An independent review into Professor Rathjen's period as leader from 2011-17 was launched in August after he was found to have inappropriately touched two women while working as vice-chancellor at the University of Adelaide.

The review received 11 complaints from Prof Rathjen's time at the University of Tasmania, three of which related to him directly.

Themes in the complaints include sexual misconduct, bullying, discrimination and failures in complaints systems and handling.

"The University Council is ultimately responsible for the wellbeing of people of the university," University of Tasmania Chancellor Michael Field said on Friday.

"This review has highlighted that as an institution we failed in these responsibilities.

"Our systems and processes in place at the time were not effective in protecting people.

"We are deeply sorry for all the distress these failures have caused. To each person affected: I am very sorry."

The review, which has not been fully released publicly, did not examine the complaints individually but how the university managed them.

"Should anyone who came forward wish to pursue a complaint, they will be supported to do so," University of Tasmania chief people officer Jill Bye said.

The specific nature of the complaints against Prof Rathjen is unknown.

The university has pledged to adopt the review's seven recommendations, including a review of complaints procedures specifically around senior university members.

Prof Rathjen became vice-chancellor at the University of Adelaide in 2018 and formally resigned in mid-2020.

South Australia's corruption watchdog found he inappropriately touched, hugged and kissed two colleagues and showed "egregious disrespect".

Australian Associated Press