Academic Experiences of Student-perpetrated Harm in Australian Universities: Executive Brief

This brief summarises findings from the first national investigation of student-perpetrated harm toward academics in Australian universities. Drawing on survey and interview data, it highlights the forms of harm experienced by academics, barriers to disclosure, impacts on teaching and wellbeing, and priorities for institutional reform.

The findings show that student-perpetrated harm often occurs through routine teaching, assessment and feedback activities and can affect teaching quality, workplace wellbeing and workforce sustainability. Harm was frequently underreported due to fears of retaliation and low confidence in institutional responses.

The brief outlines key implications for universities, regulators and policymakers and identifies actions to strengthen prevention, accountability and support.