Six students have been expelled and another 21 suspended from a prestigious Sydney hall of residence following a serious bullying incident.
The incident, which involved the “gross humiliation of another student”, took place last week at the University of Sydney’s St Paul’s Residential College.
Six male college students were expelled and 21 others were suspended.
St Paul’s principal Dr Ed Loane said the college was providing support to the victim.
“The university has been shocked and deeply disappointed that some of our students have seriously bullied another student within their friend group,” Dr Loane said.
“Our response, upon learning of this and conducting a thorough investigation, has been to remove the perpetrators and suspend bystanders who did not intervene.”
He said all students receive training on how to prevent harassment and bullying when they enter college.
“We will review and strengthen this training and continue to ensure we do everything we can to provide a safe and respectful community.”
Six male students were expelled and a further 21 were suspended over “humiliating type behaviour” which occurred at St Paul’s College (pictured) last week.
Bullying and bullying awareness and prevention training programs are delivered by external providers to all new students at the university.
The programs also cover the appropriate use of social media.
Around 420 students attend the university and it is one of six residential colleges at the University of Sydney.
The university became coeducational in 2023.
The institution offers a “comprehensive college experience within a caring and supportive community,” according to its website.
A spokesperson for the University of Sydney said the university supported the action taken by St Paul’s.
“We are also following up directly to understand the additional steps the university is taking to manage this issue and ensure the safety and well-being of students,” the spokesperson said.
St Paul’s College principal Dr Ed Loane said they will review their existing anti-bullying and harassment training programs following the incident (file image pictured).
“While our affiliated residential colleges are independent, we strive 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 2018 review by former Sex Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Broderik into the culture at St Paul’s.
The report revealed that the students ate sheep hearts during their initiation and celebrated their sporting victories by taking the girls to a “bone room” filled with mattresses.