STUDENT CONDUCT

GUIDE FOR STUDENTS

ISSUED BY: Office of the Academic Registrar, Curtin University

Make tomorrow better.

 2 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

CONTENTS

1. OVERVIEW ....................................................................................................................................... 3

2. IS IT A WARNING OR MISCONDUCT? ............................................................................................. 4

3. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY WARNINGS ................................................................................................ 5

4. STUDENT CHARTER BREACH ......................................................................................................... 6

5. MISCONDUCT .................................................................................................................................. 7

6. WHO IS INVOLVED IN THE MISCONDUCT PROCESS? ................................................................... 8

7. REPORTING MISCONDUCT ............................................................................................................. 9

8. POOR ACADEMIC PRACTICE ......................................................................................................... 11

9. RECEIVING AN ALLEGATION OF MISCONDUCT ........................................................................... 14

10. DETERMINATION AND PENALTY ............................................................................................... 15

11. APPEAL ........................................................................................................................................ 17

12. FINAL STEPS AND GENERAL INFORMATION ............................................................................. 20

13. APPENDICES ................................................................................................................................ 21

APPENDIX 1: RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS ........................................................................................ 21

APPENDIX 2: HOW THE SERIOUSNESS OF AN INCIDENT IS ASSESSED ........................................... 23

APPENDIX 3: INQUIRY OFFICER HEARING .......................................................................................... 24

APPENDIX 4: POOR ACADEMIC PRACTICE PENALTIES ...................................................................... 25

APPENDIX 5: CATEGORY 1 PENALTIES ............................................................................................... 26

APPENDIX 6: CATEGORY 2 PENALTIES ............................................................................................... 27

APPENDIX 7: GLOSSARY ...................................................................................................................... 28

3 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

1. OVERVIEW
Curtin’s Student Charter and core values of integrity, respect, courage, excellence and impact guide
expectations regarding student behaviour and responsibilities.

If your conduct breaches expectations, you may be provided with a warning or, should your actions be
serious enough, an inquiry into an allegation of misconduct may occur.

The Student Conduct – Guide for Students was created to provide further guidance on the warning and
misconduct processes, and contains information relating to:

WARNINGS
• When and how warnings will be given (Academic Integrity Warnings and a Student
Charter breach).

MISCONDUCT
• A summary of the misconduct processes;

• What to expect during an inquiry into alleged misconduct; and

• Understanding the determination and appeal processes.

A glossary of definitions is also provided as a quick reference guide.

This guide should be read in conjunction with Statute No. 10 – Student Discipline and the relevant
Misconduct Rules and should not be used as a replacement.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

All sections of the Student Conduct – Guide for Students were written and developed by the Office of the
Academic Registrar in consultation with key stakeholders.
4 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

2. IS IT A WARNING OR MISCONDUCT?
Warnings are available for minor academic and general issues. For example, you may be warned for being
inconsistent in your referencing attempts or for using inappropriate language. A warning will be issued for
the first case, where possible. Repeated behaviour may be escalated to an allegation of misconduct.

Depending on the severity of an issue, a warning may not be appropriate. In these circumstances, your
conduct may be reviewed to determine whether misconduct has occurred. To conduct a fair process, you will
receive an allegation and supporting documentation with the opportunity to respond. This notification is
just to let you know that concerns were raised about your academic work or general behaviour, and to allow
you access to all the information to assist you in providing a response.

How will this impact me?

If you receive either a warning or an allegation of misconduct, certain processes, such as withholding of
grades or postponement of graduation, may occur. Anything that was paused as part of the warning or
misconduct process will re-commence once you action any required educative actions or the misconduct
process otherwise completes.

Details of your misconduct case will remain on the University’s records. Access to the case details will be
limited and managed by the Office of the Academic Registrar.

An Academic Integrity Warning, Student Charter Breach or a determination of misconduct will not be
recorded on your Academic Transcript or your Award Certificate (Testamur). However, some penalties
applied through the misconduct process, for example ANN, your place in the course being terminated, or
expulsion from the university, may appear on official university documents.
5 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

3. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY WARNINGS

An Academic Integrity Warning is simply a warning that there has been a breach of Academic Integrity. You
may be given a warning if there are insufficient grounds to continue a full suspected misconduct
investigation, or if the actions do not meet the threshold of a misconduct finding.

Academic Integrity Warnings in the Designated Academic Integrity Unit

If you breach academic expectations in the Designated Academic Integrity Unit, a unit within a course in
which information and instruction about academic integrity is provided, your Unit Coordinator may:

• Highlight the academic integrity breach(es);

• Advise you of available educational resources and support;

• Provide you with an opportunity to rectify the problem; and/or

• Allow you to re-submit your assessment for marking without penalty.

If the Unit Coordinator requires you to re-submit your assessment, this is not an opportunity for you to
enhance the content of your work. Instead, you will need to fix any academic integrity concerns that
prevented marking in the first instance. If re-submission is not appropriate or feasible, an Academic Integrity
Warning may be recorded. Any Educative Actions assigned to you, including re-submission, must be
completed by the nominated deadline. If you do not complete the necessary Educative Actions, you may get
a sanction on your enrolment, which prevents results release and enrolment in further units. Once you
provide proof of completion as per the instructions in your notification letter, the sanction should be removed
within two business days.

You may be notified in writing if there are issues within your assessment.

Academic Integrity Warnings within All Other Units

For all other units, an Academic Integrity Warning may be recorded, and notification will be provided in
writing. Any Educative Actions assigned to you must be completed by the nominated deadline. Failure to do
so may lead to a sanction on your enrolment, which prevents results release and enrolment in further units.
Once you provide proof of completion as per the instructions in your notification letter, the sanction should
be removed within two business days.

Further Information

For further assistance with academic integrity and avoiding breaches, refer to the Academic Integrity – Guide
for Students.
6 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

4. STUDENT CHARTER BREACH

What is a Student Charter Breach?

The Student Charter and Curtin’s values and signature behaviours guide the expected behaviour of Curtin’s
students.

If you breach the expected standards of behaviour for the first time, this could be considered a Student
Charter Breach.

While it is not limited to this type of behaviour, a Student Charter Breach could be issued for:

• Inappropriate language;

• Disrespectful actions towards a staff member or student;

• Disruptive behaviour in a classroom; or

• Sharing work on file share sites.

How is a Student Charter Breach issued?

A summary of the incident and details of any verbal warning is provided to the Office of the Academic
Registrar, which will assess the incident and determine if the matter is a Student Charter Breach or if it needs
to be considered as a case of potential General Misconduct. If the matter is handled as a Student Charter
Breach, you will be provided with a written warning reiterating your responsibilities under the Student
Charter to behave appropriately.

If you repeat the behaviour after receiving a warning, the matter may be lodged as General Misconduct and
handled in accordance with Statute No.10 – Student Discipline and the General Misconduct Rules.
7 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

5. MISCONDUCT
For allegations of misconduct, the following Statute and associated Rules apply.

• Statute No. 10 - Student Discipline

• Academic Misconduct Rules

• Academic Record Fraud Rules

• General Misconduct Rules

These can be accessed via the Curtin Policies website at:

http://policies.curtin.edu.au/legislation/statutes_rules.cfm

The Statute and Rules covered in this guide apply to both current and former students.

There is no statute of limitations when reporting misconduct, and students who have graduated are dealt
with under the misconduct Rules.

The general principles provided for under Statute No.10 – Student Discipline, outlined below, apply to all
inquiries into alleged misconduct. It is imperative that the general principles are always afforded to you to
ensure a procedurally fair process.
8 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

6. WHO IS INVOLVED IN THE MISCONDUCT PROCESS?

AUTHORISED OFFICER

The Authorised Officer is responsible for determining if an allegation of misconduct has sufficient grounds
to warrant further investigation. The person in this role changes depending on the type of case.

DIRECTOR, PRO VICE-

HEAD OF CHIEF
PROPERTIES, CHANCELLOR ACADEMIC
SCHOOL INFORMATION
FACILITIES AND OF OFFSHORE REGISTRAR
/AREA OFFICER
DEVELOPMENT CAMPUS

Academic
Misconduct


Academic
Record Fraud


General
Misconduct*
    

* Dependent on the nature of the allegation.

INQUIRY OFFICER

The Authorised Officer appoints an Inquiry Officer to undertake an inquiry into an allegation of misconduct.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE PANEL

The Student Discipline Panel is responsible for determining whether misconduct, other than Poor Academic
Practice, has occurred and, if so, applying appropriate penalties.

PRO VICE-CHANCELLOR OR PROVOST

For Academic Misconduct, the Pro Vice-Chancellor or Provost is responsible for hearing an appeal against a
determination of misconduct (including Poor Academic Practice) and/or any Category 1 penalty.

ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

For Academic Record Fraud or General Misconduct, the Academic Registrar (Perth campus) is responsible for
hearing an appeal against a determination of misconduct and/or any Category 1 penalty. If the Academic
Registrar was the Authorised Officer for a particular case, they are unable to hear an appeal for the same
matter.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE APPEALS BOARD

The Student Discipline Appeals Board is responsible for hearing appeals when a determination of misconduct
has occurred, and any Category 2 penalty was applied.
9 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

7. REPORTING MISCONDUCT
Reports of alleged student misconduct are lodged via the Dixon web form.
All cases lodged must contain an allegation and relevant documentation.

SAMPLE ALLEGATIONS
What is an allegation?

An allegation is a claim or assertion that you have done something wrong

and should be factual, specific, and unbiased.
PLAGIARISM
What are some examples of relevant documentation?
In Assessment 1 of the unit
For Academic Misconduct (including Poor Academic Practice): STUDY101 you have included
a significant amount of
• Student Progress Report; material from online sources
• Unit Outline; such as articles and websites
without adequate referencing,
• Copy of assessment items; paraphrasing or other
• Any other information regarding assessment items (e.g. acknowledgement.

Blackboard);
CHEATING
• Any other relevant documentation (e.g. medical certificates); and
In the unit STUDY101 you have
• Correspondence from any relevant party including, but not allowed, or contracted with,
limited to, experts, staff, or students. other people and/or
organisations to undertake
For Academic Record Fraud: academic work on your behalf
• Student Progress Report; which as subsequently been
submitted for Assessment 1.
• Testamur (Award Certificate or copy);
COLLUSION
• Academic Transcript and/or Student e-Record;

• Any other relevant documentation (e.g. authorisation for That you colluded with another
disclosure of information); and student in relation to
Assessment 1 in the unit
• Correspondence from any relevant parties including, but not STUDY101 and submitted the
limited to, experts, staff, and students. work as your own.

For General Misconduct: FALSIFICATION OF DATA

• Student Progress Report; OR OTHER CONTENT IN AN
ASSESSMENT OR OTHER
• Security Report including CCTV;
ASSESSABLE WORK
• Video footage or other images (SMS, MMS, Screenshots and
Photos); You submitted falsified data
and misleading references for
• Any other relevant documentation (e.g. medical certificates); and Assessment 1 in the unit
STUDY301.
• Correspondence from any relevant parties including, but not
limited to, experts, staff, and students.
10 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students
What happens now?

Once a case of alleged misconduct is reported, it is referred to an Authorised Officer. The Authorised Officer
will determine whether:

a) There are insufficient grounds to warrant further investigation, and either no action is taken,
or an Academic Integrity Warning is needed;

b) There are insufficient grounds to warrant further investigation – but arrange counselling or a
lecture, seminar, workshop, or similar activity in relation to appropriate behaviour;

c) There are sufficient grounds to warrant investigation into misconduct, under the Poor Academic
Practice level; or

d) There are sufficient grounds to warrant further investigation into misconduct – and initiate
an inquiry.

What happens if there are insufficient grounds?

While there is no further action in relation to the allegation, any processes (e.g. marking of your assessment,
release of your grade) paused whilst the inquiry occurred will re-commence.

What happens if there are sufficient grounds to warrant further investigation?

The Authorised Officer will oversee any investigation to do with Poor Academic Practice. For everything else,
an Authorised Officer will appoint an Inquiry Officer to conduct an inquiry into the matter. An Inquiry Officer
can be any person, including the Authorised Officer.

The person who conducts an inquiry will:

• be unbiased;

• have no conflict of interest; and

• ensure procedural fairness as part of their inquiry.

11 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

8. POOR ACADEMIC PRACTICE

What is Poor Academic Practice?

Poor Academic Practice is Academic Misconduct that is not dishonest, and where any advantage gained is
no more than moderate. An assessment with poor paraphrasing, or large sections of text copied word-for-
word without acknowledging the original author, could show a student who does not fully understand
referencing requirements or who lacks the confidence to put text in their own words.

Is the process of investigating Poor Academic Practice process the same as investigating Academic
Misconduct?

There are similarities in the process because Poor Academic Practice is still considered Academic Misconduct
and is covered by the Academic Misconduct Rules. The processes are similar in that you will be able to
respond to an allegation against you before a final determination is made, and you will also maintain your
right of appeal.

What is different about the Poor Academic Practice process?

If the allegation relates to Poor Academic Practice:

• The notification will include details of the allegation as well as the proposed determination and
penalty;

• You are only able to respond in writing to the allegation (not orally);

• The proposed determination and penalty are decided by the Authorised Officer, rather than a Student
Discipline Panel;

• The penalties available for Poor Academic Practice are less severe than other categories of Academic
Misconduct (see Appendix 4: Poor Academic Practice Penalties); and

• You only have seven (7) days to appeal a determination or penalty for Poor Academic Practice before
the case is finalised.

Why is the process different?

The Poor Academic Practice process is accelerated because the allegation is at a lower level, and the potential
penalties are minor. Being able to move forward quickly means that you can immediately apply anything
you learn through the process to other assessments and units. You do not want to repeat the same mistake,
as that could mean more misconduct cases, delay your results and feedback, and lead to lower marks for
your work.

How do I know if the allegation against me might be considered as Poor Academic Practice?

The documentation you receive will clearly indicate that this is being considered under the Poor Academic
Practice criteria. Usually, an allegation against you might be considered Poor Academic Practice if you have
just commenced your degree, if this is your first instance of suspected misconduct, or if you have not had
appropriate instruction in academic integrity practices. If you have already had a finding of academic
misconduct against you, or have completed any additional academic integrity instruction, it is most likely
that an allegation would not be considered Poor Academic Practice.
12 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students
SUMMARY OF POOR ACADEMIC PRACTICE PROCESS
Receiving and responding to an allegation of Poor Academic Practice

The Authorised Officer is responsible for the initial review of a report of suspected misconduct. If there are
sufficient grounds to believe that you may have engaged in Poor Academic Practice, you will be notified of
the allegation, relevant documents, proposed determination, and penalty via your student email and Official
Communication. In the next seven (7) days, you can do one of three things:

1) Use the link provided in the notification to respond to the case in writing and give more information
about the issues raised, including objecting to the proposed determination, proposed penalty, or
both (See Appendix 1: Resources for Students for advice on writing an effective response and
support services available to assist you);

2) Use the link provided in the notification to accept the proposed determination and penalty, which
will move your case to the final determination stage; or

3) Take no action – neither disputing or accepting the finding – and allow the seven-day period to
lapse. Your case will then move to the final determination stage.

Determination and Penalty

The Authorised Officer is responsible for the determination and will make it based on the “balance of
probabilities”. This means that it is more likely than not that Poor Academic Practice occurred. While you
will be notified of the proposed determination and penalty in the initial communication, it will not be finalised
until after you have had the opportunity to respond. All documentation, including any response or
documents you sent to the case, will be reviewed before making a final determination and when deciding on
any appropriate penalties or Educative Actions.

Whether or not you choose to respond, the determination and penalty will be finalised no later than five (5)
days after the response deadline has passed. You will be notified in writing via your student email and Official
Communication of the Authorised Officer’s determination and your appeal rights. If it is determined that
misconduct did not occur, no further action will be taken.

Educative Actions and Penalties

Following the completion of the Poor Academic Practice process, you are responsible for completing any
educative actions and/or penalties by the nominated deadline. Failure to complete any requirement(s) by
the deadline may result in a sanction on your enrolment, which prevents results release and enrolment in
further units. Once you provide proof of completion as per the instructions contained in the determination
letter, the sanction should be removed within two business days.

Appeal

You have the right of appeal against a determination of Poor Academic Practice, the penalty that has been
applied, or both. You may only appeal based on a “question of law”. An appeal must meet this threshold to
be reviewed. You have seven (7) days after receiving the final Poor Academic Practice determination and
penalty notification to submit an appeal. If you take no action, your appeal timeframe will expire after the
seven-day period and the case will be finalised. If you waive your right of appeal, the case will be finalised
immediately, pending approval by the Vice-Chancellor. Your notification letter will include a link to either
waive your right to appeal, or to submit an appeal against the determination and/or the penalty
13 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students
If you decide to appeal, you will be required identify the question(s) of law that forms the basis of your appeal
and provide appropriate documentation. If your appeal meets the threshold grounds, your appeal will be
heard by either the relevant Faculty Pro Vice-Chancellor or Provost, unless the Academic Registrar refers
your appeal to a Student Discipline Appeals Board. You will get the opportunity to appear at the appeal
hearing and, to ensure a fair appeal hearing, all case documentation will be reviewed to gain a full
understanding of the facts of the case. Your appeal will not progress if you submit an appeal that does not
meet the threshold grounds.

WHAT IS A “QUESTION OF LAW”?

A ‘question of law’, in the context of a threshold for an appeal against a finding
and/or penalty imposed under the Academic Misconduct Rules, is about an
error in the application of the process.
In other words, was the process followed correctly? Examples include:
• Procedural Fairness (e.g. a piece of evidence was not considered, you
were not given a right to respond to the allegations, the Authorised
Officer did not act in accordance with the Rules);
• When making a decision in a matter, irrelevant considerations were
taken into account;
• Failure to take into account considerations in making a decision; or
• No evidence or material to support the decision.

The outcome of your appeal means that the original determination and/or penalty can be:

Upheld: this means that the original determination and/or penalty by the Authorised Officer will stand.

Varied: this means that the party hearing the appeal can vary the original determination and/or
penalty. The severity of the penalty may be increased or decreased.

Set Aside: this means that the party who is hearing the appeal can dismiss the determination and
penalty.

You will be notified of the outcome in writing and this decision is final.

While the internal process is now complete, if you are not satisfied that it has been conducted fairly, you can
make a complaint to the Ombudsman Western Australia. The Ombudsman is independent and external to
the University and does not charge any fees for their services.

Please note that the Ombudsman will normally only consider whether the University has followed its own
policies and procedures, and whether the handling of your case has been fair and reasonable. The
Ombudsman does not make a new decision; however, the Ombudsman may, as a result of an investigation,
recommend that the University reconsider your case.

The contact details of the Ombudsman are:

Mail: Ombudsman Western Australia PO Box Z5386 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6831
Phone: 08 9220 7555
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ombudsman.wa.gov.au
14 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

9. RECEIVING AN ALLEGATION OF MISCONDUCT

The information in this section summarises the process for Academic Misconduct, General Misconduct and Academic
Record Fraud. Please refer to Section 8. Poor Academic Practice for a summary of the Poor Academic Practice Process.

How will I be notified?

The Inquiry Officer will notify you of the allegation, including any supporting documentation, via your
student email and Official Communication.

Can I respond, and how can I do so?

Yes, you will be provided with a minimum of seven (7) days to respond to the allegation. You may respond
via the link contained in your notification. When you receive the notification, you should download and
carefully consider all of the documentation (See Appendix 1: Resources for Students for advice on writing
an effective response and support services available to assist you).

Once you respond, or when the seven-day period lapses, the matter proceeds and you will no longer have
access to the link in your notification. The nominated Inquiry Officer will complete the inquiry, considering
any information you provided. Once finalised, the Inquiry Officer’s Report will be referred to the Student
Discipline Panel. The next communication you receive is when the Student Discipline Panel has made its
determination.

What if I would like to respond orally?

If you would like to respond to the allegation orally, you will need to request this in writing to the Inquiry
Officer. If permitted by the Inquiry Officer (at their discretion), they will arrange a hearing. See Appendix 3:
Inquiry Officer Hearing for further information.

What if I do not want to respond?

You do not have to respond and if you choose not to, the matter will proceed after the deadline has passed.

I have been asked to attend an Inquiry Officer hearing.

As part of the inquiry, the Inquiry Officer may hold a hearing to clarify details relating to the allegation
and/or your response. See Appendix 3: Inquiry Officer Hearing for further information.

Additional Evidence

If the Inquiry Officer finds additional evidence after they sent you the initial notification, you will receive a
copy of the document(s) and be given an additional seven days to respond. If you have additional information
that you would like to provide during the Inquiry, you need to provide this directly to the Inquiry Officer.

What information is included in the Inquiry Officer’s Report?

• A summary of the incident and inquiry process;

• A view on the seriousness of an incident*;

• Evidence and/or findings supporting each recommendation; and

• A recommendation to the Student Discipline Panel as to whether or not misconduct has

occurred, or if there is insufficient evidence to make a determination.

*Information on how the Inquiry Officer assesses the seriousness of an incident to determine the appropriate
recommendations can be found in Appendix 2: How the Seriousness of an Incident is Assessed.
15 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

10. DETERMINATION AND PENALTY

The information in this section summarises the process for Academic Misconduct, General Misconduct and Academic
Record Fraud. Please refer to Section 8. Poor Academic Practice for a summary of the Poor Academic Practice Process.

The Student Discipline Panel is responsible for making a determination of misconduct based on the “balance
of probabilities”. Where there is a finding of misconduct, it is also responsible for applying one or more
appropriate penalties. The potential penalties associated with Academic Misconduct, General Misconduct,
and Academic Record Fraud are in Appendix 5: Category 1 Penalties and Appendix 6: Category 2 Penalties.

What does the “balance of probabilities” standard of proof mean?

The “balance of probabilities” standard of proof means that it is more likely than not that misconduct
occurred. When the allegation or the circumstances are more serious (E.g. the rescission of a degree, or
alleged assault), the standard of proof may be higher to enable a finding.

What is the composition of each Student Discipline Panel?

CENTRAL STUDENT
OFFSHORE STUDENT FACULTY STUDENT CENTRAL STUDENT DISCIPLINE PANEL
DISCIPLINE PANEL DISCIPLINE PANEL DISCIPLINE PANEL (POTENTIAL AWARD
RECISSION)

The Pro Vice- A Staff Member A Staff Member A Staff Member

Chair Chancellor of the appointed by appointed by the appointed by the
offshore campus Academic Registrar Academic Registrar Academic Registrar

A Staff Member
A Staff Member A Staff Member Two Staff Members
appointed by the Pro
Staff Members appointed by the appointed by the appointed by the
Vice-Chancellor of the
Academic Registrar Academic Registrar Academic Registrar
Relevant Faculty

An Eligible Student An Eligible Student An Eligible Student Two Eligible Students

Student Members appointed by the appointed by the appointed by the appointed by the
Academic Registrar Academic Registrar Academic Registrar Academic Registrar

Which Student Discipline Panel makes the determination?

FACULTY STUDENT OFF-SHORE STUDENT CENTRAL STUDENT

DISCIPLINE PANEL DISCIPLINE PANEL* DISCIPLINE PANEL**

Academic Misconduct  
Academic Record Fraud  
General Misconduct  
* Each offshore campus has a Student Discipline Panel to hear cases of General Misconduct and Academic Record Fraud.
16 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students
** The Central Student Discipline Panel will hear all cases for Australian-based General Misconduct and Academic Record
Fraud. It is also responsible for hearing cases from students admitted into a College of Enabling program, Curtin English
courses, when the award rescission penalty is considered, or where the Academic Registrar determines that the Central
Student Discipline Panel is most appropriate. The Faculty Pro Vice-Chancellor may also refer cases to be heard by the
Central Student Discipline Panel.

Can someone other than a Student Discipline Panel make the determination?

No, this responsibility cannot be delegated.

How is a determination made?

The Student Discipline Panel will review all documentation and make a determination based on the balance
of probabilities. The Student Discipline Panel must act fairly and without bias, and can determine one of the
following:

• Misconduct has occurred;

• Misconduct has not occurred; or

• The available information is insufficient to determine if misconduct has occurred.

If the Student Discipline Panel is unable to make a determination, it may refer the matter back to the Inquiry
Officer to seek further information. The Student Discipline Panel may also determine that a matter should
be downgraded to an Academic Integrity Warning or Student Charter Breach. You will be notified in writing
via your student email and Official Communication of the Student Discipline Panel’s decision and your appeal
rights.

What happens if it’s determined that misconduct has not occurred?

No further action will be taken. If the matter relates to an assessment task, marking will re-commence, and
no penalty will be applied.

What happens if it’s determined that there is insufficient evidence to enable a finding?

The Student Discipline Panel has the option to:

• Take no further action; or

• Arrange for you to attend counselling or a lecture, seminar, workshop or similar activity in
relation to appropriate behaviour.

What happens if a determination of misconduct is made?

The Student Discipline Panel will determine whether any Category 1 and/or Category 2 penalty will be
applied. In addition to the determination letter, you will receive a Report that outlines the reasons for the
misconduct and penalty determination to help you understand the rationale for the decision.

Examples of reasons that the Student Discipline Panel may provide include, but are not limited to:

• The level of intent when committing misconduct;

• Any mitigating circumstances;

• Whether any advantage was gained over other students; and

• Any previous instances of misconduct.

17 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

11. APPEAL
The information in this section summarises the process for Academic Misconduct, General Misconduct and Academic
Record Fraud. Please refer to Section 8. Poor Academic Practice for a summary of the Poor Academic Practice Process.

Can I appeal?

Yes, you have the right of appeal against a determination of Academic Misconduct, the penalty that has been
applied, or both. You may only appeal based on a “question of law”. An appeal must meet this threshold to
be reviewed. You have 14 days from receiving the Student Discipline Panel’s decision to submit an appeal. If
you take no action, your appeal timeframe will expire after the 14-day period and the case will be finalised.
If you waive your right of appeal, the case will be finalised immediately, pending approval by the Vice-
Chancellor. Your notification letter will include a link to either waive your right to appeal, or to submit an
appeal against the determination and/or the penalty.

WHAT IS A “QUESTION OF LAW”?

A ‘question of law’, in the context of a threshold for an appeal against a finding
and/or penalty imposed under the Academic Misconduct Rules, is about an
error in the application of the process.
In other words, was the process followed correctly? Examples include:
• Procedural Fairness (e.g. a piece of evidence was not considered, you
were not given a right to respond to the allegations, the Authorised
Officer did not act in accordance with the Rules);
• When making a decision in a matter, irrelevant considerations were
taken into account;
• Failure to take into account considerations in making a decision; or
• No evidence or material to support the decision.

If your appeal meets the threshold grounds, you will get the opportunity to appear at the appeal hearing and,
to ensure a fair appeal hearing, all case documentation will be reviewed to gain a full understanding of the
facts of the case. Your appeal will not progress if you submit an appeal that does not meet the threshold
grounds.

What can I include in my appeal?

You must include a written statement that identifies the question(s) of law that forms the basis of your
appeal and provide appropriate supporting documentation.

The consideration of your appeal is confined to the issues that you raise in your appeal documentation. To
ensure that you are afforded a fair appeal hearing, the appeal party or parties will review all the case
documentation to gain an understanding as to the facts of the case.

Who else can appeal?

The Vice-Chancellor may appeal against a determination of misconduct, a determination relating to the
penalty imposed, or both. An appeal must be submitted in writing and any relevant documentation provided
within a 14-day deadline.
18 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students
Who hears an appeal?

An appeal must be heard by a party or parties who were not previously involved in the process. These parties
are either the Academic Registrar, Faculty Pro Vice-Chancellor, or Student Discipline Appeals Board.

PRO VICE-
STUDENT
ACADEMIC CHANCELLOR OR
DISCIPLINE
REGISTRAR PROVOST (as
APPEALS BOARD
appropriate)

Academic Misconduct: appeal against the

determination of misconduct, and/or where a   *
Category 1 penalty has been applied.

Academic Record Fraud: appeal against the

determination of misconduct, and/or where a  *
Category 1 penalty has been applied.

General Misconduct: appeal against the

determination of misconduct, and/or where a  *
Category 1 penalty has been applied.

Any appeal where a Category 2 penalty has

been applied.

* Any appeal referred by the Academic Registrar or where the appeal is initiated by the Vice-Chancellor is to be heard
by the Student Discipline Appeals Board.

Who are the members of the Student Discipline Appeals Board?

Members of the Student Discipline Appeals Board are:

• The Chair – a legal practitioner appointed by the Vice-Chancellor;

• Two full-time staff members appointed by the Academic Registrar; and

• Two eligible students appointed by the Academic Registrar.

Due regard will be given to member gender diversity on the Student Discipline Appeals Board.

What are the possible outcomes of an appeal?

The original determination and/or penalty can be:

Upheld: this means that the original determination and/or penalty by the Student Discipline Panel will
stand.

Varied: this means that the party hearing the appeal can vary the original determination and/or penalty.
The severity of the penalty may be increased or decreased.

Set Aside: this means that the party who is hearing the appeal can dismiss the determination and penalty.

You will be notified of the outcome in writing and this decision is final.
19 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students
Can I appeal this decision?

No, the internal process is now complete. If you are not satisfied that it has been conducted fairly, you can
make a complaint to the Ombudsman Western Australia. The Ombudsman is independent and external to
the University and does not charge any fees for their services.

Please note that the Ombudsman will normally only consider whether the University has followed its own
policies and procedures and whether the handling of your case has been fair and reasonable. The
Ombudsman does not make a new decision; however, the Ombudsman may, as the result of an investigation,
recommend that the University reconsider your case.

The contact details of the Ombudsman are:

Mail: Ombudsman Western Australia PO Box Z5386 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6831
Phone: 08 9220 7555
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ombudsman.wa.gov.au
20 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

12. FINAL STEPS AND GENERAL INFORMATION

Application of penalty(s)

Once the misconduct process is finalised, any penalties that were applied should be processed by the
University within five business days.

Queries relating to penalties applied as part of the Academic Misconduct process, such as grade change(s)
or resubmission of assessments, should be directed to your Unit Coordinator once the process has been
completed.

Queries relating to penalties applied as part of the Academic Record Fraud or General Misconduct processes
should be directed to [email protected].

Completing the penalty(s)

Following the completion of the misconduct process, you are responsible for completing the penalties by the
nominated deadline. Failure to complete any requirement(s) by the deadline may result in a sanction on your
enrolment, which prevents results release and enrolment in further units. Once you provide proof of
completion as per the instructions contained in the determination letter, the sanction should be removed
within two business days.

Where will the outcome be recorded?

Details of your misconduct case will remain on the University’s records. Access to your case details will be
limited and managed by the Office of the Academic Registrar. A determination of misconduct will not be
recorded on your Academic Transcript or your Award Certificate (Testamur). However, some penalties
applied through the misconduct process, for example ANN, your place in the course being terminated or
expulsion from the university, may appear on official university documents.

Professional Registration

The University is required to disclose information regarding your case(s) to professional registration bodies
when we have your written consent. Requests should be directed to [email protected].

External requests for information

As per the Disclosure of Personal Information Procedures, the University may be required to provide
information regarding your case(s) to external bodies, e.g. Western Australia Police Force. All requests
(including but not limited to subpoenas, search warrants, court orders, Notice to Produce, Notice to Comply)
will be approved by Legal Services.

Conflict of Interest

Staff and students are required to declare any actual, perceived or potential conflict of interest in accordance
with Curtin’s Conflict of Interest Procedures and will remove themselves from their involvement in the case.
21 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

13. APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1: RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS
While the University must take seriously any concerns around academic integrity or student conduct, these
allegations can be stressful for students. There are many resources available to help you throughout this
process, and you are encouraged to use any tools that you may find useful.

I was just notified about suspected Misconduct, and I’m overwhelmed. Where do I start?

When you receive the notification, download all documentation attached to your case, including the
allegation letter. Review all the information to make sure you understand the allegation and any supporting
materials. If you have a question about the case, the allegation, or the process, you can contact the Student
Conduct team at [email protected]. Please include your Case Reference Number, Student ID Number, and
full name in the email to enable a timely response.

I want to respond to the case. What should I say, and can anyone help me?

It may be confronting to receive an allegation of misconduct, which could lead you to make an impulsive
response. Take the time to carefully consider the matter, while remembering that the allegation might not
necessarily allege deliberate conduct on your part. There are times where a student might have
unintentionally breached student conduct conventions. Any suspected case of misconduct is simply that –
a potential problem with student conduct. It is not a confirmation of wrongdoing, nor a guarantee of a
particular outcome. It is also not a judgement on you as a person.

Your response should address the allegation, outline any mitigating circumstances, and include any
additional supporting documentation. You are given seven days to respond to allow you enough time to
thoroughly consider the case. There are no requirements for length, so you can share as much or as little as
you would like in a response. Generally, writing a single line such as, “I didn’t do this, and you need to end
this case” is not helpful. Including more details will help give a more complete picture of your view, and make
sure your voice is heard in this process.

You may realise, after reviewing the case, that your actions contravened Curtin standards. You can address
that in your response by taking responsibility for your behaviour, explaining how that mistake occurred, and
any steps you are taking to improve your skills or avoid a similar problem in the future. Recognising the
impact of our past actions is an important part of the educational process, and demonstrates integrity and
courage, two of Curtin’s core values.

You are also more than welcome to get advice about what to say. All Curtin students can access the free
services of the Guild Student Assist Office for advice or assistance in preparing a response. Guild
officers are unbiased, and your discussions are completely confidential. Students can call 1800 063 865 (in
Australia) or +61 8 9266 2900 (from overseas), or email [email protected]. You can find
more information on the Guild website at https://guild.curtin.edu.au/advice/academic/academicintegrity/.

I’m not coping, and my mental health is being impacted by this case. Who can help me?

All Curtin students – both in Australia and overseas – can contact the Student Wellbeing Advisory
Service for free, confidential support. You can call 1800 244 043 (in Australia) or +61 8 9266 2662 (from
overseas), email [email protected], visit in-person at Curtin Connect Building 102, or visit
their website at https://www.curtin.edu.au/students/personal-support/counselling-wellbeing/wellbeing/.
22 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students
Students at the Curtin Perth campus, including students enrolled Fully Online, may want to use
University Counselling Services. This is free for all students who are directly enrolled at Curtin, regardless of
citizenship status. You can contact the office on +61 8 9266 7850, email [email protected], or visit
their website at https://www.curtin.edu.au/students/personal-support/counselling-wellbeing/counselling/.
Emergency and after-hours resources can be accessed at https://www.curtin.edu.au/students/personal-
support/counselling-wellbeing/emergencies/.

Students enrolled at Curtin through OUA may want to access free support directly through OUA by emailing
[email protected]. Please provide them with your name, OUA ID card number, and your best contact
phone number.

Students at the Curtin Dubai campus may want to contact Mental Health and Wellbeing, which provides
free counselling and support services to all Dubai campus students. You can contact the office at
[email protected].

Students at the Curtin Malaysia campus may want to use Health, Counselling and Disability Services.
This is free for all Malaysia campus students, regardless of citizenship status. You can contact the office on
+60 85 630100 ext. 2709/2710, via email at [email protected], or on their website
at https://health-counselling.curtin.edu.my/home/health/counselling/.

Students at the Curtin Mauritius campus may email your Head of Faculty for information on free
counselling and other support services. Students in the Faculty of Accounting, Finance & Law should contact
Dr Karlo Jouan at [email protected]. Students in the Faculty of Design, IT & Communication
should contact Dr Sarita Hardin-Ramanan at [email protected]. Students in the Faculty of
Health & Education should contact Dr Ridwana Timol at [email protected]. Students in the
Faculty of Management should contact Dr Christel Ramloll at [email protected].

Students at the Curtin Singapore campus may want to use Counselling Services. This is available for all
Singapore campus students, regardless of citizenship status. You can contact the office at
[email protected], and you can review their website at https://students.curtin.edu.sg/personal-
support/counselling-guidance/.

Where can I go to get more support with academic integrity?

The Curtin Library has many resources available to help you improve your academic skills, including both
face-to-face and online. The UniSkills website can be a great starting point, covering referencing skills as well
as how to find good sources for your work, and analysing content. You can access the UniSkills website at
https://libguides.library.curtin.edu.au/uniskills.

The main Library study page has more resources available, including workshop registration, Peer Academic
Mentoring, UniPass, specialised unit guides, and support to build better study habits. This information is
available for all Curtin students at https://www.curtin.edu.au/library/study/.

The Academic Integrity website has additional supports available, including the academic integrity guide for
students and the student checklist to prevent plagiarism. These documents and more are available at
https://www.curtin.edu.au/students/essentials/rights/academic-integrity/.

All Curtin students are expected to complete the Academic Integrity Program (AIP) at the start of their course,
which provides a foundation for your academic career. You access the AIP on Blackboard, in the “My Units”
list. If you already passed the AIP test, you can self-enrol in the AIP again for a refresher. For more
information, go to https://www.curtin.edu.au/students/essentials/rights/academic-integrity/aip/.
23 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students
APPENDIX 2: HOW THE SERIOUSNESS OF AN INCIDENT IS ASSESSED
Inquiry Officers are required to address specific criteria to assess and make a recommendation about the
seriousness of an incident of alleged misconduct.

What information should be considered?

Criteria 1: The extent to which the behaviour was planned or deliberate:

• Does the timeline suggest a “spur of the moment” or opportunistic action, or an action that
was pre-meditated or planned?

• What are the reasons provided for the action (E.g. previous failures, poor results, family, or
financial pressure)?

• Did the student contact an outside person or organisation to assist in the action (E.g.
attempting to purchase answers, being given falsified documents by an external party)?

Criteria 2: The degree of advantage gained or potentially gained:

• What advantage could the student gain as a direct result of their action (E.g. pass an
assessment task, financial or personal gain, assessment extension)?

• Has any assessment process been compromised?

Criteria 3: The potential disadvantage to other students:

• What is the impact on other students?

• Have other students been unfairly implicated?

• Have the student’s actions applied pressure or responsibility to other students?

Criteria 4: The potential negative impact on the University’s reputation:

• Could the alleged misconduct impact Curtin’s reputation within the wider community?

• Could Curtin’s reputation be affected if no action is taken?

• What is the impact if the incident is made public?

Criteria 5: Importance of being seen to have taken clear and decisive action in relation to the
matter:

• What is the benefit of acting?

• How are Curtin’s Values and Code of Conduct upheld?

24 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students
APPENDIX 3: INQUIRY OFFICER HEARING
As part of their investigation, an Inquiry Officer may choose to invite you to a hearing to seek clarification
about details of the case. You are encouraged to attend as this is your opportunity to respond to the
allegation in person. You will be provided with at least seven days’ notice of the date and time of the hearing,
but the hearing can happen earlier with mutual agreement by both you and the Inquiry Officer.

When can the Inquiry Officer hold a hearing?

A hearing can only be held during the inquiry stage of the process. The notice of the allegation and the
request for a hearing may be sent on the same day.

Why would an Inquiry Officer hold a hearing?

The Inquiry Officer might feel that holding a hearing is beneficial if it would add value to the investigation or
help you understand the allegations. It may also be appropriate to hold a hearing if the Inquiry Officer has
received varying accounts about the situation, and it is not clear which version is correct.

Is the Inquiry Officer required to hold a hearing, and can I request a hearing?

The Inquiry Officer is not required to hold a hearing. You may request a hearing, but the decision is at the
discretion of the Inquiry Officer.

I’ve been requested to attend a hearing. What do I do now?

You must be given at least seven days’ notice of the date and time of a hearing. The hearing may be virtual
or face-to-face, at the discretion of the Inquiry Officer. When a hearing is arranged, you will be provided with
an Information Sheet which contains details on the following:

• What to expect;

• Who will be attending;

• Bringing a support person;

• What will happen after the completion of the hearing; and

• Where you can go to receive advice and assistance.

Can I bring a support person along to the hearing?

Yes, you may bring a support person – such as a family member, friend, Guild Student Assist Officer, or legal
representation – to accompany you. This person cannot act as your advocate, or speak on your behalf, unless
they are invited to do so by the Inquiry Officer.

If you would like another person to liaise directly with the University or act on your behalf, you must complete
and sign a proxy form, and provide this to the Inquiry Officer.

What happens if I am offshore or interstate?

If you are located offshore or interstate, the Inquiry Officer must arrange to hold the hearing via video link,
telephone, or other suitable means.
25 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

APPENDIX 4: POOR ACADEMIC PRACTICE PENALTIES

Poor Academic Practice Penalties:

A formal warning
A requirement for the Respondent Student to attend counselling or a lecture, seminar, workshop or similar
activity
A requirement for the Respondent Student to address the issue identified and resubmit the work:
• with a reduced maximum mark for the assessment; or
• with a reduced maximum mark for the relevant component
A reduced grade up to a maximum of 20% in respect of the assessable item in respect of which the Academic
Misconduct occurred

A fine up to $250
26 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

APPENDIX 5: CATEGORY 1 PENALTIES

Academic
Category 1 Penalties: General Academic
Record
Misconduct Misconduct
Fraud
A formal warning or admonishment, or both   
A requirement for the Respondent Student to attend
counselling or a lecture, seminar, workshop or similar activity;
  
A requirement for the Respondent Student to undertake an
academic integrity or research integrity program

A requirement for the Respondent Student to submit or vary an
ethics application

A requirement for the Respondent Student to address the issue
identified and resubmit the work (but with a reduced maximum 
mark for the assessment)
A requirement for the Respondent Student to repeat the
assessment (but with a reduced maximum mark for the 
relevant component);
A requirement for the Respondent Student to revise and re-
submit a thesis prior to submission or under examination

A reduced grade, or nil grade, for the assessable item in respect
of which the Academic Misconduct occurred;

An ANN grade for the unit in which Academic Misconduct
occurred

A fine up to $250 
A fine up to $1,000  
Suspension of all or any of the Respondent Student’s rights and
privileges within the University for a period of up to one (1)
month, including –
• exclusion from attendance at any specified scheduled
class activity, such as a lecture, seminar, or tutorial
workshop;
• exclusion from all or a specified part of a campus or
education centre;
  
• exclusion from participating in any activity organised
or managed by the University;
• denial of access to any or all facilities or services of the
University; and
• exclusion from enrolment in any unit or admission to
any course
Revocation of an offer of admission 
Cancellation of enrolment 
Revocation of an approval or grant of credit for recognised
learning

Prohibiting the Respondent Student from being given an offer
of admission, or from being admitted to a course or enrolled in
a unit

27 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

APPENDIX 6: CATEGORY 2 PENALTIES

Academic
General Academic
Category 2 Penalties: Record
Misconduct Misconduct
Fraud

Suspension of all or any of the Respondent Student’s rights

and privileges within the University for a specified period,
including:
• exclusion from attendance at any specified scheduled
class activity, such as a lecture, seminar, or tutorial
workshop;
• exclusion from all or a specified part of a campus or
education centre;   
• exclusion from participating in any activity organised
or managed by the University;
• denial of access to any or all facilities or services of the
University; and
• exclusion from enrolment in any unit or admission to
any course;

Termination from the course in which the Respondent Student

is admitted;   
Expulsion from the University;   
Prohibition from being admitted or re-admitted to any course
and from enrolling in any unit;   
The withholding of any award or the withdrawal of credit for
any completed unit, or both; and   
An Award Rescission Penalty;   
A FAIL classification for a thesis 
28 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

APPENDIX 7: GLOSSARY
Academic Misconduct means conduct by a Student, other than conduct constituting Academic Record
Fraud or General Misconduct that is dishonest or unfair in connection with any academic work, such as:

a) During any exam, test or other supervised assessment activity;

b) In relation to the preparation or presentation of any assessed item or work; and/or

c) In relation to the conduct of research or any other similar academic activity.

Academic Misconduct Other is conduct by a student that is dishonest or unfair and not previously
addressed under the other available case categories. When reporting Academic Misconduct this case
category should be used for any fraudulent behaviour relating directly to an assessable item. An example
is:

• Falsifying medical certificates for assessment extension

Academic Record Fraud means conduct by a Student, other than conduct constituting Academic
Misconduct or General Misconduct that is dishonest in connection with an Academic Record, such as:

a) Falsifying, or arranging the falsification of, an Academic Record;

b) Giving false or misleading information in relation to an Academic Record; or

c) Allowing a false or misleading Academic Record to be presented on behalf of the Student,

or another person. Examples include:

• A student claiming they have completed a degree from Curtin University on their CV,
Resume or online professional profile;

• A student providing a falsified Academic Transcript or Testamur to their employer.

Cheating is acting dishonestly or unfairly in order to gain an advantage. Examples include:

• Cheating in an exam, test or supervised assessment activity:

o Being in possession of unauthorised materials (considered to be Academic Misconduct);

o Removing an examination paper from an examination room when it is specified that the
paper is not to be retained by the student; storing or sharing an examination paper that
was illegally obtained (considered to be General Misconduct);

o Disrupting an examination or assessment activity in any way (considered to be General

Misconduct);

o Having a mobile phone or other electronic device in an examination or testing environment

(considered to be Academic Misconduct);

o Impersonating a student in an examination or arranging for another to impersonate, take

or complete the assessment on your behalf (considered to be General Misconduct);

o Copying answers from another person or permitting another student to copy answers
(considered to be Academic Misconduct);

o Exchanging notes, talking or communicating with another student in an examination or

test (considered to be Academic Misconduct); or

o Improperly obtaining prior knowledge of an examination or test paper and using that
knowledge in the examination or test or providing that information to a student(s) who are
yet to undertake the examination or test (considered to be Academic Misconduct).
29 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

• Cheating in an assessment or other assessable work:

o Allowing someone or an organisation to complete an assessment task on your behalf.

Collusion is where students act together in relation to the preparation or presentation of any assessed
item of work in a manner that is dishonest or unfair. Examples include:

• Working with another person (colluding) when the assessment should be completed
individually;

• In the case of collaborative group projects, falsely representing the individual contributions
of the collaborating group members.

Falsification or fabrication of data or other content. Examples include:

• Making up results and reporting them;

• Altering results so that the research is not accurately represented.

General Misconduct means conduct by a Student, other than conduct constituting Academic Record Fraud
or Academic Misconduct:

a) Which contravenes any written law of the Commonwealth of Australia, a State or Territory
of Australia or any other country, and where the written law relates to an activity
associated with the Student being a Student of the University;

b) Which contravenes the provisions of the Act or any Statute, rule or by-law, or University
policy or procedure;

c) Which contravenes any lawful direction by a member of the staff of the University;

d) Which infringes the reasonable freedom of other persons to:

i. Pursue their study, research duties or other lawful activities on premises owned or
controlled by the University, or elsewhere while engaged in an activity under the auspices of
the University; or
ii. Participate in the life of the University; or
e) Which is otherwise detrimental to the proper conduct of the University or the University’s
reputation. Examples include:

• Assaulting or harassing another person on University grounds;

• Using the Curtin Network to download or stream online content without approval,
authorisation or consent from the copyright owner.

• Providing an assessment from a previously completed unit to a student who is currently

studying the same unit.

• Damaging any University property.

Plagiarism is presenting the work or property of another person as your own without appropriate
acknowledgement or referencing. Examples include:

• Copying of sentences, paragraphs or creative products (in whole or in part) which are the
work of other persons without due acknowledgement. Creative products include webpages,
books, article, theses, unpublished works, working papers, seminar and conference papers,
internal reports, lecture notes or recordings, computer files, images or video;

• Too closely paraphrasing sentences, paragraphs or themes without due acknowledgment;

• Using another person’s work (including words, music, creative or visual artefacts,
30 Curtin University Student Conduct – Guide for Students

computer source code, designs, problem solutions or ideas);

• Submitting work which has been produced by someone else – including friends, family or
a paid contracting service (this is known as contract cheating, assessment outsourcing or
ghost writing);

• Submitting one’s own previously assessed or published work for assessment or publication
elsewhere, without appropriate acknowledgement (self-plagiarism).

Poor Academic Practice means Academic Misconduct that is not dishonest and where the degree of unfair
advantage resulting or that may result from the Academic Misconduct is no more than moderate.

A Student is defined under Statute No. 10 – Student Discipline as “… a person who is or was –

a) An enrolled student as defined in section 4(1) of the Act;

b) Admitted, or applying to be admitted, to a course or unit conducted by the University; or

c) Engaged, or applying to be engaged, in a structured program of learning provided by or for

the University …”