External agencies
Students may choose to escalate a complaint to an external agency at any time.
- The appropriate agency will depend on the nature of the complaint.
- If a matter is referred to an external agency or legal proceedings are initiated, Adelaide University’s internal complaint resolution process may be paused until the external review is complete.
Agencies that may assist
General complaints
- National Student Ombudsman (NSO)
- Ombudsman SA: for complaints about South Australian state and local government
Discrimination, equal opportunity, or human rights issues
Refund of fees in special circumstances
- Administrative Review Tribunal: for decisions under the Higher Education Support Act 2003 not to refund certain student contribution amounts paid (e.g. HELP FEE for Commonwealth Supported Students)
International Students
- If an international student seeks external review regarding preclusion under the Academic Progress Procedure (or regarding termination of candidature for unsatisfactory progress in a graduate research program), they must notify Student Complaints and Appeals in writing within 10 business days of receiving the outcome. This allows their Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to be maintained during the external complaint process. Failure to notify will result in cancellation of their CoE.
- If a complaint involves actions that may affect a student visa (e.g. deferral, suspension, or cancellation), the student may seek guidance from the University, or from the Department of Home Affairs regarding potential visa implications.
Need help?
For advice on student complaints, appeals or conduct:
- Phone: (08) 83302 2221
- Complaints and appeals: student.appeals@adelaide.edu.au
- Student conduct: SCIG@adelaide.edu.au
You can also contact: