Academic Integrity

Academic integrity means doing your own learning and being honest about your work. It protects the value of your qualification and your future reputation with employers.

What academic integrity means

Academic Integrity means acting with honesty, trust, fairness, respect and responsibility in your learning, even when it’s difficult. 

Group of happy students sitting under a banner which says integrity

Access our free course on Academic Integrity

We offer a free Learn course to help you build your understanding of academic integrity.
You’ll need to complete this course every year if you’re studying a certificate IV or higher qualification.

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Academic misconduct (what to avoid)

Academic misconduct is acting dishonestly in an assessment task or exam to gain an unfair advantage.  

Common examples include:

Using artificial intelligence (AI) and academic integrity

AI tools can support learning when you use them appropriately. Your responsibilities do not change. You must still meet assessment requirements and be honest about your work. 

Before you use AI for study or an assessment, make sure you:  

  • Check your assessment instructions (what’s allowed can differ by course and task)
  • Use AI to support your learning, not replace your own thinking or work
  • Write and submit your own final response in your own words 

You can learn more about artificial intelligence here.

 

Artificial Intelligence

If someone copies your work

Speak privately with your lecturer. They’ll guide you on what to do next, and help you make a report if needed. 

If someone offers to do your work or offers to pay you for sharing your previous assignments

This is known as contract cheating. It is illegal in Australia, and you should report it to your lecturer.  

These organisations can also blackmail students. They may threaten to report you if you do not pay them more money. Protect yourself by doing your own work.  

What happens if you’re reported for misconduct

If you’re suspected of academic misconduct, your lecturer will then follow the Academic Integrity Procedure. This may include: 

  • Determining the type of misconduct 
  • Investigating the situation
  • Meeting with you to discuss the issue
  • Making a decision and choosing the appropriate outcome

Help and support

If you’re struggling with your studies, we’re here to help. You can:

Further Information

This page provides a summary of information (also available for download as a Fact Sheet). For more detail, please refer to the full Academic Policy and Procedure documents.

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