About Academic Appeal Specialist

Established in 2023, Academic Appeal Specialist has become one of Australia’s leading student advocacy consultancies, supporting university students through some of the most stressful and complex moments of their academic journey. We provide private, independent advocacy services for students across Australia, with a clear commitment to helping students understand and exercise their rights under university policies and procedures.

Our work spans a full suite of academic dispute matters, including Misconduct Defence, Show Cause Responses, Academic Decision Appeals, Late Course Discontinuation, Fee Remission, and University Policy Advice. We understand the intricacies of university regulations and we are dedicated to ensuring that every student is treated fairly, transparently, and with respect in all academic processes.

Although we are not a law firm, our staff bring strong legal training and practical experience to every matter. Each member of our team has a minimum of four years of legal background, including experience in administrative decision making, academic integrity frameworks, evidence assessment, and policy interpretation. This unique blend of academic advocacy and legal insight allows us to provide clear, strategic, and effective guidance while maintaining the highest ethical standards.

Our work has gained national recognition. Academic Appeal Specialist and our Principal Advocate, Herman Chan, have been featured in major media outlets including The Sydney Morning Herald and The Australian (2024 News / 2025 News), where our insights on academic integrity, international student fairness, and university misconduct trends have contributed to broader public discussion. In 2025, Herman was also invited to present at the ANZELA National Conference, the peak education law conference for Australia and New Zealand, where he delivered a presentation on the legal boundaries between international and domestic students.

Since our establishment, we have assisted hundreds of students from universities across Australia and internationally. Many of our clients approach us during moments of significant stress, uncertainty, or urgency. Our role is to provide clarity, structure, and strong advocacy. We pride ourselves on personalised support, transparent communication, and a compassionate understanding of the challenges faced by students today.

At Academic Appeal Specialist, our mission is simple: to ensure that every student’s voice is heard and their rights upheld. We stand beside you throughout the process, guiding you with care, expertise, and integrity. Whether you are responding to a show cause notice, defending a misconduct allegation, or seeking a late course withdrawal due to unexpected circumstances, we are here to support you through each step.

Countless students have already benefitted from our personalised assistance and expert submissions. At Academic Appeal Specialist, we are more than a consultancy. We are dedicated advocates for your academic rights, committed to helping you move forward with confidence and success.