Where a matter reported for action under the Code of Student Discipline or the Disciplinary Procedure (Ordinance 68, Part 2, Schedule 2) is the subject of police investigation or a pending legal case, the University (normally through the Deputy Principal) will consider the most appropriate course of action in the circumstances.
Criminal investigations can take a long time, sometimes spanning months or years, which means that the University may be required to pause its internal investigation for a period of time.
To enable the University to fulfil its duty of care, our internal risk assessment will be reviewed at regular intervals whilst any criminal investigation and/or trial is proceeding, to ensure the safety and protection of all parties. The University will also continue to provide support and guidance to those affected by the incident during the time when the disciplinary process has been paused.
At the conclusion of the external judicial process, the Code of Student Discipline or Disciplinary Procedure (Ordinance 68, Part 2, Schedule 2) sets out how the University will proceed.
However, the University may proceed with a disciplinary investigation and subsequent outcome, in advance of and regardless of the outcome of the criminal investigation process.
Where an investigation takes place this will be completed as quickly as possible, however this will be balanced by the need to complete an effective investigation, and will be dependent on the size and complexity of the investigation.