Student Ombudsman Office

The Student Ombudsman Office provides a free, confidential, and independent service to investigate student complaints, usually relating to academic or administrative decisions. We also provide advice to students and staff with questions and concerns about student related policies and procedures.

Our role

Complaint resolution

We can investigate claims and recommend actions to resolve them where appropriate.

We check whether:

  • the correct process was followed
  • procedural fairness was observed
  • the decision or outcome was compliant with policy and procedure.

Advice

We provide advice for students and staff on:

  • administrative procedures relating to students including:
    • assessment
    • enrolment
    • unsatisfactory academic progress
  • student standards, practices and procedures and provide recommendations for innovation and improvement.

The Student Ombudsman can investigate complaints, usually related to academic or administrative decisions.  We are not an appeal avenue and are unable to make fresh decisions but can investigate whether QUT followed correct policy and procedure in arriving at the outcome of the academic or administrative decision.

We do not investigate complaints related to discrimination or harassment.  QUT Harassment and Discrimination Advisers can assist with these matters.

We are an impartial office and do not advocate for students, staff, or QUT. Contact the QUT Guild if you require advocacy for your matter or support with navigating QUT’s policies and procedures.

Find out how to make a complaint or seek advice

Find out how to make a complaint or seek advice if you don't have QUT login

Meet the team

Associate Professor Erin O'Connor

Student Ombudsman

In her role as one of the Ombudsman at QUT, Erin is committed to providing a safe and confidential environment for students to voice their concerns. Erin is a registered psychologist and teaches in the QUT School of Psychology and Counselling. Erin has worked in various capacities, including as a therapist, and has taught group communication, health psychology, and psychology externships.

Dr Ruari Elkington

Student Ombudsman

Ruari has served as an Ombudsman for QUT since 2023. He is a Senior Lecturer in Creative Industries who has long focused on informal resolution of student complaints and improved student outcomes through good faith dialogue. Ruari works closely with Erin in their shared 'Co-Ombud' role to ensure a culture of respectful, fair and inclusive complaint handling and resolution.