I have recently learned with great concern about foreign students – especially female students – who, stressed by high tuition and living costs, are exploited and often end up working in local brothels surrounding the Monash University campuses in Melbourne, Australia. This proximity of such establishments to Monash Business School, including the Department of Economics, has a detrimental impact not only on those directly involved, but also negatively affects many male students living in the local area.

Monash University has the duty to ensure a safe and secure environment for its students. However, the close proximity of several brothels, all located within a 20-kilometer radius of the Clayton and Caulfield campuses, undermines the sanctity of the learning environment and potentially exposes our students to harmful exploitation.

It is essential that this information be transparently disclosed to overseas parents who are sending their children to study in Australia, so they can fully understand the situation and make informed decisions. The issue goes beyond mere geography and delves deep into student welfare concerns. The parents and guardians of our overseas students need to understand the potential ramifications of this reality.

We are calling on Monash University authorities, including Prof. Michael Ward, Head of the Department of Economics, Dean Simon Wilkie, Rob Brooks, Russell Smyth and VC Susan Elliot to publicly acknowledge this situation and address it thoroughly. We urge the university to increase awareness of the issue among its students, and provide upfront information to aspiring overseas students to preserve their innocence of young adults and preserve the purity of a learning campus.

Let's strive for a safer, more transparent Monash University. Sign this petition to demand action now.