National Student Ombudsman launched to address university complaints

The initiative addresses concerns about universities' response to sexual violence on campus

National Student Ombudsman launched to address university complaints

The National Student Ombudsman officially began operations on 1 February, providing students with a mechanism to lodge complaints and resolve disputes with universities.

Sarah Bendall leads this new function within the Commonwealth Ombudsman’s office. The initiative formed part of the federal government’s “Action Plan to Address Gender-Based Violence in Higher Education,” which was developed in response to concerns that universities had not done enough to address sexual violence on campus.

The launch followed findings from the 2021 National Student Safety Survey, which revealed that one in 20 university students had been sexually assaulted since starting their studies, and one in six had experienced sexual harassment. The survey also showed that half of those who reported an incident felt their complaints were ignored. Education Minister Jason Clare emphasised that too many students had been unheard of for too long and that the new Ombudsman would work to change that.

The Ombudsman investigated whether universities had acted unreasonably, unjustly, oppressively, or discriminatorily when handling complaints. It addressed cases where students experienced gender-based violence, antisemitism, Islamophobia, or other forms of racism on campus. However, it did not handle academic judgment or employment complaints.

The Ombudsman had extensive investigative powers, similar to those of a Royal Commission. Universities could be required to provide documents, allow entry to premises for investigations, and ensure that staff answered questions. Complaints were handled through a range of resolution processes, including recommending corrective action by universities, working with regulators to ensure compliance, and facilitating alternative dispute resolution or restorative engagement between students and institutions.

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus stated that the launch of the Ombudsman ensured students had a place to be heard and where action could be taken to address their concerns.

The following week, the federal government planned to introduce legislation to establish a “National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence.” This code aimed to set mandatory safety standards for all higher education providers. The government’s action plan was developed in consultation with victim-survivor advocates, students, staff, and experts, including Patty Kinnersly, CEO of Our Watch. It aligned with the broader “National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children 2022–2032,” led by Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth.