Student Critical Incident Policy

1. The purpose of our policy

This policy sets out the principles under which Adelaide University manages student wellbeing and safety in response to critical incidents. It establishes the governance-level responsibilities for incident response coordination, risk-informed decision-making, and coordination of student support pathways. This policy provides authority to maintain the Student Critical Incident Response Procedure. 

2. Who our policy applies to

2.1 Inclusions 

This policy applies to:

• enrolled students across all study modes (on-campus, online, offshore).  
• enrolled students studying through third-party or partner organisations¹. 

2.2 Exclusions 

This policy does not apply to:

• non-critical incidents, which are managed through routine student support services 
• incidents covered under separate policies or reporting mechanisms such as [Gender-Based Violence Policy], Adelaide University Student Code of Conduct, Adelaide University [Work Health and Safety (WHS) Hazard or Incident Reporting Procedure], Adelaide University [Emergency Management Plan] 
• students who are not yet actively enrolled in their program at Adelaide University and for whom no Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) or Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) applies, including pathway provider students. These cohorts remain subject to the policies and procedures of their respective providers until formal enrolment at Adelaide University is confirmed. 

3. Our student critical incident policy principles

3.1 Prioritise student safety, wellbeing and dignity in all responses 

We are committed to managing every student critical incident with care, efficiency, and a strong focus on safety and wellbeing. Guided by Adelaide University’s emergency management frameworks and principles of inclusive, holistic support, we ensure a cohesive, whole-of-institution approach to student safety, both at the time of need and throughout recovery. 

3.2 Respond to incidents in a timely, confidential and coordinated manner

In responding to critical incidents, we prioritise safety, emotional wellbeing, and dignity of affected members of the Adelaide University Community. Our responses are timely, confidential, and coordinated across Adelaide University services, with clear roles, effective communication, accountability, and alignment to governance and risk management principles, while appropriately considering the interests of the student’s family in line with privacy obligations. 

3.3 Recognise the uniqueness of each incident and tailor support accordingly

Recognising that no two incidents are the same, we tailor our responses to the specific circumstances, needs, and cultural contexts of those involved. Support is provided in a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive manner, particularly for vulnerable student groups, including, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, international students, those under the age of 18, and students from diverse backgrounds or with complex needs.  

3.4 Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulatory frameworks 

We uphold our obligations under the Higher Education Standards Framework (Threshold Standards) 2021, the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency Act 2011 (TEQSA Act), the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018, the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (Cth) (ESOS Act), ensuring that our practices remain compliant, transparent, and subject to audit. 

3.5 Engage stakeholders and promote continuous improvement through review cycles 

We actively engage internal and external stakeholders in the review and evaluation of critical incidents, using feedback and data to drive continuous improvement and institutional learning. 

4. Definitions used in our policy

Please refer to our Adelaide University glossary for a full list of our definitions.

Adelaide University Community refers to a broad range of stakeholders who engage with Adelaide University and includes (but is not limited to) all students, staff, and non-staff members of Adelaide University including alumni, honorary title holders, adjuncts, visiting academics, guest lecturers, volunteers, suppliers and partners who are engaging with and contributing to the work of Adelaide University. 

An International Student means a person (whether inside or outside of Australia) who requires a student visa to study in Australia. 

A student means a person enrolled in an enabling program, award or non-award coursework study, a research program, or a short course or microcredential at Adelaide University.  

Student Critical Incident is “a traumatic event, or threat of such (within or outside of Australia), which causes extreme stress, fear or injury” to a student or group of students and requires immediate attention². A critical incident involving students may include:

• death of a student 
• mental health crisis with risk of harm to self or others 
• other serious injury or threat of harm to student and/or staff 
• sexual assault  
• victim of a crime (i.e. aggravated offences; cybercrime, scams) 
• missing student³ 
• natural disaster 
• child safety incident involving a student under 18 years. 

Student Non-Critical Incident means any student-related matter that does not meet the threshold of a critical incident in terms of severity, urgency, or impact. These incidents are typically managed through the University’s standard support services and may include issues such as minor property loss or damage, immigration queries, or general welfare concerns. Such matters are addressed as part of the routine operations of Student Support Services.  

5. How our policy is governed

Our Policy is categorised, approved and owned in line with the governance structure of Adelaide University and the offices and officers listed below.

6. Legislation and other documents related to this policy

This policy does not assign or confer decision-making authority. Refer to the Delegation Policy for all delegations of authority at Adelaide University. 

7. History of changes

At the time of writing, Adelaide University’s organisational structure, position titles, and committee names have not been confirmed. Square brackets [ ] indicate placeholders for these details. Brackets are also used to identify policy elements that are subject to further decision-making or confirmation. These will be updated once final decisions are made. 

¹Students enrolled in Adelaide University programs delivered through third-party or partner organisations are covered under this policy to the extent that the University retains responsibility for their welfare, academic experience, or compliance obligations. Where a partner organisation has its own critical incident policy, Adelaide University will collaborate to ensure incidents are managed effectively, and in alignment with relevant legislative and regulatory requirements. 

²Definition adapted from the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018, Part D, Standard 6 – Student Support Services. 

³A student is considered missing where Adelaide University has accepted responsibility for their welfare arrangements, or where the student cannot be located following multiple failed attempts to contact and there is a significant concern for risk of harm to self or their welfare/safety.