Student misconduct

We want our students to understand and follow the rules and regulations governing the university and the world at large.

Charles Sturt takes a strict approach to misconduct by students. We want to provide a learning environment that is safe, healthy and free from bullying and harassment.

Student Misconduct is a serious charge that can lead to expulsion from the university. Misconduct can be classified as academic, research or general, depending on the circumstances.

As a Charles Sturt student, you should understand your responsibilities under the Student Misconduct Rule and what to do if an allegation of misconduct is made against you. We have strategies in place to detect and discourage students from committing misconduct, mainly cheating in exams, plagiarism and contract cheating.

If you find that you are struggling academically, you should seek help and guidance from your Course Coordinator or our Study Success team as early as possible.

Reporting student misconduct

Any person who suspects a student has committed misconduct may report it to the Fair and Safe Communities team via our Student Misconduct online form or by email.

You should provide as much detail and evidence to support your claim as possible and let any witnesses know they may be contacted for a statement.

Talk to the Student Conduct team, a Student Liaison Officer or a member of the Uni Life team before sending in an allegation – there may be other ways to solve the issue.

Misconduct and student rights

The university believes it is essential that any student misconduct process is fair to students, and seen to be fair to students. Importantly, all students have the rights to:

  • be informed about the allegation, with a reasonable level of detail to enable them to respond;
  • have a reasonable opportunity to respond to the allegation, including reviewing any evidence and an opportunity to present their own evidence; find out more about the hearing process.
  • appeal on specified grounds any finding of misconduct made or sanction imposed;
  • expect that those who hear the allegation of misconduct will act fairly and impartially;
  • contact student support for assistance.
  • students also have certain responsibilities throughout the process, including:
  • not to intimidate, harass or threaten any witnesses, tamper with evidence or interfere with any investigation
  • to conduct themselves in a civil and courteous fashion at any interview or hearing, and not be disruptive

Notification of alleged student misconduct

You will be contacted in writing and informed that an allegation has been made. The notice will outline what the allegation is and what, if anything, you need to do next.

Stay calm, and try not to become angry or rude, knowing you will have an opportunity to give your version of events. If you have a reasonable explanation that provides context about what occurred and why, then you should explain this by responding to the allegation.

You should respond via a written statement or attend a hearing via phone or video conference and submit any evidence or witness statements that can defend your position.

What happens next?

If you disagree that you have committed misconduct, you can dispute the allegation. A hearing will be scheduled to respond to evidence, submit your own evidence, question and/or call witnesses and present verbal or written statements.

If you want to admit to the allegation of misconduct: you will still be given a reasonable opportunity to make a statement about the sanction (penalty) to be imposed before it is decided. However, if you admit the misconduct before the date of your hearing, the sanction will be determined by the Appointed Officer, and you will be informed of the decision in writing.

Multiple people can help and support you throughout the appeals process within the University.

  • Student Advocates can advise you about making your strongest appeals application and will be able to answer any questions you have in regards to the process.
  • Student Counsellors will help you talk through emotional issues related to your appeals, studies or other parts of your life. They are a team of friendly, qualified and approachable social workers and psychologist.

Depending on its seriousness and whether it is a single incident, it may not affect your future studies or career. However, it will be recorded on your student file.

Some professions require you to disclose the allegation of misconduct, or the University may require the law to report it. It is your responsibility to ensure that you understand the requirements of your professional body. The University takes no responsibility for the consequences arising out of a failure to disclose any finding of misconduct.

Cleared of any student misconduct

If the allegation against you is not sustained, then there will be no further action taken. The university will take reasonable steps to ensure you are not disadvantaged in any way.