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Student Misconduct Allegation

Updated: 4 days ago


Have you received a letter about a student misconduct allegation that is not related to academic integrity (e.g. behavioural conduct, safety, or other general misconduct)? You are not alone—and SSA Advocacy Service (SAS) is here to support you through the process. 

 

What Is Student Misconduct? 


At Swinburne, student misconduct refers to inappropriate or unacceptable behaviour that breaches the Student General Misconduct Regulations. It can include things like: 


  • Disruptive or threatening behaviour on campus or online 

  • Damage to university property 

  • Harassment, bullying, or discrimination 

  • Misuse of university resources or systems 

  • Breach of safety regulations 

  • Refusing to follow lawful directions from university staff 


Student misconduct is separate from academic misconduct, which deals with things like plagiarism and cheating. 


What happens if I am alleged to have committed misconduct? 


If you are suspected of general (non-academic) misconduct, the university will: 


  1. Send you a misconduct allegation letter, outlining what has been alleged and the potential breaches of university regulations. 

  2. Invite you to respond to the allegation—usually by attending a student misconduct hearing with a decision-maker (e.g. a senior university staff member or the Student Misconduct Committee). 

  3. Allow you to bring a support person, such as an SSA Advocate, to help you prepare and speak at the hearing. 


What Are My Rights? 


You have the right to: 


  • Be informed of the allegation and the evidence. 

  • Respond to the allegation before any decision is made. 

  • Be treated fairly and respectfully throughout the process. 

  • Bring a support person or advocate to the hearing. 

  • Appeal the outcome if eligible. 


How can I respond to a misconduct allegation? 


If you have received a misconduct allegation letter: 


  1. Read the letter carefully and note the date of your hearing (if applicable). 

  2. Gather your evidence – including your version of events, any relevant messages, emails, or witness statements. 

  3. Prepare a written statement outlining your response to the allegation. 

  4. Get support from an SSA Advocate – we can help you write your statement, prepare for the hearing, and even attend it with you. 


What are the possible outcomes? 


If the allegation is not upheld, no further action is taken. 


If the allegation is upheld, possible outcomes may include: 


  • A formal warning 

  • Conditions placed on your enrolment. 

  • Suspension from certain activities or access 

  • A behaviour management plan 

  • Suspension or exclusion from the university (in serious cases) 


Can I appeal the outcome? 


Yes. If you believe the decision was unfair, you may be able to appeal the outcome on specific grounds. SSA Advocates can help you explore your options and support you through the appeal process. 


How SSA Advocates can help? 


Our trained SSA Advocates can: 


  • Explain the misconduct process and your rights. 

  • Help you prepare a response or statement. 

  • Support you at the misconduct hearing. 

  • Assist with appeals, if needed 


This service is free, confidential, and independent from the university. 

 

Book an appointment with an SSA Advocacy Service (SAS) as soon as you receive the allegation letter. 







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