the Student Guild - which has a long and proud history as one of the best run student organisations in the nation - is being tarnished by a small number of irresponsible students," Professor Johnson said.

He said that the Guild President, Matthew Mckenzie, was demonstrating leadership by working with the University to overcome the problems surrounding student camps.  However, a change in the culture of the camps will require commitment from all students involved in organising the camps.

Professor Johnson said the University administration has also commenced discussions with the Guild about the clubs affiliated with the University and the extent to which their events and activities complied with University policies and laws/regulations particularly with respect to the responsible service of alcohol, event management plans, and awareness and management of risk.

Over recent years, the University has introduced a range of health promotion programs aimed at encouraging a responsible approach to health issues.

Through the UWA Student Services Health Promotion Unit, the University conducts an award-winning Tertiary Alcohol Project promoting health, self-respect and addressing alcohol abuse.  There is also a Fit For Study program promoting various health issues related to alcohol, drugs, sexual health and depression.  The UWA Medical Centre also runs healthy living programs.

Media references

Janine MacDonald (UWA Public Affairs)  (+61 8)  6488 5563  /  (+61 4) 32 637 716