The National Student Ombudsman (NSO) is a new, independent service that helps students with any complaint about their higher education provider.

From 1 February 2025, the NSO will be available to students who believe their higher education provider has handled a complaint unfairly or made a decision that negatively affects them.

The NSO is available to all students in higher education programs, including:
• Students from any TEQSA-registered provider
• First-year undergraduate or postgraduate students
• Part-time or full-time students
• Domestic and international students

What kinds of complaints can the NSO help with?

The NSO can review a wide range of issues, including:
• Student safety and wellbeing
• Fairness of complaint-handling processes
• Discrimination
• Racism
• Gender-based discrimination
• Gender-based violence
• Administrative issues

How can the NSO help resolve complaints?

The NSO does not make new decisions about complaints, but it can assess whether your education provider’s actions were fair and reasonable. Depending on the case, the NSO may:
• Make written recommendations to the provider
• Offer restorative engagement
• Provide mediation or alternative dispute resolution options

How do I make a complaint?

The NSO offers different ways to submit complaints to ensure you feel safe and supported. Even if you're unsure whether you're ready to make a complaint, you can call the NSO on 1300 395 775 or visit nso.gov.au to learn more.

International students studying with a private provider should continue to contact the Overseas Student Ombudsman for assistance.

🔗 Read full announcement