The National Student Ombudsman

The National Student Ombudsman (NSO) commenced on 1 February 2025 and handles complaints from higher education students across Australia.

What the NSO does:

  • Accepts complaints from prospective, current or past students at TEQSA registered higher education providers.
  • Considers complaints about the actions of higher education providers, including issues such as gender-based violence, racism, discrimination, special considerations, disciplinary actions and administrative problems (e.g. timeliness or accuracy of information).

What the NSO doesn't do:

  • It cannot handle employment related complaints or academic judgement issues.
  • VET course students (domestic and international) with public providers should contact the State Ombudsman.
  • International VET course students with private providers should contact the Commonwealth Ombudsman.

Jurisdiction and coordination:

  • The NSO's jurisdiction overlaps with those of the State and Territory Ombudsmen. They have agreed on how to manage the shared jurisdiction, by focusing on coordination, cooperation, and information sharing for effective oversight of the higher education sector.
  • Student complaints can be referred to the NSO from the State or Territory Ombudsman with the student's consent.National Student Ombudsman logo

More information:

  • Call the NSO at 1300 395 775 for a confidential chat.
  • Visit the NSO website for more details.