Rights and responsibilities
Understand what is appropriate behaviour at university, the rules and policies governing student conduct, where to seek support and how to raise a concern or submit a complaint.
Your role in our student community
No matter where you've come from, at the University of Melbourne, you are part of an inclusive, welcoming and respectful community. You have specific rights and responsibilities to make sure everyone can enjoy and take part in university life without experiencing unacceptable behaviour or unreasonable disruption to their studies, work or other University activities.
Our Student Charter, rules, regulations and policies help to protect the wellbeing and rights of all our students and staff. When you enrol, you accept an enrolment declaration where you agree to act in accordance with University regulations, rules and policies. Some of the University's expectations and rules relating to student conduct include, but are not limited to:
- Preventing sexual misconduct and upholding our Respect commitments
- Preventing racism, including specific forms of discrimination
- Understanding what constitutes free speech and peaceful protest
- Understanding what you can and can't do on our campuses
- Adhering to the principles of academic integrity in your studies.
It is also important to know how to seek advice and support to raise a concern or issue, when and how you might wish to submit a formal complaint, and the steps that are involved.
If you're experiencing or witnessing behaviour that you find unacceptable, please contact our Safer Community Program for confidential advice and support, even if you are not sure if you want to report an issue or submit a formal complaint.
Student conduct and expected behaviour
Find out what behaviour is expected of you and what kind of conduct is unacceptable, as outlined in University rules and policies.
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Student charter
The Student Charter embodies the key principles underpinning the partnership between students and the University.
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Respect
The University of Melbourne is committed to eliminating sexual misconduct and promoting safety for students, staff and visitors.
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Freedom of Speech
Understand your rights and responsibilities in relation to freedom of speech at the University.
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Anti-Racism
Explore the University's Anti-Racism Action Plan to acknowledge, understand, prevent and respond to racism.
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Academic Integrity
Understand your obligations to uphold academic values in your scholarly work: being honest and ethical, acknowledging the work and ideas of others, and using your own words.
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Appropriate behaviour on social media
Understand your responsibilities on social media as a student, and read tips on staying safe and seeking help.
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Potential penalties for student misconduct
Examples of behaviours of student misconduct and potential sanctions.
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Student Privacy Statement
Find out how the University collects, protects and manages students' personal data.
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University policy
Browse University policy in the Melbourne Policy Library.
Seek support
We're here to help you. Explore our student support services.
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Safer Community Program
The Safer Community Program provides support and advice to members of the University community about inappropriate, concerning or threatening behaviour.
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Student support
The University of Melbourne offers one of the most comprehensive student support networks in Australia.
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Health and wellbeing
Find self-help resources, connect with other students, book counselling or medical appointments and more.
Raise a concern or issue, or submit a formal complaint
Find out how you can report a concern or issue, and how and when you might wish to submit a formal complaint.
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How to raise a concern or issue
Find out what to do if you are experiencing an issue that you wish to raise with the University.
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Student complaints and grievances
This page will guide you through the processes and procedures required to raise or escalate a student complaint or grievance, including the reporting of sexual misconduct.