MELBOURNE - 201 9 STUDENT PROSPECTUS - Western Senior Secondary College
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STUDENT PROSPECTUS MELBOURNE - 2019
“Beautiful Melbourne”
Contents Content Page No Our mission 4 Introduction 4 Registration 5 Training Facilities 5 Computer Labs 5 Library 6 Cafeteria 6 Activities 6 Our Scope 6 Qualifications 6 How is my application processed? 8 Entry requirements 8 Admission Requirements for Other Countries 10 Student Visa Information 11 Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)* 11 Academic Progress 12 Full time study and attendance & Qualification Issuing Procedure 12 School-aged dependents 13 Futhur Study 14 Critical Incident Policy 15 Complaints & appeals 18 The Ombudsman: 20 Student Welfare Services 23 Emergency and Important Contact Numbers 26 Working While Studying in Australia 26 Change of Address 27 Use of Personal Information 28 Course Delivery and Assessment 28 Reassessments/Reenrolment fee charges 28 Recognition of Prior Learning/Credit Transfer Refunds 28 Refunds 29 Provider Default – Part 5, Division 1, Subdivision A of Defer, Suspension & Cancellation 30 Courses Offered and fee structure 37-57 ACCESS & EQUITY 58 PRIVACY 60 Access to academic records: 61 Cost of Living (All prices are in $AUD) 65 Student Accommodation 66 The ESOS Framework 68 Campus Location 70 Application 71
Our mission
The mission of Western Institute of Technology is to provide a significant educational experience that gives students
the opportunities to gain extensive knowledge and skills needed to innovate and adapt effectively to a lifetime of
social and technological revolution.
Introduction
Western Institute of Technology (WIT), located in Melbourne Australia, is a Registered Training Organisation that
meets administrative, delivery, staffing, facility, marketing, financial, quality assurance and assessment standards
agreed to by Federal, State and Territory Governments in Australia. The National registering authority body monitors
and subjects us to regular external audits to verify adherence to these standards. Teaching and learning at WIT is
specifically designed with international students in mind, to ensure they get a competitive edge. WIT provides
educational services to students from diverse backgrounds and walks of life. Our centrally located City Campus has
all the advantages of a new generation, multi disciplinary school, with accredited courses and quality assurance.
Melbourne is a modern, vibrant and sophisticated city, perfectly suited for students who
enjoy a range of lifestyle options to compliment the importance of their studies. As you read our prospectus, we
encourage you to consider WIT as your institution of choice, where professional standards in education, a supportive
environment that translates into academic success and achievements are always a priority. Our class sizes,
accessible teaching staff and learning facilities provide the personal attention to support students in gaining their
qualifications. Studying at WIT is an investment in your future through:
• Comfortable transition to studying and living in Australia
• Accredited, nationally recognised programs, delivered in accordance with Commonwealth Education Services for
Overseas Students Act.
• Personalised teaching
• Value for money
• Central location
• WIT's teamwork with industry partners ensuring relevant outcomes
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Registration
Western Institute of Technology is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) under the national regulator for
Australia’s vocational education and training sector, ASQA (The Australian Skills Quality Authority). ASQA
regulates courses and training providers to ensure nationally approved quality standards are met. The Standards
for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015.These standards are used by ASQA as an instrument in
protecting the interests of all students undertaking vocational education and training in Australia. WIT is also
registered on CRICOS as a provider for
International students. All courses offered to international students by Western Institute of Technology are also listed
on CRICOS.
Our main campus located at Level 4 & 5 220 Albert Road South, Melbourne VIC contains state of the art facilities
and will accommodate future growth. Being close to all types of public transport makes it extremely accessible and
convenient to students.
Training Locations
Head Office/City Campus: 1/67 Jeffcott Street,
Level 4 & 5, 220 Albert Road West Melbourne, VIC, 3003
South Melbourne VIC 3205 Contact Support Officer: Gills Mathews
Contact Support Officer: Gills Mathews Contact Number: 0433 357 466
Contact Number: 0433 357 466
Email: gills@wit.edu.au
Maidstone Campus
122 Mitchell Street
Maidstone, VIC 3012
Contact Support Officer:Gills Mathews
Contact Number: 0433 357 466
Dandenong Campus
42 Hutton St, Dandenong VIC 3175
Contact: Gills Mathews
Contact Number: 0433 357 466
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Computer Labs
WIT appreciates the importance Internet plays in the life of an international student. Students use the institute’s
computer labs for assignment and research purposes as well as keeping in touch with family and friends back home.
Now with over 100 computer terminals available to students, WIT’s Computer labs are an area of the Institute that will
continue to grow on a regular basis, as it is an important part of the student’s daily lives.
Library
Western Institute of Technology offers a library with a wide range of material to suit our students’ needs.
Library is located at the on Level 4, 220 Albert Road, South Melbourne Campus.
Cafeteria
WIT provides students with kitchen facilities on each level of our South Melbourne Campus. We also have on site at
220 Albert Road on Level 4, a vending machine for drinks and snacks at reasonable prices.
Activities
WIT offers students the chance to participate in many social activities such as attending sporting events. Also,
there are chances to participate in excursions to the many Art Galleries and Museums that are popular throughout
Melbourne.
Our Scope
All qualifications delivered by Western Institute of Technology are VET Qualifications, which are Nationally
Recognised. We are pleased to offer the following qualifications to overseas students.
Qualifications
Students enrolled with Western Institute of Technology who successfully complete their course will receive a
Certificate of Completion for one or more of the qualifications listed below.
Additional information about each qualification listed above can be found towards the end of this document or on our
website at- www.wit.edu.au
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Student Recruitment, Selection and Enrolment Procedure
Western Institute of Technology recruits students in an ethical and responsible manner and provides information
that enables students to make informed decisions about studying in Australia. WIT ensures students qualifications;
experiences and English language proficiency are appropriate for the course for which enrolment is sought.
Procedures
Prior to enrolment or entering into a contract, potential students will be issued (via post , face to face or
electronically) initial course information that
includes:
1. The requirement for acceptance into a course, including the minimum level of English language proficiency,
educational qualifications or work experience required and whether course credit may be applicable.
2. The course code, the title and the currency of the training product as published on the National Register.
3. The content and duration, qualification offered , modes of study and assessment methods.
4. Campus locations and a general description of facilities, equipment and learning and library resources available to
students.
5. Details of any arrangements with another registered provider, person or business to provide the
course or part of the course. students enrollment may be deferred, suspended or canceled.
8. Any work placement arrangements.
9. WIT’s obligations to the learner, including that WIT is responsible for the quality of the training and assessment
in compliance with ESOS and the Standards for RTO’s 2015, and for the issuance of AQF certification
documentation.
10. The learner’s rights including details of WIT’s complaints and appeals process.
11. The learners obligations.
12. Any materials and equipment that the learner is required to have/purchase.
13. A description of the ESOS framework and.
14. Relevant information on living in Australia, including:
• Indicative costs of living.
• Accommodation options.
Application Process
1. Students should complete an “International Application for Enrolment” and send it by email, post or lodge in
person at the addresses provided on the form.
2. Certified true copies or original photo ID, proof of IELTS 5.5 or equivalent and proof of highest completed post
secondary qualification should accompany the application.
3. On receipt of a completed Application for Enrolment, the Enrolments officer will make a decision on eligibility.
4. Each enrolment application is to be assessed to ensure that the student’s qualifications, experience and English
language proficiency (LLN Test) are appropriate for the course for which enrolment is sought. This is completed
through completing the Enrolment Checklist.
5. In the case where a student’s English language proficiency is identified as being below an IELTS test score of 5.5
or equivalent, the student may be referred for further English bridging training or potential ELICOS course enrolment.
6. In the case where the student is under 18 years of age, WIT has an obligation under the ESOS Act
and National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018 to
ensure all students under 18 have appropriate accommodation and welfare arrangements in place for the
entire period the student enrolled at the school.
7. The student under 18 must indicate on the enrolment who their welfare arrangements will be provided by - Parent/
legal guardian or nominated relative or WIT.
8. If successful, a Letter of Offer will be sent to the student (including details about course fees, commencement
dates, OSHC and Visa information) and the Letter of Offer Response Form.
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9. If the student is under 18 and has indicated that their welfare arrangements will be provided by Parent/legal
guardian, they must provide the following along with the Letter of Offer Response Form:
• Nominated guardian’s statutory declaration about the welfare and guardianship of the student.
• Nominated guardian’s Current Visa Copy/Passport
• Nominated guardian’s address proof
• Nominated guardian’s Police check
• Nominated guardian’s working with children’s card.
• Parent’s consent letter for nominating guardian
• The nominated relative must be one of the following:
1. Brother or sister
2. Stepbrother or stepsister
3. Step-parent
4. Grandparent
5. Step-grandparent
6. Aunt or uncle
7. Step-aunt or step-uncle
8. Step-aunt or step-uncle
9. Step-niece or step-nephew
10. They must also:
• Be aged over 21 years of age
• Be eligible to remain in Australia until your visa expires or you turn 18 (whichever happens first).
• Be of good character.
11. If the student is under 18 and has indicated that their welfare arrangements will be provided by WIT, WIT will issue
a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) with the details of the accommodation and
welfare services provided.
12. WIT has engaged the services of International Student Alliance (ISA) Guardian and Welfare Service and
Australian Homestay Network (AHN) to provide guardians and homestay for students.
13. Applicants are required to apply direct to ISA and AHN via their websites and follow their online application
process. ISA and AHN will inform WIT about the applicant’s registration. All details will be listed in the CAAW. WIT
will not release the eCOE or CAAW until the welfare and accommodation arrangements have been confirmed.
How is my application processed?
Once your application has been received, it will be processed by Western Institute of Technology. Applicants who
have satisfied the entry conditions for their chosen course will be issued offer letter and Ecoe.
If your educational qualifications do not meet Western Institute of Technology’s admission requirements, other
factors will be considered. These are:
a. Age
b. Work experience
c. Attitude and aptitude
d. Previous academic results
e. Attendance rate in the previous courses undertaken at Western Institute of Technology
f. Ability and skills to function in an academic environment
g. Possibility to succeed in his/her academic endeavours.
Having arrived at an admission decision, the English language skills (language and literacy) will be assessed. If a
student has a satisfactory English language score, (IELTS 5.5 or higher) the applicant will be admitted to his/her
chosen course. If an applicant cannot produce a satisfactory IELTS score, and there are doubts about the English
language skills to cope in an academic environment, the applicant will be advised to enrol in an English (ELICOS)
course for an appropriate duration until the student achieves an IELTS score of 5.5 or higher. This is not included
in your student fees and needs to be paid by the student directly to the ELICOS provider. Other Registered
Providers may make assistance available if Language, Literacy or Numeracy help is required. Please talk to the
Student Support Officer for more information.
Entry requirements
Selection for enrolment in our courses will be approved for applicants who meet the qualification selection criteria. In
line with Government policy, students with intellectual and physical disabilities and who meet the entry criteria are
encouraged to participate in training.
• Applicants should have satisfactorily completed year 11 or equivalent (year 12 or equivalent for Certificate IV,
Diploma and Advanced Diploma Qualifications)
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-Or-
• Applicants with no formal qualification and who can provide evidence of relevant and sufficient work experience
may also be considered.
• Current Overseas Student Health Cover.
• A proficiency in English equivalent to IELTS 5.5 or higher
-Or-
• Applicants who have successfully completed more than half of a course at the Australian Qualifications Framework
(AQF) Certificate IV level or higher. -Or-
• Applicants who have passed the entry English proficiency (LLN) test. Please also refer to your selected course
outline for any specific entry requirements
From 23 November 2014, the department will accept English language test scores from the Test of English as a
Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT) and the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)
across the Temporary Graduate, Skilled, Former Resident, and Work and Holiday visa programmes. Scores from
the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) test will also be accepted from a test taken on or after 1 January 2015 (to
coincide with the launch of Cambridge English Language Assessment’s new reporting system). These tests are
alternatives to the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Occupational English Test (OET),
and have been accepted in the Student visa programme since 2011. Student visa applicants can continue to provide
scores from the IELTS, OET, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) tests.
For more information go to: http://www.immi.gov.au/News/Pages/aelt.aspx
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Students require language, literacy and numeracy capacity equivalent to the descriptions
above
10Student Visa Information
According to the Department of Home Affairs you must provide evidence that satisfies the assessment factors
applicable to you to be granted a student visa. Assessment factors include your financial ability, English proficiency,
likely compliance with the conditions of your visa and any other matters considered relevant to assessing your
application. Additional information on student visa issues is available on the (Department of Home Affairs) Website
link: - https://www.australia.gov.au/directories/australia/portfolio/homeaffairs and the Study in Australia Website link: -
https://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)*
The Australian Government requires overseas students and their dependants to obtain health insurance for the
duration of their visas. You will need evidence that you have OSHC before you can obtain your Australian student
visa. embership of a health insurance scheme in your home country does not exempt you from paying OSHC. Only
Swedish students covered by CSN International (the Swedish National Board of Student Aid) and Norwegian
students covered by the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme are exempt from paying the Australian Overseas
Health Cover as a result of special intergovernmental arrangements.
For the upcoming year 2017/2018 the annual cost of OHSC is AUD $511.40 for single student, $1514.05 for
couple and $2903.75 for family cover. It is a requirement of Western Institute of Technology that all students have
OSHC for the duration of their program at the time of admission. The total fee for OSHC will be quoted in your
Letter of Offer and this amount must be paid with the first year’s course fees. When your OSHC payment is
received, Western Institute of Technology will pay the OSHC on your behalf for your selected policy and indicate
on your eCoE that you have paid the OSHC for the purpose of your student visa application. When you attend the
Orientation Program, you will receive your OSHC membership card. OSHC covers up to 100% of the scheduled
fee for most medical services and 100% of the scheduled fees in hospitals. Scheduled fees are those
recommended by the Australian Government, but doctors and private hospitals often charge more than the
recommended schedule fee, thus creating a ‘gap’ amount which must be paid by the patient. Whenever possible,
inquire with the doctor or hospital providing the treatment. If a gap payment is required, then you may claim this to
your medical insurer. Always check your benefit entitlement with the insurer before going to a private hospital.
OSHC also covers up to 85% of the government scheduled fees for private doctors, pathology and x-rays.
Students must make up the remainder of those costs. Please note that OSHC will not cover pre-existing conditions
(treatment for medical conditions or disabilities in existence before you came to Australia). There are several
providers of OSHC in Australia. edibank is a leading healthcare company with a presence in every Australian state
and territory. They are committed to promoting and sustaining your good health and this is reflected in the range of
services they provide at no additional cost. It is also the number one choice for international students, and so, it is
Western Institute of Technology’s provider of choice. When you insure with edibank OSHC through Western
Institute of Technology, Western Institute of Technology will disclose your relevant personal details to edibank.
Visit http://www. medibank.com.au/for more information about OSHC. *Please note that the rates mentioned for the
OSHC are subject to change depending on the service provider’s rates that WIT has partnership with at the time of
your admission.
11Full time study and attendance
Australian law requires International students to study at a full time study load. A full-time study load is normally a
minimum of 20 hours per week for 40 weeks each calendar year or for a continuous 12-month period. Students must
also be studying at least one unit that is not by distance or online learning in each study period. A study period is one
term of study at the Western Institute of Technology. Western Institute of Technology has initiated the Course
Progress Policy and Procedures for students undertaking vocational courses. Students undertaking vocational courses
will have their attendance monitored because poor attendance means that students will not progress through the
course at the required rate. For students who have unsatisfactory academic (Course) progress Western Institute of
Technology is required to review your involvement, counsel you, implement an intervention strategy and, if
unsatisfactory progress persists, report you to the Department of home affairs. The report to Department of home
affairs may affect the status of your student visa or lead to the cancellation of your student visa.
Academic Progress
A condition of your student visa is that you maintain satisfactory academic progress. At Western Institute of
Technology, you are considered to be making unsatisfactory progress if a student fails more than 50% of units in two
consecutive study periods (Term1+Term2). The Institute must notify the student in writing of its intention to report the
student for not achieving satisfactory academic progress. The student must be informed they have 20 working days to
appeal to the Institute. If the appeal is not upheld or the student withdraws from the appeal process then Western
Institute of Technology will report the student to Department of home affairs through the Department of home affairs
on PRISMS. Each student will be given a warning before being issued a notice of intention to report for unsatisfactory
progress. A failure in 50% or more units in a single study period (Term1) will trigger a review of academic progress
and implementation of an intervention strategy by Western Institute of Technology. Students failing to attend the
fortnightly intervention meeting without a reasonable excuse may be reported to Department of home affairs for
unsatisfactory academic progress. Where the student has chosen not to access the complaints and appeals
processes within the 20 working day period, withdraws from the process, or the process is completed and results in a
decision supporting the registered provider, Western Institute of Technology notify the Department of home affairs
through PRISMS of the student not achieving satisfactory course progress as soon as practicable.
Qualification Issuing Procedure
Western Institute of Technology will issue an AQF certification documentation to a student within 30 calendar days of the
student being assessed as meeting the requirements of the training product (course/short course) if the training program
in which the student is enrolled is complete, and providing all agreed fees the student owes to the Western Institute of
Technology have been paid.
Students are required to complete a Qualification Issue Request Form (F113), available on WIT's Website.
12School-aged dependents
There are requirements for compulsory school attendance for children or dependents of international students. In
Victoria it is compulsory for children to attend school until the age of 16. The choice of schools includes public
schools, private schools and religious schools. People over the age of 16 can continue to attend school until they
have completed year 12. Dependents of persons holding a student visa may be required to pay full fees in any
school, college or university that they enrol in whilst in Australia. School fees vary depending on the school.
Details about the Victorian public school system are available at http://www.study.vic.gov.au/Intstu/default.htm.
Intending students with dependents should budget for school fees, living costs and health insurance in their
calculations. If you are intending that your dependents will attend a private school in Victoria you will have to contact
the specific school to obtain information of fees. Information on private school in Australia is available at
http://www. independentschools.vic.edu.au/ If you would like to bring your children to Australia with you, you must be
aware of the following schooling issues: It is an immigration policy that school-age dependants of international
students undertake formal schooling while they are in Australia. Children who have their fifth birthday before 1st April
of that calendar year are eligible to start school. You will need to provisionally enrol your child in a school before you
leave your home country and you will normally have to pay the school fees one semester in advance. The school will
issue an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment Form (eCoE) stating the program and its duration, so that you can
obtain the appropriate visa for your child. The Australian Diplomatic Mission in your country can tell you which State
schools are registered to take international students. Fees are payable by international students at all State schools
unless you: - Are in receipt of sponsorship or scholarships from the Australian Government (e.g. the Australian
Development Scholarship, IPRS); - Hold a higher institution or approved non-government scholarship. These
scholarships must be approved by the State government for the dependants to be exempt from school fees. You will
be responsible for school fees and other costs including school uniforms, books, excursions and stationery. When
choosing the most appropriate school for your child, it is best to ask questions about the school’s curriculum, size,
extracurricular activities and the size of individual classes. You should also take into consideration the distance from
the school to your education institution, the suburb in which you intend to live and the method of transport you plan to
use.
13Student transfer
Under the ESOS Framework, Western Institute of Technology cannot enrol students seeking to transfer from another
college before that student has completed 6 months of their principal course of study except in some circumstances.
If you want to transfer before completing 6 months of your principal course, you need to ask Western Institute of
Technology for a letter of release. The six months is calculated as six calendar months from the first day of your
principal course. Your principal course is usually the final course of study you will undertake. For example, if you are
studying ELICOS followed by a Diploma program, the Diploma program is your principal course. If you are
considering requesting a transfer before completing 6 months of your principal course of study please contact WIT’s
administration for a copy of the transfer procedure and the application form. Letters of release will be issued to
students 10 free of charge. Students do not need a letter of release if: they have completed more than 6 months of
your principal course.
• they are a government sponsored student, and their sponsor supports a transfer
• their current education provider or course has ceased to be registered or a sanction has been imposed that
prevents your provider from continuing to deliver your principal course.
Further Study
All graduates from Western Institute of Technology may seek credits to relevant degree programs in Australian
Universities. There is no guaranteed entry into University programs however as a general rule students with high
marks will have the best chance of being accepted by a University. Our Student Support Officer is Gills Mathews,
who can be contacted on 03-9866 7555. He is available if you have problems with training or anything else that may
be causing you concern. This includes Student welfare assistance and guidance. Should you require professional
counselling, you will be referred to a qualified Counsellor. Students requiring special or intensive assistance must
contact the Training manager or Student Support Officer who may refer them to appropriate support or counseling
services. The Training manager can be contacted during office hours. Student Support Services are available at no
cost to the student.
At Western Institute of Technology, we care about our students and seek to ensure your stay with us is not only
academically rewarding but also an enjoyable one.
14Introduction
In the event of a critical incident, Western Institute of Technology (WIT) recognises that appropriate infrastructure
must be in place to ensure the provision of all necessary support services. This document outlines Western
Institute of Technology’s policy, support mechanisms and procedures for managing a critical incident. This policy
will ensure that WIT has:
• An effective approach in responding to critical incidents as they occur
• Appropriate support and counselling services available to those affected
• Appropriate training and information resources provided to staff.
Definition
A critical incident is defined by the National Code as ‘A traumatic event, or the threat of such (within or outside
Australia), which causes extreme stress, fear or injury. Critical incidents may include, but are not limited to:
• Serious injury, illness, or death of a student or staff
• Students or staff lost or injured during fieldwork experiences
• A missing student
• Severe verbal or psychological aggression
• Physical assault
• Student or staff witnessing a serious accident or incidence of violence
• Natural disaster e.g. earthquake, flood, windstorm, hailstorm, or extremes of temperature
• Fire, bomb-threat, explosion, gas or chemical hazard
• Social issues e.g. sexual assault, drug use, alcohol abuse.
Critical Incident Team
1. Western Institute of Technology has a Critical Incident Team to assist the CEO in the prevention and
management of critical incidents at Western Institute of Technology, or off campus in the case of an overseas
student for whom Western Institute of Technology has undertaken care responsibilities.
2. The Student Support Officers / senior most members present at the campus are the critical incident team leader.
3. The critical incident team also includes:
a) CEO
b) Designated Student Support Officers
4. The responsibilities of the team include:
a) Risk assessment of hazards and situations which may require emergency action
b) Analysis of requirements to address these hazards
c) Establishment of liaison with all relevant emergency services- police, fire brigade, ambulance, community
emergency services, hospital, poisons information centre, community health services
d) 24 hour access to contact details for all students and their families [for overseas students this includes
agents, consular staff, embassies]
e) 24 hour access to contact details for all relevant staff members needed in the event of a critical incident
e.g. critical incident team leader,
f) Development of a critical incident plan for each critical incident identified
g) Assisting with implementation of critical incident plans
h) Dissemination of planned procedures
i) Organisation of practice drills
j) Coordination of appropriate staff development
k) Regular review of critical incident plans
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15Reporting System
There will be dedicated phones. These phone numbers will be provided to all students and staff members. In case
of an emergency anyone can contact this number and the Critical Incident procedure will be implemented.
NAME CAMPUS PH NO
Gills Mathews South 03 9866 7555
Melbourne 03 9866 7555
Maidstone/
Dandenong
Critical Incident Procedures
WIT critical incident plans assign responsibilities among relevant staff members, and cover all the actions to be taken
and timelines for doing so. First port of call is the CEO/Designated Students Support Officers of the respective
campuses. In case the CEO is not available, the matter must be brought to the attention of the first available senior
manager.
On receipt of the report the CEO / Students support must follow
the procedures mentioned below
1. Immediate Response [within 24 hours]
1.1 Identify the nature of the critical incident
1.2 Contact emergency services [Dial 000]
1.3 If applicable secure the area
1.4 Ensure safety and welfare of staff and students
1.5 Notification of the critical incident team leader
1.6 Implementation of appropriate critical incident plan
1.7 Liaison with emergency services, hospital and medical services
1.8 Managing media and publicity
1.9 Contact and inform parents and family members
1.10 Identify students and staff members most closely involved and at risk
1.11 Assess the need for support and counselling for those directly and indirectly involved.
2. Secondary Response [48–72 hours]
2.1 Assess the need for support and counselling for those directly and indirectly involved [ongoing]
2.2 Provide staff, students, and wider WIT community, with factual information as appropriate
2.3 Arrange debriefing for all students and staff most closely involved and at risk
2.4 Restore WIT to regular routine, program delivery, and community life as soon as practicable
2.5 Completion of critical incident report
163. Ongoing Follow-up Response
3.1 Identification of any other persons who may be affected by the critical incident and provide access to support
services for community members
3.2 Provision of accurate information to students and staff
3.3 Arrangement of a memorial service and occasional worships appropriate
3.4 Maintain contact with any injured and affected parties to provide support and to monitor progress
3.5 Monitor staff and students for signs of delayed stress and the onset of posttraumatic stress disorder; providing
specialized treatment as necessary
3.6 Evaluation of critical incident management
3.7 Plan for and be sensitive to anniversaries
3.8 Manage any possible longer term disturbances e.g. inquests, legal proceedings Media Releases WIT
recognises that each critical incident is unique and the dynamics of each situation will need to be assessed
when it occurs. To protect the privacy of individuals and to ensure the provision of accurate information, WIT
has developed an agreed approach to media management.
1. CEO normally handles all media releases
1.1 CEO gathers information, checks all facts, and determines the official WIT response.
1.2 CEO ensures training/advice is provided for all staff to respond to telephone or occasional enquiries following a
critical incident.
2. CEO may delegate media liaison to another member of WIT staff.
2.1 The critical incident team leader is the delegated person to manage access of the media to the scene, and to
staff, students, and relatives
Evaluation and Review of Management Plan
1. After each critical incident, a meeting of the critical incident team will be held to evaluate the critical incident report
and the effectiveness of the management plan and to make modifications as required.
2. The evaluation process will incorporate feedback gathered from all staff, students, and local community representatives .
3. An evaluation report will be made available to Western Institute of Technology management team and the wider WIT
community.
17Complaints and Appeals procedure
Western Institute of Technology has a complaints and appeals procedure to provide students with a fair and quitable
process for resolving any complaints or appeals they may have. The complaints and appeals procedure includes a
requirement that an independent mediator will be appointed at no expense to the student if the student is dissatisfied
with the process undertaken by the Western Institute of Technology. Western Institute of Technology will make no
charge to the student for its complaints and appeals process or referral to the independent mediator. If you have a
complaint or appeal you should take the following steps:
• Contact Western Institute of Technology’s student support officer /admin staff to obtain a copy of the complaints
and appeals procedure and the application form available at the reception level 4,220 Albert road South Melbourne or
website of Western Institute of Technology (www.wit.edu.au)
• The complaints and appeals procedure to be resolved within 20 working days.
• Complete the application form and lodge it with the Training manager/ Student support officer.
• Follow up with the Training manager/Student Support Officer.
Policy
Complaints are to be taken seriously by all staff, and are to be actioned within 10 working days of receipt. We will act
upon the subject of any complaint found to be substantiated. Appeals must be lodged within 20 working days of the
assessment decision, and are to be re-validated by the CEO.
Requirements
• Students who are concerned about the conduct of Western Institute of Technology are encouraged to attempt to resolve
their concerns using this procedure.
• All prospective students will be provided with information about the complaints and appeals procedure before
making an agreement to enrol.
• All complaints and appeals will be handled professionally and confidentially in order to achieve a satisfactory
resolution Students will be provided with details of external authorities they may approach, if required At any
stage in the internal complaint or appeal process students are entitled to have their own nominee included to
accompany and support them.
• All complaints and appeals will be managed fairly and equitably and as efficiently as possible
• Students may raise any matters of concern relating to training delivery and assessment, the quality of the
teaching, student amenities, discrimination, sexual harassment and other issues that may arise.
• For internal complaints and appeals: The student will have an opportunity to formally present their case, in writing
or in person The student may be accompanied and assisted by a support person at any relevant meetings.
• A student’s enrolment must be maintained whilst an internal complaint or appeal is in progress and the outcome
has not been determined.
• The Western Institute of Technology will encourage the parties to approach a complaint or appeal with an open
view and to attempt to resolve problems through discussion and conciliation. Where a complaint or appeal
cannot be resolved through discussion and conciliation, we acknowledge the need for an appropriate external
and independent agent to review the process implemented by the Western Institute of Technology.
• If there is any matter arising from a student complaint or appeal that is a systemic issue that requires
improvement action this will be reported to the Western Institute of Technology management meeting as part of
the continuous improvement process.
• Nothing in this procedure inhibits student’s rights to pursue other legal remedies. Students are entitled to resolve
any dispute by exercising their rights to other legal remedies. Students wishing to take this course of action are
advised to: -
• Contact a solicitor; or- Contact the Law Institute of Victoria, 470 Bourke St Melbourne 3000, and telephone 9602
5000 for a referral to a solicitor.
Procedure
Informal Complaint Process
• Any student with a question or complaint may raise the matter with WIT staff and attempt an informal resolution of the
question or complaint.
• Questions or complaints dealt with in this way do not become part of the formal complaint process and will not be
documented, recorded or reported on unless the staff member involved determines that the issue question or complaint was
relevant to the wider operation of the institute.
• Students who are not satisfied with the outcome of the question or complaint are encouraged to register a formal complaint.
18Formal Complaint Process
• Students who are not satisfied with the outcome of the informal process, or, who want to register a formal complaint may do
so. To register a formal complaint a student must complete the student complaint form and contact the Training Manager or
student support officer to arrange a meeting. At this meeting the complaint can be raised and a resolution attempted.
• The following matters must be lodged as formal complaints within 20 working days of notification of an intention to report the
student to The Department of Home Affairs in order to be considered by WIT.
• Deferral of commencement, suspension or cancelling a student enrolment
• Non achievement of satisfactory course progress
• At the stage of the complaint meeting the complaint must be recorded in writing and signed and dated by the complainant and
the student support officer or Training Manager. The complaint is recorded in writing by completing the student complaint form
prior to the meeting or a new document can be prepared and signed during the meeting.
• The Training Manager will then attempt to resolve the complaint with the student and any other parties
who may be involved. The resolution phase must commence within 10 working days of the
complaint being lodged in writing.
• A maximum time of 20 working days from the commencement of the resolution phase will be allowed for the resolution unless
all parties agree in writing to extend this time. This period is called the resolution phase.
• At the end of the resolution phase the Training Manager will report Western Institute of Technology’s decision to the student.
The Western Institute of Technology decision and reasons for the decision will be documented by the training manager and
placed in the students file.
• Following the resolution phase the institute must implement the decision as conveyed to the student.
• If a student is dissatisfied with the outcome of the formal complaint process, then they may institute an internal appeals
process by completing the appeals form. Internal Appeals Process
• Internal appeals may arise from a number of sources including appeals against assessment, appeals against discipline actions
and appeals against decisions arising from complaints. The essential nature of an appeal is that it is a request by a student to
reconsider a decision made by the institute.
• A student’s enrolment must be maintained whilst an appeal is in progress and the outcome has not been determined.
• The appeals process is initiated by a student completing the student appeals form.
• The appeal resolution phase must commence within 10 working days of the internal appeal being lodged in writing.
• A maximum time of 30 working days from the commencement of the appeal resolution phase will be allowed for the appeal
resolution unless all parties agree in writing to extend this time.
• After a student makes an internal appeal, the Western Institute of Technology will appoint a person or body to hear the
appeal and propose a final resolution. This person or body must not be the same as any person or body that heard the original
complaint.
• Students appealing an assessment or RPL outcome will be given the opportunity for reassessment by a different assessor
selected by the institute. The cost of reassessment will be met by the Western Institute of Technology. The recorded outcome
of the assessment appeal will be the most favorable result for the student from either the original assessment or the
reassessment.
• The outcome of the internal appeal and reasons for the outcome will be recorded in writing and signed and dated by the
student and the institute and placed in the student file.
• There are no further avenues within the Western Institute of Technology for complaints or appeals after the internal appeals
process has been completed, however an external appeals process is available.
Internal Appeals Process
•The following matters must be lodged as formal appeal within 20 working days of notification of an intention to report. Internal
appeals may arise from a number of sources including appeals against assessment, appeals against discipline actions and appeals
against decisions arising from complaints. The essential nature of an appeal is that it is a request by a student to reconsider a
decision made by the institute
•A student’s enrolment must be maintained whilst an appeal is in progress and the outcome has not been determined.
•The appeals process is initiated by a student completing the student appeals form.
•The appeal resolution phase must commence within 10 working days of the internal appeal being lodged in writing.
•A maximum time of 30 working days from the commencement of the appeal resolution phase will be allowed for the appeal
resolution unless all parties agree in writing to extend this time.
•After a student makes an internal appeal, WIT will appoint a person or body to hear the appeal and propose a final resolution. This
person or body must not be the same as any person or body that heard the original complaint
•Students appealing an assessment or RPL outcome will be given the opportunity for reassessment by a different assessor selected
by the institute. Costs of reassessment will be met by the institute. The recorded outcome of the assessment appeal will be the
most favourable result for the student from either the original assessment or the reassessment.
•The outcome of the internal appeal and reasons for the outcome will be recorded in writing and signed and dated by the student
and the institute and placed in the student file and complaints register.
•There are no further avenues within the institute for complaints or appeals after the internal appeals process has been completed,
however an external appeals process is available.
19External Appeals Process
The External Review Process is available for student. Western Institute of Technology must inform overseas
students enrolled in their course of the WIT’s intention to report the student for unsatisfactory academic progress.
Prior to reporting students through the PRISMS for unsatisfactory academic progress, which will ultimately alert the
Department of Home affairs, Western Institute of Technology must offer students access to a complaints handling
and appeals process.
Standard 10 – National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018
requires Western Institute of Technology to have arrangements in place that are independent and external to the
Western Institute of Technology to hear complaints or appeals arising from the Western Institute of Technology’s
internal complaints and appeals process.
Standard 10 – National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018 - If a
student is not satisfied with the outcome of the internal complaint handling and appeals process, the Western
Institute of Technology must advise the student of his or her right to access the external appeals process. For
external appeals the independent mediator will be the Overseas Students Ombudsman. There is no cost for this
process to student. It is free.
Overseas Students Ombudsman (OSO)
The Overseas Students Ombudsman investigates complaints about problems that overseas students or intending
overseas students may have with private education and training in Australia.
The legal basis for the Ombudsman role is the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Legislation
Amendment Act 2011, passed by the Australian Parliament on 21 March 2011.
The Ombudsman:
• Provides a free service
• Is independent and impartial, and does not represent either overseas students or private education providers
can make recommendations arising out of investigations is a function of the Commonwealth Ombudsman.
• The Ombudsman can only investigate a complaint if:
• it relates to a private education provider registered with the Australian Government on the Commonwealth Register
of Institutions and Courses for Overseas students (CRICOS)
• the problem relates to an overseas student who is already studying in Australia on a student visa or is intending to
come to Australia soon. The Ombudsman cannot investigate a complaint if:
• it relates to a public or government education provider. These complaints can be directed to the Ombudsman for
your state or territory. The Ombudsman may also decide not to investigate complaints if:
• the complaint has not first been raised with the education provider
• another organisation is better able to help.
Apply for External Review
This is the process to be followed if a student is not satisfied with the outcome of an internal complaint or appeal
made by them and/or they wish to make an external complaint for independent review.
Online
A student can make a complaint online by visiting the website and completing the online form: http://www.oso.gov.
au/
20Telephone
Students can contact OSO by telephone, 9am to 5pm Monday to
Friday, Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST). In Australia,
call: 1300 362 072 (calls from mobile phones at mobile phone
rates). Outside Australia, call +61 2 6276 0111.
Using an interpreter
If a student wants to make a complaint in their own language they can call the Translating and Interpreting Service
(TIS) in Australia on 131 450, outside Australia call +61 3 9203 4027. OSO will pay for the interpreter. Deaf, hearing
or sight impaired Contact OSO via the National Relay Service. Teletypewriter (TTY) wusers phone 133 677 and then
ask for 1300 362 072. Speak and Listen users phone 1300 555 727 and then ask for 1300 362 072. Internet Relay
users connect to the National Relay Service www.iprelay.com.au and then ask for 1300 362 072
Fax
Students can send OSO a fax. In Australia: 02 6276 0123. Outside Australia: +61 2 6276 0123.
Mail
You can write a letter and post it to: Overseas Students
Ombudsman
GPO Box 442
Canberra ACT 2601
AUSTRALIA
21OSO External Complaints Process – Post Student Application
When a complaint is received, an assessment is first made about whether it is an issue that the Ombudsman can
investigate. In some cases, the Ombudsman may decide not to investigate a complaint. This might be because:
• the student has not complained to the education provider first, or
• another organisation is better able to deal with the complaint.
If a decision is made to investigate a complaint, the Ombudsman will ask the education provider about the problem.
The Ombudsman may request relevant documents, or information such as student records from the provider.
The Ombudsman can use formal powers to obtain documents from the provider. The Ombudsman also has the
power to enter premises or require a provider to answer questions as part of an investigation.
Standard 8.4 of the Code requires that the registered provider must maintain the student’s enrolment while the
complaints and appeals process is ongoing. This means that the provider must maintain the student’s enrolment (i.e.
not report the student for unsatisfactory progress or attendance) until the external complaints process is complete and
has supported the provider’s decision to report. The Ombudsman will notify the provider when it commences an
external complaint and appeal process and when this process is completed.
However, if the student lodges an external appeal outside the provider’s stated timeframe for reply, then WIT has the
right to report the student.
The provisions of standard 8.5 also still apply, which means that if the Ombudsman’s investigation results in a
decision that supports the student, the WIT must immediately implement any decision and/or corrective and
preventative action required and advise the student of the outcome.
Outline of Fees
The Overseas Students Ombudsman’s services are free
Outcomes of the decision
At the end of an investigation the Ombudsman may conclude that the provider has not acted unreasonably, and will
advise the student and the provider of this decision. In other cases, the Ombudsman may conclude that the provider
failed to take appropriate action or the action appears to have been:
• contrary to law
• unreasonable, unjust, oppressive or improperly discriminatory or
• otherwise, in all the circumstances, wrong Where that happens, the Ombudsman may recommend that a provider
remedy the problem for example by:
• apologising to a student
• reconsidering a decision affecting a student
• providing a refund
• providing clearer information or
• changing a policy or procedure
Education providers are given an opportunity to comment on any recommendations made by the Ombudsman.
Providers will be asked to detail how the recommendations will be implemented, and the Ombudsman will follow up
to see that this has occurred.
If the Ombudsman finds evidence which suggests misconduct, the Ombudsman can notify the provider’s principal
executive officer. Education providers are expected to comply with Ombudsman recommendations unless they have
good reasons for not doing so. Education providers have an opportunity to give these reasons to the Ombudsman
before an investigation is finalised. If they do not act on the recommendations, the Ombudsman may publish a formal
report. Standard 8 of the National Code 2007 states that providers must immediately implement any decision, and/or
corrective and preventative action, required by an external complaint handling or appeal process.
After the review
A copy of the decision will be provided to both the student and the Western Institute of Technology. If the decision is
to affirm the WIT’s decision, the WIT may continue with its decision to report the student for unsatisfactory course
progress.
If the outcome is against the decision of the WIT for reconsideration, the WIT must immediately implement any
decision and/or take corrective and preventative action required.
Initial Contactable person at Campus –
Student Support Officer –Stefany Cuardos – stefany@wit.vic.edu.au - 03 9866 7555
22Student Welfare Services
WIT provides a list of services and contact phone numbers for students that are in need of but not limited to;
Emergency housing, Hospitals, Doctors, Mental health, Fire department, Police, Ambulance and also employment
services to help students applying for employment. All students will be issued a Student card and some (but not all)
services such as Sporting venues, transport, movie cinemas, museums, galleries and club memberships are offered
at discount rates to local students only.
WIT provides the opportunity to students to access welfare-related support services to assist with issues that may
arise during their study, including course progress and attendance requirements and accommodation issues. These
services are provided at no additional cost to the student. If WIT refers the student to external support services, the
WIT does not charge for the referral. However if the external agencies charge for the services rendered by them, that
fee will be paid by the student. Use the following guide to assist in identifying who you should contact in the College:
However if the external agencies charge for the services rendered by them, that fee will be
paid by the student. Use the following guide below to assist in identifying who you should contact in
the College:
discussed 23Issue Who to contact What will happen Contact details
Academic problems/study Training manager You will be given extra ahmed@wit.edu.au
assistance Assistance will be
provided
Course progress problems Course Coordinator rashmi@wit.edu.au
To find a solution, referral to
course coordinator or trainers
with special skills to assist
you - Intervention strategy
Attendance problems Training manager Alter Study program to finish ahmed@wit.edu.au
the course in stipulated COE
time.
English language problems Training manager or Student Extra tuition ahmed@wit.edu.au/
Support Officer stefany@wit.vic.edu.au
Assessment problems Training manager or Course Re-assessment ahmed@wit.edu.au/
Coordinator rashmi@wit.vic.edu.au
Course Credit Training manager and Admis- Evaluation of documents sub- ahmed@wit.edu.au/ gills@
sion Support Officer mitted as per credit transfer wit.vic.edu.au
policy. Thereby providing an
outcome.
Student records Admission Support Officer Maintenace and Recovery of gills@wit.edu.au
designated documets
Course Progress Records Course Coordinator Maintenace and Recovery of rashmi@wit.edu.au
designated documets
Housing support Admission Support Officer Arranging Homestay and gills@wit.edu.au
Guardianship.
Personal issues Student Support Officer Cultural Aclimatetation, stefany@wit.vic.edu.au
Medical issues, complaints &
appeals.
Harassment Student Support Officer Issues related to racial stefany@wit.vic.edu.au
discrimination, bullying &
harresement.
24Family problems Student Support Office Referral to external services stefany@wit.vic.edu.au
may be suggested and
arranged
Orientation program Admission Support Officer & Welcoming & other briefing gills@wit.edu.au, stefany@
Student Support Officer and sessions provided wit.vic.edu.au, ahmed@wit.
Training Manager vic.edu.au
Fees, Refunds & Records Accounts Department Records, Payment plans accounts@wit.vic.edu.au
and options will be dis-
cussed
For visa matters Department of Home Affairs You will receive official gov- Contact Phone -131 881 in
ernment department advice Australia
25Emergency and Important Contact Numbers
The following is the list of other important contact details that students should be aware of:
Services Contact Number
1. Police, Ambulance, Fire 000
2. National Security Hotline 1800 123 400
3. NSW State Emergency Service 02 4251 6111
4. Interpreting Services 131 450
5. Poisons Information Centre (24hr advice on all exposures to poisons, 13 11 26
medicines, plants, bites/stings)
6. Abortion Grief Counselling 1300 363 550
7. Centres Against Sexual Assault 1800 806 292
8. Direct Line (24hr telephone counselling, information and referral) 1800 888 236
9. Gambler’s Help 1800 156 789
10. Nurse-on-call (24hr health advice and information form a registered 1300 606 024
nurse)
11. Pregnancy Help Line (Pregnancy options and alternatives to 1300 139 313
abortion)
12. Suicide Help Line (24hr crisis intervention, support and information) 1300 651 251
13. Disability Information and Support (9.00 am to 5.00pm, Monday to 1800 783 783
Friday)
14. Children’s Hospital at Westmead 02 9845 0000
15. St Vincents Hospital Sydney 02 8382 1111
16. Sydney Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital 02 9382 7111
17. George St. Medical Centre 02 9231 3211
18. World Square Medical Centre 02 9777 0024
19. Alcoholics Anonymous 1300 222 222
20. Legal Aid NSW 02 3219 5000
Working While Studying in Australia
From 26 April 2008, people granted student visas will automatically receive permission to work with their visa grant.
Most student visa holders will no longer need to apply separately in Australia for permission to work. You can get
more info by visiting http://www.immi.gov.au/students/_pdf/permissionto- work-students.pdf
You can work up to 20 hours per week, provided this does not interfere with your studies. This is a requirement for
both paid and unpaid work.
How much should you be paid?
The government has set wages for certain jobs and employers must abide by them. http://www.fairwork.gov.au/
resources/fact-sheets/ workplace-rights/Pages/international-students-fact-sheet.aspx
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