What is stalking?

Stalking is repeated, unwanted and intrusive communication or contact that causes someone to feel distress or fear. A stalker can be a complete stranger, someone online, a work colleague or an ex-partner. Stalking includes behaviour such as:

  • showing up or hanging around uninvited at your home, work or class
  • damaging your property or belongings
  • following you around
  • giving you unwanted gifts
  • contacting you repeatedly
  • using threats against you or your loved ones
  • spreading gossip about you.

Cyberstalking

When stalking occurs online or via any form of technology, it’s called cyberstalking. This includes:

  • posting about you on social media without your consent
  • sending unwanted messages and emails
  • using social media or GPS to monitor your whereabouts
  • ordering good or services for you.

Stalkers can be strangers, but most often they’re people you know, such as by a friend, acquaintance or former intimate partner. Stalking is a serious crime that may become an increasing risk to your safety over time. Consider getting support immediately if you, or someone you know, has experienced stalking.

What to do if you experience stalking

Take notes of all incidents including the date, time and what happened, and keep records of calls, emails and messages, including videos/photos and vehicle registration details. Stalking can be difficult to prove, you need as much evidence as possible.

  • Keep your contact to an absolute minimum especially if the stalker is an ex-partner. If you notice a change or escalation in their behaviour, inform the police.
  • If you feel safe and comfortable enough to do so, tell the person their contact is unwanted and ask that they stop immediately.
  • Review your privacy settings on your accounts and devices.
  • Apply for a personal safety intervention order.
  • Block any abusive phone numbers, accounts and email addresses to prevent further contact.
  • Seek advice from family, friends and professional services.

Getting help and support

  • If a situation becomes unsafe, call Security 9905 3333 or Emergency Services on 000
  • The Safer Community Unit provides confidential advice and assistance on keeping yourself safe, accessing support and helping you make a report at Monash or to the police.
  • Access free counselling support at Monash, no matter where you are in the world. You can make an appointment, access help online or call for 24/7 phone counselling.
  • Report cyberstalking and online abuse to social media platforms or the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

More information

Find out more about stalking and technology-facilitated abuse online, or download our stalking information sheet or information booklet.