Dear University of Auckland,

The University’s Addressing Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination Procedures and Guidelines distinguish between “formal complaints” and “informal complaints”, each with different resolution “pathways”, but neither the policy and procedures nor the guidelines define these two concepts. The Guidelines indicate that if an issue isn’t “resolved by informal means”, it may “become a formal complaint”.

What is the definition of a “formal complaint”?

What is the definition of an “informal complaint”?

What distinguishes the two?

Who decides whether a complaint is “formal” or “informal”?

On what basis is that decision made?

The wording of the Guidelines seems to suggest that a “formal complaint” is synonymous with a request for an investigation of the complaint.

Does this mean that the University treats complaints of bullying and harassment by default as informal unless the victim requests an investigation?

Does the University investigate complaints of bullying and harassment in the workplace without the victim requesting such an investigation – eg, if managers or HR staff become aware of the alleged incidents?

Yours faithfully,

CL Rainwater