Your Rights and Responsibilities

Obeying the Law

It is important to remember that when you are living in Australia you need to be aware of and follow local laws and rules. Being granted a student visa includes signing a document called the Australian Values Statement; a student agrees to respect the values and to obey the laws of Australia during their stay. Failure to comply with Australian laws (including state and territory laws) can result in a fine or the cancellation of your visa and possible deportation.

Your Rights

Your rights are important and protected by our school, Australian law and the Australian Government. If you have a complaint against the School, you can access the School’s complaints and appeals process. A copy of the School’s Complaints and Appeals Policy can be found at the back of this handbook in the Important Policy section.

The School is committed to resolving any complaint or conflict in fair and equitable manner, however, if you are dissatisfied with the conduct or result of the internal complaints and appeals procedure, you may contact and / or seek redress through the Overseas Students Ombudsman at no cost. Please see the below link or or phone 1300 362 072 for more information.

www.ombudsman.gov.au/complaints/internationalstudent-complaints

Nothing in the School’s Complaints and Appeals policy negates the right of an overseas student to pursue other legal remedies.

Complaints

If you have a complaint we suggest you follow this process.

STEP 1 contact the appropriate staff member for an appointment to discuss the issue. Written notes of the discussion will be kept in your student record.

Academic / Subject matters

• Ms Tanya Arnold (Head Teacher, High School Preparation)

• Ms Cheryl Frawley (International Student Coordinator)

• Mrs Susan Mellor (Student Counsellor)

Personal matters

• Mrs Susan Mellor (Student Counsellor)

For Homestay / Boarding matters

• Mrs Melody Marr (Homestay Officer)

• Mrs Susan Mellor (Student Counsellor)

STEP 2

If there is no resolution, you should make an appointment to discuss the issue with Mr Michael Bartlett (Director of International Education). You should take a written statement outlining any issues or concerns to this meeting and previous notes from your record will be referred to.

STEP 3

If there is still no resolution, you should make an appointment to discuss the issue with the Headmaster Mr Patrick Wallas.

After following the above process, if no resolution can be achieved, please see our Complaints and Appeals policy (Page 42) to help you take further appropriate action.

During orientation, your teacher will help you read through and understand these polices. If you have any questions about these polices at any time, please do not hesitate to ask staff at the International Centre.