How to Be A Better Human: Understanding Consent, Respect, and Empathy at UNE
Starting university is an exciting time, but it’s also an opportunity to learn how to be a good community member—not only on campus but also in online spaces like the virtual campus, MyLearn and social media. The Be A Better Human(BABH) campaign at UNE is about fostering a positive, respectful culture where everyone feels safe and valued, whether in person or online. Created by students, for students, this initiative encourages everyone—students, staff, and the community—to practice empathy, respect, and affirmative consent in every interaction.
What issues does the Be A Better Human campaign address?
BABH takes a stand against serious issues like sexual harassment, sexual assault, and rape culture, which can happen anywhere, including virtual spaces. These acts are not only extremely harmful but also criminal offences in NSW. Rape culture allows these actions to be normalised or excused, often reinforced by inequality and harmful stereotypes. BABH encourages us to challenge these attitudes and behaviours, no matter the setting.
How you can help create a safer community—on campus and online
Being a better human means more than avoiding harmful behaviours. It’s about taking responsibility, speaking up, and ensuring everyone feels safe in every setting. Here’s how you can help:
1. Be an active bystander.
If you witness harassment or something that feels wrong, you can make a difference. Being an active bystander means noticing when someone might need help and offering it safely.
- Ensure safety: If someone is in immediate danger, help them get to a safe place, or call the police if necessary.
- Listen and validate: Encourage the person to share what they’re comfortable with at their own pace, letting them know you’re there to support them.
- Offer resources: Share information on how they can access further support, whether it’s reporting the incident, seeking medical care, or finding counselling.
- Provide practical help: If they want, help them make appointments or arrange safe transportation.
2. Practice affirmative consent.
Affirmative consent is about making sure all parties are actively and enthusiastically on board with any kind of interaction. Consent is more than just the absence of a “no”—it’s a clear and ongoing “yes.”
Remember:
- Consent is clear, voluntary, and continuous. At any point, anyone can change their mind.
- Coercion and control don’t belong in any relationship. Being pressured, tricked, or intimidated into intimate actions is not consent.
- Know the legal requirements for consent: Consent cannot be given by anyone who is underage, intoxicated, unconscious, or otherwise unable to make a clear, informed choice.
Why does this matter?
As new students join us, we want to reinforce that UNE is a space where everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and heard. By embracing the BABH principles, we’re building a community where unacceptable behaviour has no place, and support is always available.
