Academic Integrity

Academic integrity at Bond University

Bond University is committed to ensuring you are equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to be successful in your studies and career. Academic integrity is central to this, because it safeguards professional competence and promotes ethical occupational behaviour. Our academic integrity standards protect you, the university, and industry. At Bond, academic integrity means doing the right thing in your studies—being honest, fair, respectful, responsible, courageous, trustworthy, and professional.

"Academic integrity lies at the very heart of any university. Without academic integrity, there can be no reputation for either individuals or the institution. To build a culture of academic integrity demands commitment from the whole of the university community. At Bond, we embrace this challenge and expect every student, staff member and alumni, and regardless of the circumstances, to act with integrity."

Professor Tim Brailsford, Vice Chancellor and President, Bond University

What is academic integrity?

Academic integrity is about acting ethically in your learning, teaching, and research. It means:

Being honest in your work.
Taking responsibility for your actions.
Respecting others’ ideas by properly referencing them.
Avoiding cheating, plagiarism, and other dishonest behaviours.

Bond expects all students and staff to uphold these values. Breaches of academic integrity—known as academic misconduct—can seriously affect your grades, reputation, and future.

Why it matters

Academic integrity is essential for your success at university and beyond. Here’s why:

Your future and personal development depend on it. If you fail to undertake the work of learning and instead act dishonestly or without integrity to obtain your award or complete your research, you risk graduating without the skills you need for your career.
Reputations are at stake. Bond graduates are known for their integrity, professionalism, and ethical decision-making. Employers and industry partners value degrees from Bond because they trust our standards.
It’s about fairness. You work hard for your grades, and it’s only fair that others do too.
Misconduct has serious consequences. You could fail a subject, be expelled, lose your visa, or even face legal action. Learn more about what academic misconduct looks like and how to avoid it.

The seven principles of academic integrity

Honesty

Be truthful, acknowledge sources, and avoid deception.
Trust

Build reliability through genuine, thoughtful work.
Fairness

Treat others impartially and take responsibility for your actions.
Respect

Listen actively, value diverse opinions, and recognise the impact of your words and actions.
Responsibility

Own your learning and stand up for integrity in your community.
Courage

Do the right thing, even when it’s difficult or unpopular.
Professionalism

Demonstrate integrity in all academic and professional conduct.

Be truthful, acknowledge sources, and avoid deception.

^{These principles have been adapted from the International Center for Academic Integrity (ICAI). (2014). The fundamental values of academic integrity (2nd ed.). Clemson University.}

How to act with integrity

Complete Bond's compulsory Academic Integrity Module

All new Bond students must complete the Academic Integrity Module during Orientation Week. This free, 30-minute online course helps you understand the importance of ethical academic behaviour, recognise misconduct, and learn how to avoid it. You’ll earn a digital certificate upon completion. The module is also available to continuing students who want a refresher.

Start the module now

Support services at Bond

Academic misconduct and how to avoid it

Academic misconduct can have serious consequences, including failing grades, suspension, or expulsion. It is important to understand what constitutes misconduct and the strategies to avoid it. Learn how to manage your time, meet expectations, and uphold integrity in your work. You’ll also find support services and advice on what to do if you're ever involved in a misconduct case.

Academic Integrity