If you encounter a problem or disagree with a decision during your candidature, Adelaide University provides clear pathways to help you raise concerns and seek resolution.
If things don't go to plan, you are encouraged to discuss your concerns confidentially with your Graduate Research Coordinator, or with the Graduate Research School (which is external and independent to your research area, School or College).
In addition, there are formal complaints and grievance procedures that are explained below.
Student Complaints and Appeals Policy
For information on how Adelaide University manages and resolves student complaints and appeals,
please refer to the Student Complaints and Appeals Policy and the related
Student Complaints Resolution Procedure (SCRP) and Student Appeals Procedure.
The SCRP describes the formal process for managing, resolving, and reporting complaints by students or prospective students about decisions or actions taken at Adelaide University. This includes decisions related to academic progress, examination outcomes, or administrative determinations.
The Student Appeals Procedure outlines the process for seeking formal decision review or for appealing appealable decisions made by Adelaide University.
When SCRP does not apply
If your concern involves unfair treatment by a staff member, another student or a group of students, the SCRP does not apply. In these cases, refer to Complaints and Disclosures.
Complaints and disclosures
Complaints and disclosures about inappropriate conduct are managed by the Integrity Unit, which assesses concerns raised from both students and staff. The Unit may investigate directly or refer matters to the appropriate University area or external body.
The Integrity Unit focuses on:
- gender-based violence and sexual harm impacting a member of the University community
- fraud, corruption, maladministration, and conflicts of interest involving any University community member
- any other inappropriate behaviour including discrimination.
You can report any conduct concern to the Integrity Unit, and you can contact them anonymously if you wish. They will take reports via their online form, over the phone or by email, or you can make a time to meet with a member of the team to discuss your concerns. More information is available from the Respect at AU website.
External review
If you are dissatisfied with the outcome of an internal appeal, you may seek an external review. Relevant information can be found on the student appeals webpages. You may wish to contact the Adelaide University Student Ombud to discuss your concerns before raising it with an external agency.
International graduate research students
If you choose to pursue an external review, the University will maintain your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) while the review is in progress. You must notify Student Assist in writing.
The University will provide contact details for an appropriate external complaint handling and appeals body within 10 business days, to be provided at minimal or no cost, in line with the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018.
Support is available
See the support available, or access the University’s free health initiatives, including confidential face-to-face and online counselling.
