The Dialogue

The Dialogue: UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

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The Dialogue

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

The Dialogue: UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing 2015 [Edition 01]

Editors Brigida Johns Giselle Capacchione

Designer

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UTS Law Students’ Society © This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act, no part of this publication may form or by any means (electronic or otherwise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted by any process without specific written consent of the UTS Law Students’ Society. Enquiries are to be addressed to the publishers.

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Disclaimer All expressions of opinion published in The Dialogue are not the official opinion of the UTS Law Students’ Society unless expressly stated. The UTS Law Students’ Society accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any opinions or information contained herein and readers should rely on their own enquiries to make decisions in their own interest.

Images and illustrations All images, unless provided to The Dialogue personally for the purposes of this publication, were sourced from the photo sharing website ‘Flickr’, with attribution provided within the text to specific publishers.

Sarah Spilsbury

With Special Thanks To Cecilia Ngu, Vice President (Social Justice); Vanessa Jiang, Vice President (Education) and Ashleigh Barnes, President of the UTS LSS, for their guidance, support and contribution to the first edition of The Dialogue in 2015.

With Further Thanks To Daniel McKenzie, Susie McKenzie and Co. Kwik Kopy Neutral Bay 6/129-133 Military Rd, Neutral Bay, NSW 2089 Tel: (02) 9953 3077 Fax: (02) 9953 0530 www.kwikkopy.com.au The Dialogue is published in Sydney yearly by: UTS Law Students’ Society PO Box 123, Broadway NSW, 2007 Room CM5A.01.08, City Markets Campus, Cnr of Quay Street & Ultimo Road Tel: (02) 9514 3448 Fax: (02) 9514 3427 www.utslss.com

The Dialogue: 4

President’s Address

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Equity Director/Wellbeing Director Address

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Student Financial Assistance

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Student Health and Wellbeing

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Batyr Equity at UTS

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Mental Health – The “unsealed” section

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Anxiety: That feeling has a name

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Getting Help off Campus + Wellbeing Apps

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Finding Support in the Legal Industry

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Striking a work-uni-life balance: 5 minutes in the life of a JD student

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Dialogue: Students on Mental Health

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Top 10 ways to De-Stress during exam time

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International Student tips by a fellow international student

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Women in the Legal Profession

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Accessibility to the Law- Dr Liz Curran, ANU Legal Workshop

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LGBTIQ+ Rights and Services

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Harassment

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Sexual Consent

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Contacts Page

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UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

UTS LSS President’s Address Ashleigh Barnes president@utslss.com

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There is no doubt that the pressure of law school can be difficult to deal with. Health and wellbeing problems are an unfortunate incident of our busy, high-pressure lives as law students. We obsess over detail, are geared to be risk adverse, are competitive, and are prone to taking on huge levels of responsibility and commitment. For our hard work ethic and our passion, we are to be commended. However, it is more important now than ever before to face the fact we are particularly at risk of mental ill health and to take proactive steps to ameliorate this risk.

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The UTS LSS is committed to helping you find the very elusive, much sought after, work-life balance. It is our primary goal to cater to all of your needs, be they social, academic, career based or otherwise. We are not just a club or society; we are your support network.

We recognise that people come from all walks of life and the following pages seek to address this by arming you with practical, holistic and achievable means to prioritise your wellbeing. Â This guide would not be possible without the hard work of Cecilia Ngu, Vanessa Jiang, Brigida Johns and Giselle Capacchione, who together, are ensuring equity along with student health and wellbeing, are on the top of the UTS LSS agenda now, and in the future. I would also like to thank our designer, Sarah Spilsbury, and our contributors, each of whom can be proud of their valuable addition to this important dialogue at UTS.

Equity Director Address

Student Wellbeing Officer Address

Brigida Johns

Giselle Capacchione

equity@utslss.com

Student.wellbeing.officer@utslss.com

While the absolute objective of law school at the University of Technology Sydney is to equip students with the knowledge, skills and experience to enter workforce, the UTS Law Students’ Society endeavours to assist students in more ways than just the academic element.

In your hands you are holding the inaugural Equity and Wellbeing Publication. We have sought to pack it full of goodness by providing a rundown of the multitude of services offered by UTS and addressing some of the topics that too often go undiscussed.

Both UTS and the UTS LSS strive to assist students through financial, health and well-being support to ensure that students can enjoy and receive a happy and fulfilling university life.

The UTS LSS has played a pivotal role in my university life from parties, to study sessions to law camp where life-long friendships were forged. In addition to filling my social calendar and paving the way for my career, the UTS LSS offers a variety of resources for student welfare. This publication is an addition to the resources already offered by the UTS LSS as a comprehensive guide on the issues that are commonly felt by university students.

As a student of law at UTS the opportunities are many and varied. From UTS LSS-run competitions, to research roles and social justice opportunities-however juggling these with your studies, work, volunteering, internships and ‘me time’ (read: sleep) can often be overwhelming.

We’ve all been there.

That’s why we ‘ve given students the opportunity to pass on to other students the tips and knowledge that they’ve often had to learn the hard way.

We all need a hand (or two) at times and it’s important to know where we can find the support we’re after: whether it is financial, health related, social or other.

After all it’s easy to define a degree by letters on transcripts, but we all know there is so much more to uni than a piece of paper: mates, lofty drinks, Ultimate Frisbee, relationships, break ups…you name it. Life happens and these services are there to make sure it doesn’t get in the way of your studies and more importantly, your wellbeing.

We hope you find this to be a helpful guide that both provides answers but also makes you ask questions. If you ever have further questions, want to find out how you can get involved, or are simply looking for a fun new gal pal, please do not hesitate to get in contact.

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If you have any questions, need assistance with anything or you just want to have a chat about the latest Real Housewives episode, please feel free to send through an email or come by the LSS office. Best of luck with your studies, but more importantly stay happy, safe and healthy!

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UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

Student Financial Assistance What the UTS LSS offers:

Textbook Rental Scheme

Textbook Equity Scheme

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Everyone knows the cost of textbooks can be as daunting as your future HECS/FEE HELP debt (particularly when you only use it for that one sentence on page 347 that one time!). The UTS LSS offers free textbook loans each semester for UTS law students who are experiencing financial difficulty.

You will be eligible to receive textbooks under the Textbook Equity Scheme (TES) if you are: 1. A local student, Citizen, Permanent Resident, Permanent Humanitarian Visa holder; 2. Currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor course at UTS; 3. Enrolled to study one of the core or approved elective law subjects in the current semester;

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4. On a low income and in financial hardship, as assessed by the LSS Equity Director e.g. receiving Centerlink benefits (i.e. Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, Newstart, Carer’s Pension), Healthcare or Pensioner’s Concession Card or a UTS Diversity Access Scholarship; and 5. A financial member of the UTS law Students’ Society or you agree to become a member TES opens prior to the commencement of each semester and the application process involves completing the application form found on the website below and emailing the supporting documents to equity@utslss.com. All documentation will be treated sensitively and with confidentiality.

W: http://www.utslss.com/socialjustice/ textbook-equity-scheme

The UTS LSS endeavours to reduce the financial burden placed upon all students with the cost of textbooks. The Textbook Rental Scheme (TRS) allows students to rent the textbooks that have not been loaned to equity applicants at 50% of the real retail price of the textbook with 50% of this rental price being refunded to students upon return of the textbook. All funds raised are used to purchase more textbooks for the Textbook Equity Scheme.

You will be eligible to receive textbooks under the TRS if you are: 1. A local student, citizen, Permanent Resident, Permanent Humanitarian Visa; 2. Currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor course at UTS; 3. Enrolled to study one of the core or approved elective law subjects in the current semester; and 4. A financial member of the UTS law Students’ Society or you agree to become a member TRS opens 1 week after the commencement of the new semester and the application process involves completing the application form found on the website below and emailing the supporting documents to equity@utslss.com. All documentation will be treated sensitively and with confidentiality.

Further information: W: http://www.utslss.com/socialjustice/ textbook-rental-scheme

$$$$$$$$

O-Camp Subsidies

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The UTS LSS offers three subsidies for first year law students attending the annual UTS LSS Orientation Camp who are financially disadvantaged. This will offset 50% of the costs of the O-Camp, valued at $85.

All documentation will be treated sensitively and with confidentiality.

You will be eligible for an O-Camp Subsidy if you are:

1. On a low income and in financial hardship, as assessed by the LSS Equity Director e.g. receiving Centerlink benefits (i.e. Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, Newstart, Carer’s Pension), Healthcare or Pensioner’s Concession Card or a UTS Diversity Access Scholarship; and

2. A financial member of the UTS Law Students’ Society or you agree to become a member First year student can apply upon opening of applications for Orientation Camp

ALSA Subsidy

The UTS LSS offers the ALSA subsidy subsidies for first year law students attending the annual Australian Law Student’s Association conference who are financially disadvantaged. This will offset changes every year, but students usually receive a few hundred dollars subsidy All documentation will be treated sensitively and with confidentiality.

You will be eligible to receive an ALSA subsidy if you are:

2. A financial member of the UTS Law Students’ Society or you agree to become a member Students can apply upon opening of ALSA applications.

Where else to find cheap Textbooks Student VIP

Student VIP is an online community dedicated to university students that provides a range of services including cheaper textbooks, study notes, tutors and the ability to sell textbooks.

W: https://studentvip.com.au/ Student’s Association 2nd Handbook store located at Level 3, Room 25, Tower Building and Room 12, Level 1, Building 5A in the green space.

Opening hours: Monday – Friday 9.00am – 4.30pm The Student’s Association is a student run organisation for UTS students that is funded through the UTS Student Services and Amenities Fee. You can sell your book for half the price of real retail price and purchase books for half the real retail price or less.

W: http://2bb.uts.edu.au/ E: sa.bookshop@uts.edu.au P: 9514 7788

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1. On a low income and in financial hardship, as assessed by the LSS Equity Director e.g. receiving Centerlink benefits (i.e. Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, Newstart, Carer’s Pension), Healthcare or Pensioner’s Concession Card or a UTS Diversity Access Scholarship; and

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UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

Health and Wellbeing at UTS in 2015

It’s easy to put your wellbeing on the back burner as the semester becomes more hectic. When using the stairs to get to the silent study level of the library becomes your weekly workout and you can count your hours of sleep with one hand- the UTS LSS has you covered with the following initiatives.

RuOk Day- September 10 RuOk Day is an annual event that invites people to ask their family, friends and colleagues the question “Are you ok?” serving to demonstrate the power of a conversation. This year, Batyr in connection with the LSS ran a barbecue and invited students to make a pledge to end the stigma surrounding mental health.

Mental Health First Aid Training

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Keep your eye out for information regarding an upcoming opportunity to undertake a certificate in Mental Health First Aid Training. This certificate equips you with the necessary skills to identify mental illnesses and assist in providing support to those experiencing mental illness.

Wellbeing Blog A shiny, new LSS Wellbeing blog is currently in the works. We are seeking written and visual contributions to the blog, not limited to the following suggested topics:

Healthy recipes and tips

Study tips and strategies to stop procrastinating Some #fitspiration (music, photos etc.)

Outlines of any upcoming health/wellbeing events happening in Sydney Mental health

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DIY tips (e.g. exercise equipment, all-natural body products, tea blends) Please direct any contributions, expressions of interest or questions to Student Wellbeing Officer, Giselle Capacchione, via student.wellbeing.officer@ utslss.com

UTS LSS Smile Project The UTS LSS Smile Project is back in full force.

Held each semester, this initiative has been expanded into a weeklong event, because let’s face it- you can never smile too much. The focus of the Smile Project is on student mental health and wellbeing particularly in the stressful lead up to exams.

A general outline of the week can be found below.

Keep an eye out for further details on the Law Student Society Facebook Page, UTS Online and in the Buzz.

Tuesday 6 October Free Smoothie Breakfast When: 9:00-11:00AM Where: Building 5 Law Courtyard

Clayton Utz ‘Resilience and the Law’Q&A run by Batyr. Missed out on a clerkship? Worried about finding a job? Looking for tips on how to maintain a balanced lifestyle while studying and practicing law? This is a not to be missed discussion focusing on building resilience and addressing the stigma surrounding mental health in the law profession.

When: 1:00-2:00PM

Where: Moot Court, CB05B.01.02

Wednesday 7 October Smile Project: Back by popular demand! Come on down for puppies, treats, music and some good banter.

When: 10:00AM-1:00PM

Where: Building 5 Law Courtyard

ANU Smile Seminar: All is Fair in Love and Law- Negotiating the Realities of Practice When: 1:00-2:00PM

Where: CB05B.01.12

Dodgeball: It’s time to dodge, duck, dip, dive and doge in the name of charity. Join a team or BYO team as part of this not to be missed dodgeball comp. All proceeds will be going towards Shoes for Planet Earth and all tickets include drinks and pizza in the Loft afterwards. Please direct any enquiries to sports@utslss.com.

When: 5:00PM-10:00PM

Where: Ross Milbourne Sports Hall (RMSH) Cost: $50 for a team of 8

Giving a voice to the elephant in the room An introduction to Batyr at UTS 9

Mental illness is the number one health issue facing young Australians.

One fifth of University students show signs of mental illness. This is five times higher than the rate amongst the general population.

Despite this, young people do not like seeking help; only 23% of 16-24 year olds will seek assistance for mental ill health, meaning the majority of young people will suffer silently.

For university students and young Australians alike, the most significant barrier to seeking help is the negative stigma associated with mental health. Unlike physical ill health, mental health holds a stigma that prevents open and frank exchanges of communication and acts as a barrier to young people getting the help they need.

This is the basis of Batyr.

Batyr is a non-for-profit organisation founded and driven by young people. Batyr aims to engage, educate, and empower Australia’s youth to speak out about mental health issues and create a culture where seeking help is not only accepted, but encouraged and supported.

Batyr at UTS has a number of upcoming programs including: •

‘Navigating Struggle Street’ – a speaker event run in conjunction with the UTS Engineering Society and BiG at 6:30pm on 26 August 2015;

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RUOK day - Activities all day at both the tower and Haymarket campuses on 10 September 2015; and

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Keep an eye out for activities run by Batyr at UTS during Mental Health Week commencing 6 September 2015.

If you would like to know more about these events or would like to get involved with Batyr at UTS, please go to the Batyr UTS Facebook page or contact Batyr’s Universities Manager, David LT, at david@ batyr.com.au.

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The Australian Institute of Health and Wellbeing has found that the best way to reduce this stigma is by encouraging direct contact and communication with peers who have experienced similar struggles.

In 2015 Batyr founded its first University Chapter, ‘Batyr at UTS’. Batyr at UTS aims to increase engagement of UTS students with Mental Health issues in order to increase their awareness and help seeking behaviour. To do this, Batyr at UTS not only gets involved with faculty programs and Activate UTS events, they also deliver innovative peer-topeer programs to UTS students which involves young speakers talking about their lived mental ill health experiences.

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

Equity at UTS

Diversity and Equity Unit

UTS Counselling

UTS Diversity & Equity unit promotes social inclusion and widening participation initiatives including social justice activism, gender and sexual equality and indigenous and cultural inclusion strategies. The Equity & Diversity Unit provides specialist advice and support on policy development, training and development, equity related complaint resolution justice initiatives.

UTS offers a confidential counselling service to help with a wide range of personal, psychological, studyrelated and administrative difficulties.

http://www.uts.edu.au/about/equity-and-diversity/overview

Where to go for Complaints and Grievances?

The Equity & Diversity Unit advises and assists UTS students and staff who have equity-related complaints.

The unit also advises managers or supervisors about appropriate equity-related complaint resolution processes.

What is an equity related complaint?

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An equity-related complaint is when you believe you are being discriminated against or harassed in your work or study because of your: •

sex (including pregnancy)

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sexual preference

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transgender status

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race

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colour

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ethnic or ethno-religious background

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descent or national identity

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marital status

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disability

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age

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political conviction

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religious belief

Complaints that do not involve allegations of unlawful discrimination or harassment on one of the above grounds are non equity-related complaints.

To make an equity-related complaint contact the Equity & Diversity Unit on 9514 1084 or email equity@uts.edu.au http://www.uts.edu.au/about/equity-and-diversity/ complaints-and-grievances

Their services include help with appeals and support, complaints advice, individual and couples counselling, group work and workshops. They also offer a comprehensive self-help section.

UTS Counsellors can help in situations where you: •

think you may have chosen the wrong course

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have stressful circumstances or psychological or emotional issues which interfere with your studies

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need help managing administrative problems or complaints

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want to develop better general learning skills

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need help as you are on Academic Caution

This service can be accessed Monday though to Friday at CB 01.06.

(P) +61 2 9514 1177

UTS Social Justice Report The UTS Social Justice Report is an annual equity report compiled each year for UTS Council and reflects the University’s commitment to social justice, diversity and human rights. It explores UTS’s highlights and achievements, the UTS strategic Social Justice Plan and Indigenous engagement. http://www.uts.edu.au/about/equity-and-diversity/overview

UTS Disability Projects Fund The Fund provides grants to UTS Faculties, Units, Institutes, Centres, and individuals, who have projects that will help people with disabilities at UTS. Key features of the fund: •

All UTS staff and students are eligible to apply.

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Projects must be to the direct benefit of students or staff with disabilities at UTS.

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The DPF does not fund individual accommodations or projects that are an existing obligation under the Disability Discrimination Act or where projects are already within an existing budget.

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The minimum application is $300 and the maximum application is $7,000.

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Projects must be completed before the end of the calendar year.

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The DPF Coordinator will monitor projects in an ongoing manner to ensure project objectives and timeframes are being met.

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A written interim report may be requested (usually at half way through the agreed duration of the project). A final report will be required at project completion, including an expenditure summary sheet and invoices.

Application processes are held annually and application form and more information can be found at http:// www.uts.edu.au/about/equity-and-diversity/accessibilityand-inclusion

UTS Ally Program The UTS Ally program:

UTS Students’ Association Legal Services UTS Students’ Association Legal Services is run

by Michael Blaxwell, a solicitor with over 20 years’ experience as a practising lawyer.

If you find yourself with a legal issue the UTS Students’ Association offers free confidential legal advice or referrals for the following: •

tenancy issues;

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consumer claims;

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contractual advice;

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motor traffic matters;

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criminal offences;

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and many other areas with the exception of claims involving or against UTS, and migration matters.

Contacting UTS Student Associations’ Legal Services: UTS Student Legal Service solicitor, please send an email to studentlegalservice@uts.edu.au

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creates awareness of issues related to sexual and gender identity,

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supports the rights of all students and staff regardless of sexual orientation and gender, and

In the email include the following information:

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supports and celebrates an inclusive, diverse and safe university community, based on respect and dignity

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Your name

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Your Student ID

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Outline of your legal issue

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Name of documents or type of documents you will bring to meeting – e.g. Tenancy Agreement, emails, etc

An Ally is a trained volunteer who provides safe contact for students and staff identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual and intersex, and those questioning their sexual or gender identity.

What do Allies do?

If you would like any further information about the program, or are interested in becoming an Ally, please contact the Equity & Diversity Unit equity@uts.edu.au http://www.uts.edu.au/about/equity-and-diversity/sexualand-gender-diversity

The UTS Student Legal Service will then contact you with available appointment times.

Additional Contact Details: Location: CB01.03.15 (level 3 of the UTS Tower Building) Phone: 9514 2484 Email: studentlegalservice@uts.edu.au Opening hours: Tuesday 10am - 4pm Wednesday 10am - 4pm Thursday 11am - 8pm http://www.sa.uts.edu.au/legal

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Allies have a special Ally sticker or poster on their office door or on display in their workspace when they are present. Allies have a folder of resources that they can use to assist people who enquire. They are also a safe person from whom to seek help if you need assistance or believe you may be in danger. Allies undertake this voluntary role knowing that their contribution helps make UTS a better place to work and study for everyone.

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UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

I don’t know a perfect person.

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I only know flawed people who are still

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worth loving.

John Green

Mental health: The Unsealed Section 13

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All your questions answered.

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

Anxiety That feeling has a name

Worry and anxiety Stress and worry can be helpful in inspiring us to take action, and help keep us out of danger, like keeping your hand away from a boiling kettle or thinking about the essay due next week. But it can be a crippling experience when it develops into anxiety and we find it difficult to cope. Triggers of anxiety, research suggests can be related to a family history, substance abuse, personality factors or ongoing stressful events such as work/study stress, change in living arrangements or verbal, sexual, physical or emotional abuse or trauma.

How to recognise anxiety in yourself and others

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University life can be a rite of passage to some; somewhere to develop interests and friendships or a place to get an education. University life can mean a multitude of different things to different people, as can the pressures and expectations that come with it. Emotional intelligence is having ability to recognise, control and evaluate emotions. Academic literature suggests emotional intelligence can be learned and acquired, while others theorise that it is an inborn characteristic. Common difficulties faced by people at university can be brought on by having high expectations, creeping assessment deadlines or multiple commitments, such as working a number of jobs or extracurricular activities while studying.

Having an understanding of these worry and anxiety experiences is a step towards managing emotions and having strategies for life’s challenges.

Common symptoms include:

• • • • •

hot flushes; racing heart rate; tightening of the chest; compounding and snowballing worries; or obsessive thinking and compulsive behaviour.

Anxiety can be experienced in a number of different ways. Many of us experience some anxiety at one point or another but it can be hard to know when it is too much. This information is designed to be a guide, not provide a diagnosis, it is important to visit a doctor to get the right advice for you.

What to do next?

These experiences are powerful in the way that the isolate us. There is an easy way to get started.

BeyondBlue and HeadSpace are organisations with information on mental health aimed to help connect young people to mental health services. If you have a good relationship with your GP, you can talk to them about what your next step should be.

Stressful experiences don’t stick to 9-5 hours, if you find yourself needing support you can phone 24 hours 7 days a week - Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 or you can chat to someone 3pm – 12am 7 days a week.

Carina Lam

Artist: Danny Papadimatos

Getting help off campus

Hey there, need a hand?

Wellbeing Apps

1 Giant Mind For all of those with busy minds, look no further than this app to learn and practice meditation.

1 Giant Mind includes a 12 Step Meditation Course and 30-day challenge with both visual and audio guidance.

Available on ITunes and Google Play http://www.1giantmind.org

Life Charge Life Charge is a journaling app that can be used to easily track the positive and negative events in your life today, this week, or this year.

Once you know what is making you happy or unhappy, you can learn from the past, and repeat the positives and work to prevent the negatives.

It's your life, see how it's adding up.

GP Mental Health Treatment Plans Step 1:

Visit your GP you will make an assessment and either prepare a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan or refer you to a psychiatrist.

Step 2:

Once you have a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan in place, are being managed by a GP under a management plan, or have been referred by a psychiatrist or paediatrician-you can be refer you to allied mental health services (Medicare rebatable). Your GP can refer you to up to six individual or group allied mental health services.

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Step 3:

Depending on your health care needs, following your initial course of treatment you can return to your GP or psychiatrist to obtain a further four referrals, totalling a maximum of ten services per calendar year.

Available on ITunes Recharge A personalised six-week program which focuses on improving your sleep habits in order to reset your body clock, improving your mood, energy and general vibe.

Available on ITunes

Another meditation app featuring meditations tailored to different age groups.

Available on ITunes and Google Play http://smilingmind.com.au

The Black Dog Institute is a world leader in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. They also have clinics, but their healthcare professionals require a referral from a patient’s managing doctor.

Location: Hospital Road, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick (P) (02) 9382 4530 (W) http://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au (E) blackdog@blackdog.org.au

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Smiling Mind

The Black Dog Institute

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

Finding Support in the Legal Industry

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Source: http://www.lawsociety.com.au/ForSolictors/professionalsupport/supportingyou/mentalhealthwellbeing/index.html

The spotlight is on the legal industry to create systemic change that ensures the mental health of legal professionals is both regulated and supported. Even if you do not currently work in the legal industry, it is very likely that you will do so in the near future, or that you know people who already do.

The importance of mental health in this industry cannot be overstated. There are important considerations for both client and lawyer. A lawyer needs to be prepared to offer counselling or recommend counselling to clients where necessary. A lawyer who is not prepared for the degree of counselling required by their client throughout their legal journey may find their client less cooperative, unsatisfied and even unwilling to pay their costs In cases where undiagnosed mental illness becomes mental infirmity, impeding a lawyer’s work, the individual may be struck off the roll. The purpose of this is not punishment but for the protection of the public and maintenance of proper standards within the profession.

With this in mind, the following services are there to be used and recommended to legal professionals and their family members:

Lifeline for Lawyers Lifeline for Lawyers offers Law Society of New South Wales members access to a confidential 24-hour telephone Crisis Support service for individuals experiencing emotional and psychological distress.

(P) 1800 085 062 (W) www.lifeline.org.au/ crisischat - Between 7pm-4am Lawyers Assistance Program (LAP) The Lawyers Assistance Program (LAP) is a free and confidential practice advice service for solicitors experiencing practice management issues.

(P) 1800 777 662.

LawCare LawCare is a professional and confidential counselling service for solicitors and their immediate family members. Counsellors available through LawCare are practising GPs experienced in dealing with the unique difficulties faced by professionals.

(P) 0416 200 788 Tristan Jepson Memorial Foundation This independent, non-forprofit organisation is pushing for improved education, support services and practice guidelines within the industry.

For more information and to become a signatory to ‘Raise the Standard’ visit http://www.tjmf.org.au.

Striking a Work-Uni-Life Balance 5 minutes in the life of a JD Student

Student Wellbeing Officer, Giselle Capacchione, speaks with a JD Student who tells of the importance of finding supportive workplace and describes the challenges that face many JD students who are balancing work and study commitments.

Can you describe your typical week?

I work up to four days a week. Often this means I only have time to study between 10pm and 1am- that’s if I don’t fall asleep. Otherwise I spend my day off and my weekend catching up on study. I go to the gym at 6am three mornings a week, and go for runs or to the gym between commitments when I can. I find this particularly helpful during exam time. Also, during the first few weeks of semester I treat myself to a night off to catch up with friends.

Is your workplace understanding and flexible with your study commitments?

When I first started the JD I was working fulltime and I did not receive support from my Manager. The business did not see value in the JD study, despite my ever-increasing responsibilities in legal compliancy as a digital marketing professional. Despite this, I managed to negotiate to start work earlier at 6.30 so that I could travel to UTS for a 5pm start. However traffic was usually chaotic and I found myself coming in late for the 5pm starts. 5pm starts have always been the hardest part of JD study, especially if you work in the corporate sector where business hours can go to 6:30pm/7pm, if not later.

The long hours spent at work and university meant I had little time to socialise and my general health started to suffer. This left me feeling isolated and made me question whether doing the JD was the right choice.

Based on the continued lack of support from my

I’m currently working for an employer that is very flexible and understanding about my study commitments – I’m able to work from home, which makes a huge difference with time, which would have been otherwise assigned to travel.

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Often we hear about the multitude of support services available such as Blackdog Institute and Beyond Blue. Have you ever reached out to any of these services or known of anyone who has done so?

While I have read up on these services, I’m uncertain whether I know of anyone who has actually reached out to them. I feel that my uncertainty is part of the problem. There is a stigma around ‘mental health illness’ as it can’t be easily fixed like a broken arm and so people tend to keep quiet about it.

Sadly I have professional and personal experiences of people denying or claiming that other people affected by mental illness are perhaps faking, attention seeking or ‘stupid’ and that they should toughen up. I feel these attitudes mean it’s not easy for anyone to admit to having reached out to these services.

Despite this the availability of these services has come up in conversation. So I think as long as these resources remain in conversation, it means that there is an awareness that they are available should they be required.

The Dialogue

I quickly realised that my late entry to class was reflecting poorly on me. Once I communicated to my seminar leader that I was driving from locations including Penrith and Homebush I noticed an improvement.

employer such as by comments made when I’d finish work for the day, along with issues with taking leave for study/exams, I eventually decided to take the risk to enter into contract roles. This was a hard decision due to my various commitments including my mortgage.

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

The Dialogue: Students speaking Look Left, Right and In the Mirror Danny Papadimatos

“Look to your left and look to your right. One of you will suffer severe depression or anxiety throughout your degree.” This was what we were told at the first of

many orientation days of law school. Of course, being the high-achieving school leaver like many of my peers, none of us paid much attention.

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Now, four years later, many of us probably wished we had.

Routine coffee runs, sleepless nights and late-night searches for a free seat in the Green Room – once worn like a badge of honour in first-year – quickly begins to take its toll.

But it doesn’t just stop there.

Of course, to land a clerkship in the ‘Big 6,’ those extracurricular activities are a must. Your week now consists of negotiation and mooting competitions, community volunteering, paralegal work, Law Society events and that early-morning boot camp 3 days a week to stay law ball ready all year-round.

Whether it’s you or a classmate, the cracks will appear and it’s only a matter of time.

The Dialogue

Your mental wellbeing is important.

Take it seriously.

Read about it.

Talk about it.

Is Mental Health in the Legal Profession a Lone Battle?

Luisa Vumbaca

Upon deciding to commence my Juris Doctor studies to facilitate my professional work commitments, I found myself suddenly flooded with concerned questions and comments from friends, family and colleagues about the high rates of depression, anxiety and suicide in the legal profession. I was questioned as to whether it was worthwhile to enter an occupation that could potentially jeopardise my health and wellbeing.

Particularly in my first year, I noticed my seminar classes became increasingly smaller as the high volume of readings and assessment requirements took their toll.

Reporting has provided that there is a 25% dropout rate of first year law students. For those of us that do remain, we’re three times more likely to suffer from mental health issues than students enrolled in other faculties and disciplines. And then after graduation, reporting has identified the legal profession as totalling 50% and hence, having some of the highest rates of depression in the workforce.

There will be those tougher days of juggling such a heavy workload, tight deadlines and an array of other commitments. But what if those feelings of dread remain and seem impossible to shake off ? Is it expected that we have to battle alone? Certainly being home on a Friday or Saturday night to complete a Constitutional Law essay or completing other additional work can feel isolating. Receiving a poor assessment mark or perhaps failing a subject can be also annoying, embarrassing or upsetting.

Regardless and alongside the support of my newfound friendships in my studies, it’s great knowing that we’re not alone and there are places that can help us along the way and once we’re in the legal profession including Beyond Blue, The Black Dog Institute and Lifeline for Lawyers.

ou

ng

out on Mental Health.

Am I Normal?

Anonymous

Am I normal?

This is a question that plagues everyone who suffers from mental health illness.

You are not alone.

Often mental illness isolates sufferers from those around them because they feel alienated and misunderstood.

•

Trouble getting out of bed? Pull over a book, your laptop, or your phone and do something small until you feel ready to face the day.

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When you can get up, make your bed so you don’t feel the pull back towards it.

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Break down the steps you need to take for your task. If you’re getting ready say, “Just hop in the shower. Okay, now wash your hair… “ and so on.

Things to do when your brain just won’t give you a break:

So here are a few tips and tricks I’ve picked up.

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Just breathe. Take 10 deep breaths. Focus on inhaling for four seconds and exhaling for four seconds.

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Draw a page into two columns. Write a list of the things bothering you in one column and write their potential solutions in the other.

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Go for a walk. Practice mindfulness by focusing on the noises you hear to the exclusion of all else rattling on. Then focus on the way your legs are moving, your feet touching the ground, heel to toe. Is the wind rushing through your hair?

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Do something physical. Go for a jog, swim, or play a sport.

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Get creative. Play an instrument, dance in the lounge room to some music, express yourself by drawing, painting or writing

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Talk to someone. Find someone who understands, or is at least compassionate to what you’re going through.

Things to remind yourself of when you are struggling: •

This moment will pass eventually and you will feel better.

•

‘Should’ is the devil – all you ‘should’ be doing is looking after yourself. Do what you can. Don’t beat yourself up about what you can’t do. We all have our limits.

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Avoid alcohol and other drugs, particularly when you are alone, but also including environments that make you feel the need to use them.

Things to do when you can’t do anything at all: •

It is always helpful to feel productive. Write yourself a to-do list, even if it comprises only a few items, and tick them off. Congratulate yourself for achieving it.

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The Dialogue

The struggle between wanting to always feel productive and yet not being physically or mentally able to do so brings on feelings of shame and inadequacy that only serve to make the issues worse.

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

The Dialogue

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Top ten ways to destress during exam time Before you know it- it’s that time of the semester again. It’s finals week and you’ve probably been more focused on GTA than your GPA! You may be feeling stressed out but it’s OK! Just follow these 10 tips to de-stress during exam time.

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Schedule Make a plan in your diary or on a calendar of all your work and commitments. Visualising your commitments and ticking off your daily duties as you go is a confirmation that you are managing and being productive. Be sure to include breaks in your schedule!

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3.

4.

Drink some tea Tea contains a whole bunch of antioxidants and can be very soothing and not to mention hydrating. Opt for a herbal or Rooibos tea as they are naturally caffeine free, helping you to keep calm…and law.

The Smile Project Check out the UTS LSS Smile project! You can receive free goodies and palm readings. Oh, and PUPPIES to help you relax and relieve stress.

RUN

5.

Clean your room Although a mother’s nagging can be a stressor in itself, keeping your desk and room tidy can minimize distractions and reduce the number of physical stressors. By cleaning your room you are also decluttering your mind!

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7.

Laugh it off It’s no joke. Laughter can improve you mood and ease anxiety. So when you are feeling stressed, pay a visit to your good friends Russell Peters and Kevin Hart.

Listen to music Not only may it help you concentrate but it also soothes your body and calms you down during times of exceptional stress such as Finals week. Look for music with a tempo of 60bpm (such as our favourite Baroque) as this has been found to improve concentration.

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8.

9.

From A to Z Sleep it off. Getting enough rest is essential to not only minimizing stress but also leaves you feeling refreshed.

Whilst you are aiming for the A’s, it is important to also get enough Z’s!

Share

Share your concerns with friends and family. Explain what you’re experiencing and talk. In fact, it is highly likely fellow classmates are facing the same concerns and struggles during this stressful period, so get together and talk about it.

10.

Rewards

After some solid hours of study reward yourself by doing something you love and enjoy! Be it cooking, painting or going out with friends.

The Dialogue

No, not away. Go for a light jog, get some fresh air and come back rejuvenated and refreshed. You will be surprised by how refreshed you feel after a light jog to get your heart pumping and your brain cogs turning!

Struggling to get motivated to go for a run on your own? Why not sign up to the UTS LSS Bootcamp?

To find out how to join just email sports@utslss.com.

Ethan Huang

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

Tracy Tang

International Student Tips by a Fellow International Student Friends •

Don’t be afraid to talk to people at registration and on other possible occasions, especially those who are not from your background, this is the best way to make friends in a foreign country

•

Chat with those in your class

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Join the clubs/society you are interested in on O-week, in case you missed out you can always find a list of them on the ActivateUTS website

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If you live in Housing, get to know your flatmates and join the Housing events, they normally have regular events throughout the semester, a lot them are designed to get you familiarized with the city

The Dialogue

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Studies •

UTS HELPS provides a range of noncredit language and academic literacy support for students, such as one-toone assignment advice, academic skills workshops, writing support sessions and practice English speaking skills etc. It’s located on the Building 1, Level 3, Room 8 (opposite the Concourse Cafe). Check the page for more details

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U: PASS is a great program to assist you to study some subjects which are deemed to be more difficult, or have a higher fail rate.

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Make sure you check your UTS email, an e-newsletter called ‘UTS Insiders’ will be sent regularly to keep you update with what’s going on around Campus Jobs

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Check the ‘City of Sydney’ website for recent events and things to do in Sydney: https://whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/

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Hand your resume into local shops and restaurants you want to work at

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UTS Career Service helps students with their resumes, cover letters, interviews and enhance your employability.

•

Its Careerhub lists over 300 jobs online, which helps you to find jobs quicker

Women in the Legal Profession Gabrielle Craven Mary Konstantopoulos, Financial Services Lawyer at Clayton Utz, emphasises the importance of asking prospective employers about their gender diversity and the flexibility options in the workplace.

Sitting in a law classrooms at UTS in 2015, it’s not unusual to see a woman. In fact, it’s not unusual to be surrounded by intelligent, engaged, career driven women. People like Margaret Cunneen, Diana Bryant, Virginia Bell and Jane Needham have become household names for their incredible contributions to the profession. More than half of solicitors admitted in the past year are women. Certainly it seems long gone are the days of the legal profession as an ‘old boys club’...or are they?

Whilst there has been some considerable diversification of the legal professional in the last three decades, achieving parity between male and female practitioners remains an unfinished agenda. Women make up the majority of people entering the legal professional today, yet there remain many covert (and not so covert) inequalities between genders in the profession.

Significant pay gaps, underrepresentation in senior positions, concerns about maternity and flexible work arrangements and discrimination are just a few. Many female practitioners attribute their unhappiness in the profession to high levels of stress, inflexible work arrangements and the inability to balance a career with family life.

Looking forward, it’s imperative that the legal community continues its commitment to change in promoting flexible working arrangements, and tackling systemic discrimination. Invariably, this will serve to strengthen our community and create a target for other professions.

The Law Council of Australia NARS Report showed that 25% of women lawyers had encountered sexual harassment and this figure was doubled at the bar. More shockingly 0% reported it at the bar.

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Only 10% of men reports gender discrimination The pay gap between men and women at the bar is 39% 19% of Australian Bar are women, and just 6% of QC’s and senior counsel are women

Janette Hoogstad is a woman who proves its possible to have it all and how top tier law firms helped her do it. Jane worked at Minter Ellison full time upon falling pregnant when they then offered her part time work. She continued to work part time thanks to the flexibility of Minter Ellison.

The Dialogue

While this glass ceiling is seemingly impenetrable, changes in the profession in recent years inspires hope in the ability of the legal community to further adapt to promoting and supporting female lawyers. Initiatives like the Model Equal Opportunity Briefing Policy for Female Barristers and Advocates and the ‘Step up to the Bar’ program in South Australia which mentors experienced female lawyers as special associates to the Supreme Court have acknowledged that special measures are required to address existing inequalities.

Some shocking statistics as spoken by Jane Glowery, a 2015 councillor of the Law Society of New South Wales and the President of the NSW Bar Association

By Dr Liz Curran, ANU Legal Workshop

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

Accessibility to the Law People’s state of knowledge about their rights, and whether they have the capability, the wherewithal and the confidence to access their rights, can influence their ability to have their rights enforced. As vulnerable and disadvantaged groups are reliant on government agencies for support and subsistence they are more susceptible to infringements of their rights as often decision making is removed from day-to day realities.

It is often stated that ‘human rights belong to everyone’ but the author has seen this is not often the case- first hand as a legal practitioner and researcher for over 17 years working that people experience many barriers accessing their legal rights or availing themselves of the protection of the rule of law.

Australia-wide Law Survey

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•

People, most notably disadvantaged people, are particularly vulnerable to legal problems;

•

A sizeable proportion of people take no action to resolve their legal problems and consequently achieve poor outcomes;

•

Across jurisdictions, approximately half (49–53%) of the legal problems resulted in respondents seeking advice, about three-tenths (27–32%) were handled without advice and close to one-fifth (16–21%) resulted in no action.

The results suggested that ignoring legal problems often resulted in unmet legal need. Respondents often reported multiple reasons for ignoring legal problems.

In many cases, failure to take action was due to poor legal knowledge, other personal constraints or possible systemic constraints (Coumarelos, 2012).

The Dialogue

The recent Productivity Commission ‘Inquiry into Access to Justice Arrangements’ (2014, Volume 1, 149) states, ‘Greater training of non-legal workers who deal regularly with disadvantaged people can be an effective means to improve access to justice’. The PC

I

called for an immediate injection of $200 million into the legal assistance services sector to address demand and chronic underfunding. These recommendations have fallen on ‘deaf ears’ in terms of a Commonwealth government response.

Traditional legal aid services continue to operate on an appointment basis and with the expectation that the clients have sufficient wherewithal to be able to identify that they have a legal problem. Traditional models of delivering legal services presume that people can overcome their fear, and that even if they have no money or power that they can still seek advice and that they will in fact walk into a legal office. The research reveals that such a traditional model continues to miss a section of the community who may be in desperate need of legal assistance. One way of reaching them is to bring the legal service to places where they are most likely to find the people who need it, rather than always expecting people to come to the legal aid services (Curran, 2007; Curran, 2015).

F

In recent years, we are seeing the emergence of legal assistance services that reach out and provide services where clients are likely to be or through being colocated in non-legal services where clients are likely to seek help.

The case studies show that people (when sufficiently armed with correct information about their rights, remedies and where they can go to seek help in a nonalienating environment and with support) have been able to generate change using the standards within the human rights frameworks to argue for improved conditions and treatment (Clements; Lawson; Harding, 2005). This highlights that ensuring human rights compliance does not have to be litigation led and that resolutions can be negotiated by people often without expensive resort to the courts, using the language and culture of human rights.

References L Clements, ‘Winners and Losers’ (March 2005) 32(1) Journal of Law and Society 36; P Fennell, ‘Convention Compliance, Public Safety and the (March 2005) 32(1) Journal of Law and Society 10 A Lawson, ‘The Human Rights Act 1998 and Disabled People: A Right to be Human?’ in C Harvey (ed) Human Rights Law in Perspective: Human Rights in the Community (vol 15 Human Rights: Agents for Change), British Institute of Human Rights, Hart Publishing (2005), 135 T Harding, ‘Older People’ in C Harvey (ed) Human Rights Law in Perspective: Human Rights in the Community (vol 15 Human Rights: Agents for Change), British Institute of Human Rights, Hart Publishing (2005), 113.

C Coumarelos, D MacCourt, J People, HM McDonald, Z Wei, R Iriana, & S Ramsey Access to Justice and Legal Needs: Legal Australia Wide Survey Legal Need in Australia’, (Sydney, Law and Justice Foundation of New South Wales) (2012). Available at: http://www.lawfoundation.net.au/ljf/site/templates /LAW_AUS/$file/ LAW_Survey_Australia.pdf, accessed 10 June 2014.

L Curran, ‘Ensuring Justice and Enhancing Human Rights: A Report on Improving Legal Aid Service Delivery to Reach Vulnerable and Disadvantaged People, La Trobe University & Victoria Law Foundation (2007) http://libertyvictoria.org/sites/default/files/Report%20-%20Ensuring%20Justice%20and%20Enhancing%20 Human%20Rights.pdf accessed 1 September 2015 Australian Government Productivity Commission Final Report, ‘Access to Justice Arrangements, No 72, September 2014, http://www.pc.gov.au/inquiries/completed/ access-justice/report accessed 1 September 2015

B

IMAGINE BEING MADE TO

FEEL LIKE CRAP JUST FOR 25

Okay, thats hard to imagine? But being lesbian, gay, bi, trans or intersex is no different to being born left handed, its just who you are. So stop and think because the things we say are likely to cause depression and anxiety. And that really is pretty crap.

GO TO LEFTHAND.ORG.AU TO WATCH THE VIDEO

#S top t hink R eSpect

The Dialogue

B E I N G L E F T H A N D E D.

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

Imogen Bailey

Studies show that non-heterosexual people face up to twice as much abuse or violence than their heterosexual counterparts.

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L GBTIQ+

The Dialogue

While international headway is being made on issues of LGBTIQ+ equality through the recognition of samesex marriage, much is still to be done on Australian soil to address the ongoing needs of the diverse constituency. Studies show that non-heterosexual people face up to twice as much abuse or violence (including mental, physical, sexual or emotional) than their heterosexual counterparts. Despite increasing acceptance of difference over the last few decades, ongoing prejudice and discrimination can lead to higher rates of depression and anxiety in the LGBTIQ+ community. While at university, there is much you can do as the member of the student body to ensure that your actions are inclusive and respectful of the sexual and gender identities of your peers.

Understanding appropriate terminology can be difficult, but can be an important part of overcoming barriers to equality for LGBTIQ+ individuals. Transgender, genderqueer, and other gender-variant people may

choose different pronouns for themselves. One way of ensuring you are respecting the gender identity of your peers around Uni and in the wider community is to ASK! Asking what pronouns someone prefers, or how they refer to their sexuality is the easiest way of showing respect for people of every gender and sexual preference.

If you are a member of the LGBTIQ+ community, there are facilities at UTS which aim to create a safe space for queer-identified students. The Queer Collective is a well-established group which has created a supportive network by fostering a sense of community, contributing to political activism at University and hosting fun and inclusive social events year-round. UTS also offers a Queer Space in the tower building for Queer students to hang out and relax. The collective can be contacted through queer@utsstudentsassociation.org.

Sexual Harassment

Rojda Dag What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is legally defined via a three-tiered process: it must be unwelcome or uninvited, it must be of a sexual nature, and a reasonable person in the given circumstances must consider such behaviour likely to offend, humiliate or intimidate the person who is being harassed. Sexual harassment is a legally recognised form of sex discrimination, though not all instances of sexual harassment will be examples of sex discrimination. Sexual harassment befalls individuals of all genders and sexual orientations. It can take on various forms, including, but not limited to, touching, unnecessary familiarity, staring, sexual innuendos, unwanted invitations to go out on dates, intrusive questioning about one’s sexual life, comments about one’s body or appearance (despite being shrouded in complimentary undertones) and stalking.

Sexual harassment befalls individuals of all genders and sexual orientations.

Is it happening to me?

Unfortunately, the legal profession is not devoid of sexual harassment. As recently as 2014, a Victorian solicitor had his practicing certificate suspended for two months and was barred from employing or supervising any female law students or graduates for twelve months due to evidence of sexual bullying.

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It is important to note that sexual harassment may be founded on a single action or instance, and need not involve persistence or recurrence.

What can I do?

It is recommended that victims of sexual harassment keep a diary documenting the date and time of any unwanted sexual behaviour, as well as a short description and a list of any bystanders. Storing any text messages, emails or a log of phone calls is also suggested.

The Dialogue

Depending on the specific circumstance of an individual, complaints may be made to your workplace’s Human Resources department, the police force (for offences such as assault, indecent exposure or stalking), the Australian Human Rights Commission, the NSW Anti-Discrimination Board, or by ringing 1800 RESPECT, the national sexual assault and domestic violence counseling service.

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

Sexual Consent What is consent?

I don’t like that.

Can you stop?

Sexual contact (of any kind) without consent is assault.

People often think of sexual coercion as violent or physically restraining, when in reality, sexual coercion is far more subtle; mostly between people who know/ trust each other.

A bit of NSW Sexual Assault law to start you off

The table below gives you an idea of what consent is and where the line crosses between sex and sexual assault.

How NOT to ask for consent I thought you liked me I promise you’ll like it Just do it for me

What’s the big deal we’ve had sex before?

But I’m so horny right now!

But you said we would this morning But I bought you a drink!

What does consent sound like?

Mens Rea (The Intention)

Actus Reus (The Act) 28 Sexual intercourse AND

Absence of consent

Intention to have non-consensual intercourse. (intentionally raping someone) OR

Reckless non-consensual intercourse (I don’t care they say yes or no, I’m going to have sex with them anyway) OR

No reasonable grounds for believing the other person consent to sexual intercourse (I haven’t asked them if they want to, but I’m just going to assume because they aren’t saying no)

How do you ask for consent?

The Dialogue

Good consent is just checking in. It’s paying attention to someone’s body language. It’s keeping those lines of communication open which makes everyone feel safe and comfortable.

Are you enjoying yourself ?

How does that feel?

Do you like that?

Do you want me to keep going?

How far do you want to go?

You look unconfortable are you okay?

No means no. This is a good initiative as it teaches people that when they hear the words no, they have to stop. However, this also leaves out a lot. No mean’s no also needs to include; unconscious means no, not able to walk straight means no, crying means no. Anything that is not a clear yes, MEANS NO! You know someone is consenting when you ask them.

Consent is a clear YES. It’s enthusiastic and it is spoken out loud. Remember consent can always be retracted, which is why it’s always important to check in with your partner.

What does consent NOT sound like?

Just because someone doesn’t say no, doesn’t mean they’re saying yes. They might feel uncomfortable, guilty or not know how to say it, hence the importance of hearing a verbal yes. If they are quiet, then check up on them and ask them.

I don’t like that.

Can you stop?

I’m not ready for this Can we slow down?

I’m not into this

I guess, if you want me to Um, I don’t know *silence*

Written by Brigida Johns

I’m not ready for this Can we slow down?

When are you allowed to say no? (UM, WHENEVER YOU WANT)

If you’re married to him/her, you’re allowed to say no If you’ve been dating for months, you’re allowed to say no

If you did it last week but you don’t want to now, you’re allowed to say no If you did it 20 minutes ago and you don’t want to now, you’re allowed to say no If you’ve already started and you want to stop, you’re allowed to say stop If you’ve wanted it all evening and your partner is super keen, you’re allowed to say no

If you want to flirt but not want to have sex, you’re allowed to say no If you love them, you’re allowed to say no

If they buy you an expensive dinner, you’re allowed to say no If they beg you and get frustrated at you, you’re allowed to say no

If you feel like you owe them, you’re allowed to say no

If you feel like you don’t deserve to have a choice, you do.

Some situations when consent CANNOT be given (even with a verbal yes) Alcohol/Drugs

When they’re underage.

Sexual intercourse of a person over the age of 16 with a child under 16 has been criminalised in NSW (s 66C Crimes Act)

You can’t get consent from someone you have power over. i.e. teachers, doctors, therapists, care-givers, coaches, priests or maybe famous actors.

Where can you go if you have been sexually assaulted?

University of Technology provides information and contacts and can provide counselling http://www.uts.edu.au/current-students/ support/health-and-wellbeing/counsellingservice-and-self-help/self-help-resourc-13

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NSW Rape Crisis Centre: 24-hour service that provides phone counselling, information and referrals Phone: (02) 9819 6565 or 1800 454 017

Website: www.nswrapecrisis.com.au

Child and Adolescent Sexual Assault Counsellors: offer counselling and support Phone: (02) 9601 3790

Website: www.casac.org.au

The Dialogue

A little bit of alcohol can be fine, but if they’re too drunk to drive, they’re too drunk to give consent.

Getting sexual with some who is wasted, slurring their words, body is limp, can’t communicate clearly or throwing up, that is absolutely sexual assault.

When there is a person of in a position of authority

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

“Always remember that you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.�

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The Dialogue

Winnie the Pooh

Emergency Contact Details:

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Campus security: Dial 6 from any internal telephone (including at UTS Housing)

NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511 (24-hours)

Free call 1800 249 559

Royal Prince Alfred Hospital crisis service: 9515 6111 (ask for after-hours crisis workers)

Report to a staff member or to 9514 1192

Sexual assault and domestic violence services

Police

NSW Rape Crisis Centre: 1800 424 017 (24-hours)

Accidents, incidents and hazards:

Police Assistance Line: 131 444 (24-hour non-emergency assistance)

Victims Access Line: 1800 633 063 (24-hour support for victims of crime)

National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) (24-hours)

Mental Health Services

Alcohol and drug counselling

Lifeline Counselling Service: 13 11 14 (24-hours)

Alcoholics Anonymous: 1300 22 22 22 or 9799 1199 (24-hours)

MindSpot- online assessment and treatment for anxiety and depression: 1800 61 44 34

Homeless Persons' Information Centre: 1800 234 566 (7 days, 9am - 10pm)

Beyond Blue Support Service: 1300 22 4436

Emergency accommodation

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Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000

NSW domestic violence line: 1800 656 463 (24-hours)

UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing

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UTS LSS Equity and Wellbeing