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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.