Policy Hub

Policy	Synopsis
Student Voice Policy	The University of Auckland’s Student Voice Policy emphasizes the importance of engaging students in decision-making processes related to their academic and broader university experiences. It applies to all students and staff, aiming to ensure students can reflect on, evaluate, and shape their learning environment. The policy is grounded in principles of inclusivity, equity, and respect, with a strong commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Māori and Pacific values. It outlines responsibilities for staff to provide safe, transparent avenues for feedback and for students to participate constructively. The policy promotes collaboration between students and staff, ensuring diverse perspectives are heard and integrated into governance, teaching quality assurance, and service improvements. It also mandates support for student representatives and emphasizes respectful, culturally aware engagement across all interactions.
Class Representative Policy	The University of Auckland’s Class Representation Policy outlines the framework for appointing student representatives to foster communication between students and staff. It mandates class reps for most taught courses, with the number of reps based on class size. Reps are elected within the first two weeks of each term and must undergo training provided by the Auckland University Students’ Association (AUSA). Their responsibilities include gathering student feedback, attending Student-Staff Consultative Committee (SSCC) meetings, and liaising with lecturers and AUSA Advocacy. The policy also details procedures for appointing year or cohort reps, managing feedback in small or research-based courses, and organizing SSCCs at academic unit and faculty levels. Administrative support and clear timelines for meetings and documentation are emphasized to ensure transparency and responsiveness. Overall, the policy promotes student engagement, representation, and continuous improvement of the learning experience.
NEW (Draft) Class Representative Policy
Student Survey Policy and Procedures	The University of Auckland’s Student Survey Policy and Procedures ensures a coordinated, ethical, and strategic approach to surveying students. It applies to all staff and students, aiming to minimize survey fatigue while maximizing response rates and data quality. Surveys must be voluntary, clearly focused, and methodologically sound, with transparent communication about anonymity, data use, and privacy protections. Core institutional surveys include the Learning and Teaching Survey, New Students Survey, Graduate Destination Survey, International Student Barometer, and Doctoral Experience Survey. Any other surveys require approval from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education), except for small-scale or service-specific surveys. Academic research surveys must also obtain ethics approval from the University’s Human Participants Ethics Committee. Survey sponsors are responsible for reporting results, protecting respondent confidentiality, and ensuring data governance compliance. Procedures for approval, sampling, and use of tools like Qualtrics are clearly outlined to support consistency and accountability

Policy	Synopsis
Student Academic Conduct Statute	The University of Auckland’s Student Academic Conduct Statute (2020) establishes the framework for maintaining academic integrity across all student activities. It outlines expectations for honest and ethical behavior in coursework, research, and examinations. The statute defines academic misconduct—including plagiarism, cheating, and falsification—and sets procedures for investigating and resolving breaches. It emphasizes fairness, transparency, and due process, ensuring students are informed of allegations and given opportunities to respond. The statute also supports education around academic integrity, encouraging preventative measures and fostering a culture of responsibility. Approved by the University Council, it is reviewed periodically to remain aligned with institutional values and legal standards.
Student Academic Complaints Procedures	The University of Auckland’s Student Academic Complaints Procedures provide a formal framework for resolving student concerns related to teaching and learning. Students are encouraged to first seek informal resolution by consulting course staff, class representatives, or support services. If unresolved, a formal complaint must be submitted in writing within three months of the event, unless exceptional circumstances apply. Complaints are reviewed by the academic head, who may investigate or appoint an independent investigator. A provisional determination is made and shared with the student and relevant staff, followed by a final decision from the dean. Students may request a review by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education under specific grounds. The procedures emphasize fairness, confidentiality, and timely resolution, with support available throughout. Records of complaints are maintained and reported annually to ensure transparency and continuous improvement .
Student Conduct Statute	The University of Auckland’s Student Conduct Statute establishes a comprehensive framework for managing student behavior and maintaining academic and community integrity. It applies to all students and staff, covering both academic and general misconduct. Academic misconduct includes actions that unfairly advantage a student or violate scholarly standards, while general misconduct encompasses behavior that disrupts university operations or harms others. Misconduct is classified into two categories based on severity, with procedures and penalties tailored accordingly. Category 1 cases are handled internally, while Category 2 cases are referred to the Discipline Committee. Penalties range from warnings and fines to suspension or expulsion, depending on the nature and impact of the misconduct. The statute emphasizes fairness, natural justice, and student support throughout the process. It also outlines rights to review decisions via the Student Conduct Review Committee, ensuring transparency and accountability in disciplinary actions
Statute for Student Discipline	The University of Auckland’s Statute for Student Discipline outlines the principles and procedures governing student behavior and disciplinary actions. It applies to all students and emphasizes the importance of good governance and personal responsibility. The statute defines the composition and powers of the Discipline Committee, which is responsible for handling serious cases of misconduct. It ensures that disciplinary processes are fair, transparent, and consistent with the university’s values. The statute was approved by the University Council and is managed by the Vice-Chancellor’s office, with the most recent amendments made in March 2023.

Policy	Synopsis
Health, Safety and Wellbeing Policy	The University of Auckland’s Health, Safety and Wellbeing Policy applies to all staff and students, aiming to clarify responsibilities and expectations regarding personal and collective safety. Effective since June 2020 and approved in August 2022, the policy emphasizes the roles of the University Council, leadership, management, and individual members in fostering a safe and supportive environment. It promotes proactive engagement with health and safety practices, encourages reporting and continuous improvement, and aligns with legal obligations and institutional values. The policy is reviewed regularly, with the next review scheduled for October 2026
Students with Disabilities Disclosure Guidelines	The University of Auckland’s Students with Disabilities Disclosure Guidelines support students in disclosing disabilities or impairments to access services and academic adjustments. Disclosure is voluntary and can occur at any stage—during application, before the semester starts, or anytime during study. While not legally required, disclosure enables access to accommodations such as note-taking, exam support, and specialized facilities. The guidelines emphasize confidentiality, requiring student consent before sharing information with staff. Early disclosure helps ensure timely support and reduces barriers to learning. Students must provide documentation from a qualified professional to register with Student Disability Services. These services can liaise with faculty and other departments to implement appropriate strategies. The policy aligns with national equity standards and the University’s commitment to inclusive education, aiming to create a safe environment where students feel empowered to share their needs and succeed academically .

Policy

Synopsis

Health, Safety and Wellbeing Policy

The University of Auckland’s Health, Safety and Wellbeing Policy applies to all staff and students, aiming to clarify responsibilities and expectations regarding personal and collective safety. Effective since June 2020 and approved in August 2022, the policy emphasizes the roles of the University Council, leadership, management, and individual members in fostering a safe and supportive environment. It promotes proactive engagement with health and safety practices, encourages reporting and continuous improvement, and aligns with legal obligations and institutional values. The policy is reviewed regularly, with the next review scheduled for October 2026

Students with Disabilities Disclosure Guidelines

The University of Auckland’s Students with Disabilities Disclosure Guidelines support students in disclosing disabilities or impairments to access services and academic adjustments. Disclosure is voluntary and can occur at any stage—during application, before the semester starts, or anytime during study. While not legally required, disclosure enables access to accommodations such as note-taking, exam support, and specialized facilities.

The guidelines emphasize confidentiality, requiring student consent before sharing information with staff. Early disclosure helps ensure timely support and reduces barriers to learning. Students must provide documentation from a qualified professional to register with Student Disability Services. These services can liaise with faculty and other departments to implement appropriate strategies.

The policy aligns with national equity standards and the University’s commitment to inclusive education, aiming to create a safe environment where students feel empowered to share their needs and succeed academically .

Policy	Synopsis
Addressing Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination Policy and Procedures	The University of Auckland’s Addressing Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination Policy and Procedures sets out a clear commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of its community, including staff, students, contractors, and visitors. The policy defines bullying, harassment, and discrimination, and outlines expectations for behavior across physical and digital spaces. It provides multiple pathways for resolution—both informal and formal—and emphasizes confidentiality, support for complainants, and protection against victimisation. Investigations follow structured procedures aligned with employment agreements and student conduct statutes. Oversight is maintained by the Harassment Governance Group, which reports to senior university leadership. The policy promotes proactive responsibility, dignity, and equity, reinforcing the university’s values and legal obligations under the Privacy Act 2020 and other relevant legislation.
Babies and Children on Campus Guidelines	The University of Auckland’s Babies and Children on Campus Guidelines support staff and students with caregiving responsibilities by promoting flexibility and inclusivity. The guidelines recognize various reasons for bringing children to campus—such as breastfeeding, childcare transitions, or temporary care needs—and encourage respectful communication with lecturers or managers when children are present. While the university offers facilities like parent spaces, breastfeeding rooms, and fridge loans for milk storage, it emphasizes that caregivers are solely responsible for their children’s safety and behavior. Children are not permitted in hazardous areas like laboratories or spaces with sensitive materials. Departments are encouraged to develop protocols suited to their environments, and any concerns should be resolved through open dialogue. The policy aims to balance family needs with safety and minimal disruption to others auckland.ac.nz.
Conflict of Interest Policy	The University of Auckland’s Conflict of Interest Policy ensures that all members—including staff, students, contractors, and board members—act with integrity and transparency when making decisions on behalf of the university or its subsidiaries. The policy acknowledges that diverse external relationships are valuable but may lead to actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest. It outlines principles for identifying, disclosing, and managing such conflicts promptly and appropriately. Members must disclose any interests that could affect their impartiality, and managers are responsible for reviewing and recording these disclosures. A register of interests is maintained to support accountability. The policy emphasizes that having a conflict of interest is not inherently wrong but failing to manage it can damage reputations and trust. Privacy and fairness are key considerations throughout the process.
Family and Relationship Violence and Abuse Policy	The University of Auckland’s Family and Relationship Violence and Abuse Policy affirms its commitment to supporting staff and students affected by family violence, promoting a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. The policy defines family violence broadly—including physical, psychological, sexual, financial, and spiritual abuse—and recognizes its impact across all demographics. It outlines support mechanisms such as flexible work or study arrangements, paid leave, compassionate consideration, and access to counselling and legal resources. Confidentiality is prioritized, with disclosures shared only when necessary for safety. The policy also encourages perpetrators to seek help and provides training to raise awareness. Oversight and implementation are managed by the Equity Office, with collaboration across university departments to ensure responsiveness and accountability.
Inclusion of Trans and Gender Diverse Students and Staff in Sport and Recreation Guidelines	The University of Auckland’s Inclusion of Trans and Gender Diverse Students and Staff in Sport and Recreation Guidelines promote equitable, respectful participation in university sport and recreation. Grounded in Te Ara Tautika (the Equity Policy) and aligned with New Zealand legislation, the guidelines affirm that individuals may participate based on their self-identified gender, without discrimination or medical requirements. They advocate for inclusive practices in team selection, uniforms, facilities, and travel accommodations, ensuring privacy and safety—such as access to all-gender toilets and private changing areas. Staff and coaches are encouraged to use correct names and pronouns, educate teams on inclusive language, and address any harassment or discrimination. The guidelines also support complaint resolution through university channels or external bodies like the Human Rights Commission. Overall, the policy fosters manaakitanga, fair play, and a welcoming environment for trans and gender diverse members of the university community.
Support for legal name change	The University of Auckland’s Support for Legal Name Change guidelines assist trans and gender-diverse students in navigating the process of legally changing their name. The university offers pastoral and financial support, including access to the Rainbow Support Adviser who can guide students through the application steps. Students may be eligible for funding to cover name change costs, and the university provides resources to help with updating records across internal systems. The initiative reflects the university’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and affirming students’ identities, ensuring that administrative processes do not become barriers to wellbeing or academic success.
Have your gender affirming name read out at graduation	The University of Auckland’s Gender Affirming Name at Graduation guidelines support trans and gender-diverse students by allowing their preferred first name to be read aloud during graduation ceremonies, even if it differs from their legal name. While the legal surname must still be used for official purposes, this initiative fosters a more inclusive and respectful environment. To request a name change, students must contact the Rainbow Support Adviser and provide their preferred name, student ID, graduation details, and a support letter confirming six months of consistent name use. The process is confidential and limited to transgender students who meet specific criteria. During the ceremony, the preferred first name is read first, followed by the initial of the legal name and the legal surname. The university also offers pastoral and financial support for legal name changes, reinforcing its commitment to equity and student wellbeing.
Privacy at the University of Auckland
Inclusive Learning and Teaching of Students with Impairments Guidelines	The University of Auckland’s Inclusive Learning and Teaching of Students with Impairments Guidelines provide a comprehensive framework to support equitable access to education. These guidelines apply to all staff and students, emphasizing the shared responsibility to foster a respectful and inclusive learning environment. Students with impairments are encouraged to disclose their needs early to access accommodations such as note-taking support, exam adjustments, and accessible materials. Teaching staff are advised to include inclusive statements in course outlines, use varied media formats, and ensure classroom dynamics support diverse learners. Faculties and service divisions must ensure accessible learning spaces, facilitate accommodations, and support professional development. The guidelines promote proactive engagement, barrier-free learning, and alignment with national equity and disability legislation.
Special Conditions for Tests and Examinations Policy	The University of Auckland’s Special Conditions for Tests and Examinations Policy ensures equitable assessment opportunities for students with permanent or temporary impairments. It applies to all members of the university and outlines the process for requesting accommodations such as extra time, alternative formats, or assistive technologies during controlled assessments. Students must apply online and provide supporting documentation from a qualified professional. Applications are reviewed by specialist staff, and approved conditions are tailored to individual needs, potentially differing from recommendations made by external practitioners. Deadlines vary by course type—semester, quarter, or summer school—with late applications considered only under exceptional circumstances. Temporary impairments are accommodated as promptly as possible. The policy aligns with national legislation and university equity frameworks, promoting fairness, accessibility, and academic integrity.
Student pregnancy, maternity and paternity	The University of Auckland’s Student Pregnancy, Maternity and Paternity Guidelines provide comprehensive support for students navigating pregnancy or supporting a partner during their studies. The university aims to minimize academic disruption by offering accommodations such as maternity/paternity leave, flexible study arrangements, and alternative assessments. Students are encouraged to disclose pregnancies early to initiate risk assessments, especially when working in labs or with hazardous materials. International students must consult visa requirements, and scholarship holders should review funding terms. Confidentiality is prioritized, and students can access health services, counselling, and financial support. Supervisors and schools play a key role in coordinating safe participation in placements, fieldwork, and exams. The guidelines promote a respectful, inclusive environment that supports academic progress and personal wellbeing.

Policy Hub

Student Voice Policy

Academic Conduct and Complaints

Health, Safety and Wellbeing

The Equity Policy whakapapa