Student complaints

We hope that you will find your experience at Deakin to be enjoyable and rewarding. If something does go wrong, please tell us! We will do our best to address the problem and to improve the services we provide.

1. Check the relevant documents and processes.

Assessment matters are normally dealt with under the Assessment (Higher Education Courses) procedure (in The Guide), rather than the Student Complaints Resolution policy and procedure. For more information, go to http://www.deakin.edu.au/current-students/study-information/exams-assessment/results-faq.php

For other matters, start with your unit guide or refer to Student concerns or complaints (246 KB)

2. Ask for assistance. You may wish to talk to one of the following people (as appropriate):

your unit chair
the Designated Complaints Contact (103 KB) in your School or the relevant area
a Deakin University Student Association (DUSA) Advocate
the Disability Resource Centre
an International Student Advisor.

3. Allegations of discrimination, sexual harassment, bullying or victimisation should be discussed with a Harassment and Discrimination Contact Officer, or with the relevant Head of School or senior manager.

4. Discuss your concern directly with the person or area causing the concern, if you feel you can. Sometimes explaining your perspective or providing constructive feedback is all that is needed. Alternatively, the Head of School or senior manager may be able to help you resolve the matter informally.

5. Lodge a complaint form (21 KB), in accordance with the Student Complaints Resolution policy and procedure, if the matter is still not resolved or you would like us to investigate it formally. 

6. If you're not happy with the way the University handles your complaint, you may be able to appeal the outcome internally. You can also seek an external review of final University decisions by the Victorian Ombudsman.

For further advice, or to provide feedback or suggestions, please email studentcomplaints@deakin.edu.au.