The management of Universities Australia (UA) is facing scrutiny from leaders at a significant Australian university due to concerns over its handling of responses to sexual violence on campuses.
The focus of concern is UA’s CEO, Catriona Jackson, whose response to recent inquiries and reports on sexual violence has drawn criticism from some members of the sector.
Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin has initiated a request for a meeting, addressed to UA Chair Professor David Lloyd, to discuss Catriona Jackson’s continuation as CEO.
This decision comes after Jackson’s comments during a Senate inquiry were contradicted by Professor Lloyd. The letter, which was also copied to several vice-chancellors, emphasizes that the events of the past weeks have raised concerns, particularly surrounding the actions and statements related to the “Respect on Campus Week.”
The sector, including UA, has faced mounting pressure from federal Education Minister Jason Clare and various politicians to take more decisive action against sexual violence on campuses.
The inconsistency in statements by UA’s leadership has added to the calls for more transparency within the sector.
Deakin University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Martin, expressed concerns over Jackson’s performance and suggested that these events prompted the university to raise the matter formally.
The recent contradictions regarding the planned sector-wide “Respect at Uni Week” have highlighted these concerns. Jackson had mentioned the upcoming program in a Senate inquiry, while Professor Lloyd later revealed that the program had not been fully agreed upon by all universities.
The letter from Professor Martin requests an in-camera session during the plenary to specifically discuss Jackson’s role as CEO, allowing members to share their views and recommend future steps. UA has yet to provide an official response.
