Independent advocacy for students

If you’re experiencing issues with your academic progress, or with your experience at Swinburne, you can get advice and assistance from an advocacy officer from SSA Advocacy Service (SAS) which is a confidential, independent service.

SSA Advocacy Service (SAS) can:

• support you with issues related to university policies, procedures, or academic matters
• help you resolve concerns with your lecturers, tutors, or faculty
• explain your options and guide you through complaint or grievance processes
• assist with academic progress concerns, including Show Cause responses
• provide advice and support during misconduct or disciplinary matters
• review draft emails or letters and help you prepare for meetings or hearings
• advocate on your behalf in official university settings
• refer you to other Swinburne or external support services if needed.
   

SAS is an independent, confidential service staffed by advocates who work with you to understand your situation and explore realistic outcomes. We can help you draft responses to Show Cause notices and assist you in managing Swinburne correspondence.

Show Cause submissions

If your academic performance falls below the university’s minimum standard, you may receive a Show Cause notice. In this instance, you’ll be required to submit a formal submission to the university detailing why your progress has been unsatisfactory and outline the steps you’ll take to improve and pass your units.

If you’re unable to meet the university’s standards with your submission, your enrolment may be cancelled. SSA Advocacy Service (SAS) officers can assist you with Show Cause submissions. For further assistance, reach out to an independent SSA Advocacy Service (SAS) officer, or read through support material from SSA.