Student representatives must balance their rights to publish and express opinions with the responsibilities and obligations set forth by UMSU’s policies and regulations.

Policies are located here.

Publishing

  • The General Secretary serves as the Publisher, overseeing the approval and publication of materials.
  • Print materials require pre-approval before publication, while online content is subject to post-publication review.    

The Publisher may refuse to publish materials that:

  • Pose a material legal or reputational risk to UMSU.
  • Are factually incorrect, false, or likely to mislead. 
  • Contrary to the aims, purposes, or objectives of UMSU. 
  • Contrary to the Constitution, Regulations, or Policies of UMSU. 


Social Media and Online Content

  • UMSU staff, student representatives, and volunteer directors are not allowed to divulge or discuss any confidential or private personal information unless authorised to do so. 
  • Online materials must adhere to UMSU’s standards and are subject to being reviewed by the Publisher after being uploaded.
  • Student representatives are responsible for ensuring that their online posts comply with UMSU’s Social Media Policy, avoiding content that poses legal or reputational risks to the organisation.                                 
Content Takedown Requests and Dispute Resolution

If online content is deemed inappropriate or breaches UMSU’s policies, a takedown request can be issued by the Publisher or their delegate. You must comply with the takedown request immediately.

If you disagree with a takedown request, you can engage in a formal dispute resolution process by:

  • Attempting initial discussions with the publisher to understand the rationale and express concerns.
  • If unresolved, formally challenge the decision through a written dispute, following the guidelines set out in the Student Media Policy. The dispute will be reviewed, and both parties can make representations.
  • The Complaints and Dispute Panel will make the final decision regarding a takedown request. If they decide in favour of keeping the takedown in place, the content in question must stay removed and cannot be republished. However, if the Panel overturns the takedown request, indicating that the content should not have been removed, then and only then is it permissible to republish the content.

* Disputes related to the content takedown or publication decisions under UMSU policies are heard by the Complaints and Dispute Panel. It is responsible for reviewing and making determinations on the issues presented, following the procedural fairness and guidelines specified in the Student Media Policy.