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Disorderly Conduct and Limitation of Access Procedure

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Section 1 - Purpose

(1) The University of Wollongong (UOW) prioritises the safety and integrity of its campuses to foster an inclusive, welcoming environment conducive to learning and research. The Campus Access and Order Rules set standards of behaviour expected of all entrants and outlines the authority of Authorised Persons (as set out in the Delegations of Authority Policy), including the authority to issue directions and revoke or terminate access to University Land through a Limitation of Access Notice.

(2) This Procedure provides a structured, transparent process for revoking or terminating access to University Land. This Procedure also assists in ensuring the protection of the health, safety, and welfare of all entrants, and safeguards UOW’s reputation and operational integrity.

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Section 2 - Scope

(3) This Procedure applies to all individuals on University Land, including students, staff, and visitors. It covers incidents of Disorderly Conduct and provides guidance for identifying, assessing, and responding to such conduct.

(4) This Procedure should be read in conjunction with the Campus Access and Order Rules and other relevant University policy documents.

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Section 3 - Limitation of Access 

(5) Persons who witness a security incident or Disorderly Conduct should report this to University Security by contacting 4221 4555/Mobile Telephone 0407 287 750, dialling #3 from any campus security telephone or by emailing: security@uow.edu.au.

(6) Where a security incident or Disorderly Conduct is reported, and it is necessary to limit a person's access to University Land through a Limitation of Access Notice, Security will follow the process set out in this Procedure.

Statement of Facts

(7) A detailed statement of facts is recorded by or on behalf of the Authorised Person, identifying the specific Disorderly Conduct under the Campus Access and Order Rules.

Consultation and Assessment

(8) The Authorised Person consults with relevant University authorities to assess the incident's severity and impact, in a manner consistent with relevant University policies. 

Risk Assessment

(9) A comprehensive risk assessment is conducted by or on behalf of the Authorised Person to evaluate the potential risks of allowing the individual to remain on University Land in a manner consistent with relevant University policies.

Summary Preparation

(10) A summary outlining the grounds for a Limitation of Access Notice is prepared by UOW Security based on investigation and risk assessment findings.

Approval Process

(11) The finalised Limitation of Access Notice is reviewed and approved by the Director, Infrastructure and Property or delegate, prior to approval by an Authorised Person. For the avoidance of doubt, any evaluation or assessment of Disorderly Conduct that may also constitute a breach of the University’s other policies or rules, including the Student Conduct Rules, will be undertaken in accordance with those other policies or rules for the purposes of any disciplinary proceedings.

Notification and Appeals

(12) The Limitation of Access Notice is served to the subject of the allegation in writing and by email. The Notice will include details of the incident, including date, time and location, the reason for access being limited, information on the appeals process and any relevant policy documents being referenced.

Appeals Process

(13) The Subject of the Allegation (SOA) may appeal the Limitation of Access Notice by submitting a written appeal to Associate Director, Integrity within 20 working days of notification of the notice to limit access. The appeal must include the reason(s) for the appeal and any supporting evidence as relevant. 

Record Keeping

(14) All Limitation of Access Notices are recorded in the University’s security database in accordance with the Records Management Policy, for compliance and tracking purposes.

Compliance and Enforcement

(15) Upon issuance of a Limitation of Access Notice, Authorised Persons and UOW Security enforce the specified terms to ensure the safety and security of University Land. NSW Police may be called if deemed necessary by UOW.

Collaboration with External Agencies

(16) Collaboration with external law enforcement may be sought in cases of serious misconduct or criminal behaviour, with prior notification to relevant University staff where possible.

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Section 4 - Roles and Responsibilities

(17) UOW Security are responsible for:

  1. Enforcement: ensuring compliance with this Procedure and other relevant University policies by monitoring campus behaviour and intervening in incidents of Disorderly Conduct.
  2. Assistance: providing support to students, staff, and visitors in maintaining a respectful and safe campus environment.
  3. Response: acting swiftly to address Disorderly Conduct and, if necessary, imposing temporary access restrictions to maintain order and safety.
  4. Reporting: documenting and reporting incidents of Disorderly Conduct and access restrictions in accordance with university policies and legal requirements.

(18) Students are responsible for:

  1. Compliance: adhering to this Procedure and other relevant University policies, ensuring behaviour aligns with campus standards.
  2. Respect: maintaining respectful interactions with UOW Security, staff, and peers, contributing to a safe and orderly campus environment.
  3. Awareness: being aware of what constitutes Disorderly Conduct and understanding the consequences of violating these policies, including potential restrictions on access.

(19) Staff are responsible for:

  1. Adherence: following this Procedure and other relevant University policies, ensuring personal conduct is exemplary and compliant with university standards.
  2. Support: assisting UOW Security by reporting any incidents of Disorderly Conduct and cooperating with any necessary access restrictions.
  3. Role Model: demonstrating respectful and appropriate behaviour, setting a positive example for students and visitors.

(20) Members of the Public are responsible for:

  1. Respect: observing this Procedure and other relevant University policies, ensuring behaviour is respectful and does not disrupt campus activities.
  2. Cooperation: complying with instructions from UOW Security and other Authorised Personnel, particularly if access restrictions are imposed to maintain campus order.
  3. Responsibility: refraining from engaging in any behaviour that could be deemed disorderly or disruptive, respecting the safety and rights of the university community.
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Section 5 - Definitions

(21) Defined terms used in this Procedure have the meanings specified in the Campus Access and Order Rules.