Student Complaints
It takes courage to speak up, and we understand that. Your advocacy with us is completely confidential, and we operate independently from the University.
If you are considering making a complaint or have already lodged one, TUSA Student Advocates are here to listen and support you.
The University provides guidance on the Student Complaints process in the Student Complaints Procedure & Policy. We encourage you to review this document and reach out to a Student Advocate for assistance.
TUSA Student Advocates can assist you throughout the complaint process by:
- Providing advice and presenting options
- Assisting in informal resolution of complaints, if feasible
- Aiding in the preparation of formal complaint documentation
- Acting as a support person during meetings with UTAS staff and Review Committees
Our Student Advocates offer a free and confidential service for UTAS students. They possess knowledge of University rules and policies and can be a valuable resource if you require assistance.
How do I make a complaint?
Before reporting an issue, you have the option to speak to a TUSA Student Advocate for support and advice. They can inform you if the issue might be resolved informally through meetings and mediation or if a more formal approach is necessary. In both cases, they can assist you.
All formal complaints are investigated by the Safe and Fair Community Unit (SaFCU). SaFCU is a university-run service that responds to notifications of sexual assault or harassment, concerns related to wellbeing or behavior, reports of misconduct, and the lodging of general concerns or complaints.
Complaints can be lodged here.
How do I know that I won't be marked down or treated less favorably by the University if I do complain?
Your TUSA Student Advocates are here to support you if you have concerns about this, and we are happy to discuss whether you choose to make a complaint or not.
Lodging a formal complaint isn’t the only way to address issues. Sometimes, they can be resolved informally through mediation.
The University is committed to ensuring that students can lodge complaints without fear of disadvantage. UTAS takes your concerns and complaints seriously, and strives to handle them impartially, seriously, and resolve them as quickly as possible.
Please remember that TUSA is independent from the University, so you can freely engage with us, and our conversations will remain confidential if you choose not to escalate the matter further.
How much time do I have? How soon must I file a complaint?
It is generally easier to resolve an issue or concern if it is addressed as soon as it occurs or as soon as you become aware that it is causing problems for you.
As outlined in the Student Complaints Procedure, complaints need to be made within 12 months from the time that the matter/issue arose. Complaints after this time has passed may be accepted if;
- It is just and fair to deal with the complaint given the reasons for the delay;
- The delay does not prevent the University from investigating the issues raised in the complaint;
- The complaint raises serious or systemic issue/s of concern; and
- It is in the interests of the University to deal with the complaint.
Book an appointment with a Student Advocate.
TUSA Student Advocates are not lawyers, but they can assist you by:
- Listening
- Providing free, independent, and confidential advice
- Explaining University rules and regulations
- Guiding you through processes
- Assisting with letters
- Attending meetings, if needed
- Helping with appeals
If you need support, please make an appointment with one of our Student Advocates.