Student Grievances

Student Grievance Resolution

Policies

The Student Grievance Resolution Policy outlines the procedures for resolving a range of grievances which may affect students: https://ppl.app.uq.edu.au/content/3.60.02-student-grievance-resolution

For information on discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment and 'bullying' go to the UQ

Who can help you?

You should consider discussing the matter with a Discrimination and Harassment Contact Officer in the first instance.

If your grievance is related to academic or administrative matters it is advisable that you carefully read the Student Grievance Resolution policy for details of how to have this addressed. The UQ Union (Student Union) is also a valuable resource available to assist you to resolve issues and grievances. They may be able to advocate on your behalf, to provide help with letters, or in other ways: http://www.uqu.com.au/#support-and-representation

It has been the experience of this office that many grievances can be related to misunderstandings arising from cultural differences, and differing family practices and social backgrounds. If these misunderstandings can be resolved at an early stage then it is more likely that students can move on with their lives in a productive and stress free way.

Some actions such as sexual assault, rape, and stalking are criminal offences and as such may best be handled by reporting them to the police.

Confidentiality

Regardless of the action you decide to take to resolve the matter, it is advisable to maintain confidentiality about the matter and only discuss it with people who need to know. You may find you need to confide in a trusted close friend or a family member and if so, ask them to keep your concerns confidential. This is important, because it will protect you from accusations of defaming or slandering another person.

Record Keeping
You might consider keeping a secure record of: the dates of when and where the incident/incidents which have upset you have occurred, a brief summary of how you felt, and a list of any actions you have taken to resolve the matter. These records may be useful at a later date if you decide you need to lodge a formal complaint.
 
Victimisation
If you do decide to take action to resolve a complaint, it is important you know that ALL people with a legitimate involvement in the grievance process (including the person you're complaining about, or witnesses) are protected by University policy from being victimised. Victimisation may also be unlawful.
 
What if I am Accused of Harassment?

If someone tells you that your behaviour or actions are upsetting them, take the accusation seriously. Even if you did not intend to upset or offend the other person/s, remember that your actions may be taken differently. This can depend on a range of factors including the person's religious and political beliefs, cultural background, age, sexuality, life experiences. You may consider apologising to the person. Often an apology will be sufficient to diffuse a situation and people can move on.

If a formal grievance is made against you using the UQ grievance procedures you will be notified officially (by a Head of School or other senior staff member, depending on the nature of the complaint). In line with natural justice principles you will have the opportunity to hear exactly what the allegation was and given a chance to respond before any further action is taken. Regardless of the outcome, it is highly recommended that you do not retaliate or victimise the person making the complaint as this contravenes University policy and may be unlawful.

You are entitled to seek advice and information about the University grievance procedures, and may wish to see a Discrimination and Harassment Contact Officer about the procedures. DHCOs can provide information to all parties in a grievance about university policies and procedures. You may also seek support from the UQ Union.

External agencies
You may choose to lodge a complaint with the Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland or with the Australian Human Rights Commission: http://www.hreoc.gov.au/

 

Student Grievances section

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