UNSW to introduce bystander training as part of our commitment to building a safe and respectful community

Griffith University’s MATE program will be rolled out in 2024, commencing with a train-the-trainer workshop this November.

In an effort to increase the safety of our campuses and programs, the University will roll out an awareness program developed by Griffith University, in alignement with UNSW's Gendered Violence Strategy and Action Plan.

This initiative marks the next vital step in our commitment to creating a safe and respectful environment for all UNSW community members.

The initial train-the-trainer workshops will build a network of dedicated facilitators to deliver Motivating Action Through Empowerment (MATE) bystander workshops to students and staff across UNSW.

The program focuses on preventing violence against women and addresses various forms of harmful behaviour by applying bystander principles to create a positive and respectful culture. It acknowledges the link between gender inequality and violence against women.

This training complements additional training offered by the Division of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), such as Ally training, Disability Confident training, and the SBS Inclusion program. 

How does it work?

Faculty and Divisional leaders have been asked to nominate individuals who they think would be strong advocates for the program.

Staff with a genuine interest in gender equality and the willingness to develop content knowledge and facilitation skills are  invited to discuss this opportunity with their manager and submit an expression of interest to join the facilitator network.

Our goal is to form a group that represents our UNSW community across age, gender, cultural background and LGBTIQA+ spectrum.

Facilitators will be required to attend a 4-day in-person workshop from 27-30 November 2023.

The commitment for facilitators is to deliver a minimum of one workshop per term, starting in February 2024.

Before submitting your interest, please discuss with your manager your availability and capacity to deliver these workshops in 2024.

Please submit your expression of interest by Friday 27 October.

For any questions about the program, please email Semra Tastan, Project Manager Conduct and Integrity.