Review an Outcome
Updated: Jul 24
If you’ve received a decision that feels unfair or incorrect, you may be able to request a review. This process can feel overwhelming, particularly if the outcome affects your enrolment, progression or standing at the University. You don’t have to navigate it alone.
The Swinburne Advocacy Service can help you understand your options and support you through each stage.
What is a Review of an Outcome?
A Review of an Outcome is a formal process where you ask the University to reconsider a decision made by a staff member, committee or decision-making body.
In most cases, this is the first step in Swinburne’s formal complaints and appeals framework.
You are generally required to request a review before you can lodge a formal appeal, and you usually cannot appeal a decision unless you have first received a review outcome.
Who can request a review?
You may be eligible to request a review if you are a current or recent Swinburne student and the decision relates to your studies.
This can include decisions about academic progress, student misconduct, academic misconduct, or administrative matters that affect your enrolment or progression.
If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, the Swinburne Advocacy Service can help you clarify this.
What grounds can I rely on?
Reviews can only be requested on specific grounds set out in University policy. These generally include:
Decisions relating to general misconduct
Decisions relating to academic misconduct
Certain administrative decisions, including decisions about satisfactory academic progress
Reviewable statutory decisions required under legislation
A “deemed refusal”, where the University has not responded to a decision request within 21 working days and the delay affects you as a student
It’s important to clearly identify which category applies to your situation, as this will shape how you frame your review request.
Not sure how to apply?
The process usually involves four key steps.
Step 1: Identify the decision:
Make sure you understand what the decision was, when it was made, and who made it. Your outcome letter should contain this information.
Step 2: Write your request
You will need to explain clearly what you believe was incorrect about the decision and the specific grounds you are relying on. Reviews focus on whether the correct process, criteria and policies were applied.
Step 3: Attach your evidence
This might include medical documentation, relevant emails, academic records or other written communication. Documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
Step 4: Submit your request
Your written request must be sent to the relevant Swinburne staff member or department listed in your original outcome letter. You must usually submit your review request within 21 working days of receiving the decision.
The Swinburne Advocacy Service can assist you with drafting your statement, reviewing your evidence and ensuring your submission is clear and appropriately structured.
What happens next?
Once your request is received, a review officer will assess whether it meets the requirements to proceed. You will then receive a written outcome explaining the decision.
If the outcome is not in your favour, the letter should also outline whether you have the right to lodge a formal appeal to the University Secretary.
What this process can and can’t do
A review gives you the opportunity to check whether the correct process was followed and whether your work or result was handled fairly.
It does not guarantee a different outcome. Reviews are generally focused on process and policy rather than personal hardship alone. Understanding this can help you decide whether a review is the appropriate next step.
Need help with your review?
The SSA Advocacy Service is independent, free, and confidential. We’re here to help you understand your options and feel more confident about what to do.
We can help you:
Work out if you’re eligible for a review
Identify the correct grounds
Draft and edit your review statement
Check your supporting documents
Understand what to include (and what not to include)
If your review is unsuccessful and you are eligible to appeal, we can also assist you with the appeal process.
If you are considering a review, we encourage you to seek advice as early as possible, especially if you’re close to a deadline.