Your Rights and Our Responsibilities
The University of Newcastle is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where all students can fully participate in their studies. On this page, you’ll find key resources and policies that outline your rights, the supports available, and our responsibilities as a university.
Content on this page:
Understanding Your Rights
You have the right to access and participate in education on the same basis as students without a disability.
If you experience barriers to participation, have concerns about your adjustments, or feel your needs are not being met, we’re here to support you.
You can seek advice or provide feedback to:
University's Responsibilities
We’re dedicated to supporting students with disability to access, participate and succeed at university. Learn more about legislation, policies and initiatives that guide our support.
You have the right to equal access to education under Australian law. Learn more about your rights and relevant legislation.
Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA)
The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) is a federal law that makes it unlawful to discriminate against a person because of their disability in areas such as education and employment. This includes both direct and indirect discrimination, and applies to current, past, and future disabilities.
Read a summary of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA).
Disability Standards for Education (2005)
These standards clarify the obligations of education providers and the rights of students with disability. They ensure students can access and participate in education on the same basis as other students.
Learn more about the Disability Standards for Education.
The University of Newcastle is committed to being a leading advocate and driving force for excellence and equity in higher education. This Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2024-2025 demonstrates this commitment, striving to ensure that all students and staff with disability have the best opportunities to succeed.
Inherent Requirements are the essential skills, knowledge and behaviours you need to complete your program. They may include communication, ethical conduct or physical abilities, depending on your program.
If you need support to meet these requirements, a Reasonable Adjustment Plan (RAP) may help you take part in your program without changing the learning outcomes.
View the Inherent Requirements for your program.
Supporting Students with Disability Policy
Campus Access Policy: Learn more about bringing animals on campus.
Disclosure and Confidentiality
Disclosing a disability or health condition is a personal decision.
Students who choose to register with AccessAbility are required to provide relevant medical documentation and will participate in a discussion about how their condition impacts their studies.
Registration is entirely voluntary, and students are not obligated to disclose their disability to anyone at the University. AccessAbility staff can provide guidance on whether disclosure may be beneficial and in which contexts it may support access to appropriate adjustments or services.
The University of Newcastle is subject to the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (NSW) and the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002 (NSW) and at times the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). The personal and health information provided will be used by the University in accordance with the University’s Privacy Management Plan.
Your Voice
The student voice is integral to every aspect of what we do. Your experiences, perspectives and ideas can help shape a more accessible, inclusive and equitable University community. There are a range of opportunities for students to share feedback, contribute to decision-making, advocate for change, and connect with others who have shared lived experiences.
Students can contribute to institutional decision-making by becoming a student representative on the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee. The Committee helps guide the University's ongoing commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, ensuring student voices are considered in initiatives that create positive change across the University.
Learn more about the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee and student representative opportunities.
The UNSA Accessibility Guild is a student-led community for students with lived experience of disability, neurodivergence, mental health conditions, chronic illness, or caring responsibilities.
The Guild provides opportunities to connect with others, advocate for change, and help make the University more accessible and inclusive.
Learn more about the UNSA Accessibility Guild.
The Student Feedback Community (SFC) invites students to take part in user experience testing. By sharing their feedback and insights, students can help shape University systems and projects.
Join the Student Feedback Community (SFC).
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.