National Code Taskforce

In 2025, the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence (‘National Code’) will come into effect, with universities required to be compliant by 1 January 2026. Monash has a long-standing commitment to evidence-based, best practice approaches to the prevention of, and response to, gender-based violence and sexual harm; and is widely recognised as a sector-leader in this area.

The University has established a temporary National Code Taskforce, chaired by the Vice-Chancellor and President, to ensure compliance with the National Code, as well as to ensure the University’s continued advancement and sector leadership in the prevention of, and response to, gender-based violence. The National Code requires a whole-of-University approach to addressing gender-based violence, which necessitates input and accountability to be dispersed across Monash, with a strong commitment to collaboration and shared responsibilities.

Reporting

The Taskforce reports into the Vice-Chancellor’s Group (VCG), with regular updates provided to the Vice-Chancellor’s Executive Committee (VCEC).

Terms of Reference

The Taskforce shall:

• Review the University’s compliance status against the National Code;
• Address areas of partial and or non-compliance, including arising risks and challenges;
• Engage with the Department of Education Gender-based Violence Unit, as National Code regulator;
• Assign responsibilities for portfolios, teams and individuals to achieve compliance;
• Oversee the University’s formal reporting to the Department of Education required per Standard 6 of the National Code for 30 June 2026; and
• Provide expert guidance and direction to ensure the University can continue to evidence its strong commitment to the prevention of, and response to, gender-based violence and sexual harm.

Priority areas for the University to advance action include:

• Reviewing relevant policy, procedures and processes related to GBV, including establishing a single point of contact for all disclosures and reports;
• Review and update current internal and external sexual harm reporting;
• Updating recruitment processes; and
• Reviewing training provisions, including: responding to disclosures for all staff, residents and student leaders, and for staff involved in investigations, case management and disciplinary processes.

Membership

The Taskforce will co-opt members as required, and guests will attend by invitation as appropriate - including representatives from University owned and affiliated residences, Faculty representatives, and campus representatives.

Meeting dates

In 2025, the Taskforce will meet:

Contact information