Student misconduct

As a student at the University, you are expected to behave in an appropriate and respectful way. If you engage in behaviour that isn’t acceptable, this may be considered misconduct.

What is misconduct?

Behaviour that is considered misconduct is outlined in the University of Sydney (Student Discipline) Rule. This includes if you:

  • act in a way that is harmful to the good order and government, good name or academic standing of the University
  • act in a way that impairs other people’s freedom to pursue their studies or research, or participate in University life
  • breach the Student Charter or other University policies outlined in the University of Sydney (Student Discipline) Rule
  • submit fraudulent documentation or knowingly provide false or misleading information to a staff member or affiliate of the University 
  • intimidate, assault, vilify, abuse, threaten or endanger another member of the University community, or member of the public when engaged in an activity connected with the University
  • misuse any University facility or resource, or damage, destroy, steal, remove or misappropriate University property
  • refuse to provide details of your identity when directed to do so by an authorised officer
  • intentionally disobey any reasonable directions given by an authorised officer.

If your actions relate to academic matters such as plagiarism or cheating, this may be considered academic dishonesty. Situations like these are managed through our academic dishonesty procedure.

Advice and support

Before you lodge an allegation of misconduct or respond to an allegation of misconduct against you, you can get advice and support from one of the independent student advocacy services.

You can also contact the Student Affairs Unit on +61 2 8627 5559 or email us at studentaffairs@sydney.edu.au

Last updated: 02 June 2026

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