University of Sydney Prioritizes Support and Accuracy in Misconduct Case Involving International Student

Student Misconduct Proceedings Ongoing Amidst Concerns Over Free Speech and Institutional Policies

The University of Sydney recently issued an apology following an incident involving a transgender international student. Initially, the university notified the student that she could face suspension for allegedly writing messages on campus whiteboards, accusing the institution of complicity in genocide in Gaza. The university later clarified that the threat of suspension, outlined in a misconduct notice, was the result of an "administrative error." However, the misconduct proceedings are still ongoing.

A Malaysian student, seeking asylum on a student (subclass 500) visa, wished to remain anonymous due to fears of reprisals. She expressed fear of deportation following the initial misconduct notice. On February 3, the Office of the Academic Registrar alleged she wrote protest messages on whiteboards in multiple tutorial rooms using a green marker. The messages included the slogan "from the river to the sea Palestine will be free," accusations of university involvement in weapons manufacturing and genocide in Gaza, and statistics on the Gaza death toll.

The registrar's letter stated that the green marker used was not a standard whiteboard marker, making the text difficult to remove. The student was accused of violating university policies, including the student discipline rule and the updated campus access policy, which mandates prior approval for protests and restricts demonstrations to open spaces without property damage. Additionally, the student was alleged to have breached the university's advertising policy, which prohibits graffiti and the attachment of posters outside designated noticeboards.

The registrar informed the student that she had until February 14 to submit a written response or attend a preliminary meeting. The potential penalties for admitting to the conduct included exclusion, suspension, or a reprimand. If the student denied the allegations, further investigation could follow. The student was also instructed to maintain confidentiality regarding the alleged conduct and process, with a warning that failure to do so could result in disciplinary action. The student stated she was under "extreme duress" and seeking asylum in Australia due to "immense violence and persecution" in Malaysia. She requested an extension until March 21, when she would be on a bridging visa, allowing her to address the matter without the threat of deportation. Moreover, she noted that suspension of her studies would lead to immediate deportation and emphasised being denied gender-affirming care, including hormone replacement therapy, in Malaysia, with only access to essential healthcare in Australia.

On March 5, the university acknowledged the student's concerns and clarified that an administrative error had occurred regarding the likely penalties. The university confirmed the error was being rectified and that the student would receive accurate information, advice, and support as a priority. An extension was also granted to allow more time for the student to respond. The university apologised for the error and any distress caused. On March 6, the university confirmed it had directly apologised to the student and offered necessary support, reaffirming that the safety and well-being of its community remained its primary concern.

Wendy Thompson, a queer officer on the university’s Student Representative Council, expressed strong disapproval of the proceedings against the student, describing the policies as excessively punitive and discriminatory. Thompson criticised the university for silencing students who opposed perceived shortcomings amidst rising course cuts and high fees. On March 3, the University of Melbourne imposed a ban on indoor protests following a pro-Palestine encampment that occupied a department building for over a week.

The campus access policy was updated to "ensure the safety of our diverse community while upholding academic freedom and freedom of speech." The spokesperson clarified that, despite the updates, the university had always informed students that misuse of university facilities, including property damage, could constitute misconduct. The headline and text of the article were amended on March 6, 2024, after a previous version inaccurately stated that "expulsion" was a potential consequence for the student. The University of Sydney's response to the incident highlights the need for a balanced approach that upholds both institutional policies and students' rights.

Editor's Note:

The recent incident at the University of Sydney involving a transgender international student has raised significant concerns about the institution's policies and their impact on students' rights. The university's initial threat of suspension due to alleged protest messages on campus whiteboards, followed by an acknowledgement of administrative error, highlights the importance of transparent and fair disciplinary procedures. Universities must uphold their commitment to academic freedom and freedom of speech while ensuring the safety and well-being of all students. The need for a balanced approach that respects institutional policies and individual rights is more pressing than ever, as students navigate complex social and political landscapes. 

Skoobuzz believes that institutions must strive to create environments where students feel safe to express their views without fear of unjust repercussions.