“Our universities are committed to delivering the best experience possible for students,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy said.

“The student experience doesn’t end in the classroom and as we work to deliver the university graduates Australia needs, we need to ensure the totality of their success.

“The National Student Ombudsman forms part of a broader action plan to address gender-based violence at universities.

“Our universities are committed to addressing this serious issue on campus.

“Both initiatives will complement the objectives of Universities Australia’s Charter on Sexual Harm, the pre-existing efforts of our universities and the national effort to better support students.

“As a sector we have not shied away from dealing with this major issue, but we can do more – that’s what our students deserve.

“We will continue to work with our students, educators, government and experts to ensure that we are addressing this serious societal issue.”