Code of Conduct

University College maintains a zero-tolerance approach to gender-based violence and any conduct that threatens the safety or wellbeing of our community. We acknowledge that gender-based violence is a significant societal issue and affirm our commitment to protecting and supporting victim-survivors. The College will take all necessary measures to prevent harm, respond appropriately to incidents, and ensure accountability in line with our duty of care, SAFE Policy, and obligations under the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender Based Violence.

Residents are encouraged to address minor issues directly through respectful, informal conversation. This is usually the quickest and most effective approach in community living.

If concerns remain unresolved or additional support is needed, residents may approach the Dean of Students or Student Wellbeing Coordinator, and, if necessary, the Head of College. Some issues may be referred to the Student Executive or addressed in a meeting with relevant students, staff, and/or Student Executive. The Head of College is generally involved only in serious matters of discipline or College policy.

University College values open and transparent communication. Petitions, anonymous letters, and offensive comments (including those made on noticeboards, news-sheets, or social media) are not acceptable forms of protest and are considered a breach of the Code of Conduct. Such actions undermine community values and may result in a review of residency.

The College regards all breaches of the Code of Conduct as serious. Penalties will be applied, with each matter considered on its individual circumstances and assessed on a scale from minor to severe.

The Dean of Students has primary responsibility for the maintenance of good order in the College and managing matters of student discipline. Breaches of discipline will be referred to the Dean of Students in the first instance for investigation and resolution (unless deemed impractical or inappropriate to do so).

The process in relation to any complaint, or where the College decides itself to investigate a student’s conduct, will be at the discretion of the College.

In cases where information about a possible breach of the Code of Conduct has come to the attention of the College, the College may initiate a process to investigate and resolve the matter.

All staff have a duty to report possible breaches to the Dean of Students.

The College seeks to handle all complaints confidentially, as appropriate and consistent with its obligations. Participants in any Code of Conduct process are expected to maintain confidentiality as directed, and failure to do so may itself constitute a breach of the Code.

Examples of possible breaches of the Code include:

• Sexual Harassment or assault

• Bullying or Victimisation

• Theft of or damage to property

• Tampering with Fire Equipment

• Use, possession, or distribution of illicit drugs

• Allowing unaccompanied visitors at UC

• Not adhering to College Alcohol Guidelines

• Violation of ‘No Smoking Policy’

• Repeated and/or intentional disruption of other residents

• Repeated violation of quiet hours

Forms of consequential action for Code of Conduct Breaches may include, but are not limited to:

1. Informal Resolution/Verbal Warning

A conversation with the Dean of Students or relevant staff to address the behaviour and clarify expectations. This is an opportunity to resolve the matter informally and support a positive change.

2. Formal Warning and Probation

A meeting with the Dean of Students or relevant staff to set clear behavioural expectations. Depending on the nature of the breach, a probationary period may be applied.

3. Suspension from College

A meeting with the Dean of Students resulting in temporary removal from the College for a defined period. Conditions for return will be set and agreed before reinstatement.

4. Expulsion

Following a meeting with the Head of College and Dean of Students, termination of residency and loss of all associated rights and privileges.

Please note:

• A student that has been placed on behavioural probation or suspension during any point in the academic year will be subject to a behavioural review before being considered for a leadership role (Student Exec, Representative, and OWL positions).

• Students who have received a formal written warning, behavioural probation, or suspension in relation to a Code of Conduct breach will have their eligibility for ongoing residency reviewed by the Executive Leadership Team at the conclusion of the academic year. Decisions regarding re-enrolment will take into account the student’s disciplinary record.