This webinar discussed insights from the NSO’s first own motion investigation - "Can I talk about this?” The use of confidentiality requirements in university complaint handling.

The webinar unpacked the NSO's recommendations for higher education providers to ensure the use of confidentiality requirements are appropriate, proportionate, and well communicated.

The webinar also provided clarity on how the National Code requirements intersect with confidentiality practices, explaining the Gender-based Violence Regulator's focus on outcomes, prohibition of non-disclosure agreements unless requested, and regulatory expectations for transparency, support access, staff training, and continuous improvement.

Presenters

Sarah Bendall
First Assistant Ombudsman, National Student Ombudsman

Zachary Cronau
Director, Strategic Investigations, National Student Ombudsman

Michele Clark
Assistant Secretary, Higher Education Gender-based Violence Regulator, Australian Government Department of Education

Further resources

• "Can I talk about this?" The use of confidentiality requirements in university complaint handling
• Confidentiality requirements in complaint handling policies: Guidance for higher education providers
• "Can I talk about this?" Tips for students on confidentiality requirements