Safety and Wellbeing Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Sexual Misconduct Officers

Sexual Misconduct Officers

You can talk with a JCU Sexual Misconduct Officer about any matter that is causing you concern - no matter how big or small the issue might seem.

Sexual Misconduct Officers provide a single point of contact at JCU for any person who has been subjected to sexist behaviour, sexual harassment or sexual assault, or for anyone who is supporting that person.

The safety and wellbeing of the person who has been subjected to sexist behaviour, sexual harassment or sexual assault are at the centre of all responses.  All contact is treated confidentially.

JCU has three dedicated Sexual Misconduct Officers (details below) who can assist someone to connect with specialist community-based support services, if needed, or with JCU services.

The Sexual Misconduct Officers can work through what support a person needs to continue with studying or working, regardless of who harmed them or how long ago.

The kind of support the Sexual Misconduct Officers can provide includes accommodations such as, implementing safety plans; changes to allocation of student on-campus accommodation or short term emergency housing; changes to class scheduling; changes to assessment; changes to reporting lines (including Higher Degree by Research supervisory arrangements); temporary or long-term work or workplace reassignment. Support can be provided without the person who has made the report identifying the other person/people involved.

Sexual Misconduct Officers can also provide information and support on what actions can be taken to address an issue, including making a complaint.

Sexual Misconduct Officers will assist with coordinating responses to any incident that occurs on a field trip, placement or overseas. This may include connecting with specialist services, returning people to campus as needed, or assisting with consular support.

JCU has mandatory training that relates to sexual harassment and sexual assault (the JCU Respect online module and Respectful Relationships workshops). The training is designed to be completed by all students and staff. If you feel unable to complete the training for personal reasons please contact one of the Sexual Misconduct Officers listed below to arrange a confidential exemption.

Vanessa Cannon

Chief of Staff
I’m committed to ensuring that staff and students are supported in addressing inappropriate behaviours in the workplace or learning environment. I believe we are all capable of active and visible leadership in this regard.

Damian Dunne

Equity and Diversity Consultant, Human Resources (Cairns)
I have over 25 years’ experience in Human Resources operational and policy areas in Australia and the UK. I’m committed to promoting a safe and welcoming environment for staff and students at JCU.

Nola Kuilboer

Deputy Director, Student Services
I have worked at JCU since 2011 because I believe in the power of education to change lives, particularly within regional communities. A respectful and safe workplace and learning environment is everyone’s responsibility. My commitment is to provide support and leadership to staff and students in ensuring inappropriate behaviours are addressed.