There’s no place for poor behaviour at Deakin
The winter months can sometimes feel like a slog, and this year we’re collectively managing the continuing effects of COVID and a severe flu season, along with ongoing natural disasters and what seems like an increase in the cost of everything.
We acknowledge and understand that many students may be under physical, emotional or financial stress – but you need to remember that there is never any excuse for disrespectful, abusive or intolerant behaviour, either on our campuses or online.
Any behaviour of this type is unacceptable and may have serious consequences. One of the foundations of Deakin’s culture is respect, and all students and staff have the right to considerate behaviour across the University. Our shared spaces should always be safe and enjoyable.
Deakin is a place for everyone to succeed, no matter where you’re from or what you’re studying. Together, we can live up to our values.
How to act respectfully
Being respectful mostly involves common sense and thinking before you act. Remember to:
- Act in the best interests of the University. Have you ever read the Student Rights and Responsibilities or Student Code of Conduct? These standards of behaviour underpin your enrolment at Deakin, so please take them seriously.
- Never behave aggressively or abusively. Any disruptive and rude conduct towards other students and staff in places like the library constitutes student misconduct and will not be tolerated in any context. Cyberbullying includes things like trolling and spreading rumours on social media or via email/SMS, setting up fake profiles or posting from someone else’s accounts. Here’s some useful tips for how to both be respected and give respect online.
- Respect personal boundaries. Never make inappropriate comments, post unsuitable images or use private messaging functions online to comment on things like another student’s appearance or personal situation.
Don’t risk your degree
Any student who behaves inappropriately in any face-to-face or online teaching and learning space will be directed to stop the behaviour and asked to leave if necessary. Deakin is preparing you for graduate employment, and behaviour that is unacceptable in a workplace is also unacceptable in a teaching and learning context.
It’s not OK to use disrespectful, discriminatory or offensive language when communicating with anyone in the Deakin community. This behaviour will be reported to the Student Conduct Team in the Office of the Dean of Students. Allegations of student misconduct may be investigated and formal penalties applied. These may affect your grades and enrolment, and in some cases you may be risking your degree or future career.
Help is here if you’re struggling
We understand that stress, anxiety or frustration can sometimes be an underlying reason for poor behaviour, but as individuals we can choose how we react or behave. Help is always available at Deakin:
- For free and confidential psychological support, speak to a Deakin counsellor or visit Ask Counselling. If you’re overseas, you can access local support.
- Explore the DeakinWELLBEING app for a range of digital tools and resources to help you stay calm and relaxed.
- Chat to one of our multifaith chaplains, who offer guidance and non-judgmental advice. They welcome contact from religious and non-religious students.
- Access a wide range of study support to help you feel in control of your learning.
- See what financial assistance is available if you’re experiencing money problems.
What to do if you experience poor behaviour
- If you ever feel unsafe, contact Deakin Security if you’re on campus or Victoria Police for emergency help by calling Triple Zero (000).
- If you’ve witnessed or experienced behaviour by a fellow student or staff member that feels threatening or concerning, contact Safer Community, who can offer support, advice and information to all parties involved.
- You can report inappropriate behaviour by a student (breaches of our Student Code of Conduct) to our Student Conduct team through a simple online form.