Unis ask students about sexual abuse

University students are being asked to speak up about sexual assault and harassment in the first national survey to discover how widespread the problem is.

All 39 of Australia's universities will participate to give the sector a good idea of the prevalence of harassment on campuses.

The results will be used to help universities improve responses and support for students who experience sexual assault or harassment.

"Our universities want to make it absolutely clear that we have a zero tolerance policy on sexual assault and sexual harassment," Universities Australia chair Barney Glover said upon launching the survey on Tuesday.

The work, part of the Respect. Now. Always campaign, is supported by the national student and academics unions as well as the Australian Human Rights Commission.

There will be a national prevalence survey across all university campuses starting in September.

As well, any student who wants to share their experiences can make a confidential submission via the human rights commission's website.

If you feel distress at any time during or after participating in this survey, support is available by calling 1800 737 732, or 1800 RESPECT. In an emergency call triple-zero.