The bill should be supported because it addresses the persistent issue of gender-based violence in higher education, which undermines the right to a safe and equitable educational environment. By establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework, the bill promotes non-discrimination and equality, ensuring that all students and staff are protected and can thrive without fear of harassment or violence. The requirement for higher education providers to develop Gender Equality Action Plans and conduct regular reporting will likely enhance transparency and accountability, fostering a culture of respect and safety [Judgment]. Furthermore, the creation of a specialized unit to monitor compliance ensures that the provisions of the bill are actively enforced, thereby strengthening the institutional response to gender-based violence and promoting democratic values of fairness and justice in educational settings.
The bill should be opposed because it imposes significant regulatory burdens on higher education providers, which might divert resources from other critical educational functions. The requirement for detailed compliance with the National Code could lead to increased administrative costs and might result in higher tuition fees to cover these expenses. This could inadvertently limit access to higher education for students from lower socio-economic backgrounds, contradicting the bill's intent to support an equitable education system [Judgment]. Additionally, the integration of such a framework could lead to potential conflicts with existing state and territorial laws, complicating the regulatory landscape for universities.
2025-07-23
Passed Both Houses
Unspecified
Education
Education, Discrimination / Human Rights, Criminal Law Reform