Unfortunately, we have recently been made aware of an increasing number of students using file-sharing websites to share unit materials and study notes online. Some of these websites also offer 'contract cheating' services.

These kinds of file-sharing websites are in breach of Murdoch’s student code of conduct. Additionally, sharing unit materials may also breach the Copyright Act as these materials are the intellectual property of Murdoch University.

Recent legislation from the Australian Government has deemed the operation of many of these contract cheating websites illegal.

If you have any Murdoch University course material uploaded to file sharing website, you are required to remove the shared materials immediately. Failure to remove shared materials will put you at risk of investigation for academic misconduct, which can result in penalties such as suspension or expulsion from your course.

Additionally, do not participate in the use of these services for your assignments, exams or other assessment work. This includes posting assessment questions or reviewing answers provided on these sites. This is ‘contract cheating’ and will result in academic misconduct penalties.

Where to get support

If you need support with your studies, we are here to help. There are many free services and resources available, including after-hours and online support:

• Your Unit Coordinators can provide advice and guidance on unit content and assessment requirements.
• myMurdoch Advice provides advice on all aspects of your studies, with Peer Academic Coaches on hand to help you plan and progress through your assessments both in-person and online.
• You can access assessment feedback and subject-specific live chat advice through Studiosity.
• The Library has a large range of tools and resources for researching and referencing in assignments, including advice on copyright.
• You can self-enrol in the Communications Skills Toolkit for resources to help you improve your academic writing, grammar, teamwork, speaking, reading, and notetaking skills.

Further advice on academic integrity

If you would like a refresher on academic integrity, we encourage you to access your Murdoch Academic Passport (MAP100). MAP100 is a compulsory online unit that provides an overview of academic integrity at Murdoch University, covering the fundamental aspects of honesty, trust, fairness, respect and responsibility. If you’ve not already done so, you must complete this in your first teaching period, or face the penalty for non-completion.