Australia’s universities are deeply committed to fostering safe, respectful and inclusive cultures across both physical and digital campuses, with a clear focus on enhancing the student experience and wellbeing. The sector remains dedicated to collaborating with stakeholders to continually improve the university experience for all students.
UA welcomed the announcement on 11 September 2024 of legislation to establish an independent National Student Ombudsman (NSO), recognising it as an important step in ensuring students receive support throughout their studies. UA firmly supports the creation of the NSO to address student support and wellbeing, and address gender-based violence, in line with its original purpose. It is crucial that the NSO is established within a reasonable timeline to ensure it can begin fulfilling its important safety and wellbeing functions in 2025.
However, UA is concerned that the scope of the proposed Bill differs significantly from the NSO’s original intent. This broader remit may affect the appropriateness and success of the NSO’s responsibilities and could delay its timely implementation. We are particularly concerned that the expanded role may impact the NSO’s effectiveness in serving as a final avenue for addressing student safety and wellbeing in universities.
UA and its member universities have engaged in extensive consultations with the Department of Education on the Action Plan Addressing Gender-based Violence in Higher Education, including the introduction of the NSO. Our response to the draft Action Plan is available on the UA website.
Since the consultations with the Department of Education in June 2024, the proposed remit of the NSO has expanded to include matters beyond gender-based violence and sexual harm, raising concerns about how well the NSO can fulfil its intended purpose. To ensure its successful establishment, it is critical to take the time needed to carefully scrutinise the NSO’s proposed functions, scope and obligations as outlined in the Bill.
UA recommends extending the inquiry deadline and providing opportunities for additional, expert-informed submissions to ensure the Committee receives comprehensive input. This process will allow UA to fully understand the positions of our members and seek advice from other organisations to help shape an NSO that supports students effectively without unintended consequences.
Given the complexity of the NSO’s proposed functions and the limited time for detailed recommendations, UA has made several initial observations. These emphasise the importance of clear boundaries for the NSO’s scope and remit, ensuring it operates within its intended scope and does not overlap with other authorities. This clarity will be essential for the NSO’s success in supporting students and maintaining good practice.
We have made four observations in this submission and are committed to working constructively with parliamentarians, government and key stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes for students.
