Independent Review
AUT receives Independent Review
The Auckland University of Technology (AUT) Council and Vice-Chancellor accept the findings and recommendations of the Independent Review by Queen's Counsel Kate Davenport, with work starting immediately to address the issues raised.
The review is now available in full on the AUT Website.
The key findings of the review are:
- AUT does not have an ongoing problem with sexual harassment.
- AUT does have an ongoing issue with bullying within its staff which should be addressed. Bullying of students did not present as an issue.
- While AUT's policies are adequate they could be improved and streamlined to ensure easier and more transparent access.
"In response to these findings, on behalf of the University and personally, I want to apologise to all those past and present who have been subjected to bullying or other forms of harassment," said Vice-Chancellor, Derek McCormack.
"As a University, we should have done better and my commitment as Vice-Chancellor is that we will do better starting today."
The report contains several recommendations for change and independent expert Shayne Mathieson has been engaged to advise and guide their implementation.
"Shayne has enormous experience to share and she will guide our work in response to the review and the programme of work that will begin immediately," said Mr McCormack.
The Council supports Vice-Chancellor McCormack leading this work given his unequivocal acceptance of the review findings and recommendations.
The Vice-Chancellor thanked the 405 staff, ex staff and students who engaged with the review to tell their stories or give their views on important matters for the University.