Six students have been expelled and another 21 suspended from a prestigious Sydney university residence after a serious bullying incident.
The incident, which involved the “severe humiliation of another student”, took place at the University of Sydney’s St Paul’s Residential College last week.
Six male students were expelled and 21 others were suspended for this act.
St Paul’s director Dr. Ed Loane said the college provided support to the victim.
“The college is shocked and deeply disappointed that some of our students have engaged in serious bullying of another student within their friendship group,” Dr Loane said.
“Our response, when we learned of this and conducted a thorough investigation, was to expel the perpetrators and suspend the bystanders who did not intervene.”
Six male students were expelled and 21 others were suspended over the ‘degrading behaviour’ that took place at St Paul’s College last week (pictured)
He said all students receive anti-bullying and harassment training when they go to college.
“We will review and strengthen this training, and we will continue to ensure we do everything we can to provide a safe and respectful community.”
Training programs on harassment awareness and prevention and bullying are provided by third party providers for all new students at the college.
The programs also pay attention to the responsible use of social media.
Approximately 420 students attend the college and it is one of six residential colleges at the University of Sydney.
The college became mixed in 2023.
The institution offers a “well-rounded university experience within a supportive and caring community,” according to their website.
A spokesperson for the University of Sydney said they support St Paul’s action.
“We are also conducting immediate investigations to understand additional steps the college is taking to address this issue and ensure the safety and well-being of students,” the spokesperson said.
The principal of St Paul’s College, Dr. Ed Loane, said they will review their existing anti-bullying and harassment training programs following the incident (photo stock image)
‘Although our affiliated residential schools are independent, we aim to work closely together when issues arise, with student welfare being our top priority.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted the University of Sydney for further comment.
The latest incident comes after a damning review in 2018 by former sex discrimination commissioner Elizabeth Broderik into the culture at St Paul’s.
The report found that students ate sheep hearts during their initiations and celebrated sporting victories by taking girls to a ‘bone room’ where mattresses were set up.
