Stalking
Stalking is repeated, unwanted contact that causes distress or fear. Stalkers can be strangers, but mostly they’re people you know, such as an intimate 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.
Cyberstalking
When stalking occurs online, it’s called cyberstalking. It includes:
- posting about someone on social media without their consent
- sending unwanted messages and emails
- using social media or GPS to monitor someone’s whereabouts.
What to do
If you think that you’re being stalked physically or online, call:
- Monash Security on 03 9905 3333 (for immediate help on campus)
- 000 (for immediate help on or off campus).
Monash Security Officers can escort you to your car, public transport, taxi pick-up points, colleges, or other locations on or near your campus – they’re available at any time of day or night.
Stalking is a serious crime that over time may put your safety at risk. If you’re concerned that someone is stalking you or someone you know, we encourage you to make a report online to the Safer Community Unit.
Getting support
The Safer Community Unit can advise you on how to gather evidence of stalking (in case you need to take further action). If necessary, they can also help you get an intervention order.
Contact the Safer Community Unit:
- Phone: +61 3 9905 1599
- Email: safercommunity@monash.edu
- Hours: Mon–Fri, 9am – 5pm
For more information, see getting help and support.
More information
- Stalking information sheet (pdf, 0.1 mb): Read about what stalking is, what you can do about it and where you can go for help and support.
- Stalking information booklet (pdf, 0.29 mb): Find out more about your reporting options (to the police or to Monash), how you can protect your personal information, and what to do if you know someone who’s experienced stalking.