Griffith academic appeal: deadline, first step and form

Contact the decision-maker first

Griffith's process starts before the form. Students must first contact the decision-maker named in the decision outcome, in person or in writing, to get an explanation, check any additional information and correct any misunderstanding. The pages we read describe this as the pre-review step. Keep a copy of what you send and any reply. The pages we read do not state how quickly the decision-maker must respond at this informal step; confirm current timing with the named decision-maker or Griffith's Integrity and Complaints team.

If the matter cannot be resolved informally, students may request a review of the decision to the relevant review officer using the Student Review and Appeals Form.

Submit the form within 10 working days

A review request must be submitted within 10 working days of receiving the decision. An appeal may be available only where the decision has an appeal option. If an appeal option is available, an appeal request must also be submitted within 10 working days of receiving the decision. The pages we read do not state how long a review or appeal takes; confirm current timing with Griffith's Integrity and Complaints team or the Student Review and Appeals Procedure.

Use the Student Review and Appeals Form to submit the request. Before you submit, check the notice or decision you received and the relevant policy or procedure. The request should include the decision you want reviewed or appealed, the date you received the decision, the reason you believe the decision should be reconsidered, the outcome you are seeking, and any relevant supporting documents or information.

What grounds can support a review or appeal

A review can be requested on grounds that include procedural irregularities, new evidence of material significance, or a decision or penalty that is manifestly unreasonable. The facts state that procedural irregularities must be material or potentially material to the decision reached. For new evidence in a review, the facts state that the student could not reasonably have known it at the time of the original decision.

An appeal can be requested on manifest unreasonableness, alleged bias or new evidence. An appeal may be available only where the decision has an appeal option. Check which decisions have an appeal step in Section 3.6 of the Student Review and Appeals Procedure.

Submit true evidence only. Keep copies of what you submit and any replies. Read your letter and the decision carefully so the form matches the decision you are challenging.

What happens after you submit

The Integrity and Complaints team will assess the request and direct it to the relevant review or appeal process. Information is handled carefully and shared only where needed to assess and decide the review or appeal, provide procedural fairness, or meet Griffith's legal and policy obligations.

If you are still dissatisfied after the review, an appeal may be available where the decision has an appeal option. You submit it by completing a new Student Review and Appeals Form and selecting the appeal option. The Free help section lists Advocacy. Student advocacy and support services can help you understand the process and prepare your submission.

If the outcome goes against you

After Griffith's internal process is complete, external review options may be available. The pages we read do not name those options. Ask Griffith or the advocacy service listed under Free help where to confirm them.