2012
Annual Report
The Honourable Adrian Piccoli MP Minister for Education New South Wales Parliament House Macquarie Street Sydney NSW 2001 30 April 2013 Dear Minister On behalf of the Council of the University of Newcastle, we have the honour of submitting our Annual Report to you for presentation to Parliament. The Annual Report summarises the work and activities of the University for the year ended 31 December 2012. The Annual Report and the accompanying audited Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with the Annual Reports (Statutory Bodies) Act 1984 and the Public Finance and Audit Act 1983.
The Honourable John Price AM Professor Caroline McMillen Acting Chancellor
Vice-Chancellor and President
Cover: Professor Phil Morgan, recipient of the 2012 Scopus Young Researcher of the Year Award in the Humanities and Social Sciences category and an Award for Teaching Excellence in the 2012 Australian Awards for University Teaching
Contents 02 Introduction 08
Governance and leadership
22 Education 38
Research and innovation
60
Indigenous collaboration
74
Engagement with our communities
90
Our staff
100
Our environment
112 Appendices 148
Compliance index
Volume Two Audited Financial Statements for the University of Newcastle and its controlled entities
ANNUAL REPORT 2012 | 1
Message from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor In 2012, the University of Newcastle continued to build its standing as a world-class institution that delivers quality education and innovative research. The Times Higher Education World University Rankings and QS World University Rankings ranked us in the top three per cent of universities in the world, and in the top 50 universities in the world under the age of 50. This is an excellent outcome for a young university competing against the world’s best. Nationally, the University is acknowledged as a leader in providing more opportunities for people from all walks of life with ability and determination to enter and succeed in higher education. With a continued focus on building access and participation, 27 per cent of our students in 2012 were from low socio economic backgrounds, compared to the sector average of 16 per cent in 2011. Importantly, our focus on supporting Indigenous students was maintained and 2.6 per cent of our students were Indigenous, almost double the sector average of 1.4 per cent.
Our research active academic staff delivered outstanding results in 2012. The University was ranked equal 7th in Australia for research ‘well above world standard’ in the Australian Government’s Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assessment exercise – and 44 fields of research at the University were assessed as ‘at’, ‘above’ or ‘well above world standard’, representing 90 per cent of our research submitted. In the same year, Laureate Professor John Aitken was named NSW Scientist of the Year recognising his remarkable contribution to the international field of reproductive biology and health. During 2012, we were delighted by the engagement of our staff, students and communities in the development of our 2025 Vision, our Values and our NeW Directions Strategic Plan 2013-2015. We have expressed a clear vision that by 2025 we will be global leaders in each of our spheres of achievement and that working with our partners, we will deliver worldclass innovation that supports the development of strong communities in our region and across the globe. It is this vision that will inform our priorities and strategies in the years to come.
The Hon John Price AM
Professor Caroline McMillen
Acting Chancellor
Vice-Chancellor and President
2 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
The NeW Directions Strategic Plan identifies our objectives and strategies for our lead priorities in education, research and innovation for the next three years; and we have also developed objectives and clear strategies for our future workforce, campuses, facilities, and IT, and financial plans required to achieve our 2025 Vision. The University recognises that its achievements are due entirely to the passion and commitment of our staff, the calibre of our students and alumni, and the support of our friends and benefactors. We have had a focus throughout 2012 on strengthening our support for professional and academic staff, and in 2012 our staff took up more than 10,000 training opportunities to develop their skills and capabilities across a range of areas. It has been a remarkable year for the University of Newcastle. As we move forward with the implementation of our NeW Directions Strategic Plan, we will continue to engage with our communities to build on our record of achievement as we strengthen our international and national standing and reputation for excellence.
Rankings
5
QS Stars overall maximum rating
TOP
50
universities in the world under 50 years of age QS ‘Top 50 under 50’ 2012, Times Higher Education ‘100 Under 50’ 2012
TOP
300
universities in the world QS World University Rankings 2012, Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2012
Ninth
in Australia for research funding outcomes
TOP
150
universities in the world and ninth in Australia for Life Sciences and Medicine
TOP
200
universities in the world and 12th in Australia for Engineering and Technology
QS World University Rankings 2012
QS World University Rankings 2012
TOP
TOP
350
universities in the world and 13th in Australia for Arts and Humanities
400
universities in the world Academic Ranking of World Universities 2012
QS World University Rankings 2012
ANNUAL REPORT 2012 | 3
Locations The University of Newcastle is a multicampus institution offering programs in a number of locations.
Central Coast
Orange
On the Central Coast of NSW, the multi-sector Central Coast campus (Ourimbah) offers University, TAFE and Community College programs.
Located on the central tablelands of NSW in Orange is the Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health.
Newcastle The Newcastle campus (Callaghan) is twelve kilometres from the Newcastle city centre, and comprises high-tech laboratories and teaching facilities across 140 hectares of bushland. Newcastle city Our Newcastle City Precinct comprises University House, home of the Graduate School of Business, the University of Newcastle Legal Centre and the Conservatorium of Music. 4 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Port Macquarie On the mid-north coast of NSW, the multi-sector Port Macquarie campus offers University nursing, teaching and foundation studies courses and TAFE programs. Singapore The University offers a comprehensive range of degree programs in partnership with PSB Academy at a campus near Tiong Bahru MRT station. University programs with Singapore Accountancy Academy - Global Education (SAA-GE) are delivered
through the CBD premises of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore. Sydney CBD At Bathurst Street in the centre of Sydney, the University offers postgraduate studies in business and professional accounting, and English language studies. Tamworth, Armidale, Taree and Moree The University’s Department of Rural Health and Rural Clinical School operates from various locations in northern NSW.
Our vision for 2025 The University aspires to be a global leader in each of its spheres of achievement.
Through engagement with partners, the University will deliver world-class innovation to support the development of strong regional communities.
Our values The values of the University of Newcastle are shaped by our history and our aspirations. Our values represent shared ideals and express what we stand for and who we are. As we move forward, our values will underpin our choices, strategies and actions. Innovation We challenge standard practice and received wisdom. We are world leaders in generating new knowledge and translating innovative ideas into real benefits to society.
Integrity
Equity and social justice
We are open, ethical, rigorous and committed to the highest standards in academic enquiry. We are champions of academic freedom and professional responsibility.
We provide opportunities for people with ability, regardless of their background and experiences. We lead in providing education for Indigenous Australians.
Excellence
Sustainability
We deliver the highest quality in everything we do and benchmark ourselves against the world’s best.
We are leaders in environmental sustainability. We make a significant contribution to the economic, social and environmental capacity of our communities.
Engagement Our staff, students and alumni are a resource for our whole community. We are partners and collaborators in world-class research, teaching and learning, and our skilled graduates contribute to our regions, Australia and the world.
ANNUAL REPORT 2012 | 5
Snapshot 2012 Key Statistics
37,450
Enrolments
STUDENT ENROLMENTS
25,017 STUDENT LOAD (EFTSL)
6 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
GradSchool (3830)
Port Macquarie (376)
6,727 9,197 4,212 7,104 5,259 4,109 810
The Wollotuka Institute
Other University
Engineering and Built Environment Education and Arts
Business and Law
English Language and Foundation Studies
Students By Faculty
COMMENCING ENROLMENTS
INTERNATIONAL ENROLMENTS
Sydney (1103)
Singapore (1853)
17,576 7,620
Ourimbah (4369)
Science and IT
TOTAL STAFF FTE (EXCLUDES CASUALS)
Other (includes online) (925)
Health
2,596
Callaghan (24994)
32
Student Load by Level of Program (EFTSL)
Undergraduate (18606)
Higher Degree by Research (1037)
Postgraduate Coursework (3165)
Enabling (1627)
Non-award (260)
ELICOS (322)
Our Alumni in the world – Top 10 Locations outside Australia 2012*
Singapore
Thailand
Hong Kong (SAR of China)
Canada
Malaysia
Indonesia
China
Taiwan
Korea
Norway
* Contactable Alumni Research Income 2007 – 2011
2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 0
20 Australian Competitive Grants
40 Industry and Other
60
80 Other Public Sector
100 Cooperative Research Centres
Source: Higher Education Research Data Collection, Audited Return 2012
Further statistics are available in Appendix A Five year key statistics and Appendix E Student statistics.
ANNUAL REPORT 2012 | 7
Governance and leadership
8 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Charter and functions The University is governed by the University of Newcastle Act 1989 (NSW) (the Act) and the University of Newcastle By-law 2005 (NSW) (the By-law). Section 6 of the Act defines the University’s core object as “the promotion, within the limits of the University’s resources, of scholarship, research, free inquiry, the interaction of research and teaching and academic excellence”. The Act specifies that the University must have particular regard to the needs of the Hunter region, the Central Coast and surrounding areas. In 2012, the Act and the By-law were amended by the Universities Governing Bodies (University of Newcastle) Order 2012 (NSW) (see also Appendix I: Legislative Change). This order gave effect to the Council’s resolution to adopt the standard governing provisions enabled by the Universities Governing Bodies Act 2011 (NSW) and approved the new rules for the constitution of the Council. The new standard provisions allow the Council to progressively adopt greater flexibility in its size, composition and mix of skills. As a result, a new composition of 16 members will be in place from 1 January 2013. This Order was amended by the Universities Governing Bodies (University of Newcastle) Order (No 2) 2012 (NSW) to provide for the term of office of the elected staff and student members of the Council. The amendments to this Order also had the effect of amending the University’s Act and By-law.
The Council The Council is the University’s governing body. It has responsibility for managing the affairs and concerns of the University and may act in all matters concerning the University. Council members possess a diverse range of professional experience and skills in areas including financial, commercial, legal, and planning. The Council is led by the Chancellor. The Act gives the Council authority to establish committees to assist in the exercise of its functions. In 2012 the standing Committees of Council were the Audit and Risk Management Committee, the Controlled Entities Sub-Committee, the Executive Committee of Council, the Finance Committee, the Nominations and Legislation Committee and the Strategic Development Committee.
GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP | 9
Members of the University Council Left to right: Ms Dianne Allen, Ms Sharryn Brownlee, Dr Geoff Leonard AM, Dr Tom Griffiths, The Hon John Price AM, Mr Peter Cockbain, Professor Val J Robertson, Conjoint Professor Geoff Lilliss, Professor Caroline McMillen, Mr Brian Kennaugh, Ms Mpontseng Lydia Pama and Professor John Rostas Absent: Ms Leanne Holt, Ms Heather Richards and Ms Deborah Wright
10 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
G O V E R N A N C E A N D L E A D E R S H I P | 11
Council members The following persons were members at 31 December 2012. Official members The Acting Chancellor (*) The Hon John Charles Price AM JP OFIE Aust, I.Eng, IMarEng(UK), MIMarEST(UK), GAICD The Vice Chancellor and President Professor Caroline McMillen MA, DPhil (Oxon), MB, BChir(Cantab) The President of the Academic Senate Professor Val J Robertson BAppSc(Physio)(Lincoln Institute), BA(Hons), PhD(La Trobe) Ministerial appointments Ms Sharryn Brownlee (Pro Chancellor) MAICD Conjoint Professor Geoff Lilliss BE(Hons), MBA(Merit)(Newcastle), FIEAust, MAICD
Ms Deborah Wright DipTeach(Newcastle), MBA(SCU), FAMI, CPM Member appointed by Council Mr Brian Kennaugh (Pro Chancellor) BBus(Newcastle) Elected members Academic staff Dr Tom Griffiths BEd(Hons), PhD(Newcastle), GradCert TESOL(UTS) Professor John Rostas BSc(Hons), PhD(Monash) Non academic staff Ms Leanne Holt Dip HR(HIT), MME(Newcastle) Undergraduate student Ms Heather Richards BMath(Hons)(Manc) Postgraduate student Ms Mpontseng Lydia Pama BA(Public Admin and Political Science)(National University of Lesotho)
Key business Key business undertaken by the Council and its Committees in 2012 included: • approving the NeW Directions 2013-2015 Strategic Planning suite – encompassing an Education Plan, Research and Innovation Plan, Future Workforce Plan, Campus, Capital and IT Plan and Finance Plan - and the University’s Corporate Planning Cycle • approving the business case for the NeW Space Project for a City Campus development • overseeing major infrastructure projects including the Student Accommodation Project, Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER), Medical Science Building West, and the University’s contribution to the new Hunter Medical Research Institute building (refer to the Our environment chapter for further information on these projects)
External persons who are members of Convocation appointed by the Council Ms Dianne Allen JP (Acting Deputy Chancellor) BCom(Newcastle), CA, MAICD Mr Peter Cockbain BScEng(Newcastle), FIEAust, CPEng, FIPENZ, FTSE Dr Geoff Leonard AM (Pro Chancellor) BCom, HonDBus(Newcastle), FCA, FCPA * Conjoint Professor Trevor Waring AM served as Chancellor until the end of his term on 30 April 2012. Dr Kenneth Moss AM served as Chancellor from 1 May 2012 to 13 October 2012. The position became vacant with his passing. Details of meetings, membership of the standing Committees of Council and meeting attendance throughout 2012 are included in the Report by the Members of the Council in Volume 2.
Professor Barry Marshall AC, Professor Balakrishnan (Kichu) Nair AM, Professor Gillian Turner AO and Conjoint Professor Trevor Waring AM (refer to the Engagement with our communities chapter for further details) • realigning business units in accordance with the objectives outlined in the NeW Directions Strategic Plan 2013-2015 • approving the University’s Engagement Framework, including the Engage Newcastle portal, which aims to advance the practical and academic aspects of work-based and experiential learning with community engagement • approving the Strategic Asset Management Plan - A NeW Direction in Sustainable Asset Management • approving a new Internal Audit Charter, which clarifies the purpose, requirements and authority of the Internal Audit function
• opting in to the Universities Governing Bodies Act 2011 (NSW), which allowed the Council to adopt greater flexibility in size, composition and mix of skills
• endorsing a suite of strategic approaches to enhancing and increasing student consultation and engagement with University governance and processes
• progressing amendments to the University of Newcastle Act 1989 (NSW) and the University of Newcastle By-law 2005 (NSW)
• approving the disestablishment of GraduateSchool.com Pty Ltd as a controlled entity and bringing the functions back into the operations of the University.
• approving honorary degrees for Dr John Dai,
12 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Vale Dr Kenneth Moss AM (1945 - 2012) The University community remembers our sixth Chancellor, Dr Ken Moss, who passed away in October 2012. Dr Moss was a man of great integrity who was deeply committed to the University, the city of Newcastle and the region. A Newcastle alumnus, he graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering degree (Hons) in 1968 and a Doctor of Philosophy in mechanical engineering in 1974. Dr Moss was a foundation board member of the Hunter Medical Research Institute from 2000 to 2004. He had been a member of University Council since 2010, and commenced as Chancellor in May 2012. Dr Moss was highly accomplished professionally holding leadership positions across the maritime services, mining, manufacturing and engineering sectors. He started his professional life with BHP at its Newcastle Steelworks, and completed his career as the Managing Director of global maritime company, Howard Smith. Recognising his remarkable contribution, Dr Moss was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for services to business in the mining, financial and property development sectors, and for services to the community through contributions to maritime, educational and health organisations. As a member of Council and in the role of Chancellor, Dr Moss provided invaluable leadership and support to our University. His passing is a great loss, and he will be greatly missed by our Council, and the staff and students of the University of Newcastle.
GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP | 13
Academic Senate The Academic Senate works to protect, promote and enhance the excellence of the University’s core academic activities – teaching, learning and research. As such, it is the primary forum in the University for debate on academic issues. The functions of the Academic Senate are specified in Section 32 of the University of Newcastle By-law 2005 (NSW) and in the Constitution of the Academic Senate. The Academic Senate has delegated authority from the Council to approve policy and procedures relating to teaching, learning and research, and to approve revisions to degree programs. Professor Val Robertson was re-elected as the President of the Academic Senate in 2012. The President is supported by two Deputy Presidents elected by the Academic Senate. In 2012, Professor Mark Jones was the Deputy President (Research) and Professor Rohan Rasiah was the Deputy President (Teaching and Learning). Professor Tracey LevettJones replaced Professor Rasiah in this role from 4 August 2012. 14 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Priorities and key achievements Throughout 2012 the focus was on policy development to ensure high quality degree programs and learning experiences for students. This activity will contribute to ensuring that the University meets its Higher Education Standards obligations by the start of 2015. Key 2012 achievements include: • completing the Streamlining Academic Policies project with the release of the Courses and Assessment policy suite, the final of three academic policy suites • drafting the Research Management Policy and Procedures manual • developing the new program design principles and structures for undergraduate degree programs
education and their implications; and quality teaching, learning and research in a multi-campus university. Two forums, including a presentation by the TEQSA Chief Commissioner, were hosted by the Academic Senate. Senate members participated in national training initiatives conducted by the Australian Qualifications Framework Council. The President of Academic Senate continued to provide leadership through the national committee for the Chairs of Boards and Senates (CABS). Strong academic and student interest in academic matters was evident in 2012. A record number of nominations was received for positions on the Academic Senate and its committees, followed by strong voter engagement.
• strengthening support for student progression through the use of diagnostic tools for commencing students and the re-introduction of course pre-requisites. The wide range of issues discussed by Academic Senate in 2012 includes the Indigenisation of programs; developments in online
Information on program initiatives, including reviews and accreditation considered by the Academic Senate in 2012, is presented in Appendix F.
Organisational chart 31 December 2012
Council Academic Senate Vice-Chancellor
• Financial Services • Human Resource Services • Marketing and Public Relations • Office of the President of the Academic Senate • Planning, Quality and Reporting • Office of the ViceChancellor
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Services
Pro Vice-Chancellor International
• Pro ViceChancellor Academic
• Pro ViceChancellor Research and Dean of Graduate Studies
• Corporate Services
• Confucius Institute
• Dean of Students • Centre for Teaching and Learning • English Language and Foundation Studies Centre • Equity and Diversity Unit • GradSchool • Industry Scholarships • University Gallery and Art Collection • University Library
• Centre of Full Employment and Equity • Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER)
• Student and Academic Services
• International Office
• Legal Office • Facilities Management • IT Services
• Office of Graduate Studies • Research Development Unit • Research Profile Unit • Research Services
• The Wollotuka Institute
Pro Vice-Chancellor Business and Law
Pro Vice-Chancellor Education and Arts
• Newcastle Business School
• Drama, Fine Art and Music (incorporating the Conservatorium)
• Newcastle Law School • Research Institutes, Centres and Groups
• School of Education
Pro Vice-Chancellor Engineering and Built Environment
• School of Architecture and Built Environment • School of Engineering
• School of Humanities and Social Science
• School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
• Research Institutes, Centres and Groups
• Research Institutes, Centres and Groups • Science and Engineering Challenge
Pro Vice-Chancellor Health
Pro Vice-Chancellor Science and Information Technology
• School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy
• School of Design, Communication and Information Technology
• School of Health Sciences
• School of Environmental and Life Sciences
• School of Medicine and Public Health • School of Nursing and Midwifery • Research Institutes, Centres and Groups
• School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences • School of Psychology • Research Institutes, Centres and Groups
Pro Vice-Chancellor External Relations, Pro Vice-Chancellor Central Coast and Port Macquarie Campuses
• Alumni Relations • Corporate Relations • Community Engagement • Engaged Learning Office (Work Integrated Learning) • The University of Newcastle Foundation • Central Coast campus • Port Macquarie campus
GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP | 15
16 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Our leadership team Executive members with primary portfolio responsibility during 2012 were: Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Caroline McMillen MA, DPhil(Oxon), MB, BChir(Cantab) Professor McMillen joined the University in October 2011. Prior to this, she held senior appointments at Monash University, the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia. She holds an MA and Doctor of Philosophy from Oxford University, and completed her medical training at the University of Cambridge. As a biomedical researcher, she is internationally recognised for her work into the impact of the nutritional environment before birth on the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and obesity in adult life. She has produced more than 200 publications and has been invited to present at over 70 international and national meetings. She has served on national and international education and research
Executive members at 31 December 2012 Front row left to right: Professor Val J Robertson, Professor Caroline McMillen, Mr Nat McGregor Second row left to right: Professor Mike Calford, Professor Andrew Parfitt Third row left to right: Professor John Germov, Professor Nicholas Talley, Mr Craig Wallis Fourth row left to right: Professor Bill Hogarth, Professor Richard Dunford, Professor Stephen Crump, Professor John Carter AM
review groups, as well as national and state government groups focused on building innovation, climate change, and the resources industries. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Global Relations) Professor Kevin McConkey BA(Hons), PhD(Qld), FASSA, HonFAPS, FAICD Professor McConkey joined the University in 2005 as Deputy ViceChancellor (Academic and Global Relations). This position was responsible for teaching and learning, English language and foundation studies, equity and diversity, Dean of Students, industry scholarships, Indigenous collaboration, library and University gallery and art collection, as well as international activities. Professor McConkey is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia, an Honorary Fellow of the Australian Psychological Society, and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Following Professor McConkey’s departure in October 2012, Professor Val Robertson, President of Academic Senate, and Professor Bill Hogarth, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic), acted in the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) until Professor Andrew Parfitt joined the University from 15 December 2012. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Andrew Parfitt BE, PhD(Adel), FIEAust Professor Parfitt joined the University in December 2012 as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic).
His responsibilities encompass the academic administration of the University, supporting a positive and productive student experience, maintaining the quality and distinctiveness of the University’s academic programs and creating an on-campus and online environment conducive to student learning and engagement. Prior to joining the University, Professor Parfitt was Pro Vice-Chancellor: IT, Engineering and the Environment at the University of South Australia. He is internationally recognised for his contributions to antennas and radio engineering and has served on many government and industry boards relating to defence, electronics and space. He has been chair of the Australian Academy of Science National Committee for Radio Science for the past five years. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Mike Calford BSc, PhD(Monash) Professor Calford has been Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) since 2009. In this role he has responsibility for management of the University’s research and intellectual property, research training and strategic research planning. He first joined the University in 2000 and was the Pro Vice-Chancellor Faculty of Health from 2006 until 2009. Prior to this he held research academic appointments at The University of Melbourne, City University of New York, Oxford University, The University of Queensland, the University of California at Irvine and the Australian National University. Professor Calford is an internationally recognised neuroscientist who has worked on the adaptive response of the brain to trauma, including stroke. GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP | 17
Our leadership team (continued) Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Services) Mr Trevor Gerdsen Dip A&D(BCAE), Grad Dip Education(SCV Hawthorn), Grad Dip Management(La Trobe), MBA(USQ) Mr Gerdsen was Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Services) from November 2011 to November 2012. He is now the Director of Regional Campuses and has previously held University positions with responsibility for information technology, communications and media services. Prior to joining the University, Mr Gerdsen worked in the VET sector, initially as a teacher and then as project director managing learning development activities with industry, national training projects and multi-partner online learning developments. Mr Nat McGregor, Chief Executive Officer of UoN Services Limited, filled the role from 5 November 2012 until the position was disestablished at 31 December 2012. Pro Vice-Chancellor (Business and Law) Professor Richard Dunford BCA, BA(Hons)(Well), PhD (ANU) Professor Dunford joined the University as Pro Vice-Chancellor (Business and Law) in July 2012. Prior to this, he was Professor of Business Strategy and Chair of International Business at the University of Sydney. His main areas of research are strategy innovation and the development of new organisational forms. He has 18 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
produced over 100 published papers, been the recipient of multiple Australian Research Council grants and is a Distinguished Fellow of the Australia and New Zealand Academy of Management. He has held positions in both business and government and has worked as a consultant on strategy, change and executive development for a broad range of organisations. Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education and Arts) Professor John Germov BA(Chisholm), MA(Sociology) (Monash), PhD(Newcastle) Professor Germov was appointed to the role of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education and Arts) in 2011, having served at the University since 1993. He is the Vice President of the Deans of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, the peak national body on research and teaching in humanities and social sciences. He is an internationally recognised sociologist, with 17 books published to date. He is a former President of the Australian Sociological Association and served on the Executive of the International Sociological Association. In 2010, he received the prestigious Outstanding Service to the Australian Sociological Association Award. He is responsible for leading the development and implementation of the Future Workforce Plan as part of the University’s NeW Directions Strategic Plan 2013-2015.
Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engineering and Built Environment) Professor John Carter AM BE, PhD, DEng(Syd), MASCE, FTSE, FAA, FAIB, FIEAust, CPEng, GAICD Professor Carter has been Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engineering and Built Environment) since joining the University in 2006. He is a Fellow of the Institution of Engineers Australia, the Australian Institute of Building, the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering, and the Australian Academy of Science. He is President of the International Association for Computer Methods and Advances in Geomechanics and a former Vice President of the International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2006 for his contributions to civil engineering. His research interests include soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering, foundations, offshore geotechnics, rock mechanics, and numerical and analytical methods in engineering mechanics. Pro Vice-Chancellor (Health) Professor Nicholas Talley MBBS(Hons), MD(NSW), PhD(Syd), MMedSc(ClinEpid) (Newcastle), FRACP, FRCP(London and Edinburgh), FAFPHM, FACP, FACG, AGAF Professor Talley joined the University as Pro Vice-Chancellor (Health) in 2010. He was formerly Chair of the
Department of Internal Medicine at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. He was the Foundation Professor of Medicine at the University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital and currently holds adjunct research appointments as Professor at Mayo Clinic, University of North Carolina and the Karolinska Institute. He has published more than 750 original and review articles in peer-reviewed literature, and is considered one of the world’s leading gastroenterologists. His textbook Clinical Examination is recommended by medical schools worldwide. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (and President-Elect), the Royal College of Physicians (both London and Edinburgh) and the American College of Physicians. Pro Vice-Chancellor (Science and Information Technology) Professor Bill Hogarth BSc(Hons)(UNSW), PhD(Newcastle), FIMA, CMath, FAustMS Professor Hogarth has been Pro Vice-Chancellor (Science and Information Technology) since joining the University in 2002. He is responsible for the teaching and learning, research, community engagement and staffing activities of the Faculty. Professor Hogarth has simultaneously held the role of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic). In this role he has responsibility for the overall university student experience and line management responsibility for the Library, the Centre for Teaching and Learning, the Equity and Diversity Unit, Industry Scholarships and the Dean of
Students. Prior to joining the University, Professor Hogarth was Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences at Griffith University. He is an Emeritus Professor of Griffith University. Pro Vice-Chancellor (External Relations) Professor Stephen Crump BA, DipEd(Macq), MEd(Hons), PhD(Syd) Professor Crump joined the University as Pro Vice-Chancellor and Director Central Coast Campuses in 2006. He took on the additional role of Pro ViceChancellor (External Relations) in 2010. In this role, he has led the University’s strategic relationships with community, industry and business on all campuses, and with New South Wales TAFE on the central and mid-north coasts. His discipline expertise is in education and public policy, leadership and organisational development, philosophy of education, and curriculum reform. He completed an appointment as a Visiting Fellow of the University of London during 2010- 2011 and is a Board member of the World Association for Cooperative Education (WACE) and Vice-Chair of the WACE research committee. President of Academic Senate Professor Val J Robertson BAppSc(Physio)(Lincoln Institute), BA(Hons), PhD(La Trobe) Professor Robertson has been President of Academic Senate since 2009. She joined the University in
2004 and has extensive experience as a teacher and researcher in her field of physiotherapy. As the senior elected academic in the University she is responsible for providing strategic and policy advice to the Vice-Chancellor and the Council on academic matters, including the development of quality assurance processes and programs. In 2012, Professor Robertson led Academic Senate’s activities ensuring that the University will meet its obligations under the Higher Education Standards Framework. She has also held a number of senior administrative posts in the University, including Chair of the Human Research Ethics Committee. Chief Financial Officer Mr Craig Wallis BCom(Newcastle), AssocDipBus(Ac)(GCIT), FCPA Mr Wallis joined the University in 2003 and has held the role of Chief Financial Officer since 2007. In this role he has strategic and operational responsibility for the University’s finance, accounting, investment, and financial compliance functions. He has extensive experience in senior finance and operational roles in the public and private sectors and holds directorships in a number of private companies including UoN Singapore Pte Ltd, the University’s Singapore based controlled entity.
Information concerning executive performance and remuneration for all persons who held or acted in executive positions during 2012 is included in Appendix G. GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP | 19
Our faculties The University’s teaching and learning environment is cutting-edge, providing contemporary curriculum and work experience opportunities to our 37,450 undergraduate and postgraduate students. We are the most research intensive university outside an Australian capital city. Ranked equal seventh nationally for research ‘well above world standard’, Newcastle’s reputation is for innovation, excellence and research with impact. Our academics and researchers are acknowledged as among the best in Australia, and we have on staff experts who rank in the top one per cent in their field in the world. Our teaching activities are organised across 16 schools in five faculties.
Business and Law
Education and Arts
The Faculty of Business and Law delivers innovative degree programs and facilitates a dynamic learning community. The Faculty’s researchers collaborate with external partners and stakeholders and actively generate knowledge across their specialist areas. Within a supportive learning environment, teaching and learning in the Faculty is research-led and student-centred. The contemporary, international curriculum prepares students for global citizenship and centres on encouraging the life-long discovery of knowledge.
The Faculty of Education and Arts offers innovative undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degree programs. It provides a vibrant and exciting scholarly community designed to ensure graduates have highly developed professional skills and are work-ready future leaders.
The Faculty has two schools: • Newcastle Business School • Newcastle Law School.
20 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
The Faculty has three schools: • Drama, Fine Art and Music (incorporating the Conservatorium) • Education • Humanities and Social Science.
Engineering and Built Environment The Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment is one of the leading faculties of its kind in Australia with a reputation for high quality teaching and research and strong links with industry. Its research intensive environment has helped attract high calibre academic research staff from throughout Australia and around the world. The Faculty has three schools: • Architecture and Built Environment • Electrical Engineering and Computer Science • Engineering.
Health The Faculty of Health is an international leader in educating health professionals, offering undergraduate and postgraduate professional programs, and programs in the basic sciences that underpin those professions. The Faculty’s research success is facilitated by its direct access to health organisations and the community through the Hunter Medical Research Institute.
Science and Information Technology
• Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy
With impressive research and teaching facilities, the Faculty of Science and Information Technology delivers degree programs across the key areas of science, maths, psychology, sport and exercise, communication, information technology, food and nutrition, development studies, design and illustration. The Faculty works in partnership with local industry, health services, and government and non-government organisations to optimise achievements in teaching and research.
• Health Sciences
The Faculty has four schools:
• Medicine and Public Health
• Design, Communication and Information Technology
The Faculty has four schools:
• Nursing and Midwifery.
• Environmental and Life Sciences • Mathematical and Physical Sciences • Psychology.
GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP | 21
Education Building access, participation and success for our students
22 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Meeting the education challenge The global higher education landscape is changing rapidly. With the rise of the Asian Century, governments across our region are increasingly establishing universities as they invest in building knowledge-based economies, resulting in increased global competition for talented students and academic and professional staff. In parallel, new technologies are emerging that have the potential to transform how universities approach teaching and learning. These new technologies are both challenging and exciting for educators as we look to deliver a ‘next generation’ university experience for our students. The University has continued to focus on building our reputation for delivering world-class teaching and learning, and at the same time we have maintained our commitment to developing the skills and capacity of our communities. In 2012, the University enrolled 37,450 students, including 7,620 international students from 109 countries. (Further student statistics are available in Appendix E.) With a strong focus on improving our students’ experience, we have introduced a range of initiatives in 2012 including state-of-the-art simulation facilities and more flexible course delivery to ensure our students have more choice as well as a quality experience in both their online and face-to-face learning. Pictured left: Professor Phil Morgan. Read about Professor Morgan’s achievements on page 36.
EDUCATION | 23
A sector leader in equity and access The University is a national and international leader in equity in higher education. The proportion of our students from low socio-economic status (SES) backgrounds is well above the national average. In 2012, 27 per cent of our domestic students were from a low SES background, signifciantly ahead of the sector average of 16 per cent in 2011 (see Figure 1). During the year, we signed a Statement of Educational Intent with Hunter TAFE to collaborate in boosting tertiary education opportunities for local students through investment in programs, infrastructure and community engagement. Approximately $1.3 million of equity scholarships were provided through the University’s Equity Scholarship Scheme in 2012 to assist students who were not receiving the government Start up and Relocations initiatives. Indigenous students The University is recognised as a national leader in Indigenous education, and offers a comprehensive range of Indigenous studies programs. In 2012, some 761, or 2.6 per cent, of our domestic enrolled students identified as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, well above the sector average of 1.6 per cent according to the latest data. Indigenous students are represented in all faculties and all levels of study, from enabling education through to research higher degrees. Our Indigenous students also have a higher retention and success rate than the national average. (Refer also to the chapter Indigenous collaboration).
Our range of pathways for entry into higher education assists students from a variety of backgrounds to succeed in their aspirations to enter a degree program. NewStep supports students aged 17-20 years without a Higher School Certificate or sufficient marks to enter University, Open Foundation is aimed at mature-aged students over 20 years and the Yapug program supports Indigenous students transitioning into university.
Enabling programs
In 2012, we had 2,967 enabling enrolments (1,627 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (EFTSL), up 55 per cent from 2008. Approximately 40,000 students have completed our enabling programs since the innovative Open Foundation course began in 1974. On average, 85 per cent of those completing these programs enrol in higher education.
In 2011, 15 per cent of the country’s Commonwealth funded enabling students studied at Newcastle, more than any other university in Australia.
During 2012, the University led a national project on Student Retention and Attrition in universitybased Enabling Programs. The
24 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
project examined data on attrition at five universities and considered strategies to minimise attrition. Funding for the project was gained in 2010 through the Competitive Grants program of the Australian Learning and Teaching Council and is now supported through the Office for Learning and Teaching. A key finding was that a large proportion of attrition occurs before the programs begin or during the first four weeks. Australia-wide workshops on the study outcomes were well attended and participants developed strategies to address attrition, many of which will be implemented in 2013. In 2012, we launched the Week Zero orientation course for online enabling students, increasing student engagement with the course and lecturers by more than 80 per cent. Pictured above: Students at the Birabahn Indigenous Centre, home of the Wollotuka Institute
Students in enabling programs 2012
Students enrolled in 2012
International students - countries
2,967 37,450 109 ENABLING STUDENTS
TOTAL STUDENTS
COUNTRIES
Figure 1: Low SES participation rate (per cent)
Figure 2: Low SES access rate (per cent)
30
30
25
25
20
20
15
15
10
10
5
5
0
0
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 University of Newcastle
Sector
Participation rate = Proportion of domestic enrolled students who are from low SES (postcode measure) backgrounds Source: Sector data Institutional Performance Portfolio 2012/University data MIS as at 4 March 2013 The sector participation rate for 2012 is not yet available.
Figure 3: Enrolments in enabling programs
3000
2000
1000
0
2008
2009 2010 2011 2012
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 University of Newcastle
Sector
Access rate = Proportion of domestic commencing students who are from low SES (postcode measure) backgrounds Source: Sector data Institutional Performance Portfolio 2012/University data MIS as at 4 March 2013 The sector participation rate for 2012 is not yet available.
27%
of our domestic students were from a low socioeconomic status background in 2012, well above the sector average
Source: MIS as at 4 March 2013
EDUCATION | 25
26 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Outstanding student experience Australian Graduate Survey Our graduates indicate a high level of satisfaction with their University experience. In the Australian Graduate Survey for 2012, we achieved an Overall Satisfaction rating of 82 per cent, up from 78 per cent in 2011. We ranked in the top quartile of all Australian universities for quality teaching with a 68 per cent satisfaction rating on the survey’s Good Teaching Scale, up from 63 per cent in 2011. We also placed almost at the top of the sector with an 82 per cent satisfaction rating on the Generic Skills Scale, up from 78 per cent in 2011. The Generic Skills Scale measures how well graduates believe the course enhanced their skills in areas such as
working as a team member and tackling unfamiliar problems. Responding to feedback Student feedback has improved significantly in recent years due to broad-ranging initiatives aimed at improving the student experience. Established in late 2010, the Student Experience and Engagement Working Party implemented projects that increased our focus on teaching and learning, created informal learning spaces, improved campus signage including digital screens, enhanced wireless access and improved the coordination and communication of information across University campuses and locations.
Table 1: Course Experience Questionnaire results 2011-2012 (per cent)
‘11
‘12
Graduate Overall Satisfaction
78.1
81.7
Graduate Good Teaching Scale
63.2
67.9
Graduate Generic Skills Scale
78.1
82.3
Source: Australian Graduate Survey
Student perceptions of courses, facilities and services improved significantly in 2012. Focus group feedback indicates that students are aware of the University’s interest in their learning and general well-being. Compared with 2010, students in 2012 thought that the University was more responsive to their suggestions for improvements. Improving student retention, success and completion rates In 2012, the University invested in a project to analyse the factors affecting student success and retention. The Improving Student Retention and Success project investigated the academic preparation of students and approaches to curriculum design. In 2013, we will give prospective students more detailed advice about what will be required of them and offer more transitional support programs to commencing students. The project will also provide faculties with data on the learning backgrounds of the student cohorts in their programs, allowing for curriculum adjustments and targeted support.
Student success Several of our outstanding students were recognised with awards in 2012. Civil Engineering PhD student Glen Burton won a 2013 Prime Minister’s Australia Asia Award for his work on the development of fundamental soil mechanics principles. Mr Burton will receive funding to travel to Japan to undertake research at the Nagoya Institute of Technology. Third year medical student Glenda Brown won the $9,000-a-year Australian Medical Association’s Indigenous Peoples’ Medical Scholarship. Recent graduate Warren Haasnoot was awarded the Architects NSW Design Medal, the highest accolade
for an architectural graduate in the state. His winning work envisioned a future for Carrington Wharf, Newcastle. PhD student Gladys Asuga and her supervisor Dr Scott Eacott were named joint winners of the Emerald and African Academy of Management’s African Management Research Award for their research on Investing in leaders: evaluating the preparation and development of head teachers in Kenya. Five of our students were among 30 winners of the national ABC Heywire competition for 2012. Shanna Beeton, Stephanie Beckedahl, Richard Baines and Isabel Enks entered the competition as part of an
assignment for their Radio Journalism course. Bachelor of Teaching/Arts student Emma-Lee Scott was also successful. The competition asks 16-22 year olds from regional areas across Australia to share their stories and experiences of growing up outside cities. Bachelor of Business student Carla Hiles received a NSW Minister for Tourism Student Achiever Award. The award is presented to outstanding young students for consistent academic achievement and the potential to significantly contribute to the tourism industry. Pictured left: Winners of ABC Heywire Isabel Enks and Richard Baines
EDUCATION | 27
“Demonstrating the relevance of compulsory courses to students helps to keep them motivated and engaged in their degree� Dr Catriona Malau, recipient of a Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning from the Commonwealth Office for Learning and Teaching
28 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
“It is essential for geographically dispersed online students to have a shared sense of belonging to their learning community� Dr Liam Phelan, recipient of a Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning from the Commonwealth Office for Learning and Teaching RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 29
Innovation in education Students engaging with their communities across the globe. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) The University is a leader in the delivery of innovative work and research-integrated learning experiences. An opportunity to undertake a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activity is embedded in more than 90 per cent of the degrees offered across all five faculties, and the University’s achievements in this area have been recognised nationally and internationally. In 2012, the University expanded the program to include drama, music, fine art, business, science and information technology. The University is actively involved in the World Association for Cooperative Education (WACE) and the Australian Collaborative Education Network (ACEN). We are one of only three Universities worldwide to be featured in the 2012-13 WACE guide to cooperative and work-integrated education - The Best of Co-op: A Guide to the Leading Colleges and Employers. This publication is distributed to 3.5 million students throughout the USA. Three internationally acclaimed WIL scholars visited the University in 2012. These visits led to an international collaborative research project and the commencement of various international WIL exchange arrangements. Student exchange and internships Participation in our International Leadership Experience and Development (iLEAD) program 30 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
More than 600 students travelled internationally for study, work and conferences in 2012 continues to grow, with 1,158 students enrolled during 2012, more than double the number enrolled in 2011. The program provides opportunities for international exchange and volunteer experiences as well as lectures on leadership issues and engagement with respected international figures. In 2012, 614 students travelled to more than 50 countries through iLEAD and other programs, representing a 63 per cent increase in outbound student mobility since 2011. The students participated in study abroad and exchange programs, internships, study tours, volunteer work and conferences. The Newcastle Model – Leadership Programs to Engage Students, focusing on the outcomes of the iLead program, was a featured presentation at the 2012 Australian International Education Conference (AIEC) in Melbourne and has been accepted for presentation at the largest international education conference, NAFSA Association of International Educators, USA, in St Louis in May, 2013. Our Confucius Institute facilitated three new cultural and study tours to China for our students, local school principals and senior educators in 2012.
Volunteering in the community A robust suite of volunteering opportunities is part of the innovative educational experience that the University provides for students. In 2012, University students and staff contributed over 40,000 volunteering hours to our external communities, including assistance to schools and early childhood centres and environmental projects. We worked closely with the NSW Office of Communities, the Hunter Volunteer Centre and Volunteering Central Coast for the launch of an Australian first Timebanking trial, a community program that allows the voluntary exchange of services between members. Our students will be actively involved in the trial which will take place during 2013. Industry Scholarships In 2012, 61 newly established Industry Scholarships valued at $2.3 million gave students access to professional degree programs that combine education with industry experience. Investing in its future workforce, industry has committed more than $10.6 million to funding these scholarships since 2008.
New technologies power learning The UnIversity employs cutting-edge technology to enable the deliverY of world-class education. Major initiatives launched in 2012 included: Simulation centre for Bachelor of Medicine students The $2 million Chameleon Clinical Skills Training Centre was officially opened by the Hon Greg Combet AM MP, Federal Minister for Industry and Innovation and Member for Charlton. Based at the John Hunter Hospital, the centre replicates the full spectrum of medical scenarios from emergencies to obstetric cases.
Bachelor of Construction Management offered in mixed mode delivery Providing flexibility for part-time workers, Bachelor of Construction Management students can now engage in face-to-face delivery, fully online delivery or a blend of both. More than half of the program’s 900 students now undertake their studies completely online from bases across Australia, and in Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Central Coast campus library redevelopment The $3.2 million state-of-the-art redevelopment includes a café, new study and meeting rooms, 88 additional computers, printers and scanning facilities, wireless connectivity and a student ‘Rover’ service that provides peer-assisted library and basic IT support. Pictured below: Angela Whitehead, Medical Radiation Science (Radiation Therapy) student
Virtual radiotherapy treatment for Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science students Australia’s first virtual linear accelerator machine mimics the clinical radiation technology used to treat cancer patients in Australian radiation oncology centres. Industrial kitchen training facility for Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics students Following a $400,000 refurbishment of a food science laboratory, this first-class training facility mimics the professional environment of an industrial kitchen. Blended and Online Learning Design (BOLD) Lab The BOLD Lab supports the development and delivery of fully online materials, blended curricula, and online components of face-toface courses.
We are home to Australia’s first virtual linear accelerator machine, which mimics the clinical radiation technology used to treat cancer patients EDUCATION | 31
International students Global citizens Joining us from over 100 countries, our international students enrich our community, bringing social and cultural diversity that enhances our international perspectives and cross-cultural understanding. Longlasting linkages and relationships are formed through formal and informal engagement, helping to make the University’s students and staff ‘global citizens’. Our 7,620 international students represent one-fifth of our student body and come from 109 different countries. The number of international students enrolling at the University increased in 2012 as we expanded our international marketing and promotional activities to strengthen our global profile and carried out recruitment activities in more than 60 countries. Our international onshore commencements grew by 12 per cent in 2012, well ahead of the national trend. In 2012, we launched a pre-arrival electronic newsletter communication campaign and introduced an International Student Arrival Service at Sydney and Newcastle airports and train stations for all commencing international students. The International Orientation program provided students with a range of
International enrolments grew by 12 per cent in 2012 activities such as a Campus Quest, an interactive campus awareness activity, and a range of campusbased and external engagement activities to help new international students familiarise themselves with the campuses and local areas. Throughout 2012 international students were integrated into community programs, events and activities to enhance their student experience. Programs such as Community Connections, Cultural Connections, GOALSS and Speed Conversation provided opportunities for international and domestic students and community members to integrate through informal social settings (see also the Outreach section in the Engagement with our communities chapter). International partnerships In 2012, we continued to consolidate and expand our portfolio of partnerships throughout the Asian region. China remained a key strategic focus, aligning with the
Figure 4: International enrolments by country 2012 (per cent)
China, 34 Singapore, 14 Republic of South Korea, 9 Malaysia, 6 Indonesia, 3 Other, 34 32 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Australian Government’s Australia in the Asian Century White Paper. Other countries of focus included Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Vietnam. We doubled our intake of AusAID students in 2012 and forged collaborations with several key international scholarship agencies. These included the Vietnam International Education Development, Ministry of Education and Training (VIED), the Indonesian Directorate General of Higher Education and the Commission on Higher Education in the Philippines. The University signed 18 new or renewed memoranda with international universities, as well as two joint degrees and 19 articulation arrangements. Two significant contracts were signed with the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) China and AusAid to support the University’s strategies in China and with developing nations. We also signed 22 Study Abroad and Student Exchange agreements, and several new agreements with universities in China to support research collaborations. Pictured right: Master of Social Change and Development students
We doubled our intake of AusAID students in 2012 and forged collaborations with several key international scholarship agencies
EDUCATION | 33
Outstanding educators Our staff are developing leadingedge curricula and using new technologies to teach, inspire and support our students. Some of our staff were recognised with prestigious awards for their teaching achievements in 2012.
ssociate Professor Seamus Fagan, Director of the English Language and Foundation Studies Centre, received the Distinguished Contribution to the Field of International Education award from the International Education Association of Australia (IEAA). The award recognises the ongoing outstanding contribution of a professional in international education who has led groundbreaking initiatives in the field.
A
34 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
rofessor Philip Morgan, Co-Director of the Priority Research Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition, received a national Teaching Excellence Award from the Australian Government’s Office for Learning and Teaching. Professor Morgan’s research on school and community-based obesity prevention programs informs his teaching in the School of Education. (see also feature story The teaching-research nexus on page 36)
P
We partnered with NSW Health to develop the Master of Clinical Medicine (Leadership and Management), a groundbreaking degree to equip doctors for high level leadership positions in hospitals
r Marita Lynagh, Dr Sue Outram and Dr Conor Gilligan, Faculty of Health, received a Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning from the Office for Learning and Teaching. They were recognised for developing curricula to prepare pre-service teachers to manage sensitive and controversial issues such as sexuality, child protection, and mental health in schools.
D
r Catriona Malau, Faculty of Education and Arts, received a Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning from the Office for Learning and Teaching for encouraging Bachelor of Education (Primary) students to engage with the compulsory firstyear Linguistics course. Dr Malau demonstrated the relevance of the course content to a career in education by incorporating tutorial resources and assessments that relate directly to teaching.
D
r Liam Phelan, GradSchool, Academic Division, was also recognised with a Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning from the Office for Learning and Teaching for fostering a sense of engagement among online Master of Environmental Management students. Dr Phelan’s initiatives involve students in areas such as assignment design, critiquing peer work via a discussion board, and providing feedback that is regularly incorporated into the course.
D
The University also recognises achievers by awarding University funded fellowships and ViceChancellor’s Awards. Recipients of these awards are listed in Appendix H. EDUCATION | 35
The teaching-research nexus For some Bachelor of Education students, physical education classes can be a daunting experience that drag up distant memories of their own poor experiences in the school playground or on the oval. For many, Professor Phil Morgan is showing a new way to appreciate physical education. His ability to inspire and motivate students to embrace Health and Physical Education (HPE) in their teaching is a mark of his outstanding success as an educator. “The students’ school PE experience might have been simply participating in a game of touch football, soccer or t-ball without ever being taught how to throw, catch, kick or strike, and as a result, for many at best it’s an 36 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
educationally poor experience – or at worst it has a negative effect on their physical competence and confidence” says Professor Morgan.
between teaching and research.
For 15 years, Professor Morgan has taught primary school preservice teachers how to teach Health and Physical Education. His teaching integrates evidencebased quality teaching principles and is informed by, and integrates, his extensive professional activities and research.
In 2012, he received a national Award for Teaching Excellence in the Australian Awards for University Teaching from the Australian Government’s Office for Learning and Teaching. These awards celebrate a select few of the nation’s most outstanding university teachers and recognise individuals who have made a significant contribution to enhancing the quality of learning and teaching in higher education.
Over the past six years, his work has been recognised with more than 24 academic awards including 11 university teaching excellence awards and five national and international research excellence awards, highlighting his career focus on the nexus
That same year, he won a prestigious Scopus Young Researcher of the Year Award in the Humanities and Social Science category for his work in health education. The Scopus Awards recognise outstanding young researchers under 40 years of age
in Australasia who have made significant contributions and demonstrated impact in their field. “I strongly believe that an active research profile and quality research contributes to the most up-to-date curricula and quality learning experiences for students,” he says. Professor Morgan’s students describe him as an enthusiastic, humorous and engaging teacher who excels at motivating and communicating with the class. Over the last 10 years, an impressive 98 per cent of his students have rated his teaching as “excellent”. His students are offered opportunities to participate in research-integrated learning through his school and community- based health
“My research is interwoven with curricula development and thus supports rather than competes with my teaching”
programs. One such program is the national and international award winning Healthy Dads, Healthy Kids program, which is successfully helping fathers to promote and role model healthy lifestyles to their children. He also immerses students in theoretical and practical learning experiences that are relevant, engaging, challenging and motivating. In both lectures and tutorials, he regularly provides practical demonstrations of effective teaching strategies and a unique aspect of this presentation style is role-playing common teaching scenarios.
Pictured: Professor Phil Morgan with his daughter
EDUCATION | 37
Research and innovation Building research excellence and impact
38 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
World leading research In 2012, the University ranked in the top 3 per cent of universities in the world, with disciplines across engineering, health, science and the humanities ranking in the top 200 in their international field. The University also ranked equal seventh nationally for research rated as ‘well above world standard’ in the Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assessment by the Australian Government, up from tenth in 2010. Under ERA, 44 fields of research were rated either ‘at world standard’, ‘above world standard’ or ‘well above world standard’, representing 90 per cent of our research submitted. • ‘5’ Rating (Research ‘well above world standard’): The University achieved a ‘5’ rating for 18 fields - an increase of 11 from the last ERA exercise in 2010. We were the only university in Australia to achieve a ‘5’ rating for social work research, and one of only two universities nationally to achieve a ‘5’ rating in applied mathematics, biochemistry and cell biology, civil engineering and mechanical engineering. We also achieved first time ‘5’ ratings in earth sciences, psychology, nutrition and dietetics, human movement and sports science, neuroscience, macromolecular and materials chemistry and geology. • ‘4’ Rating (Research ‘above world standard’): Nine research fields achieved a ‘4’ rating including physical chemistry, zoology and nursing. • ‘3’ Rating (Research ‘at world standard’): Seventeen research fields achieved a ‘3’ rating including public health and health services, architecture, performing arts and creative writing, and building.
Pictured left: Laureate Professor John Aitken. Read about Professor Aitken’s achievements on page 48.
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 39
Competing with the best International research funding The University received significant funding from a number of international funding bodies in 2012. Highlights included: • The World Health Organization for a comparative study led by Professor Julie Byles on the health of older people in selected countries in the Western Pacific Region. • The Rome Foundation for a study led by Professor Nicholas Talley into the usefulness of Rome III symptoms, psychological characteristics and cytokines in diagnosing function of gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). • The University of Salford for a pilot study led by Associate Professor Paulette Van Vliet into visual cue training to improve walking and turning after stroke.
The University ranked equal seventh nationally for research ‘well above world standard’ in the 2012 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assessment Pictured above: Professor Julie Byles, Director of the Priority Research Centre for Gender, Health and Ageing, is a worldleading researcher on ageing and women’s health
40 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
National research funding The University ranks in the Australian top 10 for competitive research funding and also secures strong support from industry and philanthropic sources. The University’s total audited external research income, as reported in the 2012 Higher Education Research Data Collection (HERDC), was $86.1 million in 2011, placing it ninth among Australian universities. External research funding has grown by 56 per cent over the past six years.
The Australian Research Council (ARC) awarded more than $9.5 million in funding to the University in 2012 for projects and fellowships to commence in 2013. The ARC also awarded prestigious Future Fellowships to five University researchers. The University secured National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) funding of $12 million in 2012, including 14 Project Grants totalling $7.7 million, for projects to commence in 2013.
Competitive research funding rank
Total external research income 2011
$86.1million
TOP 10
Source: Higher Education Research Data Collection, Audited Return, 2011
I N A U STR A LI A
Funding from the Australian Research Council 2012
$19.5million
Source: University of Newcastle audited Financial Statements 2012
Table 2: Total research income by faculty and division 2007–2011 ($ million)
‘07 Academic
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
0.14
0.26
0.19
0.31
Research
0.61
0.45
0.43
0.60
0.50
Business and Law
0.49
0.51
0.56
0.51
0.40
Education and Arts
1.75
2.33
2.65
3.73
3.78
Science and Information Technology
10.00
9.83
10.90
10.54
11.96
Engineering and Built Environment
13.65
15.82
18.49
20.37
23.31
Health
44.12
48.92
43.00
48.99
45.85
0.04
0.03
84.97
86.14
UON Singapore Vice-Chancellor's Division Total
0.09 70.62
78.10
76.29
Source: Higher Education Research Data Collection, Audited Return, 2011
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 41
World-class research centres THE UNIVERSITY’S RESEARCH STRENGTHS ARE FOCUSED THROUGH THE NEWCASTLE INSTITUTE FOR ENERGY AND RESOURCES AND OUR 15 PRIORITY RESEARCH CENTRES. WE ALSO COLLABORATE CLOSELY WITH THE HUNTER MEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE. TOGETHER THESE RESEARCH CENTRES ARE DEVELOPING WORLD-LEADING RESEARCH WHILE ENGAGING WITH COMMUNITY NEEDS. Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER) NIER spearheads our reputation for research excellence and expertise in the fields of minerals, energy and resources. The multidisciplinary research hub established in 2010 provides a collective model that engages academia and industry in collaborations on significant local, national and international research. Each of the key research disciplines associated with NIER received an outstanding rating of ‘5’ in the 2012 ERA assessment, indicating research ‘well above world standard’. Supported by $30 million through the Australian Government’s Education Investment Fund (EIF), refurbishment and expansion of NIER continued in 2012. (For further information on the NIER redevelopment, refer to the Our Environment chapter.) In 2012, NIER negotiated a number of significant research collaborations, agreements and programs with local, national and international industry and research agencies including: 42 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
• agreements for collaborative research and an International Research Higher Degree Program in smart grid technologies with North China Electric Power University, State Grid Electric Power Research Institute and Zhejiang University • a Memorandum of Understanding with Taiwan’s Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) to explore smart grid technologies and applications to improve the efficiency of the electricity sectors in both countries • expansion of Tunra Bulk Solids into Southern Africa through a relationship with the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, to collaboratively provide services and attract research funding. NIER hosted a national innovation
symposium in 2012 at the Australian Academy of Science’s Shine Dome in Canberra, which was opened by the Hon Greg Combet AM MP, Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency and Minister for Industry and Innovation. The symposium, entitled Inventing Australia’s Energy Future: Challenges and Solutions, showcased research, development and invention in areas including smart grid technologies, mineral recovery and processing, organic electronics, hybrid geothermal energy systems and the social implications of energy and resources. Pictured right: Professor Paul Dastoor leads a team of 25 researchers based at the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources
NIER spearheads our reputation for research excellence and expertise in the fields of minerals, energy and resources
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 43
Priority Research Centres (PRCs) The University’s PRCs are major research groupings with an international reputation for their activities. All of the core research fields associated with our PRCs received ratings of ‘3’ and above in the 2012 ERA assessment, indicating research of ‘world standard’. A majority of fields were awarded a rating of ‘4’ - ‘research above world standard’ or ‘5’ ‘research well above world standard’.
44 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Our PRCs are: • Advanced Particle Processing and Transport
Mathematics and its Applications (CARMA) • Energy
• Asthma and Respiratory Diseases
• Gender, Health and Ageing
• Bioinformatics, Biomarker Discovery and Information-Based Medicine
• Geotechnical and Materials Modelling • Health Behaviour
• Cancer
• Organic Electronics
• Chemical Biology
• Physical Activity and Nutrition
• Complex Dynamic Systems and Control
• Reproductive Science
• Computer Assisted Research
• Translational Neuroscience and Mental Health.
Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) The HMRI is a multi-disciplinary medical research hub that delivers cutting-edge research and technology in close collaboration with the University. HMRI research is closely aligned with community health needs.
programs translating laboratory findings into improved clinical care. Located across several facilities, the researchers have achieved international breakthroughs in areas including asthma and airway diseases, cancer, diabetes, mental health, nutrition, pregnancy and reproduction, and stroke.
More than 1,100 clinical and biomedical researchers and support staff (including over 450 University researchers and professional staff) work across seven key research
In 2012, HMRI opened a new $90 million world-class clinical research building adjacent to the Hunter New England Health John Hunter Hospital. The 16,000-square-metre facility
permanently houses around 200 University staff. (See also the Our environment chapter.) Professor Michael Nilsson MD PhD took up the position of HMRI Director in March 2012. The former Director of Research, Development and Education at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden, Professor Nilsson is a globally recognised and internationally acclaimed neuroscientist with two decades experience in brain and stroke recovery research.
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 45
Internationally renowned researchers Our INTERnational and national standing is underpinned by worldclass researchers. In 2012, a number of our researchers were recognised for outstanding achievement. Laureate Professor John Aitken was named 2012 NSW Scientist of the Year at the NSW Science and Engineering Awards for his worldclass work in reproductive biology. Laureate Professor Paul Foster was awarded the Excellence in Biological Sciences (Human and Animal Health) prize at the 2012 NSW Science and Engineering Awards for his world-leading work in the field of asthma and respiratory disease. He was also awarded the Research Medal of the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand. Professor Kevin Galvin was awarded the 2012 Ian Wark Medal and Lecture by the Australian Academy of Science for his contributions to the field of gravity separation. He was also made a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE). Professor Hilary Carey, distinguished historian of religion and society, was elected as a Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities. Professor Andrew Heathcote was elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Social Sciences for his work bringing mathematical and computational modelling techniques to the broader Experimental Psychology and Cognitive Science fields of research. Professor John Rostas, Deputy Head (Research) of the Faculty of Health, commenced his two year term as President of the Australasian Neuroscience Society. Professor Rostas is an internationally renowned researcher of brain plasticity. 46 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Professor Nicholas Talley, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Health, was appointed President-Elect of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP). Professor Talley is a world-leading authority on clinical research into stomach and bowel disorders. The following staff were awarded prestigious ARC and NHMRC Fellowships: Australian Research Council Future Fellowships Associate Professor Rob Atkin Associate Professor Scott D. Brown Dr Ian Grainge Professor Pablo Moscato Associate Professor Andrei Lyamin National Health and Medical Research Council Career Development Fellowship Dr Luke Wolfenden Practitioner Fellowship Professor Chris Levi Research Fellowship Professor Amanda Baker Associate Professor Kypros Kypri Seven researchers were also offered appointments to the ARC College of Experts: Professor Natashia Boland Professor Geoffrey Evans Professor Kevin Galvin Professor Christopher Grof Professor Eileen McLaughlin Professor Lyndall Ryan Professor Daichao Sheng
Pictured left: Professor Kevin Galvin, Professor Hilary Carey and Professor Nicholas Talley
Three University researchers received one of the highest honours in the 2012 Australia Day honours list - a Member of the Order of Australia (AM): Professor John Forbes, Conjoint Professor the Honourable Kevin Lindgren QC and Emeritus Scientia Professor Eugenie Lumbers. Three University academics were awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM): Conjoint Professor Peter Hansen; Conjoint Senior Lecturer, Dr Ganapathi Asari Murugesan; and founder of the University’s Science and Engineering Challenge, Mr Bob Nelson.
Pictured right: Professor Eileen McLaughlin, Co-Director of the Priority Research Centre for Chemical Biology
Leading research publications Our academics continue to publish in the highest quality peer-reviewed journals, with an increasing number of publications resulting from collaborations with colleagues at world-leading universities and institutes across the world. Highlights for 2012 include: • two papers in the journal Science co-authored by Associate Professor Peter Lewis and Dr Geoffrey
Doherty on bacterial adaptation • a paper in Nature co-authored by Dr Christopher Scarlett revealing aberrant gene-expression in pancreatic cancer • publications in The New England Journal of Medicine and The Lancet by medical, public health and biomedical researchers • a paper in The International Journal of Stroke, coordinated by Associate
Professor Mark Parsons, outlining a new protocol for acute stroke therapy • a number of high profile papers in the International Journal for Numerical Methods in Engineering, by a team led by Laureate Professor Scott Sloan, Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Geotechnical Science and Engineering. RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 47
Newcastle biologist identifies major cause of infertility Laureate Professor John Aitken was named New South Wales Scientist of the Year in recognition of his world-class work on the twin issues of infertility and contraception. Professor Aitken has identified oxidative stress - cells being attacked by free radicals - as a major cause of male infertility, a finding that has resulted in new methods of therapeutic intervention and helped thousands of men father children. His team of researchers at the University’s Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science has also developed potential contraceptive agents that could prevent pregnancy and simultaneously inhibit the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. “Each year the reproductive needs of some 120 million couples worldwide go unmet. I believe that finding more effective ways to control fertility is a critical global issue while at an individual level, we should never forget the large number of couples seeking safe, effective solutions to their infertility”, Professor Aitken says. The University is internationally recognised for its contribution to the studies of human pregnancy. The 100-member Centre for Reproductive Science aims to address one of the Australian Government’s most important national research priorities – “A Healthy Start To Life”. Professor Aitken is Director of the Centre’s Reproductive Science Group, which is responsible for identifying a range of environmental and lifestyle factors, including potential toxins in cigarette smoke and pesticides,
48 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
that could impact fertility and create multigenerational DNA damage. Such damage leads to a significant increase in the chances of a man’s children developing cancer. Professor Aitken says the Scientist of the Year award, bestowed at the 2012 NSW Science and Engineering awards, recognises the importance of reproductive biology research at the University. “A lack of involvement from big pharmaceutical companies means it is now down to universities and public sector research institutions to achieve the breakthroughs that will lead to the next generation of contraceptives. The University of Newcastle has the biggest single investment in reproductive science of any university in Australia. So we have the critical mass and the know-how to be able to make contributions to this area.” Pictured: Laureate Professor John Aitken
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 49
50 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Global collaboration The University WORKS CLOSELY with international partners to drive our research success and advance our global reputation. The South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) joined with the NIER to research carbon capture and storage technologies, mineral sequestration, organic electronics and smart grids. The first Joint SANEDI-University Bilateral Committee meeting was held in Newcastle. As a result of a successful research project, the University secured two new contracts with African Explosives Limited in Johannesburg, South Africa, to develop new organic electronic devices for mining applications. Singapore’s Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR) agreed to collaborate with the Faculty of Health and the HMRI on future research projects. Opportunities were also identified for collaboration in industry and government partnerships, research higher degree student recruitment, and student and staff exchange. Laureate Professor Paul Foster travelled to Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, in Boston, USA, as the first Australian recipient of the prestigious Harvard Club of Australia outbound fellowship, to collaborate on immune mechanisms in respiratory disease. In turn, Professor Paul D. Allen, Department of Anaesthesia, Harvard Medical School, visited the University as a recipient of a
Harvard Club of Australia fellowship to work with Laureate Professor Foster on transgenics and inflammation of the lung. Shanxi Cancer Hospital and Institute in Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China, agreed on an action plan to expand collaborations with the University into medical research related to cancer, clinical trials and student exchange. Researchers from the Harbin Medical University, China, and the University made important progress in their investigation of the use of hypothermia to treat acute stroke. The researchers finalised clinical trial protocols for cranial cooling in Harbin and intravascual cooling in Newcastle. A China-New South Wales Collaborative Research Grant funds the project. Twenty senior executives of India’s National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) attended an intensive short course hosted by TUNRA Bulk Solids, a division of the University that undertakes consulting
and research for the mining industry. University staff and representatives from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi, presented on the Conveying and Handling of Coal and Ash. Professor Mark Jones and Associate Professor Craig Wheeler visited IIT, Delhi, for further presentations. The University joined a delegation to Malaysia coordinated by the Innovative Research Universities (IRU) group. The delegation strengthened existing partnerships and identified new areas for collaboration in medical and health science research between IRU members and Malaysian universities. A Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) delegation subsequently visited the University to explore collaborative opportunities in health and medical research. Pictured left: Laureate Professor Paul Foster, Chair of Immunology and Director of the Priority Research Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Diseases
Laureate Professor Paul Foster is the first Australian recipient of the Harvard Club of Australia outbound fellowship RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 51
The global-regional innovation nexus Participating in research and innovation requires engagement in a ‘global academy’ where ideas and their outcomes are benchmarked against a world standard of quality and relevance. Our researchers contribute on the global stage and translate global knowledge into outcomes that have positive impacts on our regions and communities.
yield. Through Newcastle Innovation, Professor Galvin has worked closely with commercial partner Ludowici Australia, to ensure rapid and effective adoption of the research findings. The Reflux Classifier is currently used in seven countries and Professor Galvin’s research team at NIER continues to investigate the full potential of the concept in other areas.
As an established research leader in energy, resources, logistics and optimisation, bio- and clinical medicine, and public health, the University is uniquely positioned to build on these strengths through the work of the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER), our collaboration with the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) and our Priority Research Centres, translating great research into great innovation.
Also rated by the EIA Trial as one of the 20 best for research impact is the translational research of leading breast cancer researcher, Professor John Forbes. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women and the most frequent cause of cancer related deaths. In developed countries, about 75 per cent of all breast cancers occur in postmenopausal women of which about 80 per cent are hormone receptor positive. Professor Forbes’ comparative study of treatments led to the adoption of an alternative to the standard in use at the time of the study for the early treatment of this type of breast cancer. It is estimated that in excess of one million women world-wide have been impacted by the findings of this research.
Excellence in Innovation for Australia The University’s research impact was recognised in the Excellence in Innovation for Australia (EIA) Trial in 2012. The EIA Trial was undertaken to measure the innovation dividend of research generated by Australian universities. The Reflux Classifier, developed by the University’s Professor Kevin Galvin, was recognised in the EIA Trial as one of the top 20 most compelling stories of research impact arising from research at Australian universities. The technology for the recovery and concentration of fine metallurgical coal, iron ore and chromate has been used in the processing of an estimated $6 billion worth of resources, delivering $381 million of benefit to end users via increased
Through HMRI, Professor Christopher Levi leads a team of clinical and medical researchers who are tackling stroke. Stroke is Australia’s leading cause of adult disability, the second leading cause of death and carries a high health care cost. Professor Levi’s program of collaborative brain imaging, health systems and implementation research has proven an effective way of facilitating implementation of short-term therapies for stroke using “clot busting” treatment (alteplase therapy). The program of research has led to
“Our vision is to be a global leader and to drive world-class innovation in our regions” Professor Caroline McMillen, Vice-Chancellor 52 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
substantial improvement in the implementation of alteplase therapy across both metropolitan and rural areas, initially in the Hunter region, and will translate into major clinical and economic benefits. Adding value through innovation The potential value of research impact is most clearly demonstrated through the Jameson Cell, a mineral flotation device developed by Laureate Professor Graeme Jameson AO which has been revolutionary in improving the separation of minerals. With more than 300 cells operating in Australia alone, the invention is estimated to add more than $4 billion per year to the value of Australia’s resource exports. The return on investment is equal to 50 years of our income from external research grants. The effective translation of research outputs relies on the formation of research and innovation ‘clusters’ or networks. Clustering can be a key means of driving regional development involving geographic concentrations of interconnected universities, companies, service providers, firms in related industries and associated institutions in particular fields working together to provide multidisciplinary solutions to complex problems. The University is already building new research hubs and clusters in the areas of creative industries and defence. Through collaboration with other high quality research institutions and partners in industry, business and government locally, nationally and around the world, we will continue to build our capacity for research and knowledge exchange that produces novel, transformational research outcomes and maintains our position as a competitive destination for the world’s best researchers and global innovation leaders. Pictured right: Laureate Professor Graeme Jameson AO, inventor of the acclaimed Jameson Cell
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 53
“My research on brainbehaviour relationships aims to improve treatment and preservation of mental health in the community” Dr Juanita Todd, Deputy Head of School, School of Psychology 54 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
“My work on ionic liquids aims to reduce the environmental impact of chemical processes. This research is important, but also exciting and fun” Associate Professor Rob Atkin, ARC Future Fellow
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 55
Future research leaders The University provides a rich and productive environment for research that attracts the best and brightest researchers from around the world. We place great emphasis on fostering the careers of early and mid-career researchers, the innovators of the next generation, some of whom were recognised with awards in 2012.
r Sally Hewat, Senior Lecturer in Speech Pathology, took the first formal intensive stuttering treatment to Vietnam through the Trihn Foundation, a Vietnamese charity organisation, and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine in Ho Chi Minh City.
D
56 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
ssociate Professor Christopher Kellett was accepted to participate during 2013 in the Japan Emerging Research Leaders Exchange Program, sponsored by the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering and the Engineering Academy of Japan.
A
We attract and support the best and brightest researchers from around the world
rofessor Philip Morgan received the 2012 Scopus Young Researcher of the Year Award in the Humanities and Social Science category for his work in health education. The Scopus Awards recognise outstanding young researchers in Australasia who have made significant contributions in their areas of research.
P
r Michael Ondaatje was a joint recipient of the Australian Academy of the Humanities 2012 Max Crawford Medal. An expert in American history and politics, Dr Ondaatje is an author and a regular media commentator on ABC radio.
D
ssociate Professor Erica Wanless received the Tokyo University of Science President’s Award for her research on the behaviour of polymeric materials in water.
A
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 57
Investing in the talent of the future In 2012, we offered a range of programs to assist our higher degree (Masters and PhD) by research students to reach their potential. Support programs A Pre-Confirmation Program was introduced to develop skills such as critical use of literature, written communication and oral presentation. A Targeted Completions Strategy was also established for higher degree by research (HDR) candidates nearing completion. Forty-three students targeted under the Strategy received funding for activities such as thesis editing and proofreading. To date 25 per cent of these students have submitted their thesis and 87
Our higher degree by research enrolments continue to grow per cent of the remaining students are on track to complete on time. Seminars for post-confirmation higher degree by research students, such as the popular Writing Circles, continued to be offered. The newly expanded Success@Confirmation program to be offered in 2013 will incorporate best practice from universities around the world using the Researcher Development Framework from UK career development organisation Vitae.
competition for the third consecutive year. Mr Vincent Candrawinata progressed to the finals at the University of Queensland where he presented his topic The Extraction and Utilisation of the Polyphenolics from Apple Juice Pomace.
also receiving a living allowance scholarship. Domestic scholarship numbers remained stable in 2012 compared with 2011 while international scholarship numbers rose by 10 per cent over the same period.
Scholarships
Three Minute Thesis
• 297 international higher degree by research students receiving a tuition fee scholarship, with the majority of these students
Scholarships are funded from a variety of sources, including the Federal Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education (DIISRTE), the University, the home country of a student, and research grants.
The University participated in the national Three Minute Thesis
58 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
At the end of 2012 there were: • 297 domestic higher degree by research students receiving a living allowance scholarship
Pictured above: Vincent Candrawinata, University of Newcastle winner of the Three Minute Thesis competition
HDR students receiving living allowance scholarship 2012
International HDR students receiving a tuition scholarship 2012
HDR SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
INTERNATIONAL HDR SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
2012 Growth in students receiving international scholarships
297 297 10% Table: 3 Higher degree by research load (EFTSL) by funding source
Table: 4 Higher degree by research completions by level
‘07
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
Masters
33
29
27
24
27
324
PhD
108
122
108
113
102
100
Total
141 151 135 137 129
% of National HDR Completions
1.99 2.12 1.92 1.87 1.64
‘07
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
Domestic Funded
491
469
497
503
525
International - Fee Paying
142
152
224
284
Domestic Unfunded
88
98
92
107
Total
721 719 814 894 950
% of National HDR Load
2.11 2.07 2.24 2.28 2.32
Table: 5 Higher degree by research load (EFTSL) by faculty
‘07
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
Business and Law
54
55
54
60
61
Education and Arts
196
194
225
221
Engineering and Built Environment
122
120
138
Health
147
154
Science and 196 Information Technology The Wollotuka Institute Total
6
Table: 6 Higher degree by research completions by faculty
‘07
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
Business and Law
8
8
11
9
6
235
Education and Arts
47
30
34
39
32
181
192
Engineering and Built Environment
22
26
27
21
22
185
213
236
Health
23
35
28
32
32
192
209
212
217
Science and Information Technology
41
48
35
36
36
4
3
7
9
The Wollotuka Institute
0
4
0
0
1
721 719 814 894 950
Total
141 151 135 137 129
Figures have been rounded Source: DIISRTE Higher Education Student Statistics National data source: Institutional Performance Portfolio
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 59
Indigenous collaboration A university of excellence for Indigenous education and research
60 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
A leader in Indigenous education The University is recognised as a national leader in Indigenous education. The proportion of our students who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander is almost double the sector average and since 2008, enrolments of Indigenous students have grown by more than 50 per cent. In 2012, some 761, or 2.6 per cent, of our domestic enrolments were Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. Indigenous students are represented in all faculties of the University and at all levels of study, from enabling education through to research higher degrees. Close to half of the Indigenous students enrolled at the University in 2012 were in the professional disciplines, including teaching, nursing, social work and engineering. This is in line with the priority areas identified by the Australian governmentcommissioned Review of Higher Education Access and Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, known as the Behrendt Review. Approximately half of the country’s Indigenous doctors are graduates of the University and we are one of the largest contributors of Indigenous health workers in Australia, from our medicine, nursing and allied health programs. Pictured left: Awabakal Elder Aunty Sandra Griffin, Elder in Residence, the Wollotuka Institute
INDIGENOUS COLLABORATION | 61
Figure 5: Indigenous student participation rate (per cent)
Figure 6: Indigenous student access rate (per cent)
3.0
3.0
2.5
2.5
2.0
2.0
1.5
1.5
1.0
1.0
0.5
0.5
0
0
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 University of Newcastle
Sector
Participation Rate = proportion of domestic enrolled students who have identified as Indigenous. Source: National data DIISRTE Institutional Performance Portfolio 2012/University data MIS as at 4 March 2013 The sector participation rate for 2012 is not yet available.
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 University of Newcastle
Sector
Access Rate = proportion of domestic commencing students who have identified as Indigenous. Source: National data DIISRTE Institutional Performance Portfolio 2012/University data MIS as at 4 March 2013 The sector access rate for 2012 is not yet available.
Reconciliation action plan The University is committed to further improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. We are the only university in New South Wales to have a campus-wide approach to reconciliation through the implementation of a Reconciliation Action Plan, a public document produced in partnership with the national not-for-profit organisation Reconciliation
Australia. The Reconciliation Action Plan 2011-2015 affirms our commitment to six strategic areas of Indigenous collaboration: • Leading Indigenous collaborations nationally and internationally • Creating additional pathways for
We are the only university in New South Wales to have a campuswide approach to reconciliation through the implementation of a Reconciliation Action Plan 62 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
entry for Indigenous students • Increasing the number of Indigenous graduates • Attracting a greater number of Indigenous academic and general staff • Enhancing Indigenous research efforts • Linking research outcomes to the teaching curricula.
The University’s Reconciliation Statement, a precursor to our Plan, is available in Appendix B.
Whole of university approach The University is home to the Wollotuka Institute, a centre of excellence for Indigenous education and research that supports the most comprehensive range of Indigenous programs in Australia. Wollotuka consolidates all Indigenous activities of the University under one strategic and operational body. This whole-ofuniversity approach was highlighted as an example of best practice in the 2012 Behrendt Review. Wollotuka includes the Umulliko Indigenous Higher Education Research Centre and is key to the recently established National Indigenous Research and Knowledges Network involving 21 universities.
We offer the most comprehensive range of Indigenous programs in Australia
Opening pathways Key to our success in attracting Indigenous students is the enabling program Yapug, which is designed to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to qualify for entry into our undergraduate degrees. While participating in the program, students develop the academic skills and self discipline for success in undergraduate study. Wollotuka provides services to support the students throughout their study
including counselling, tutorial assistance, a resource centre, health support and cultural programs. The University continues to develop and build on primary and high school programs that provide Indigenous students with university experiences and a greater awareness of pathways to higher education. In 2012, as part of the Indigenous Schools To University Pathways (S2U) initiative, we piloted in four schools the
iBELIEVE program designed to empower Year 7 Indigenous students to make educated choices about their future aspirations. The proportion of Indigenous students enrolling from high school rose to 26 per cent in 2012. Pictured above: Students in front of the Birabahn Indigenous Centre, home of the Wollotuka Institute
INDIGENOUS COLLABORATION | 6 3
Attracting and supporting Indigenous staff We have the highest number of Indigenous staff of any university in Australia. The Behrendt Review commended Wollotuka’s grow-yourown approach to Indigenous employment. This includes the Success and Leadership Program, which recognises and rewards senior students undertaking activities that enhance their skills and experience. The program provides a pathway to employment with the University or postgraduate study. Similarly, the Kunarr Alumni Connections Program encourages Indigenous alumni to apply for positions at the University. The University’s Indigenous Employment Strategy focuses on attracting quality applications for academic and professional positions at all levels across the University; ensuring an internal environment that is conducive to professional and personal growth for Indigenous staff; and developing strong collaboration with relevant community organisations. This strategy resulted in 2.8 per cent of University staff identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander in 2012, up from 2.2 per cent in 2008.
The Behrendt Review commended Wollotuka’s growyour-own approach to Indigenous employment Figure 7: Indigenous staff (per cent)
3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0
2008
2009
University of Newcastle
2010
2011
2012
Sector
Source: Sector DIISRTE Institutional Performance Portfolio 2012/ University data Alesco HRS database as at 30 June 2012
Fostering cultural competency and community Following a successful 2011 pilot, we delivered 17 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Competency workshops with 189 participants across multiple campuses during 2012. The workshops improve understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by cultivating knowledge of traditional and contemporary Indigenous practices and perspectives. Participants are required to articulate the information provided in the sessions into a practical action plan linked to their relevant work area. 64 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
We are committed to improving Indigenous cultural competency in our communities
The University implemented the concept of the Identitea Café, modelled on the World Café method of hosting idea-sharing workshops for large groups, to create an opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to meet and share experiences, knowledge and ideas. This initiative resulted in an improved cultural network for Indigenous staff and the development of strategies to enhance retention and satisfaction. Pictured right: James Charles and Gabrielle Fletcher, each a recipient of an Indigenous New Career Academic scholarship
INDIGENOUS COLLABORATION | 65
“Uni has allowed me to reconnect with my culture and to realise what I am capable of” Ms Kathleen Jackson, Arts/Law Honours student 66 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
“I strive to teach and practice in ways that are culturally sound and competent, to strengthen our collective Indigenous voice� Dr Stephanie Gilbert, Lecturer and Acting Academic Coordinator, the Wollotuka Institute
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 67
World-class research projects The University promotes and encourages quality Indigenous research activities THAT link research outcomes to our teaching curricula. Wollotuka is home to world-leading researchers such as Professor John Maynard, ARC Australian Research Fellow and Chair of Indigenous Studies. Professor Maynard has been a member of the ARC College of Experts (Humanities and Creative Arts) and Deputy Chair of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS). Development of research capacity is fundamental and we support Indigenous academic staff at all levels to enhance their skills. The three-year Indigenous New Career Academic (INCA) program develops the research and teaching experience of research higher degree (RHD) students. The program increases retention and progression of RHD students into the academic workforce through tailored support and training. The following projects were highlights of research activity in 2012. ARC National Indigenous Research and Knowledges Network (NIRAKN) The University was part of a successful consortium bid for ARC Special Research Initiative funding to establish the NIRAKN. The network will be a multidisciplinary hub and spokesmodel network of Indigenous researchers at various stages of their career. NIRAKN will comprise 44 Indigenous academic network participants from 21 universities, the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies and five Indigenous partner organisations. Professor Maynard will lead the Yuraki – History, Politics and Culture Node, which will map historical and contemporary Indigenous advocacy through oral and documentary 68 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
sources within Australia and the USA, countries with different political structures whose histories have produced similar Indigenous political movements. Serving our country: a history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the defence of Australia We were part of a successful ARC Linkage Project application that explores the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service in Australian defence and auxiliary services from the 1890s to 2000. Led by the Australian National University, and involving University of Newcastle researcher Professor John Maynard, this national project will provide authoritative accounts of the contributions of Indigenous people to the nation in time for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) Anniversary Commemorations on 25 April 2013. Visiting Indigenous Fellowship Professor Dennis Foley was awarded a three-year Visiting Indigenous Fellowship by the Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research at the Australian National University to undertake research into Indigenous entrepreneurship. Empowering Aboriginal children to lead a healthy lifestyle The University received Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing funding for a research project aimed at improving the health of young Aboriginal people in rural areas. Dr Josephine Gwynn and the Many Rivers Diabetes Prevention Project will deliver the Dharma Burra Nyinhi (Eat Strong Live Long) project. The project will use social marketing,
The Wollotuka Institute is home to worldleading researchers such as ARC Australian Research Fellow Professor John Maynard traditional Indigenous games and a photography project as part of a multi-faceted approach. The Many Rivers project is a 10-year research and health promotion partnership between Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Medical Service in Taree, Durri Aboriginal Corporation Medical Service in Kempsey and the University of Newcastle. Project logs onto smart technology to share Indigenous knowledge Funding was received from the ARC for a three-year research project designed to develop and evaluate new ways to reproduce and archive Indigenous cultural heritage. (For more details on this project, see feature story New technology to unlock ancient wisdom on page 72). Pictured right: Professor John Maynard, Chair of Indigenous Studies and leading expert on Indigenous history
INDIGENOUS COLLABORATION | 69
Engagement We continue to maintain and forge respectful relationships with Indigenous communities, fostering communication and partnerships that work to further close the gap on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education, health, social justice and employment. Our Elders in Residence program involves senior Indigenous community leaders in University business, encouraging a mutual exchange of respect, knowledge and support for our students, staff, and communities. The two Elders in Residence collaborated with all faculties in 2012 by delivering guest lectures, providing Welcome to Country addresses for faculty functions and attending other functions such as graduation ceremonies. We value and maintain strong links with prospective students, communities, and other stakeholders, such as the Aboriginal Education Consultative Group, the Central Coast Aboriginal Community Congress, various Indigenous interagencies, Local Aboriginal Land Councils, and Indigenous employment meetings and forums. A partnership between Wollotuka and the NSW Aboriginal Land Council provides for chief executive officers of Local Aboriginal Land Councils across the state to undertake a Graduate Certificate in Business 70 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Administration. The first cohort of 12 CEOs graduated in 2012. Staff and community members participated in the annual Reconciliation Scholarship Dinner Dance during National Reconciliation Week. As well as being a popular social event, the dinner raises funds for the University’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarship Fund. The first scholarship of $10,000 was offered in 2012. Pictured: Awabakal Elder Aunty Sandra Griffin, Elder in Residence, the Wollotuka Institute
A partnership with the NSW Aboriginal Land Council provides for Local Aboriginal Land Council CEOs across the state to undertake a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration
INDIGENOUS COLLABORATION | 71
72 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
New technology to unlock ancient wisdom A University of Newcastle researcher aims to make thousands of years of Indigenous knowledge more accessible through the use of smart technology. Dr Mark Harvey says the depth of Indigenous knowledge of the Australian environment can’t be appreciated in many situations because it is recorded almost entirely in text format. “Words alone cannot communicate spatial relationships, for example, when explaining the importance of the distribution of place names across an area or the associations between biological species in certain ecozones,” Dr Harvey says. A team of three researchers led by Dr Harvey is exploring the potential for technology such as 3D mapping and satellite photo imaging to deepen visual understanding of the landscape, plants and animals. The three-year project is a collaboration with the University of Ballarat, the Department of Lands, Planning and the Environment in the Northern Territory, and the Surveyor-
General of Victoria. The project is supported by a $105,000 Linkage Grant from the Australian Research Council (ARC). “The research project is designed to develop and evaluate new ways to reproduce and archive the rich Indigenous cultural heritage,” Dr Harvey says. A large amount of Indigenous knowledge is held in archives such as the Mitchell Library research collection at the State Library of New South Wales. The documents are largely historical or from restricted print-runs. “There is a lot of information recorded about Indigenous plants and animals and place names, but none of this data is currently stored in forms that are easily transmissible or accessible. Unless you know how to search for information in a formal archive like the
Smart technology has the potential to transform the way Indigenous heritage is shared
Mitchell Library, you are unlikely to ever find it,” Dr Harvey says. The new technologies have the potential to make this information available to remote areas via mobile phone the Internet. The researchers on the project will consult with an Indigenous community in Pine Creek in the Northern Territory and two Indigenous communities in southwest Victoria. The team will work with Indigenous and non-Indigenous tourism operators to develop technological tools to share the Indigenous information with the community. “Smart technology has the potential to transform the way Indigenous heritage is shared across a range of industries including tourism and education,” Dr Harvey says. “Using smart technology, a group of tourists could be walking in the middle of the Kimberleys and through satellite imaging on their phones experience an audio tour of the artwork on the trail.” Pictured left: Dr Mark Harvey
INDIGENOUS COLLABORATION | 73
Engagement with our communities Our communities – global, national, regional
74 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Innovation through collaboration Our staff, students and alumni contribute to our regions, both in Australia and across the world. Through knowledge-sharing and collaboration, we aim to encourage the development of robust, vibrant communities; advance education and research; improve equity and access in higher education; and build a sustainable future. We have created a philosophy that values community engagement and understands the value of reciprocity. Drawing on the knowledge and strengths that exist in our community and collaborating for mutual benefit is essential to our engagement mission. With our students, staff and alumni as our greatest assets, we seek to understand our communities’ issues and work together to foster social cohesion and find innovative solutions through education and research. By engaging with our partners in industry, business and government, in 2012 we continued to deliver world-class research and innovation to support the development of strong communities both socially and economically. Pictured left: Alumna and philanthropist Ms Jennie Thomas AM has helped transform the lives of many students with her range of scholarships
ENGAGEMENT WITH OUR COMMUNITIES | 75
Global recognition Every day, Newcastle’s 115,000 alumni make significant contributions in their fields of endeavour. A university’s reputation draws strongly on the calibre of its alumni, and through their success and achievements they play a valuable role in building our University’s global standing. Australia China Alumni Awards Two of our graduates received prestigious Australia China Alumni Awards, which recognise the exceptional achievements of Australian-educated university alumni now based in China. Mr John Zhao, Legal Director Yum! Brands and 2004 Master of Business Administration graduate, received the Corporate Achievement Award. Mr Zhao has been General Counsel for some of the largest companies in the world including Bluescope Steel and The ShangriLa Hotel and Resort Group. Mr Richard Mullane, Senior Associate and Leader of the Urban
Our alumni are recognised globally, winning awards that support our excellent reputation 76 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Our alumni are contributing professionally and personally, strengthening their communities Design Team Hassel and 2002 Bachelor of Design (Architecture) graduate, was commended in the Young Alumni of the Year category. Australian Alumni Awards, Singapore The Australian Alumni Awards, Singapore, recognise the accomplishments of Australian university graduates based in Singapore who gain national or international distinction as an outstanding exponent of their field. For the second time, a Colombo Plan scholar from the University received the Eminent Alumni Award, the highest honour bestowed. Recipient of the 2012 award, Dr Tan Chin Nam, Chairman of the Media Development Authority International Advisory Panel and an engineering and economics graduate, is one of Singapore’s most distinguished public servants. Australian Alumni Awards, Indonesia The Australian Alumni Awards, Indonesia, recognise outstanding talent, achievements and contributions made to Indonesia by alumni of Australian universities
based in Indonesia. Three University of Newcastle graduates were recognised in 2012. Professor Ali Ghufron Mukti, Indonesian Vice-Minister for Health, received the Outstanding Contribution to Public Administration award. Professor Ghufron was awarded a PhD from the School of Medicine at the University of Newcastle. Mr Krishda Tan, Graduate Chemical Engineer Rio Tinto Pacific Aluminium at Gove Alumina Refinery in the Northern Territory, received the Outstanding Young Alumni award. Mr Tan was awarded a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from the University of Newcastle in 2010, receiving first-class honours and the University Medal. Mr Ficky Maurya, Managing Director Sunrise Steel and a Bachelor of Engineering graduate, was a finalist in the Business Leadership and Business Management Award. Pictured right: Mr Krishda Tan, Graduate Chemical Engineer Rio Tinto Pacific Aluminium at Gove Alumina Refinery in the Northern Territory
ENGAGEMENT WITH OUR COMMUNITIES | 77
Graduation honours Honorary Doctorates are the highest honour the University can bestow. They recognise individuals with a special connection to the University, and those who have made distinguished contributions to higher education, their profession or the community.
Dr John Dai Doctor of Business honoris causa Dr Dai is internationally respected across the business and renewable energy research sectors and widely acknowledged as a pioneer in global education. Dr Dai is a major shareholder of a wind turbine technology company, Design Licensing International, and has forged a successful career working with high profile global companies and higher education institutions both in Australia and internationally. He is currently the Managing Director of Tertiary Education International (TEI) and the DC Foundation, which funds international education scholarships and research. TEI began by introducing the first Australian university Bachelor program to be taught in China and now has education partners in South East Asia, Europe, USA, Canada, China, Australia, and New Zealand. Dr Dai has played a major role in assisting the University with the establishment of key partnerships in China, including the Shangri-La University Alliance (SUA). The SUA is a multi-national network of quality tertiary education institutions dedicated to advancing opportunities for students globally.
78 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Professor Balakrishnan (Kichu) Nair AM Doctor of Medicine honoris causa Professor Nair is a consultant physician in geriatrics and general medicine, internationally recognised as a pioneer in his field of geriatric medicine and medical education. He was the first in Australia to pilot a multidisciplinary learning unit focusing on elderly patient care, and he is the Foundation Chair of the Hunter Ageing Research Group. His leadership and innovation has been demonstrated through the development of research in ageing, in the development of geriatric services in the Hunter New England region, in medical education for learners at all stages of their medical career and in his direct involvement in the medical program at the University. Professor Nair’s high standing and reputation is reflected in the award of a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2009 for contributions to medical education in geriatric medicine, and the John Sands Medal of the Royal Australiasian College of Physicians in 2010 for the quality and innovation of his contributions to the education of physicians.
In 2012, the University Council also approved the award of a Doctor of Medicine honoris causa for Professor Barry Marshall AC. The honorary degree for Professor Marshall will be conferred in 2013.
Professor Gillian Turner AO Doctor of Medicine honoris causa Professor Turner is a distinguished physician, an internationally acclaimed geneticist and a worldwide authority on the X chromosome. She was the first Professor of Medical Genetics at the University, pioneering clinical genetics in the Hunter region. She established the first postgraduate degree in Genetic Counselling in Australia, and was a significant force behind the establishment of the Hunter Family Cancer Service. Professor Turner’s research in the area of the Fragile X Syndrome has been seminal in defining the epidemiology and genetics of the disorder. Her long standing care and commitment to families with inherited intellectual disability has resulted in important scientific findings with respect to inherited diseases associated with the X chromosome, the development of screening tests, counselling services for families with genetic disorders, the mentoring of clinicians in this field, and the establishment of an internationally reputed Molecular Genetics facility in the Hunter region in 1994. Professor Turner was honoured as an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 1990 for service to medicine, particularly in the field of genetics.
Conjoint Professor Trevor Waring AM Doctor of the University honoris causa Conjoint Professor Trevor Waring AM has over thirty years association with, and outstanding service to, the University of Newcastle. His many contributions to the University include teaching roles and membership of a wide range of boards and committees. Academically he has made significant contributions to the professional practice of applied psychology and the regulation of the profession in Australia. His contributions have developed the unification of education, training and regulation of the profession at the national level. He has made substantial and sustained contributions to international, national and local communities, receiving the highest recognition including: the NewtonJohn Alumni Award (1983); the Convocation Medal for Professional Excellence (2002); Member of the Order of Australia AM (2004); the 75th Newcastle Business Club’s Anniversary Award for sustained contributions (2008); the Australia Day “Newcastle Citizen of the Year” (2009); and the Australian Psychological Society President’s award for Distinguished Contribution to Psychology in Australia (2011).
ENGAGEMENT WITH OUR COMMUNITIES | 79
“We saw patients severely affected by stroke returning to normal function within two to three days” Associate Professor Mark Parsons, Joint winner of the 2012 Alumni Medal
80 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
“The way that we provide care for the marginalised and voiceless is a key measure of our humanity” Professor David Currow, Joint winner of the 2012 Alumni Medal
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION | 81
Community impact with a global reach Community engagement is an integral part of the University’s teaching, research and innovation. We engage with international, national and regional communities to enrich teaching and research with a deeper sense of context, locality and application. International collaboration on engagement A collaboration between the University of Newcastle, the University of Fort Hare, South Africa, and Syracuse University, USA, is working to further the global engagement agenda in research, teaching and service provision. Representatives from each university are exploring globally diverse understandings of what constitutes an engaged university and debates about the nature, scope and purpose of engagement and its impact. Formed in 2011, this tri-institutional research partnership is funded by the National Research Foundation in South Africa.
In 2012, the University established a research partnership with Portland State University to measure and benchmark community engagement. Portland University is internationally renowned as an ‘engaged campus’. The research project examined current metrics for engagement and analysed whether these are appropriate for measuring universitycommunity engagement across the sector. The partnership has developed a tool that will be tested on both institutions in 2013 using a comparative analysis to determine whether they have cross-cultural relevance. Engagement Australia The University is represented on the Board of Engagement Australia. This national alliance is committed to leading, developing and promoting an integrated approach to engagement between the higher education, private, public and community-based sectors. Through this affiliation, current research into measuring university-community
engagement and its impact, undertaken by the University, is leading the agenda nationally and internationally. Engaging Newcastle The Engage Newcastle online portal, launched in 2012, provides access to our engagement strategies and activities for community, industry, alumni, partners and schools. The microsite is the first stage of the Engage Newcastle Strategy, which is designed to facilitate our engagement mission as outlined in the NeW Directions Strategic Plan 2013-2015. The site communicates, promotes and raises awareness of our current engagement activities, capturing and tracking the stories of our work with the community that may not be told elsewhere. The portal will facilitate the NeW Directions strategy by promoting opportunities for students to participate in exchange, internship, volunteering and community work activities in the region, Australia and internationally.
Donations and sponsorships We received almost $4 million in philanthropic support in 2012, including funding for scholarships, bequests, professorships, in-kind donations, prizes, special projects and general endowments. With an 11 per cent increase in scholarship applications in 2012, the University of Newcastle Foundation focused on equity, with an emphasis on broadening the range of scholarships on offer. Our second Annual Appeal raised almost $53,000 to fund 12 Shaping Futures Scholarships for academically gifted students facing disadvantage. The value of our donor-funded scholarships increased by almost five per cent. New scholarships included: • Bishop David Walker Scholarship 82 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
• Broken Bay Institute Scholarship In Theology • Professor Alan Roberts Undergraduate Scholarship in Engineering • Inventia Honours Scholarship in Biochemistry • Singapore Alumni Scholarship. Other highlights of the year for philanthropic projects were: • a $227,000 bequest from Ms Mary Anita Sheriff to the Faculty of Medicine for cancer research • funding for the Mobile Oral Health Van, which provides free preventative dental health care to disadvantaged, senior and Indigenous residents of the Central Coast
• sponsorship and donations for the Newcastle Conservatorium’s International Space Time Concerto Series • the awarding of the first Singapore Alumni Scholarship • seed funding for the Flora of the Hunter project, an illustrated botanical guide to the Hunter’s critically endangered flora and other endemic species • a staff giving campaign launch. A list of all donations and sponsorships over $1,000 in 2012 is available in Appendic C. Pictured right: Graduate Conor Ashleigh completed a photo essay of our community as part of the Engage Newcastle strategy
ENGAGEMENT WITH OUR COMMUNITIES | 83
Community lectures Our popular annual public lecture series contributes to the intellectual, social and cultural enrichment of the region. • Associate Professor Cheryl Kernot, former leader of the Australian Democrats and a current Director at the Centre for Social Impact, presented the Society and Health Lecture, Challenging the Orthodoxy! Social Entrepreneurs and Business with a Social Purpose.
• Conjoint Professor the Honourable Kevin E Lindgren AM QC, Faculty of Business and Law, delivered the Sir Ninian Stephen Lecture, The Rule of Law: Its State in Australia. • Vice-Chancellor Professor Caroline McMillen presented the Alumni Lecture, Supersize Me: Early Origins of a Life of Obesity.
to Guns and God: Political Conservatism in the Age of Obama. • Dr Tim Stanley, Lecturer in the School of Humanities and Social Science, presented the Morpeth Lecture, Theology between Religion and Politics, at Newcastle’s Christ Church Cathedral.
• Dr Michael Ondaatje, Program Convenor (History), delivered The John Turner Lecture, Clinging
A lecture by DR Anne Summers PROVOKED a national discussion about social justice for women in the workplace and garnered international attention. More than 600 University staff, students and community members listened to Dr Anne Summers AO present the University’s 2012 Human Rights and Social Justice Lecture in August. The lecture titled Her Rights at Work? The Political Persecution of Australia’s First Prime Minister was a powerful exposition 84 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
regarding what she sees as the persecution of Prime Minister Julia Gillard by politicians and other elements of Australian society. The journalist, author and former head of the Federal Office of the Status of Women argued that the political persecution of Ms Gillard may breach federal laws designed to protect people’s rights at work.
The issues raised were hotly discussed in both Australian and international media. Videos of the speech published on Dr Summers’ website and our YouTube channel have attracted nearly 110,000 views. Pictured: Dr Anne Summers, presenter of the University’s 2012 Human Rights and Social Justice Lecture
ENGAGEMENT WITH OUR COMMUNITIES | 85
Outreach We are among the most active in the sector in our school outreach work under the banner of AIM High. The program strives to increase the understanding of, and aspiration for, higher education among low socioeconomic status schools and communities by offering a suite of tertiary education experiences to primary and high school students. • Careers Through Reading is designed to complement exsisting school literacy programs and introduce the concept of careers and study pathways to Year 2 children. University students read children’s books themed to their degree area. Year 5 students are introduced to University and play a leadership role for the younger students. More than 300 primary school students participated in the program at four schools in the Hunter Region in 2012. • Discover Uni Day provides an opportunity for Year 6 students and family members to explore the Callaghan campus and interact with staff and students. Students and family members complete a Science and Engineering Challenge, tour our facilities and learn about the degrees we offer at an interactive Expo. In 2012, 1,500 Year 6 students and family members participated in the Discover Uni Day over three days in July. • The Girls Choices Summer School and the LIVE IT! program for boys are five-day residential experiences for Year 9 students from equity target groups across NSW. Students participate in 86 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
came together each week for a a program of activities, lectures, workshops and industry visits, BBQ and a dose of friendly soccer all designed to reinforce the competition in 2012. importance of further education • Refugee Education And and expose them to the wide range Literacy Development initiative of study and career options that (REALD) aims to better connect exists for HSC graduates. The at-risk refugee youth with programs were held over two weeks community support services, in December, with 120 students increase their general employability attending each week. and enhance their literacy and • HSC Coach provides students numeracy while helping them to with digital access to high-quality, stay engaged with the mainstream annually updated, course-specific education system. The University HSC expertise. In addition to the is a partner in this initiative with online resource, versions of the Northern Settlement Services, content are provided on CD so Multicultural Neighbourhood that students who may not have Centre, Services for the Treatment internet access at home can still And Rehabilitation of Trauma and benefit. For schools participating Torture Survivors, Hunter African in the AIM High Program HSC Communities Council and the Coach, is accompanied by Ethnic Communities Council. Resilience Workshops, which aim to provide senior students and their families with the tools needed to get through the final two years of school, such goal setting and stress management techniques. Initiatives for people whose first language is not English The University runs several programs to support students whose first language is not English and to assist them in connecting with community both within the University and externally. Key among these were: • Games for Overseas and Local Students and Staff (GOALSS) assists international students to develop friendships and networks with domestic students and academic staff through a social sports program. More than 100 students and staff from 36 nations
We are a sector leader in community outreach
• Radiate Innate Confidence and Strength (RICS) teaches about the power that all women have and how they can tap into it in order to control their own safety. In 2012 the program focused on international students. Pictured right: Each year, our summer schools give secondary students the opportunity to experience campus life and explore career options
ENGAGEMENT WITH OUR COMMUNITIES | 87
88 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Celebrating the achievements of our graduates The annual University of Newcastle Alumni Awards, hosted by the Alumni Advisory Committee (formerly known as the Executive Committee of Convocation), acknowledge alumni who have inspired others with their regional, national and international achievements. The highest honour, the Alumni Medal (formerly known as the Convocation Medal), was awarded jointly in 2012 to Bachelor of Medicine graduates Professor David Currow and Associate Professor Mark Parsons.
His internationally recognised work in thrombolysis (clot-dissolving) treatment aims to reduce irreversible damage to brain tissue in the 48 hours following a stroke.
Key Alumni activities
Other recipients were:
Professor Currow is a former Chief Executive Officer of the Cancer Institute of New South Wales, Professor of Palliative and Supportive Services at Flinders University, South Australia, and an Honorary Professor at the University of Sydney and the University of Technology, Sydney. With more than 240 publications to his name, Professor Currow was rated one of the top ten most published palliative care researchers in the world in 2012.
Alumni Award for National Leadership Dr Peter Halliday, Founder and Managing Director Elite I.T. Services and former Assistant Commissioner Hong Kong Police Force.
Our global alumni network is highly valued by the University. During 2012, we hosted four international dinners with the purpose of strengthening alumni communities and developing relationships with our partners and distinguished alumni. The annual International graduation and alumni dinners were held in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong. Other international alumni events took place in London and Shanghai, and for the first time in Seoul, with local networking events in Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney.
Associate Professor Parsons is the Senior Staff Specialist in Neurology at the John Hunter Hospital, an Associate Professor in Medicine at the University of Newcastle, and Director of the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) Stroke Research Program.
We value our graduates from the Hunter, across Australia and around the world
Alumni Award for International Leadership Ms Tiffany See, Executive Director Human Resources for Dell’s commercial business unit across the Asia-Pacific and Japan.
Alumni Award for Regional Leadership Dr Frances Gentle, vision impairment researcher and teacher at the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC), and Pacific Chairperson of the International Council for the Education of People with Visual Impairment (ICEVI). Newton John Award Ms Linda Bergskas, designer and businesswoman behind international fashion label Guanabana. Exceptional Community Service Award Ms Jennie Thomas AM, philanthropist. Indigenous Alumni Award Dr Donna Odegaard, Chief Executive of Radio Larrakia 94.5FM, Darwin. Young Alumni Award Dr Glenn Platt, Theme Leader for Local Energy Systems at the CSIRO’s Energy Transformed Flagship
Future leaders The University’s annual Leadership Award recognises and encourages emerging leaders in the Hunter, Central Coast and Mid-North Coast regions of New South Wales. • Ms Alison Page, Chief Executive Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance Aboriginal Corporation, won the $10,000 leadership development scholarship in 2012 for promoting culture as a foundation for the development of Aboriginal communities in the region. • Ms Jaimie Abbot, Public Affairs Officer Royal Australian Air Force, received the $3,000 Encouragement Award. Ms Abbott spent the majority of 2011 in Afghanistan where she developed the first media-training package for spokespersons on the conflict. Pictured left: Dr Glenn Platt, winner of the 2012 Young Alumni Award
ENGAGEMENT WITH OUR COMMUNITIES | 89
Our staff Recruiting and retaining outstanding staff from across the world
90 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
A rewarding place to work The University is a place of opportunity where all staff are supported to perform at world-class levels and to be innovative in their practice. In 2012, we built on our commitment to provide a supportive and healthy environment and focused on global recruitment of academic and professional staff who are committed to our vision and values. The contribution of every staff member is essential as we strive toward our strategic objectives and build on our record of achievement in equity, excellence and engagement.
Recruiting exceptional people The University’s strong record in attracting local and international candidates continued in 2012, with over 7,000 applications to join our workforce. We recruited internationally for all available senior academic and management roles and secured appointments in the key areas of Deputy ViceChancellor (Academic), Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Advancement) and Pro ViceChancellor (Business and Law). The quality of candidates was outstanding and they provided encouraging feedback that indicates our recruitment processes provide a consistently positive experience. The University is the second biggest employer in the Hunter region. In 2012, the University’s workforce comprised 2,596 full-time equivalent staff in ongoing or fixed-term employment. Total direct staffing comprised 1,046 academics and 1,550 professional staff with 1,253 conjoint staff contributing to our activities during the year. Our casual and sessional staff (456 full-time equivalent) also made a significant contribution to our teaching, research and community activities.
Pictured left: Professor Carol Miles, Director of the Centre for Teaching and Learning
OUR STAFF | 91
Key appointments The following appointments to senior positions in 2012 will further strengthen the University’s teaching, research and innovation profile: • Professor Mark Balnaves, Professor of Communication, Faculty of Science and Information Technology • Professor Simon Dennis, Head of School, School of Psychology, Faculty of Science and Information Technology • Professor Richard Dunford, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Business and Law (see also Our Leadership Team in the Governance and Leadership chapter) • Professor Philip Dwyer, Professor of History, Faculty of Education and Arts • Professor Peter Howe, Professor of Nutrition Research and Director of the Clinical Nutrition Centre, Faculty of Health • Professor Brian Jolly, Professor of Medical Education, Faculty of Health • Professor Darryl Knight, Head of School, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health • Professor Carol Miles, Director of the Centre for Teaching and Learning • Professor Mario Minichiello, Professor of Design, Faculty of Science and Information Technology • Professor Andrew Parfitt, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) (see also Our Leadership Team in the Governance and Leadership chapter) • Professor Mark Taylor, Professor of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment • Professor Marjorie M. Walker, Professor of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Health. Above: Our new Head of Design, Professor Mario Minichiello’s illustrations feature throughout our NeW Directions Strategic Plan 2013 - 2015
92 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Recognising achievements Recognising achievements is essential to retaining talent. Initiatives in 2012 to recognise outstanding members of staff included the following. • The 2012 Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence recognised outstanding individuals and teams who consistently performed above and beyond expectation. In total, 77 researchers, supervisors,
teaching and professional staff were recognised for excellence. Recipients are listed in Appendix H. • Service Recognition Awards were introduced for members of staff who have given either 15 or 25 years of service to the organisation. The University conducted ceremonies to recognise 347 staff for 15 years of service and 126 staff for 25 years of service.
The 2012 Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence recognised 77 staff members for performing above and beyond expectation
Training Leadership opportunities development The University is committed to providing an environment where all staff can reach their potential. Staff engaged in more than 10,000 training opportunities in 2012 ranging from workplace skills to facilitated workshops for our leadership group. New initiatives during the year included the introduction of a Diploma of Occupational Health and Safety for technical and professional officers working in a range of laboratory and workshop settings. Eleven staff members enrolled in this qualification. The staff orientation program was revised to deliver a contemporary and more targeted introduction to the University. As a consequence, significantly more staff participated in the program, ensuring them a smooth transition to work.
A new program launched in 2012 aims to develop world-class leaders within the University In 2012, we conducted foundational work on the development of a Leadership Framework, which will be delivered in 2013. The framework articulates the leadership skills and capabilities required to deliver the University’s 2025 Vision and is supported by leadership programs for academic and professional staff.
workshops and other informal gatherings, more than 40 supervisory staff enhanced their practical skills and strategies. Surveys show that participants put the information obtained from the program into practice and that they gained from networking, collaborating, and supporting each other.
During the year, we launched the Leadership with Impact Management Essentials (LIME) program to develop world-class leaders within the University. Through a series of six
In addition to the leadership and the LIME programs, 12 staff formalised the development of their professional expertise by enrolling in the Diploma of Management in 2012.
Number of staff who received service recognition awards for 15 or 25 years service
347
RECOGNISED FOR 15 YEARS OF SERVICE
Number of staff awarded for excellence in 2012
77
researchers, supervisors, teaching & professional staff
126
RECOGNISED FOR 25 YEARS OF SERVICE
10,000+
Number of training opportunities taken by staff
TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES TAKEN BY STAFF
OUR STAFF | 9 3
94 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Research staff development The University assists all staff to be research-intensive and deliver high quality research-integrated learning. The University fosters a culture of international engagement and mobility. Of the academics that undertook Special Studies Programs in 2012, more than half travelled overseas to further their research. Research staff development initiatives include the following. • Equity Research Fellowships offer female and Indigenous academic staff the time and resources necessary to progress their research or Research Higher Degree. The Fellowships provide up to $25,000 to allow for up to six months relief from teaching, administrative and other nonresearch duties. An additional Equity Research Grant of up to $10,000 is available to cover research expenses. • Early Career Researcher Grants provide an opportunity for new researchers to gain experience in grant application, research methodology, project implementation and report procedures. Available throughout the year, Early Career Researcher Grants are seeding grants for funding of up to $10,000. • New Staff Grants assist academic staff within 12 months of appointment to establish their research. The grants can be used to support new staff with infrastructure costs, encourage new academic staff to start planning their research program as soon as possible and provide some funding for new staff whose research might be disadvantaged by having to wait for the next Project Grant Round. New Staff Grants of up to $5,000
are supplemented by matching School/Faculty funding. • The Emerging Research Leaders Program pilot continued to deliver opportunities for development in 2012. The training included sessions on collaborations, strategy, promotion and prioritisation as well as interactions with senior staff and external research experts. The 18-month program also provided participants with up to $15,000 to cover the costs of professional development activities and/or the development of research capacity. Approximately 40 candidates from our five faculties participated in the program. • REfocus@UoN developed the strategic researcher by supporting excellence, innovation and cooperation in the researcher career lifecycle - from early career researcher to internationally respected expert. Refocus@ UoN provided researchers with a comprehensive selection of research-focused training and development courses and mentoring opportunities. • The Early Career Researchers Lunchtime Program offered contact with Laureate Professors
and senior researchers in 90-minute interactive sessions. In 2012, there were almost 100 attendances at four sessions focusing on academic reputation, grant funding, publications and research rights. • All academic researchers were offered training in sharing expertise through publications, not only in journals but also as opinion leaders to increase their public profile. More than 90 academic researchers were supported in enhancing their web profile and developing efficiency with e-forms used by grant bodies. • Academic supervisor training was delivered to 71 participants in 2012. • The Research Animal Training Scheme (RATS) provides the knowledge and skills needed for the safe and humane use of animals in research. Researchers completed more than 100 modules of the RATS in 2012.
Pictured left: Associate Professor Victoria Haskins, ARC Future Fellow, researcher into gender and cross-cultural relationships in history
Equity Research Fellowships offer female and Indigenous academic staff the time and resources necessary to progress their research OUR STAFF | 95
An employer of choice for women We are proud to be a workplace of choice for women, who make up just over 60 per cent of our workforce, higher than the sector average of 53 per cent. In 2012, the Federal Government’s Workplace Gender Equality Agency, formerly known as the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency, again listed the University as an Employer of Choice for Women, a prestigious acknowledgement that we are recognising and advancing women in the workplace. We have developed a range of strategies and targets to improve the representation of women in senior academic levels and in leadership. Initiatives include: • Career Enhancement Fellowships for Academic Women support senior women to enhance their profile and reputation and increase their likelihood of promotion to Level D (Associate Professor) or E (Professor). The fellowships provide up to $50,000 to an academic’s faculty to cover negotiated duties for a 12-month period. A further $8,000 is available to cover costs for the academic to travel to conferences or to support engagement in networking opportunities.
We are an Employer of Choice for Women, a prestigious acknowledgement that we are recognising and advancing women in the workplace 96 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
• Greater Responsibility and Opportunities for Women (GROW), piloted in 2012, consists of a series of four workshops held between March and November. Each workshop operates as a tailored Action Learning Program, the central philosophy being that participants use their own work and work situations as the basis for expanding learning and skill development. All female staff at Level B (Lecturer) or Higher Education Worker (HEW) Level 6 and above were invited to apply for a position in the program in 2012, with 20 women being offered a place. The program will continue in 2013. • Academic Women in Leadership Program (AWiL) is conducted throughout the year in two-day formats for a total of eight days at an off-campus venue. The program includes mentoring and shadowing, executive coaching, and guest speakers. The program has been running since 2007 with on average, 18 women participating each year. In 2012, we reached the milestone of more than 100 women having participated in the program since it began. Almost 15 per cent of AWiL participants have been promoted to Associate Professor or above since completing the program, and a further 10 per cent have been awarded a Career Enhancement Fellowship. Two previous participants have been appointed to professorial positions at other universities. Pictured left: Staff members Trish Presbury and Shellie O’Meara
Equity and diversity management plan Our Equity and Diversity Management Plan 2012-2015 will facilitate the identification and removal of systemic barriers to the participation and promotion in employment of equity groups set by the New South Wales government, including: • women • Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people • people with a disability • people requiring a workplace adjustment • people from racial, ethnic and ethno-religious minority groups • people whose first language was not English. The development of our Multicultural Policies and Services Program Plan in 2013 will further strengthen our commitment to equity. Pictured right: Staff members Chris Hunter and Sameena Ahmad
An engaged workforce Staff endorsed our positive culture in the 2012 Your Voice Sample Survey where they indicated that they see their future here and are committed to building their careers with us. Our score of 77 per cent on the Passion/Engagement scale was above that of our peers and marked an outstanding improvement from previous surveys in 2010 and 2007. Following the collaborative development of the NeW Directions Strategic Plan 2013-2015, more staff are indicating they have a clear
84 per cent of staff believe in our mission and values sense of purpose. Some 87 per cent of staff said they understand their goals and objectives and recognise how their job contributes to the overall success of the University. A total of 84 per cent of staff believe in our mission and values. Moreover 62 per cent are satisfied with the rewards and recognition received; this is an eight percentage point
improvement from 2010 and a 10 percentage point improvement from 2007. Additionally, 81 per cent are satisfied with the benefits they receive, such as superannuation and leave. We have also seen a positive shift in how staff view the organisation’s direction. Some 64 per cent have a favourable view, which is a 21 percentage point improvement from 2010. OUR STAFF | 97
A healthy community Our integrated UON Healthy University Scheme aims to ensure improved physical and psychological health for University staff and students. Our ongoing commitment to improved physical and psychological health and wellbeing for the University community resulted in significant advancements in 2012 including: • a review of all policies, procedures and related Health and Safety Management System documentation and website presence following the commencement of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW) at the beginning of 2012 • an update of our online Health and Safety induction in response to the new legislation, and the requirement that all staff
98 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
improved staff awareness of undertake this training. The new health and safety issues and the course commenced in July and by importance of reporting hazards the end of the year, 1,700 people before they lead to injuries. had participated. By the end of 2013, we expect the remainder • simplification of the Risk of current staff as well as all new Assessment Review process so appointments to have completed that the safe way is the easy way the course. for our researchers • establishment of an institutional • preparation for enhancement of Key Performance Indicator (KPI) an integrated wellness program for Lost Time Injury Frequency for staff and students in 2013 Rate (LTIFR) and improvements in line with the UoN Healthy to reporting Health and Safety University Scheme. The Scheme Performance data. These brings together all University initiatives have ensured that stakeholders to provide a whole Health and Safety is firmly on of organisation, system-based our leadership agenda. A rise in approach to health, wellbeing and sustainability. hazard reporting in 2012 indicates
More than 700 staff participated in activities aimed at strengthening and supporting their mental and physical health and wellbeing. Wellness initiatives during the year included the Global Corporate Challenge, in which 441 staff participated. Participation in our Fitness Passport program increased and our Employee Assistance Program, which provides confidential counselling, was widely utilised. The Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) measures the frequency of lost time injuries per million hours worked. At 4.47 in 2012, the University’s LTIFR is
More than 700 staff participated in activities aimed at strengthening and supporting their mental and physical wellbeing down from 4.98 in 2011 and 5.81 in 2010. This is a positive trend and is competitive within the sector despite the complexity of the University’s operating environment and potential risk exposure. The Severity Rate,
which reflects the degree of injury or illness, increased from a 2011 result of 6.33 to 8.21 in 2012. This is largely due to a small number of complex claims that were managed in 2012.
OUR STAFF | 99
Our environment Providing quality physical and virtual environments
100 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Investing in the future Providing students and staff with an environment that meets their needs and expectations is a key objective of the University. Quality teaching, learning, research and service environments support the University’s vision of providing an innovative and rewarding student experience and attracting world-class academics, researchers and professional staff. The University is investing in cutting-edge infrastructure and new technologies to support world-class education and research. Our new Medical Simulation Centre demonstrates our commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities for our students (see also the feature on page 104). The enhancement of our IT infrastructure and targeted investment in our core business applications during 2012 supports the achievement of strategic goals in teaching and learning, research, student services and administration. Investments in new teaching and laboratory space in the Medical Sciences Building and refurbishment of key infrastructure including the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER) support our identified and emerging areas of research strength. The development of a Strategic Asset Management Plan in 2012 will help to ensure a strategic and sustainable approach to the management of the University’s assets. We are committed to sustainability and are a sector leader in low energy consumption and water usage. Our efforts in waste management prevented approximately 200,000 kilograms of waste from going to landfill in 2012. Our new student accommodation project at the Newcastle campus (Callaghan), which will provide over 750 student beds, is consistent with environmentally sensitive design best practice. Responsible financial management allows us to generate the resources required to further invest in our future. Our $59.8 million surplus in 2012 strengthens our financial position and will help to support our ambitions identified in the NeW Directions Strategic Plan 2013-2015.
Pictured left: Fourth year medical student, Nurul Hidayati Saidi
OUR ENVIRONMENT | 101
World-class infrastructure The University is developing new infrastructure and renewing existing facilities to support our identified and emerging areas of research strength and enhance the student experience. Enabling enhanced collaboration at the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) building In the largest relocation project the University has ever undertaken, more than 200 University researchers and professional staff and associated medical laboratories, were moved to HMRI’s new state-of-the-art building located on the grounds of the John Hunter Hospital. The relocation has enabled closer research collaboration between the University and HMRI that will ultimately translate into improved clinical outcomes. Funded by the Australian and NSW governments, HMRI’s $90 million, five storey, 16,000 square metre facility houses open-plan laboratory and office space, along with a Clinical Trials Centre, and brings together the work of more than 1,100 medical researchers from the University, HMRI and Hunter New England Health. The co-location of medical researchers from the University, HMRI, and Hunter New England Health in HMRI’s building will attract the best researchers from around the world to visit and collaborate, and will ensure that contemporary and innovative healthcare options are available to people of the Hunter Region and across the world. Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER) Refurbishment and expansion of the NIER continued in 2012. The 102 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
redevelopment of the former BHP Billiton Newcastle Technology Centre is designed to accommodate a critical mass of academic researchers and industry partners in one location, facilitating synergies and the crossfertilisation essential to world-leading research and innovation. The Institute will create four additional research groups and support at least a further seven new Australian and international research collaborations in the first five years of operation. The Stage 2 refurbishment and occupation project neared completion in 2012 and construction of a 1,950 square metre new research building is well underway, with the completion of all refurbishment and building work forecast to occur in June 2013. Funded with the assistance of a $30 million Australian government grant, NIER will include specialist laboratory space for large-scale test bed and pilot plant operations to support the translation of laboratory research into industry-ready outcomes.
Tamworth Education Centre In 2012, the University commenced the design of the Tamworth Education Centre, which aims to support ongoing growth in medical and allied health education in the New England region. The Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing and Health Workforce Australia have jointly funded the project that supports the government’s objective to invest in the development of the rural health workforce. The precinct includes a new training and education centre, residential accommodation for 50 students and refurbishment of the existing Rural Health facilities. Construction will start in early 2013 and is expected to be completed by early 2014. Newcastle campus (Callaghan) student accommodation project
The Joint Regional Planning Panel and the Newcastle City Council in 2012 approved the Development Application for a major development of student accommodation on the Newcastle campus (Callaghan). The new Medical Sciences Building accommodation is part of a $100 West million project that includes refurbishments of existing The University began construction of accommodation and aligns with the the 4,000 square metre Anatomy University’s Callaghan Campus Master Teaching and Cadaver Store, also Plan to create a dedicated residential known as the Medical Sciences precinct that is safe, secure and Building West, in 2012. Due for supportive for students. The design is completion in the second half of 2013, consistent with environmentally the building houses state-of-the-art sensitive design best practice and will teaching and laboratory spaces. The include four residential multi-storey project is jointly funded by the buildings with 778 new beds, solar University and the Australian power and hot water, passive air Government’s Teaching and Learning conditioning and on-campus parking Capital Fund. for 400 vehicles.
Strategic asset management plan The University’s approach to asset management is being strengthened in response to the Strategic Asset Management Plan (SAMP-1) developed in 2012. The Plan assessed the performance of the entire estate for the purpose of focusing the direction of asset management on the University’s NeW Directions strategic priorities. SAMP-1 focused on the establishment of key performance targets and identified gaps and strategies to improve asset performance and service quality in order to better meet stakeholder expectations and significantly improve the cost-effectiveness of the University’s assets. Pictured right: Central Coast campus (Ourimbah) Library
Virtual environments The University is committed to providing a unified virtual and physical environment supporting the attainment of excellence and innovation in education and research. Our degree programs utilise stateof-the-art technology to enhance the student learning experience. Simulation centres prepare students in a safe environment for the reality of the workplace. We are adopting emerging new technologies that support flexible user access to interactive curricula from a range of devices on and off campus and thereby facilitate engagement and learning anywhere, anytime. In 2012, we improved and strengthened the back-end
New technologies are transforming the delivery of education and the way we think about the classroom infrastructure supporting our virtual environment. Key projects included the following. • installation of Windows7 across the teaching and learning environment • a telephony upgrade for the Newcastle campus (Callaghan) • installation of new network and security infrastructure
• remediation of the student management system environments • implementation of a program of rolling upgrades across the entire application suite. A formal, external review of information technology within the University was undertaken in 2012, with implementation of the recommendations to occur in 2013. OUR ENVIRONMENT | 103
Simulation centre equips students for medical reality A new medical simulation centre is using state-of-the-art technology to prepare medical students for a smooth transition to the workplace. A life-sized manikin that can simulate a range of situations from childbirth to respiratory failure is being used to teach the next generation of medical students at the $2 million Chameleon Clinical Skills Training Centre. Based at the John Hunter Hospital, this new University training centre 104 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
is equipped with three simulation laboratories that replicate a wide range of medical scenarios from emergencies to obstetric cases. “We use a range of life-sized medical simulation manikins including a baby, small child and male and female adults that can be programmed to replicate various medical situations,”
Clinical Skills Unit Manager Jan Roche says. “In addition to scenarios like childbirth and respiratory failure, we can also simulate an emergency room environment where students have to treat continually deteriorating patients. This gives students a very real insight into trauma treatment.”
Officially opened in September by the Honourable Greg Combet, Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Minister for Industry and Innovation and Federal Member for Charlton, the Centre is being used by University of Newcastle and University of New England students enrolled in the Bachelor of Medicine Joint Medical Program. The Centre’s innovative audio visual technologies will allow the simulations to be broadcast live to students in Joint Medical Program Clinical Schools based at Armidale, Taree, Tamworth and Gosford and recorded for future training and assessment purposes. The Centre also provides weekly interdisciplinary simulation sessions for University midwifery and nursing students to assist
them in learning to work together as a team. Two new simulation programs for paediatrics and obstetrics students will run in 2013 after students in a 2012 pilot of the paediatrics course found it useful for learning how to deal with stressful real-life scenarios. Professor Ian Symonds, Dean of Medicine – Joint Medical Program at the University of Newcastle, says the Chameleon laboratories give students the opportunity to rehearse vital skills in a safe clinical environment. “Students are often nervous when learning and practicing medical techniques in a hospital. The laboratories allow students to learn medical skills, gain experience and boost their confidence in an atmosphere where mistakes can be made
without embarrassment or adverse consequences,” he says. “Through training laboratories such as these, our students will be better able to diagnose, troubleshoot and adapt to rapidly changing medical situations.” The Chameleon Clinical Skills Training Centre is a collaboration between Hunter New England Health Local Health District and the University and was primarily funded by the former Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) and the Department of Health and Ageing (DOHA). In 2013, the Centre will host a national course to train simulation educators as part of the Australian Government’s National Health Education and Training in Simulation (NHET-Sim) Program. OUR ENVIRONMENT | 105
Sustainability Energy Energy consumption The University consistently performs in the lowest and second quartile for energy consumption in the sector, indicating a high level of efficiency. Figure 8 shows our total energy consumption per Equivalent Full Time Student Load (EFTSL) compared with the sector mean.
We remain a sector leader for low energy consumption and water usage Energy initiatives and improvements during 2012 included: • LED Lighting Trial: LED streetlights were trialled for two years and evaluated in 2012. The lights were selected to save costs through their significantly lower power consumption, increased life and lower maintenance. The trial was successful with 100 per cent reliability and no maintenance liability. Use of the lights will be expanded in the future. • Hot Water Systems: A number of electric hot water systems were upgraded to solar and gas, which has the potential to reduce energy consumption for hot water by up to 50 per cent. • Energy Monitoring: Our new energy monitoring software has been active since November, allowing historical and realtime data collection. Analysing consumption has already resulted in cost-savings by changing human behaviours and identifying faults in equipment. 106 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Carbon emissions The University remains a top performer against other universities in Australia in terms of reductions in carbon emissions, according to Tertiary Education Facilities Management Association (TEFMA) data. Through initiatives such as improving operational efficiencies and increasing use of renewable technologies, the University will continue to reduce carbon emissions per EFTSL. Landscape management In 2012, the University completed the first comprehensive Landscape Management Plan for the Newcastle campus (Callaghan). This will provide long-term guidance on managing the landscaped areas and a framework for biodiversity offsetting. The Central Coast campus (Ourimbah) attracted further funding of $8,727 from the Hunter and Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority to undertake Stage 2 of the bush regeneration along the riparian corridor. Sustainable transport Strategic Transport Management Plan In 2012, the University completed a Strategic Transport Management Plan for the Newcastle campus (Callaghan) that addresses transport needs over the next 10 years for all transport modes. Recommendations from the Plan involve capital works, operational programs and advocacy and educational programs.
Implementation of the recommendations will commence in 2013. Some improvements, including installation of more bike lockers and racks at the campus and promotion of carpooling and active transport such as walking and cycling, were started in 2012. Carpooling Following the introduction of a web-based carpooling service in 2011, the number of users continues to increase, with 507 users registered for carpooling as at 30 November 2012. Recycling The University recycles paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, cans and glass containers, eWaste, fluorescent tubes and all woody waste, which is mulched for reuse on site. The recycling initiative prevented approximately 200,000 kilograms of waste from going to landfill in 2012 and has saved the University approximately $20,000 per annum. Water consumption The University consistently performs in the lowest and second quartile for water consumption in the sector, indicating a high level of efficiency (Figure 10). Declining water consumption has been achieved through water sensitive urban design principles, upgrades to building cooling towers and the introduction of auto flush urinals.
Replacing paper towels with Airblade hand dryers has significantly reduced the University’s carbon emissions and cut annual costs by approximately $250,000
Figure 8: Total energy consumption (gigajoules) per EFTSL 2007-2011
Figure 9: CO2 emissions (tonnes) per EFTSL 2007-2011
12
3
10
2.5
8
2
6
1.5
4
1
University of Newcastle
2011
2010
2009
0
2008
Sector
0.5
2007
2011
University of Newcastle
2010
2009
2008
0
2007
2
Sector
Note: This data excludes consumption in residential accommodation. Source: Tertiary Education Facilities Management Association (TEFMA) Benchmark Analysis Tool 2012.
Note: This data excludes consumption in residential accommodation. Source: Tertiary Education Facilities Management Association (TEFMA) Benchmark Analysis Tool 2012.
Figure 10: Total annual water consumption (kilolitres) per EFTSL 2007 to 2011
Materials and products recycled by the University in 2012
14
PAPER CARDBOARD PLASTIC BOTTLES CANS GLASS CONTAINERS eWASTE FLUORESCENT TUBES WOODY WASTE
12 10 8 6 4
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
2 0
University of Newcastle
Sector
Note: This data excludes consumption in residential accommodation. Source: Tertiary Education Facilities Management Association (TEFMA) Benchmark Analysis Tool 2012. Reduction of annual costs by use of airblade dryers
$250K
Amount of waste saved from landfill in 2012
200,000
KGS SAVED
Number of users registered for carpooling
507
REGISTERED USERS OUR ENVIRONMENT | 107
Operating environment Risk management, insurance, fraud and compliance Risk management The University’s risk management approach focuses on the integration of risk considerations into day-today activities and decision-making. Considerable effort was made in 2012 to develop risk profiles, particularly in our schools and faculties, and to embed our risk management framework across the institution. More than 80 strategic, operational and project-based risk profiles were reviewed through extensive consultation with stakeholder groups. The Risk Management System was further embedded into the University’s operations by introducing training on the corporate risk system to key stakeholders across the organisation. Insurance The University’s suite of insurance policies is reviewed and renewed annually, with the insurance period commencing 1 November each year. A broker is engaged to help manage this process and to ensure that optimal and cost effective coverage is obtained. We also review activities throughout the year to ensure any new initiatives are adequately insured. Fraud The University does not tolerate fraud or corruption. Work continued 108 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
in 2012 to align the fraud prevention framework with best practice guidelines established by external agencies. Fraud risk assessments were also conducted and appropriate fraud prevention, detection, investigation and reporting procedures and processes were undertaken. Key achievements included: • introduction of fraud and corruption awareness training into our online staff training program • development of a joint training program with the finance, research and fraud teams, targeted at research expenditure
transactions and processes. Compliance The University’s extensive range of activities means that we must comply with a significant number of legislative requirements and professional standards. Relevant legislative instruments and professional standards are maintained in a register. We have also introduced a control selfassessment process, which was held for more than 50 groups during 2012. For particularly critical legislation, such as the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW), specialised teams are dedicated to ensuring compliance.
• review and update of the fraud risk landscape to identify and rank different fraud risks • continued delivery of targeted control assurance reports • continued use of data mining software to facilitate the identification of anomalies in
Information concerning access to information, privacy, complaints and public interest disclosures is available in Appendix J.
The University’s $59.8 million surplus in 2012 continues to strengthen our financial position and support our ambitions for the future
Financial performance and outcomes 2012 was another positive year financially for the University with a reported surplus of $59.8 million compared to a surplus of $28.7 million in 2011. The University continues to maintain a healthy financial platform to support its ambitions for the future with a further surplus of $25.8 million budgeted for 2013. The 2012 result includes funding from the Commonwealth totalling $18.4 million related to capital expenditure that will be spent in future years compared to $29.5 million received for capital expenditure in 2011. Further contributions totalling $3.1 million are budgeted for in 2013. Included within the 2012 result is a one-off dividend from a controlled entity totalling $15.8 million. Financial result Revenue growth remained strong, increasing by approximately 14.2 per cent over the 2011 year after adjusting for the Commonwealth Government capital expenditure contributions each year. The growth in revenue was primarily due to additional Commonwealth Grant Scheme revenue as a result of the uncapping of places along with continued growth in fee paying international students and strong investment earnings which included the dividend from a controlled entity noted above. Total expenditure increased in 2012 by 11.2 per cent over 2011 after adjusting for the contributions related to building facilities related to University activities not located on University property in 2011. The increase is driven primarily by additional costs associated with growth in student numbers, additional research activity and the impact of market rates of return on the valuation of employee entitlements.
Financial position At the end of 2012 the University had assets totalling $1.58 billion, an increase of $215 million on 2011. The University’s net assets total $1.0 billion, an increase of $81 million on 2011.
The University’s cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year increased by $4.5 million to $17.9 million. Audit outcomes
The University’s financial report was subjected to audit by the Audit Net current assets have increased by Office of New South Wales. The $40 million to $107 million Auditor General again issued an representing a current ratio (current unqualified audit opinion on the assets divided by current liabilities) of financial report as set out in Volume 1.85 compared to 1.61 in 2011. This Two. In line with ordinary procedures ratio exceeds the higher education the Audit Office issued a report on sector benchmark of 1.4. its findings, which includes various recommendations for improvement. The University’s investment strategy remains focused on investing cash not The matters identified are being required for short-term operational or addressed for implementation where appropriate. capital expenditure purposes in medium to long-term investments to achieve higher long-term returns. Cash flows The University’s operating activities generated cash of $115 million compared to $70 million in 2011. Of this, $34 million was invested in property, plant and equipment compared to $44 million in 2011.
Unless stated otherwise, references to the University in this section are representative of the ‘Parent entity’ results described in the audited Financial Statements in Volume Two. Volume Two includes audited Financial Statements for the University and its controlled entities.
Figure 11: Total income ($ million)
700
467
233
0
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Government contributions, excluding research
Student contributions
Research income
Other OUR ENVIRONMENT | 109
Figure 12: Net cash inflow from operating activities ($ million)
Figure 13: Total assests ($ million)
120
2,000
1,333 60 667
0
0
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Net cash inflow from operating activities
Non-current assets
Current assets
Table 7: Abridged financial performance
Actual ‘12 $m
Budget ‘12 $m
Budget ‘13 $m
Government contributions*
289.1
287.1
279.1
Student contributions**
210.9
205.4
248.4
Research income***
77.4
72.7
75.3
Other
69.2
44.6
43.0
646.6
609.8
645.7
Salary and related
349.7
330.3
358.0
Non-salary
198.7
196.2
220.1
37.5
39.6
41.5
0.9
0.7
0.3
586.8
566.8
619.9
59.8
43.0
25.8
Income $m
Expenses $m
Net surplus (deficit) $m
646.6
586.8
59.8
8.4
4.7
3.8
16.1
16.1
0.0
UoN Services
7.5
6.9
0.6
UoN Singapore
6.1
5.2
0.9
Consolidation adjustments
(27.7)
(16.5)
(11.2)
Consolidated entity
657.1
603.1
53.9
Total income from operations
Depreciation Impairment loss Total expenses from operations Surplus (deficit) for the year
*excluding deferred superannuation contributions, HECS and ARC **Including HECS ***Including ARC Table 8: Consolidated results 2012
University GradSchool Newcastle Innovation
11 0 | T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F N E W C A ST L E
Table 9: Investment performance achieved compared to NSW Treasury Corporation Benchmarks
Investment category
1 Year Performance %
NSW TCorp Benchmark
1 Year Performance %
5.9
Hour-Glass Cash Facility Trust
5.2
Short-term cash investments Long-term investments
14.1
Hour-Glass Long Term Growth Trust
14.7
Table 10: Accounts payable payment performance 2012
31 Mar $m
30 Jun $m
30 Sep $m
31 Dec $m
Not overdue
2.9
3.2
2.3
4.1
Less than 30 days overdue
1.8
1.2
1.9
5.3
Between 30 and 60 days overdue
0.1
0.2
0.1
0.2
Between 60 and 90 days overdue
0.0
0.1
0.1
0.0
More than 90 days overdue
0.1
0.0
0.4
0.1
Total
4.9
4.6
4.8
9.6
Total invoices paid on time
31 Mar
30 Jun
30 Sep
31 Dec
Actual based on volume %
56.4
61.9
65.2
62.1
Actual based on value %
54.2
58.5
68.0
65.6
Target %
66.7
66.7
66.7
66.7
Actual value paid ($m)
22.9
23.5
30.9
37.7
Total amount paid ($m)
42.2
40.2
45.5
57.5
Accounts payable at:
Table 11: Total invoices paid on time 2012
During 2012: • There were no instances where penalty interest was paid • There were no significant events that affected payment performance
O U R E N V I R O N M E N T | 111
Appendices A
Five year key statistics
B
The University of Newcastle Reconciliation Statement
C
Donations and sponsorships to the University in 2012
D
Staff equity statistics
E
Student statistics
F
Program development, accreditation and review
G
Performance and remuneration of executive
H
Recipients of University funded fellowships and awards
I
Legislative change
J
Information access, privacy, complaints and public interest disclosures
K
Controlled entities
11 2 | T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F N E W C A ST L E
Appendix A Five year key statistics ‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ‘12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
Total
30,375 32,659 35,484 35,935
37,450
23.29
4.22
Commencing
14,577
14,929
16,768
16,651
17,576
20.57
5.56
Total
20,600
22,675
24,033
24,331
25,017
21.44
2.82
Undergraduate
15,702
17,158
17,952
18,296
18,606
18.49
1.69
Postgraduate
3,180
3,249
3,727
3,845
4,202
32.13
9.30
Other (Enabling, ELICOS, Non Award)
1,717
2,269
2,354
2,190
2,209
28.62
0.88
15,174
16,606
17,570
17,947
18,513
22.00
3.15
Fee-Paying Overseas
3,997
4,621
4,966
4,816
4,790
19.84
-0.54
Fee-Paying Domestic
1,429
1,449
1,497
1,567
1,714
19.95
9.38
Total
5,674
5,938
6,445
6,472
6,818
20.16
5.35
Undergraduate
3,562
3,971
4,268
4,131
4,284
20.27
3.70
Postgraduate
2,112
1,967
2,177
2,341
2,534
19.98
8.24
Total
2,190
2,349
2,415
2,444
2,596
18.55
6.22
886
933
970
967
1,046
18.00
8.15
1,304
1,416
1,446
1,477
1,550
18.92
4.95
Teaching only
18
44
22
156
31
78.13
-79.85
Research only
304
336
383
354
387
27.31
9.26
Teaching and Research
658
668
706
587
758
15.09
29.13
1,210
1,301
1,305
1,347
1,420
17.36
5.41
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ‘12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
Total
347
423
427
450
NA
29.65
5.30
Academic
219
267
265
297
NA
35.43
11.81
Non-Academic
127
157
162
153
NA
20.71
-5.36
CATEGORY
NUMBER OF STUDENTS 1
STUDENT LOAD
2
Commonwealth - Supported
FUNDING SOURCE 3
AWARD COMPLETIONS 4
FULL-TIME STAFF (FTE) 5
Academic Non-Academic
WORK FUNCTION FTE
Other
CASUAL STAFF
6
‘08
‘09
‘10
NOTES:
Rounding errors may occur. Data subject to revision. Student data source: MIS 4 March 2013 1 Number of students represents the number of student enrolments in programs, full year. 2 Student load represents the sum of the load for each semester expressed in Equivalent Full-time Student Load (EFTSL), full year. 3 Funding Program Load expressed in Equivalent Full-time Student Load (EFTSL). 4 Award completions represents the number of completed program enrolments for undergraduate and postgraduate award programs. 5 Staff full-time equivalent positions occupied by full-time and part-time staff members as at March 31 (excluding Independent Operations). 6 Casual staff full-time full year equivalent positions occupied during year (excluding Independent Operations). 2012 data is not available.
A P P E N D I C ES | 113
Appendix B The University of Newcastle Reconciliation Statement The University of Newcastle declares its commitment to Aboriginal reconciliation: developing a strong community and fostering mutual respect, social justice and a united voice between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Aboriginal Australians. The University of Newcastle respects and acknowledges the Aboriginal land on which the Australian campuses of the University are located. We acknowledge the Aboriginal nations on whose traditional lands the University has a presence, respecting and acknowledging the traditional peoples and the cultural significance and history of the land. The University is aware of the impact of the alienation and other forms of injustices including the removal of children, the loss of land, the destruction of languages and culture, and the ongoing struggle for social and restorative justice. Through acknowledging and understanding past losses and injustices and through committing to redressing the social and economic challenges and ongoing racism, we will continue to move forward together to a better future.
11 4 | T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F N E W C A ST L E
The University recognises that education plays an integral role in providing a foundation and platform for the exercise of self-determination and the empowerment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through collaboration and the provision of culturally responsive education the University seeks to educate and contribute to the development of a harmonious community. The University’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have supported the University in ensuring an Aboriginal presence at the University and appropriate and effective levels of consultation and collaboration through the sharing of Aboriginal voices, cultural wisdom and knowledge. These attributes are essential to moving forward to a future of equality and respect in teaching and learning, research, cultural inclusion, celebrating diverse cultures and success. The University acknowledges and appreciates the contribution and support of all communities. We will continue to build on existing partnerships and wherever possible forge respectful relationships designed to contribute to the ongoing endeavour of redressing the circumstances of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education, health, cultures, languages, social justice, employment and empowerment.
The University is committed to providing an environment that is free from racism and discrimination, developing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to access and succeed in higher education. The University embraces the unique and diverse cultures of Aboriginal – the oldest continuing culture in the world – and Torres Strait Islander peoples to endure the growth of knowledge for all Australians. With respect and collaboration, the University of Newcastle embraces a united approach to equity and inclusiveness for all Australian peoples.
Appendix C Donations and sponsorships to the University in 2012 The University thanks all individuals, families and organisations that generously gave in 2012. Every donation and sponsorship is an important contribution to the achievement of the University’s goals and objectives.
Organisations
Coffs Harbour City Council
2NUR FM
Colgate-Palmolive Pty Ltd
Abigroup Contractors Pty Ltd
Colourworks Australia - Newcastle
Adssi HomeLiving Australia
Corky’s Carbon Consultancy Pty Ltd
Advitech Pty Ltd
CPA Australia
The following list includes donations and sponsorships of $1,000 and more. The names of some donors and sponsors do not appear on this list at their own request
Alan Steggles Food Services
Custom Fluidpower Pty Ltd
Ampcontrol Pty Ltd
Delta Electricity
The Anglican Diocese of Newcastle
Douglas Partners Pty Ltd
The Architecture Foundation
Doyles Creek Mining Pty Ltd
Association of Public Authority Surveyors NSW Inc.
Dubbo City Council
Ausgrid - Sydney
Engineers Australia, Newcastle Division
Australian Construction Industry Redundancy Trust
Engineers Australia, WA Division
Australian Dental Association (NSW Branch) Ltd
Forbes Shire Council
Eraring Power Station
Australian Geographic Society
Forsythes
Australian Geomechanics Society Newcastle Chapter
Freemasons on the Central Coast
Australian Institute of Building
Friends of the University of Newcastle
Australian Mathematical Society Inc
Friends of Glen Avery
Australian Medical Association (NSW) Limited
GastroHealth Care
The Australian National University
GH Varley Pty Ltd
Australian Rotary Health Australian Taxation Office (ATO) The A W Tyree Foundation Bayer Australia BHP Billiton - Mt Arthur Coal Blueshift Corporation Board of Surveying and Spatial Information
Geological Solutions Pty Ltd GHD Granite Power Pty Ltd Guild Insurance Ltd Harvard Club of Australian Foundation Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation Inc Hunter Environmental Institute
Bradken Ltd
Hunter Laser Vision Pty Ltd
Bramco Electronics
Hunter Melanoma Foundation
The Broken Bay Diocese The Broken Bay Institute
Hunter New England Local Health District
BVN Architecture Pty Ltd
Hunter Pain Clinic
Central Coast Campus Business Excellence Awards
Hunter Valley Family Law Practitioners Association
Coal & Allied
Hunter Valley Law Society Inc A P P E N D I C ES | 115
Appendix C Donations and sponsorships to the University in 2012 (continued) Rotary Club of Geelong East Inc and Rotary District 9780
Hunter Valley Private Hospital
Newcastle Film Society
Hunter Valley Research Foundation
The Newcastle Herald
Hunter Water Australia Pty Ltd
Rotary Club of Hervey Bay Sunrise
Hunter Water Corporation
Newcastle & Hunter Valley Pharmacists Association
INOXiHP Australia
Newcastle Law Society
Rotary Club of Narrabri Inc
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia
Newcastle Port Corporation
Rotary Club of Tamworth First Light
nib foundation
Rotary Club of Young
Institution of Surveyors NSW Central Western Group
Norgine Pty Limited North Construction Building Pty Ltd
Royal Newcastle Hospital Graduate Nurses Association Inc
Northrop Engineers Pty Ltd
RPC Technologies Pty Ltd
Novartis
Sanitarium Health and Wellbeing
NSW Architects Registration Board
Secora (Australasia) Pty Ltd
NSW Bar Association
SNF (Australia) Pty Ltd
NSW Country Surveyors Association
Specialised Geo Pty Ltd
NSW Public Works
Symbion Pty Ltd
NSW Trade and Investment
TAFE NSW North Coast Institute
Kempsey Shire Council
NuCoal Resources Ltd
Techenomics Australia Pty Ltd
KU Children’s Services
Parsons Brinckerhoff - Sydney
The City of Newcastle
Lake Macquarie City Council
Penn Foundation
Think Brick Australia
The Law Society of NSW
Perpetual Foundation
Tomago Aluminium
Lawler Partners Pty Ltd
Petroleum Exploration Society of Australia (PESA) NSW
Treloar Group Pty Ltd
Pharmaceutical Defence Limited
Unifood Group Pty Ltd
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia Pharmacy Alliance
The University of Adelaide, Faculty of Sciences
Port Stephens Veterans & Citizens Aged Care
University of New England, Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Port Waratah Coal Services
The University of Queensland
Pulse Mining Systems Pty Ltd
University of Western Sydney
Queensland University of Technology
Veolia Environmental Services (Aust) Pty Ltd
Institution of Surveyors NSW Inc Interrelate Family Centres Inventia Pty Ltd IZZAT Consulting Engineers Janssen-Cilag Pty Ltd Job Centre Australia John Holland Group Pty Ltd Sydney
Lewis Family Trust LWM Group Pty Ltd Maitland City Council Matrikon Pty Ltd MCM Manufacturing Pty Limited Mine Subsidence Technological Society Mirvac Constructions Pty Ltd Monteath and Powys Pty Ltd Multiskilled Resources Australia Pty Ltd Muswellbrook Shire Council Nepean Power Newcastle Aboriginal Support Group Newcastle Eye Hospital 116 | T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F N E W C A ST L E
RCR Energy Pty Ltd Regional Development Australia Hunter
Rotary Club of Kempsey West Inc
The UGM Group
The Village Group (NSW) Pty Ltd Weston Aluminium Pty Ltd
Rotary Club of Belmont
WIPRO Promax Analytic Solutions
Rotary Club of Bowral Mittagong
Xstrata Coal NSW Pty Ltd
Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie
Youth Connections - Gosford
Rotary Club of Forbes
Zonta Club of Port Macquarie
Individuals Dr Roslyn Avery Mrs Valentine Badham Dr David Barker Dr Victor D Bear AM and Mrs Adele Bear Mr Peter Brecht Associate Professor Howard Bridgman Mr James Brown Mr William Burges Mr Norman Bushman Mr Bob Cameron AO Mr CHUA Teck Huat Bill Mr James Cunningham Mrs Vera Deacon Ms Suzanne Delbridge-Bailey
The late Dr Kenneth Moss AM and Mrs Glenn Moss Mr Roy Palmer and Mrs Marie Palmer Mr Christopher Piggott and Mrs Shirley Piggott The Hon. John Price AM Mrs Beverley Richards Associate Professor Suzanne Ryan Mr Neville Sawyer AM Margaret Hilda Senior Bequest Mr Alan Smith and Mrs Janelle Smith Dr TAN Chin Nam Mr TAY Buan Huat Peter Mr John Turner Mr John Walmsley Associate Professor Peter Waring
Mrs Frances Doherty Professor ER Meng Hwa Hon. Justice Elizabeth Evatt AC Mr Heinz Grafik Professor Brin Grenyer Dr Jean Grierson Mr Richard Hawkes Professor Scott Holmes Dr Geoffrey Jordan Professor Daphne Keats Emeritus Professor Geoffrey Kellerman AO Mr Peter King Conjoint Professor John Levingston The Hon. Kevin Lindgren QC AM and Mrs Wendy Lindgren Mr Douglas Lithgow Mr Chris Mackie Dr V. Jean McPherson Mr Philip Miller A P P E N D I C ES | 117
Appendix D Staff equity statistics Table A: Trends in the Representation of EEO Target Groups 1
% of Total Staff EEO Group
2
Benchmark or Target
‘06
‘07
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
Women
50
56.7
57.8
59.2
60.6
60.2
60.5
60.8
Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders
2.6
2.3
2.3
2.2
2.1
2.5
2.7
2.8
People whose first language was not English
19
8.9
8.5
7.6
8.1
7.7
7.8
8.0
People with a disability 3
n.a.
4.8
3.9
3.4
3.3
2.9
2.7
2.5
People with a disability requiring work-related adjustment 4
1.1
1.3
1.0
0.9
0.7
0.6
0.6
0.6
Source: Alesco HRS database
Table B: Representation of EEO Target Groups: Academic and General/Teacher Staff 1
% of Total Staff EEO Group
2
% of Total Staff
2
Benchmark or Target
Total
50
60.8
Women
Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders People whose first language was not English
2.6
19
n.a.
2.8
8.0
2.5
People with a disability 3 People with a disability requiring work-related adjustment 4 Source: Alesco HRS database
118 | T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F N E W C A ST L E
1.1
0.6
% by Award
5
Academic
44.8
General
70.7
Teacher
71.0
Academic
1.8
General
3.5
Teacher
-
Academic
13.6
General
4.6
Teacher
3.2
Academic
2.6
General
2.5
Teacher
-
Academic
0.8
General
0.5
Teacher
-
Table C: Trends in the Distribution of EEO Target Groups
Distribution Index EEO Group
6
Benchmark or Target
‘07
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
Women
100
73.03
73.03
83.45
81.16
81.56
82.29
Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders
100
82.61
90.73
88.98
83.35
85.11
84.96
People whose first language was not English
100
117.94
118.88
111.94
111.20
111.40
110.79
People with a disability
100
104.41
105.50
101.55
101.85
100.09
101.19
People with a disability requiring work-related adjustment
100
102.29
104.94
102.55
107.54
102.73
105.69
Source: Alesco HRS database
Table D: Distribution of EEO Target Groups: Academic and General/Teacher Staff
EEO Group
Women
Distribution Index 6
Distribution Index 6
Benchmark or Target
Total
100
82.29
Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders
100
People whose first language was not English
100
People with a disability People with a disability requiring work-related adjustment
100 100
84.96 110.79 101.19 105.69
Award
5
Academic
89.40
General/Teacher
91.73
Academic
89.23
General/Teacher
89.34
Academic
95.37
General/Teacher
100.56
Academic
94.36
General/Teacher
103.73
Academic
98.19
General/Teacher
99.56
Source: Alesco HRS database NOTES: 1 Staff numbers are as at 30 June 2012. 2 Excludes casual staff. 3 People with a Disability: per cent employment levels are reported but a benchmark level has not been set by the NSW Government. The University is currently reviewing the establishment of an appropriate benchmark level. 4 Minimum annual incremental target. 5 The University now refers to General Staff as Professional Staff to reflect the type and status of the work undertaken. The next Enterprise Agreement will reflect this change. 6 A distribution index of 100 indicates that the distribution of the EEO group across salary levels is equivalent to that of other staff. Values less than 100 mean that the EEO group tends to be more concentrated at lower salary levels than is the case for other staff. The more pronounced this tendency is, the lower the index will be. In some cases the index may be more than 100, indicating that the EEO group is less concentrated at lower salary levels.
A P P E N D I C ES | 119
Appendix E Student statistics Table 1: Enrolments and load by program level
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ‘12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
ENROLMENTS
30,375
32,659
35,484
35,935
37,450
23.29
4.22
STUDENT LOAD (EFTSL)
20,600
22,675
24,033
24,331
25,017
21.44
2.82
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ‘12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
20,270
21,514
22,760
23,285
23,796
17.40
2.19
Postgraduate Coursework
5,276
5,400
6,293
6,702
7,401
40.28
10.43
HDR
1,167
1,234
1,318
1,394
1,462
25.28
4.88
724
728
765
707
681
-5.94
-3.68
Enabling
1,910
2,459
2,997
2,853
2,967
55.34
4.00
ELICOS
1,028
1,324
1,351
994
1,143
11.19
14.99
30,375
32,659
35,484
35,935
37,450
23.29
4.22
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ‘12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
15,702
17,158
17,952
18,296
18,606
18.49
1.69
2,463
2,436
2,835
2,896
3,165
28.50
9.29
HDR
717
813
892
949
1,037
44.63
9.27
Non Award
301
288
286
281
260
-13.62
-7.47
Enabling
1,007
1,397
1,616
1,589
1,627
61.57
2.39
ELICOS
409
583
452
320
322
-21.27
0.63
20,600
22,675
24,033
24,331
25,017
21.44
2.82
ENROLMENTS Undergraduate
Non Award
Total
STUDENT LOAD (EFTSL) Undergraduate Postgraduate Coursework
Total
Figures have been rounded Data Source: MIS 4 March 2013
120 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Table 2: Enrolments by student type
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ’12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
17,428
18,405
19,506
20,043
20,672
18.61
3.14
3,259
3,512
4,067
4,527
5,066
55.45
11.91
HDR
952
942
969
975
1014
6.51
4.00
Non Award
103
106
180
146
167
62.14
14.38
Enabling
1,853
2,354
2,892
2,769
2,910
57.04
5.09
ELICOS
5
4
6
5
1
-80.00
-80.00
23,600
25,323
27,620
28,465
29,830
26.40
4.80
INTERNATIONAL ONSHORE
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ’12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
Undergraduate
965
1,093
1,206
1,332
1,365
41.45
2.48
1,154
1,149
1,587
1,632
1,820
57.71
11.52
HDR
201
279
334
407
436
116.92
7.13
Non Award
621
606
585
557
511
-17.71
-8.26
Enabling
57
104
103
84
57
0.00
-32.14
ELICOS
1,017
1,312
1,343
987
1,141
12.19
15.60
Total
4,015
4,543
5,158
4,999
5,330
32.75
6.62
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ’12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
1,877
2,016
2,048
1,910
1,759
-6.29
-7.91
863
739
639
543
515
-40.32
-5.16
14
13
15
12
12
-14.29
0.00
4
3
DOMESTIC Undergraduate Postgraduate Coursework
Total
Postgraduate Coursework
INTERNATIONAL OFFSHORE Undergraduate Postgraduate Coursework HDR Non Award
16
Enabling ELICOS Total
-25.00
1
2
6
8
2
2
1
-83.33
-50.00
2,760
2,793
2,706
2,471
2,290
-17.03
-7.32
Source: MIS 4 March 2013
APPENDICES | 121
Appendix E Student statistics (continued) Table 3: Student load (EFTSL) by student type
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ’12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
13,756
14,752
15,342
15,658
16,118
17.17
2.94
1,323
1,406
1,572
1,695
1,859
40.54
9.64
567
590
609
626
658
16.03
5.13
15
16
26
23
25
62.81
9.44
Enabling
952
1,301
1,523
1,515
1,575
65.40
3.95
ELICOS
1
1
1
1
1
-49.15
-33.33
16,615
18,064
19,072
19,518
20,235
21.79
3.68
INTERNATIONAL ONSHORE
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ’12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
Undergraduate
782
926
1,013
1,126
1,127
44.19
0.07
Postgraduate Coursework
751
676
955
944
1,048
39.49
11.01
HDR
141
215
274
317
373
163.90
17.77
Non Award
286
267
261
258
235
-17.97
-8.93
Enabling
55
96
92
74
53
-4.32
-29.24
ELICOS
406
579
450
318
321
-21.03
0.94
2,421
2,759
3,044
3,036
3,156
30.33
3.92
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% Change ‘08 - ’12
% Change ‘11 - ‘12
1,165
1,480
1,598
1,512
1,361
16.84
-10.00
389
355
308
256
259
-33.56
0.88
9
8
9
6
6
-32.23
-6.68
1
0
DOMESTIC Undergraduate Postgraduate Coursework HDR Non Award
Total
Total INTERNATIONAL OFFSHORE Undergraduate Postgraduate Coursework HDR Non Award
5
Enabling
1
2
2
4
1
1
0
-75.41
-57.14
1,564
1,852
1,917
1,776
1,626
3.96
-8.45
ELICOS Total Figures have been rounded Source: MIS 4 March 2013
122 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
-25.00
Table 4: Commencing and continuing enrolments by faculty/division
Commencing / Continuing
Commencing
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% change ‘08 - ‘12
% change ‘11 - ‘12
English Language and Foundation Studies
2,708
3,387
3,831
3,520
3,808
40.62
8.18
Business and Law
2,493
2,462
2,718
2,915
3,090
23.95
6.00
Education and Arts
3,145
3,003
3,680
3,630
3,725
18.44
2.62
Engineering and Built Environment
1,209
1,174
1,299
1,367
1,500
24.07
9.73
Health
2,342
2,270
2,365
2,502
2,652
13.24
6.00
Science and Information Technology
1,926
1,868
2,009
1,907
2,046
6.23
7.29
7
7
15
16
14
100.00
-12.50
747
758
851
794
741
-0.80
-6.68
14,929
16,768
16,651
17,576
20.57
5.56
230
396
517
327
301
30.87
-7.95
Business and Law
2,940
3,199
3,469
3,582
3,637
23.71
1.54
Education and Arts
4,491
4,934
4,971
5,356
5,472
21.84
2.17
Engineering and Built Environment
2,110
2,222
2,361
2,546
2,712
28.53
6.52
Health
3,392
3,964
4,163
4,179
4,452
31.25
6.53
Science and Information Technology
2,568
2,955
3,158
3,204
3,213
25.12
0.28
The Wollotuka Institute
16
13
14
23
18
12.50
-21.74
Other University*
51
47
63
67
69
35.29
2.99
15,798
17,730
18,716
19,284
19,874
25.80
3.06
30,375
32,659 35,484 35,935
37,450
23.29
4.22
Faculty / Division
The Wollotuka Institute Other University* Commencing Total
14,577 English Language and Foundation Studies
Continuing
Continuing Total Total
Source: MIS 4 March 2013 *includes non award studies, exchange and study abroad
APPENDICES | 123
Appendix E Student statistics (continued) Table 5: Commencing and continuing student load (EFTSL) by faculty/division
Commencing / Continuing
Commencing
Faculty / Division
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
% change ‘08 - ‘12
% change ‘11 - ‘12
English Language and Foundation Studies
1,313
1,774
1,875
1,795
1,849
40.82
3.03
Business and Law
1,568
1,506
1,665
1,777
1,864
18.88
4.87
Education and Arts
2,214
2,191
2,498
2,440
2,461
11.15
0.87
830
851
946
974
1,072
29.06
10.03
Health
1,694
1,604
1,696
1,796
1,890
11.57
5.26
Science and Information Technology
1,308
1,307
1,384
1,353
1,414
8.10
4.55
4
3
9
9
7
76.72
-20.55
301
290
297
294
270
-10.19
-8.21
9,526
10,370
10,437
10,827
17.27
3.73
103
207
193
114
100
-3.22
-12.55
Business and Law
1,939
2,243
2,529
2,559
2,525
30.20
-1.34
Education and Arts
3,373
3,731
3,752
3,953
3,981
18.02
0.70
Engineering and Built Environment
1,478
1,651
1,784
1,901
2,017
36.46
6.11
Health
2,628
3,123
3,130
3,068
3,247
23.55
5.82
Science and Information Technology
1,818
2,170
2,245
2,264
2,292
26.02
1.23
The Wollotuka Institute
10
9
9
15
11
7.41
-27.50
Other University*
18
15
21
18
18
0.70
-1.37
Engineering and Built Environment
The Wollotuka Institute Other University* Commencing Total
9,232 English Language and Foundation Studies
Continuing
Continuing Total
11,368
13,149
13,664
13,893
14,190
24.83
2.14
Total
20,600
22,675 24,033
24,331
25,017
21.44
2.82
Figures have been rounded Source: MIS 4 March 2013 *includes non award studies, exchange and study abroad
124 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Table 6: Student load (EFTSL) by location
LOCATION Newcastle Central Coast Port Macquarie
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
15,139
16,742
17,574
17,709
17,999
2,613
2,884
3,036
3,037
3,175
197
223
253
281
292
33
232
291
481
Sydney UoN Singapore
1,227
1,569
1,670
1,593
1,460
Other (includes GradSchool)
1,424
1,225
1,268
1,420
1,611
20,600
22,675
24,033
24,331
25,017
Total Source: MIS 4 March 2013 Figures have been rounded
Table 7: Student enrolments by program level and gender
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
Undergraduate
11,518
12,337
12,835
13,006
13,158
Postgraduate Coursework
2,850
2,879
3,403
3,668
4,058
HDR
594
639
675
725
747
Non award
425
402
425
400
385
Enabling
1,136
1,474
1,785
1,725
1,727
ELICOS
480
538
608
485
588
17,003
18,269
19,731
20,009
20,663
Undergraduate
8,752
9,177
9,925
10,279
10,638
Postgraduate Coursework
2,426
2,521
2,890
3,034
3,343
HDR
573
595
643
669
715
Non award
299
326
340
307
296
Enabling
774
985
1,212
1,128
1,240
ELICOS
548
786
743
509
555
Male Total
13,372
14,390
15,753
15,926
16,787
Total
30,375
32,659
35,484
35,935
37,450
Female
Female Total
Male
Source: MIS 4 March 2013
APPENDICES | 125
Appendix E Student statistics (continued) Table 8: Basis of admission for commencing undergraduate student enrolments
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
2012 % of Total
Secondary Education
3,063
3,121
3,268
3,320
3,302
38.43
Higher Education Course complete or incomplete
2,657
1,761
2,042
1,975
2,034
23.67
830
1,148
1,065
1,284
1,318
15.34
1,100
997
1,349
1,432
1,432
16.67
TAFE Award complete or incomplete Mature Age Special Entry
6
9
9
4
3
0.03
Other
Professional Qualification
247
569
602
458
503
5.85
Total
7,903
7,605
8,335
8,473
8,592
100.00
Source: MIS 4 March 2013 ^ Other includes Special Entry, Employment Experience, Open Learning, Uni Exam Assessment
Table 9: Market share of UAC preferences
First Preferences
First to Third Preferences
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
9.40
9.46
8.68
8.54
8.70
9.60
9.69
8.79
8.87
9.09
Non Current School Leavers
14.60
14.54
15.42
15.89
16.10
13.80
13.53
14.59
15.11
15.17
Total
11.70
11.71
11.70
11.73
11.90
11.30
11.20
11.10
11.26
11.41
Current School Leavers
Source: UAC data as at end of admissions process via MIS
Table 10: Number of preferences to the University of Newcastle
First Preferences
First to Third Preferences
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
Current School Leavers
3,970
4,206
3,977
4,082
Non Current School Leavers
5,004
5,139
5,711
5,825
Total
8,974
9,345
9,688
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
4,339
11,823 12,435
11,640
12,211
13,098
6,057
11,022 10,971 12,679 12,958
13,486
9,907 10,396
22,845 23,406 24,319 25,169
26,584
Source: UAC data as at end of admissions process via MIS
126 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
‘08
Table 11: Number of eligible* preferences to the University of Newcastle
First Preferences
First to Third Preferences
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
Current School Leavers
2,877
3,023
3,009
3,065
3,102
8,636
8,974
8,921
9,168
9,434
Non Current School Leavers
4,677
4,751
5,359
5,426
5,659
10,277 10,107
11,891 12,025
12,534
Total
7,554
7,774
8,368
8,491
8,761
18,913 19,081 20,812
21,193
21,968
* Eligible refers to applicants who had a UAI (ATAR from 2012) of greater than or equal to 60. Source: UAC data as at end of admissions process via MIS
Table 12: Graduate destinations (Australian residents with Bachelor Degrees only)
‘08
‘09
‘10
‘11
‘12
Newcastle
National
Newcastle
National
Newcastle
National
Newcastle
National
Newcastle
National
Working Full-time
57.8
56.4
54.7
52.2
50.5
49.4
52.1
49.6
51.9
47.9
Working Part-time
17.1
14.8
20.9
18.9
24.4
19.7
24.0
19.5
22.7
20.1
Seeking Work
3.9
3.9
5.8
5.6
6.9
6.2
5.4
6.3
5.8
6.2
Full-time Study
15.6
19.6
15.8
18.3
15.1
19.1
13.7
19.4
15.2
20.8
5.6
5.3
2.7
5.0
3.1
5.6
4.9
5.2
4.4
4.9
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Unavailable/ Unknown Total
Source: Australian Graduate Survey
Table 13: Student/academic staff ratio (onshore students only, includes casual staff)
Year
University of Newcastle
Sector
2007
20.90
19.52
2008
21.33
19.73
2009
21.02
20.10
2010
22.28
20.72
2011
21.84
20.32
Source: DIISRTE Equity Performance Data Onshore student: a student undertaking a program of study conducted in Australia Academic Staff includes full-time, fractional full-time and actual casual staff in an AOU with a ‘teaching only’ or ‘teaching and research’ function Sector: All Table A Providers (Higher Education Support Act 2003 - Sect 16.15)
APPENDICES | 127
Appendix F Program development, accreditation and review During 2012 the Academic Senate and its committees reviewed the academic content of 11 new programs and recommended their establishment to Council. Council approved the establishment of these programs and the disestablishment of 125 existing programs. Professional accreditation was received for 18 programs and 9 programs were externally reviewed.
New programs approved Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment • Master of Philosophy (Industrial Design) • Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Surveying) • Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil)/ Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Surveying) Faculty of Health • Graduate Certificate in Workplace Health and Safety • Graduate Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety • Master of Workplace Health and Safety • Graduate Certificate in Family Studies • Master of Family Studies Faculty of Science and Information Technology • Graduate Certificate in Applied Health and Business Psychology • Graduate Diploma in Applied Health and Business Psychology • Master of Applied Health and Business Psychology
Preparing for the Australian Qualifications Framework The University has commenced a review of all programs in preparation for the implementation of the new Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) on 1 January 2015. As part of this review, the University disestablished 125 programs with zero enrolments that have not been offered for some time. The University has also discontinued (no new intakes) 26 programs. Teach-out arrangements are in place for students still enrolled in these programs. The program review will continue throughout 2013 and 2014.
Accreditation Faculty of Health • The Bachelor of Podiatry was accredited by the Australian and New Zealand Podiatry Accreditation Council until September 2017. • Conditional accreditation was received from the Australian Dental Council for the Bachelor of Oral Health until 31 December 2017. • The Australian Physiotherapy Council has granted conditional accreditation to the Bachelor of Physiotherapy until 2017. • The Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner) and the Master of Mental Health Nursing (Nurse Practitioner) were accredited by the Board of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council until 2017. • The Master or Workplace Health and Saftey was accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) until October 2017. Faculty of Science and Information Technology • The Australian Psychology Accreditation Council has accredited the School of Psychology and the following programs until 2015: Bachelor of Psychological Science Bachelor of Psychology Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Bachelor of Science (Honours) Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Postgraduate) Master of Clinical Psychology
128 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Doctor of Clinical Psychology
Review
Doctor of Clinical and Health Psychology
In 2012 the following external program reviews were conducted:
Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology).
Faculty of Education and Arts • Graduate Certificate and Master of Social Change and Development
The Psychology Board of Australia has approved the above programs as providing a qualification for the purposes of registration. • The Bachelor of Information Technology at the Singapore campus was accredited by the Australian Computer Society. • The Public Relations Institute of Australia has accredited, until 2017, the Public Relations major within the Bachelor of Communication. • The Royal Australian Chemical Institute accredited the Chemistry major within the Bachelor of Science.
• Bachelor of Theology and Bachelor of Theology (Honours) Faculty of Health • Bachelor of Oral Health Faculty of Science and Information Technology • Bachelor of Biotechnology and Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours) • Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Science (Honours) These faculties are preparing responses and action plans, and the implementation of approved recommendations will be monitored by the Academic Senate.
APPENDICES | 129
Appendix G Performance and remuneration of executive Name
Position
2012 remuneration package
Professor Caroline McMillen
Vice-Chancellor and President
Base salary: $495,441 Allowances: $17,938 Superannuation: $83,985 Total: $597,364
Professor Mike Calford
Deputy ViceChancellor (Research)
Base salary: $367,207 Allowances: $14,948 Superannuation: $51,818 Total: $433,973
Mr Trevor Gerdsen
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Services) – ceased in this position on 4 November 2012
Base salary: $242,059 Allowances: $12,649 Superannuation: $37,358 Total: $292,066*
Dr Susan Gould
Deputy ViceChancellor (Services) – on extended leave until ceasing employment on 30 November 2012
Base salary: $234,239
Market relativity***
Statement of Performance
75% to 100% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their ViceChancellor.
Professor Caroline McMillen has enjoyed an extremely successful year. The whole community was engaged in shaping an ambitious new vision for the University, encapsulated in the NeW Directions strategic plan. The Vice-Chancellor showed exceptional leadership in building this platform for the emergence of Newcastle as a truly world-class University.
25% to 50% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Deputy ViceChancellors.
Professor Calford's leadership has been effective in the University achieving an outstanding result in the Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assessment. UoN ranked 7th nationally for research rated at well above world standard. In addition, the Research Higher Degree (RHD) load result exceeded the 2012 target and 2012 RHD completions are projected to have increased by 20%. Total research income increased during 2012 and exceeded budget targets. The DVC had significant leadership roles in the national sector and was a co convenor of the NeW Directions Research and Innovation Planning Group during 2012.
75% to 100% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Deputy ViceChancellors.
Mr Gerdsen led the Services Division through a number of important external reviews, including Teaching and Learning, IT Services, Facilities Management, and Council Services. The Acting DVC worked to build stronger cohesion within a large and complex Division and led the Student Services Amenities Fee (SSAF) consultation process to resolution as well as strong engagement with the Student Accommodation Project.
25% to 50% of Dr Gould was on leave of absence universities in our throughout 2012 up until the date of selected ceasing employment. Allowances: comparator $9,142 group pay a Superannuation: higher $33,328 remuneration to their Deputy Total: $276,709* VicePost-employment Chancellors. benefits: $298,545*
130 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
2012 remuneration package
Market relativity***
Name
Position
Professor Kevin McConkey
Deputy ViceChancellor (Academic and Global Relations) – position ceased 29 October 2012
Base salary: $454,431
Up to 25% of universities in our selected Allowances: comparator $14,948 group pay a Superannuation: higher $65,397 remuneration to their Deputy Total: $534,777 VicePost-employment Chancellors, benefits**: noting the $500,000 difficulty of comparison given to the responsibility for two areas.
Professor McConkey led the Academic and Global Relations Division to achieve total student load targets and increases in the proportion of indigenous and low SES students in 2012. The DVC had significant leadership roles in the national sector and was a co convenor of the NeW Directions Education Planning Group. Under the leadership of the DVC and PVC Academic overall student satisfaction increased and UoN teaching scores increased from the 1st to the 3rd and 4th quartiles respectively between 2010 and 2012. 2012 also saw the launch of the BOLD lab and appointment of a new Director for the Centre for Teaching and Learning.
Mr Nat McGregor
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Services) – appointed 5 November 2012
Base salary: $43,544
Mr McGregor played a key role in shaping the external review of Council Services and led the development of implementation plans for the recommendations arising from the reviews of IT Services and Facilities Management.
Allowances: $2,043 Superannuation: $5,598 Total: $51,185*
Professor Andrew Parfitt
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) – appointed 15 December 2012
Base salary: $14,237 Other allowances: $632 Superannuation: $2,420 Relocation and accommodation allowance: $85,000
75% to 100% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Deputy ViceChancellors.
Statement of Performance
25% to 50% of Professor Parfitt was appointed on 15 universities in our December 2012. selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Deputy ViceChancellors.
Total: $102,289*
APPENDICES | 131
Appendix G Performance and remuneration of executive (continued) Name
Position
Professor John Carter AM
Pro ViceChancellor (Engineering and Built Environment)
2012 remuneration package Base salary: $302,507 Allowances: $12,956 Superannuation: $45,534 Total: $360,997
Professor Stephen Crump
Pro ViceChancellor (External Relations)
Base salary: $263,768 Allowances: $12,956 Superannuation: $39,519 Total: $316,243
Professor Richard Dunford
Pro ViceChancellor (Business and Law) – appointed 16 July 2012
Base salary: $136,103 Allowances: $5,680 Superannuation: $23,028 Total: $164,811*
132 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Market relativity***
Statement of Performance
25% to 50% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Pro ViceChancellor (Engineering).
Led by Professor Carter the Faculty exceeded its student load target with some notable increases in student satisfaction and good teaching scores in 2012. The Faculty was the most successful in the university for the number and total value of ARC grants awarded in 2012. The 2012 ERA outcome was an outstanding achievement for the Faculty placing it within the top 3-5 for Engineering disciplines in Australia. The Faculty RHD load exceeded its 2012 target. The PVC was a co convenor of the NeW Directions Finance Planning Group.
50% to 75% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Pro ViceChancellors.
Professor Crump maintained a strong focus on Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and launched the WIL Award. The Engage Newcastle initiative was launched, and UoN provided support for the NSW Volunteering Strategy, Timebanking. The PVC ensured UoN achieved a strong presence in the World Association of Cooperative Education, oversaw the finalisation of the Academic Cooperation agreement with Hunter TAFE, and the opening of the new Central Coast Campus Library facility. In addition, the Community Engagement Advisory Committee continued to make a significant contribution throughout 2012.
50% to 75% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Pro ViceChancellor (Business and Law).
Professor Dunford restructured the Faculty leadership team to support delivery of strategic objectives across learning and teaching, research, and internationalisation activities. He engaged with the external business community in the Hunter and the State and developed relationships with key national and international business leaders. The PVC supported new priority research initiatives to reinvigorate research activity across the Faculty. The Faculty leads the University in the proportion of international student enrolments and achieved an improvement in both student satisfaction and good teaching scores.
Name
Position
Professor Pro ViceJohn Germov Chancellor (Education and Arts)
2012 remuneration package Base salary: $258,555 Allowances: $12,956 Superannuation: $43,715 Total: $315,226
Professor Bill Pro Vice Base salary: Hogarth Chancellor $320,262 (Science and IT) Allowances: $12,956 Superannuation: $45,582 Total: $378,800
Professor Amir Mahmood
Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor (Business and Law) – appointed 1 January 2012 and ceased in this position on 15 July 2012
Base salary: $130,767 Allowances: $7,083 Superannuation: $14,565 Total: $152,415*
Market relativity***
Statement of Performance
50% to 75% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Pro ViceChancellors.
Led by Professor Germov, the Faculty exceeded its student load target and there were some notable increases in student satisfaction and good teaching scores in 2012.The Faculty exceeded its 2012 target for total research income and worked hard to build a flow of competitive grants through early development and recruitment of internal and external peer review mechanisms. A number of discipline areas performed well in the 2012 ERA assessment. The PVC was a co convenor of the NeW Directions Future Workforce Planning Group during 2012.
25% to 50% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Pro ViceChancellors.
Professor Hogarth led the Faculty to exceed its student load target while maintaining participation rates of low SES students above target – this is significant in the context of the STEM disciplines. The Faculty achieved strong increases in overall student satisfaction and good teaching scores and supported an active Teaching Advocates Group. The Faculty achieved a strong outcome in the 2012 ERA exercise and its RHD load exceeded the 2012 target. The PVC was a co convenor of the NeW Directions Education Planning Group during 2012. Professor Hogarth also made a major contribution to the University in his role as PVC Academic.
50% to 75% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Pro ViceChancellor (Business and Law).
The Faculty leads the University in the proportion of international student enrolments and achieved an improvement in both student satisfaction and good teaching scores. The Acting PVC led the development of a suite of priority research initiatives, including support for ARC grant application development. Professor Mahmood continued to build and reinforce links with business and industry, and consolidated and expanded the existing links with university partners and agents to increase student numbers and establish research links.
APPENDICES | 133
Name
Position
Professor Nicholas Talley
Pro ViceChancellor (Health)
2012 remuneration package Base salary: $359,110 Allowances: $12,956 Superannuation: $54,452 Total: $426,518
Market relativity***
Statement of Performance
Up to 25% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Pro ViceChancellors.
Professor Talley led the Faculty to exceed its student load target and improve its scores for student satisfaction and good teaching with some disciplines performing very strongly at the national level. The 2012 ERA exercise resulted in a strong outcome and the Faculty continued to build its RHD load and exceeded its 2012 target. During 2012 the Faculty committed to a significant review of its medical program and it continues to be a leading research intensive Faculty. The PVC played a strong leadership role in the sector and was a co convenor of the NeW Directions Research and Innovation Planning Group during 2012.
Dr Peter Waring
Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) – appointed 1 November 2012
No remuneration paid relating to this position
Not applicable
Dr Waring achieved strong results, including the development of a valuable analysis of the UoN market position and strategic options for its future internationalisation activities.
Mr Craig Wallis
Chief Financial Officer
Base salary: $272,794
25% to 50% of universities in our selected comparator group pay a higher remuneration to their Chief Financial Officer.
Mr Wallis helped achieve a strong underlying financial result in 2012. The CFO oversaw the development of the 2013 budget and financial models associated with the integration of the goals of the NeW Directions Strategic Plan. The CFO took a leadership role in the Student Accommodation project, was a member of the review of GradSchool. com, and was a co convenor of the NeW Directions Finance Planning Group during 2012.
No benchmark available in relation to this position as different employment arrangements apply across our comparator group of universities.
Professor Robertson led the Academic Senate in playing a strong role in responding to the AQF and TEQSA requirements. The PAS delivered valuable input from the Senate working groups across both teaching and research on matters of strategic importance and informed the development of Senate and University policies
Allowances: $12,956 Superannuation: $40,327 Total: $326,077
Professor Val President of Robertson Academic Senate
Base salary: $181,769 Allowances: $20,932 Superannuation: $30,691 Total: $233,392
* Remuneration amounts shown relate to the period while occupying the Executive position. ** Post-employment benefits include accumulated annual and long service leave paid out on termination. *** Market relativity data analysed in quartiles. The above disclosures are in accordance with the Annual Reports (Statutory Bodies) Regulation 2010 (NSW)
134 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Appendix H Recipients of University funded fellowships and awards University funded fellowships
Vice-Chancellor’s Awards
Equity Research Fellowships Ms Jenny Mackney Ms Jodie Marquez Dr Wendy Miller Ms Catherine Payne Dr Elizabeth Spencer
Vice-Chancellor’s Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning 2012
Career Enhancement Fellowships Dr Marita Lynagh Dr Patricia Saco
Individuals Dr Tim Connor, Faculty of Business and Law For developing creative in-class activities and targeted assessment items to motivate a diverse student cohort to comprehend and reflect on complex aspects of business law. Dr Ashish Malik, Faculty of Business and Law For embedding Participant Centred Learning for holistic development and innovative learning experience in a capstone course. Ms Helen English, Faculty of Education and Arts For an individual approach to student experience, including support, advocacy and enrichment, and commitment to social justice, including access to education and inclusive practices. Dr Ruth Reynolds, Faculty of Education and Arts For developing an active approach to teaching Humanities and Social Sciences in the primary curriculum. Ms Daphne James, Faculty of Health For motivating and inspiring students to achieve their individual potential whilst at University and beyond by acting as a professional role model and mentor. Dr Andrea Griffin, Faculty of Science and Information Technology For developing innovative course materials that improve learning outcomes of students and communicating passion for learning that enhances student engagement. Dr Costas Stathopoulos, Faculty of Science and Information Technology For adopting responsive practices and developing modern curricula in Food Science teaching that promote motivation and enhance individual development of students as life-long learners.
Mrs Catherine Burgess, English Language and Foundation Studies Centre For motivating, challenging and inspiring mature age students with targeted innovative teaching which enhances learning in Chemistry and Life Sciences in large classes in Open Foundation. Teams Dr Brendan Boyle, Dr Tony Drew, Dr Karen Tian, Faculty of Business and Law For excellence in the development and presentation of coherent and cognate resources for student learning, assessment and teaching across a program of study. Dr Nancy Cushing, Dr Josephine May, Dr James Bennett, Dr Lisa Featherstone, Dr Troy Duncan, Faculty of Education and Arts For transforming students’ learning in a multi-campus History service course through collaboration and sustained commitment to excellence in teaching and learning. Dr Thayaparan Gajendran, Associate Professor Willy Sher, Professor Tony Williams, Ms Annemarie Dosen, Mr Andrew Yardy, Mr Wyn Jones, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment For developing an online orientation module using multiple media to prepare construction management students to engage and cope with online learning. The Open Foundation by Distance Orientation Team, English Language and Foundation Studies Centre Ms Elizabeth Goode, Dr Keryl Kavanagh, Ms Jan Mahyuddin, Ms Annette Morante, Ms Joyleen Christensen, Ms Angela Henderson, Miss Amanda Valent, Mrs Deanna McCall, Ms Evonne Irwin, Dr Scott Sciffer, Ms Helene Clark, Ms Susie Wright, Dr Susan West, Mrs Michelle Challinor, Mr Joe Whitehead, Ms Dianne Rigney and Dr Barry Hodges For the development of an innovative online orientation for Distance APPENDICES | 135
Appendix H Recipients of University funded fellowships and awards (continued) Enabling students with an immediate and significant impact on student engagement and participation. Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence and Learning Support 2012 Dr Marcus Rodrigs, Faculty of Business and Law Associate Professor Shen Chen, Faculty of Education and Arts Dr Vivienne Chuter, Early Career Academic Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Programs that Enhance Learning 2012 The Wollotuka Institute Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence for Sessional Staff 2012 Dr Michael Sala, Faculty of Education and Arts Mrs Nicole Lubans, Faculty of Health Teaching and Learning Project Grants Awarded The projects listed below will receive up to $10,000 to promote and support the development of initiatives focussed on enhancing the quality of teaching and learning and the student experience at the University. The team leader and title of the project grants awarded are as follows: Dr Liam Phelan, Academic Division and Dr Tony Drew, Faculty of Business and Law Teaching and assessing oral presentation skills online: A crossUoN pilot Dr Gilligan Arrighi and Mrs Hayley Croft, Faculty of Education and Arts and Faculty of Health Simulated Professional Communication: creative strategies for accelerating reflective 136 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
professional leadership skills and decision-making through role-play Dr Elena Prieto, Faculty of Education and Arts Transitioning from self-directed online courses to blended learning in higher education Dr Helen Giggins, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment Development of an integrated system to provide students with ‘verbal’ feedback - Phase II Mrs Joyce Cooper and Dr Nimmi Athuraliya, Faculty of Health Enhancing the student learning of safer use of medicines through the development of an interactive 3D dispensing module and transitional health care through student-centred home-based medication review
Dr Geoff Skinner, Faculty of Science and Information Technology Pilot study on virtual cloud environments for delivery of adaptive pre-course content related knowledge modules Faculty Awards for Research Excellence Associate Professor Neil Foster Faculty of Business and Law Professor Philip Morgan Faculty of Education and Arts Associate Professor Daniel Quevedo Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment Dr Lisa Wood Faculty of Health Dr Ami Eidels Faculty of Science and Information Technology
Ms Lyn Ebert, Faculty of Health Developing models of clinical learning that meet national guidelines and improve the student experience
Regional Campus Award Dr Kym Rae Faculty of Health, Gomeroi Gaaynggal Centre (Tamworth)
Ms Lyn Francis, Faculty of Health Law and ethics for student nurses: Going beyond the tick box. A pilot project.
Wollotuka Institute Award Professor John Maynard The Wollotuka Institute
Professor Tracy Levett-Jones and Dr Conor Gilligan, Faculty of Health Enhancing interprofessional education for health students in clinical contexts Mrs Josephine Smith and Dr Vivienne Chuter, Faculty of Health Enhancing student engagement and learning in biomechanics and imaging anatomy through customised, interactive blended learning using 3-D models and technology enhanced learning Dr Judy-Anne Osborne, Faculty of Science and Information Technology Implementing online learning systems in Mathematics
Overall winner of the ViceChancellor’s Award for Researcher of the Year Professor John Maynard The Wollotuka Institute Faculty Awards for Research Supervision Excellence Professor Pamela Nilan Faculty of Education and Arts Associate Professor Christine Paul Faculty of Health Associate Professor Deborah Hodgson Faculty of Science and IT
Overall winner of the ViceChancellor’s Award for Research Supervisor of the Year Associate Professor Deborah Hodgson Faculty of Science and IT
Miss Nadine Barry, Miss Tanille Elley, Ms Helen Thursby, Miss Lina Bozinovska, Ms Danielle Storey, Ms Shirley Savy, Mrs Chanel Hopkinson, Mrs Ingrid Ritchie, Mrs Michelle Allan, Ms Kerri Foulds
Award for Professional Staff Excellence Individuals
Commendation for Outstanding Services to Staff and Students
Mr Matthew Griffin Faculty of Business and Law Mrs Katharine Kachur Faculty of Education and Arts Ms Katherine Bradley Faculty of Health Ms Loretta Weatherall Faculty of Health Teams Animal Support Unit (ASU) BioResourcesTeam, Research Division Dr Ronny Eidels, Mrs Rebecca Bosevski, Mrs Carolyn Allport, Mr Nick Bosevski, Mrs Lisa Kirkland Ourimbah Library Staff Team, Academic and Global Relations Division Mrs Fatu Kigbo, Mrs Robyn Williams, Ms Susan Zhang, Miss Alicia Brand, Mr Michael Marriott, Mrs Lorraine Miller, Mrs Leanne Wilkinson, Mrs Jennifer Shakespeare, Miss Ruth Massey, Mr Jacob McCorry Physics Technical Staff, Faculty of Science and IT Mr Michael Cvetanovski, Dr Galiya Sharafutdinova, Mr John Foster Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Team, Academic and Global Relations Division, Research Division, Faculty of Business and Law, Faculty of Education and Arts, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Faculty of Health, Faculty of Science and IT
HMRI Relocation Team, Services Division, Faculty of Health Ms Donna Farragher, Miss Clare Nader, Ms Deborah Edmunds, Mr Dean Jeffs, Mr Darren Gorton, Mr Jason Harris, Ms Lynn Herd
Ms Christine Yap Faculty of Business and Law Dr Tamara Blakemore and Ms Lou Johnston Faculty of Education and Arts Ms Laura Boyce Ms Fiona Hawke Ms Louise Morgan Faculty of Health Ms Debbie Cook Associate Professor Mark Roxburgh Faculty of Science and Information Technology
Work Integrated Learning Awards Student Award Winners Ms Keira Bourke Ms Ruth Hartman Ms Charmaine Lam Faculty of Business and Law Ms Emily Rose Braithwaite Ms Kylie Harris Faculty of Education and Arts Mr Luke Carrol Mr Anthony Samuels Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment Ms Brianna Bassett and Mr Evan Williams Ms Kate Blanch, Ms Lisa Fluetcher, Ms Janis Safar, Ms Emily Vincent Ms Alexandra Dickson Mr John Jones Mr Matthew Rowlandson Faculty of Health Ms Emma Fischer Ms Cathy Forbes, Ms Sherelle Hendriks, Ms Grace Bell, Ms Kristen Anderson, Ms Rosy Rose, Ms April Almond, Ms Gemma Neil Ms Brooke Hall Mr Sean Jamieson Faculty of Science and Information Technology Staff Award Winners
APPENDICES | 137
Appendix I Legislative change Key changes in legislation affecting the University in 2012 were: Universities Governing Bodies (University of Newcastle) Orders 2012 (NSW) The Universities Governing Bodies Act 2011 (NSW) came into force in 2011 and modernised governance arrangements for all New South Wales universities. The Act provided an option for the University to opt into new standard provisions that would allow the University Council to progressively adopt greater flexibility in its size, composition and mix of skills. The Council considered this matter during 2011 and 2012, and on 5 September 2012, the Minister for Education made the Universities Governing Bodies (University of Newcastle) Order 2012 (NSW) under this Act. This Order gave notice of the terms of a governing body resolution made by Council on 24 August 2012, which had the effect of adopting the governing body provisions set out in Schedule 1 to the Act and approving rules for the constitution of the Council. This Order also amended the University of Newcastle Act 1989 (NSW) and the University of Newcastle By-law 2005 (NSW) to give effect to the governing body resolution made by Council, including those provisions concerning the constitution of the Council. These amendments commenced on 1 January 2013 (save for the savings and transitional provisions, which commenced on 6 September 2012). This Order was amended by the Universities Governing Bodies (University of Newcastle) Order (No 2) 2012 (NSW) to provide for the term of office of the Ministerially appointed, the Council appointed and the elected student member of the Council. The amendments to this Order also had the effect of amending the University’s Act and By-law. 138 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency Act 2011 (Cwlth) As reported in our 2011 Annual Report, one of the key changes in legislation affecting the University in 2011 was the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency Act 2011 (Cwlth). Some of the more significant changes introduced by that Act commenced operation on 29 January 2012, including registration, accreditation of courses of study, compliance with the standards framework, investigative powers of the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) and enforcement of the Act. Most significantly, since 29 January 2012 the University has commenced activities to ensure compliance with the standards-based framework established under the Act. In order to be registered and to operate as an Australian higher education provider, the University is required to meet the Threshold Standards. The Threshold Standards consist of the Provider Registration Standards, the Provider Category Standards, the Provider Course Accreditation Standards and the Qualification Standards. If the University fails to meet the Threshold Standards, it may be subject to sanctions under the Act. The University has in place processes to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Act. Defence Trade Controls Act 2012 (Cwlth) The Defence Trade Controls Act 2012 (Cwlth) was assented to on 13 November 2012. The Act will regulate dealing in items listed in the Defence and Strategic Goods List (DSGL). Items listed on the DSGL include: • defence and related goods (goods and technologies designed or adapted for use by the armed forces or goods that are inherently lethal); and
• goods that have a dual use (equipment and technologies developed to meet commercial needs but which may be used either as military components or for the development or production of military systems or weapons of mass destruction). The Act creates offences for persons who: • supply DSGL technology without a permit; • arrange for other persons to engage in dealings relating to goods listed in the DSGL, or to DSGL technology, without a permit; or • publish or disseminate DSGL technology to the public. The Act will apply to the University when it engages with an overseas business or counterpart relating to items in the DSGL (for example, through research partnerships, publishing, consulting or providing training and know-how, or transferring related information to a foreign person). The commencement date for most sections of the Act has not yet been specified. The University is currently implementing risk management and compliance protocols to ensure compliance with the Act. Many key provisions of the Act do not commence until two years after the Treaty enters into force. The Treaty will not enter into force until Australia and the United States finalise their domestic arrangements. The Act requires the Minister to appoint members of a Strengthened Export Controls Steering Group, chaired by Australia’s Chief Scientist. The groups functions include the oversight, design and delivery of a pilot program to identify the adequacy of the Act, the Regulations and the implementation arrangements.
Patents Act 1990 (Cwlth) The Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Raising the Bar) Act 2012 (Cwlth) amended the Patents Act 1990 (Cwlth) by introducing an exemption from patent infringement for experimental activities. The exemption came into force on 16 April 2012. The exemption provides that a person may do an act that would otherwise amount to an infringement of the patent if the act is done for experimental purposes relating to the subject matter of the invention. The exemption may encourage University researchers to more freely conduct innovative research. The University has not needed to take any steps in response to this change. Higher Education Support Act 2003 (Cwlth) The Higher Education Support Amendment (Streamlining and Other Measures) Act 2012 (Cwlth) amends the Higher Education Support Act 2003 (Cwlth) by deleting the previous census dates requirements from the Act and instead requiring that they be determined in accordance with the Administrative Guidelines for FEE-HELP. This will enable the University to have greater flexibility to offer courses, meet student and industry needs, and minimise the administrative burden associated in meeting this obligation. This amendment commenced on 1 January 2013. The University has not needed to take any steps in response to this change. The Higher Education Support Amendment (Student Contribution Amounts and Other Measures) Act 2012 (Cwlth) also amends the Higher Education Support Act 2003 (Cwlth). The amendments remove eligibility for Commonwealth supported places and the Higher Education Loan Program schemes
for Australian citizens who commence a course of study after 1 January 2013 and who will not be resident in Australia for any of their course of study. This change will affect Australian citizens who are living overseas and intend to study online with the University. The University website has been updated to provide information to prospective students about these changes. The Higher Education Support Amendment (Maximum Payment Amounts and Other Measures) Act 2012 (Cwlth) amends the Higher Education Support Act 2003 (Cwlth). The Act authorises wider disclosure of student and staff personal information collected by higher education providers and provided to the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency, the National VET Regulator and to the staff of state and territory agencies, higher education providers, VET providers and bodies or associations determined by the minister. These amendments will ensure privacy and minimise the burden on providers while at the same time meeting the legitimate needs of higher education data users to access personal information. The University has made the necessary changes to ensure compliance with the amended Act. Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (Cwlth) The Migration Legislation Amendment (Student Visas) Act 2012 (Cwlth) amends the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (Cwlth) by removing the current requirement for the University to send a notice to a student who breaches a prescribed condition of their student visa (i.e. by failing to achieve satisfactory course attendance or course progress). This change gives effect to the Government’s policy to abolish the automatic cancellation of student
visas for unsatisfactory course attendance or course progress. The date of commencement of this change has not yet been specified, but is planned to commence in 2013. The University will change its procedures to comply with this amendment when it commences in 2013. The Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (Cwlth) has also been amended by the Education Services for Overseas Students Legislation Amendment (Tuition Protection Service and Other Measures) Act 2012 (Cwlth). The amendments, which strengthen tuition protection to ensure students receive the tuition they have paid for (or a refund), commenced during 2012. The primary implications for the University are: • new obligations to provide refunds to students when the University or an overseas student or intending overseas student defaults (i.e. when the University fails to start or finish providing a course to a student, or a student fails to start or finish a course with the University) • strengthened record keeping obligations • new financial penalties for a broader range of non-compliant behaviour and new strict liability offence provisions. The University has put in place procedures to ensure compliance with the amended Act. Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 (Cwlth) In 2012 the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 (Cwlth) established a new independent statutory office, the Australian Charities and Not-forprofits Commission (ACNC), the Commonwealth regulator for the not-for-profit sector (including the APPENDICES | 139
Appendix I Legislative change (continued) not-for-profit higher education and related entities), and established a new regulatory framework for the not-for-profit sector. Registration with the ACNC will require registered charities to comply with the ACNC’s reporting framework, which is yet to be finalised but will require charities to provide certain information to the ACNC upon registration and then lodge certain information annually online. All charities will be required to provide an annual information statement in respect of their charitable activities in the 2013 income year. The University is registered on the ACNC Register and is in a position to comply with its new notification, record keeping and reporting obligations. Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW) The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW) and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (NSW) commenced on 1 January 2012 as part of the national harmonisation of work health and safety legislation. A number of Codes of Practice have been amended and released in 2012 in line with the harmonisation, with further releases expected to occur during 2013. The University is continuing to review and amend its policies and procedures as the new or amended Codes of Practice are adopted in NSW. Fair Work Act 2009 (Cwlth) and Paid Parental Leave Act 2010 (Cwlth) Amendments to the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cwlth) and the Paid Parental Leave Act 2010 (Cwlth) took effect on 1 January 2013. These amendments were largely administrative in nature, and do not present a significant legal or compliance issue for the University. 140 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Human Rights and AntiDiscrimination Bill 2012 (Cwlth) In November 2012 the Federal Government released an exposure draft of the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Bill 2012 (Cwlth), which is intended to consolidate and replace five pieces of Commonwealth antidiscrimination legislation (Age Discrimination Act 2004, Disability Discrimination Act 2012, Racial Discrimination Act 1975, Sex Discrimination Act 1984 and the Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986). Following receipt and consideration of submissions on the exposure draft in December 2012 and the report of the Senate inquiry into the exposure draft, tabled on 21 February, 2013 , it is anticipated the exposure draft will be finalised and a Bill will be introduced into Federal Parliament. The University will review and, if required, update its policies in relation to anti-discrimination if and when the new legislation has been passed by the Commonwealth Government. Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012 (Cwlth) In December 2012, the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace (EOWW) Amendment Act 2012 (Cwlth) amended the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Act 1999 (Cwlth) and renamed it the Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012 (Cwlth). Under the Act, from May 2014 the University’s reporting requirements will be extended. The University will be required to submit an annual gender equity report signed by the Vice Chancellor, and will no longer be able to be granted a waiver from reporting as has been the case in the past. The annual report must address the gender make-up and pay equity of staff, the availability
and use of flexible working arrangements and the level of consultation with staff about gender equality issues. The report must be accessible to staff and also be provided to the National Tertiary Education Union and the Community and Public Sector Union The University can be named and excluded from Commonwealth government contracts for noncompliance with the Act. The University is currently regarded as an Employer of Choice for Women by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (formerly known as the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency (EOWA)) and with ongoing effort we will be in a good position to comply with the new reporting requirements. Government Information (Public Access) Amendment Act 2012 (NSW) In 2012 the Government Information (Public Access) Amendment Act 2012 (NSW) amended the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW) in various ways. The amendments took effect on 19 March 2012. The amendments confirm and clarify requirements in regard to various aspects of the principal Act, including disclosure logs, proof of identification when making an access application and waiving legal professional privilege in connection with an access application. The amendments also confirm that open access to information is to be provided in a manner that has due regard for copyright issues, allows an agency to refuse to provide access to information if the information has already been provided to the access applicant, and removes the current requirement to pay a fee for an internal review by an agency after a recommendation by the Information Commissioner. The Government Information (Public
Access) Amendment Act 2012 (NSW) also amended the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (NSW). These minor amendments have the effect of enabling regulations to make provision for a public sector agency to be treated as part of another public sector agency, or for part of a public sector agency to be treated as a separate agency, for the purposes of the principal Act. Ombudsman Amendment Act 2012 (NSW) In 2012, the Ombudsman Amendment Act 2012 (NSW) amended the Ombudsman Act 1974 (NSW). These minor amendments, including amendments that enable the Ombudsman to restrict the publication of evidence or information provided to an inquiry, took effect on 26 November 2012. Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994 (NSW) and Public Interest Disclosures Regulation 2011 (NSW) During 2011 the Protected Disclosures Act 1994 (NSW) was substantially amended and renamed the Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994 (NSW). From 1 January 2012, public authorities are required to prepare an annual report on their compliance with the Act. As part of these legislative amendments, the Public Interest Disclosures Regulation 2011 (NSW) also came into force on 1 January 2012. The University introduced the Ethical and Accountable Conduct – Public Interest Disclosures Policy to comply with the new requirements.
APPENDICES | 141
Appendix J Information access, privacy, complaints and public interest disclosures Access to information In 2012 the University received nine applications for access to information under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW) (GIPA). Of the nine applications, four were lodged by individuals, two by individuals via legal representation, two by the media, and one by an external organisation. An internal review was also completed. At the time of writing, two applications were in progress. Three reviews, submitted in 2011, were finalised by the Office of the Information Commissioner. The University’s decisions were upheld in each case. One review outcome
included a recommendation, which was addressed by the University. An access application and an internal review, lodged in 2011, were finalised in this reporting period. There were no applications refused on the grounds of conclusive presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure. In 2012 three informal requests for personal information were completed. Under Section 7(3) of the GIPA Act, the University is required to conduct an annual review of its proactive release program. The Faculties and Divisions of the University proactively publish information through their websites. The University has 25
Information Contact Officers to report where consistently requested or newly developed or acquired information has been proactively released. Information released proactively includes reports and operational information. Information that is released proactively is published on the University’s website at http://www. newcastle.edu.au. Policies that have been updated or recently established are published in the University’s policy library at http://www. newcastle.edu.au/policy. In 2012 GIPA awareness sessions were again included as part of the induction program, provided through the Staff Development Portal.
Application withdrawn
Refuse to confirm/deny whether information is held
Refuse to deal with application
Information already available
Information not held
Access refused in full
Access granted in part
Access granted in full
Table A: Number of applications by type of applicant and outcome*
Media
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
Members of Parliament
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Private sector business
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Not for profit organisations or community groups
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
Members of the public (application by legal representative)
1
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
Members of the public (other)
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
* More than one decision can be made in respect of a particular access application. If so, a recording must be made in relation to such a decision. This also applies to Table B.
142 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Application withdrawn
Refuse to confirm/deny whether information is held
Refuse to deal with application
Information already available
Information not held
Access refused in full
Access granted in part
Access granted in full
Table B: Number of applications by type of application and outcome
Personal information application
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Access applications (other than personal information applications)
3
3
1
2
1
0
0
0
Access applications that are partly personal information applications and partly other
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
A personal information application is an access application for personal information (as defined in clause 4 of Schedule 4 to the Act) about the applicant (the applicant being an individual).
Table C: Invalid applications
Reason for invalidity
Number of applications
Application does not comply with formal requirements (section 41 of the Act)
2
Application is for excluded information of the agency (section 43 of the Act)
0
Application contravenes restraint order (section 110 of the Act)
0
Total number of invalid applications received
2
Invalid applications that subsequently became valid applications
1
APPENDICES | 143
Appendix J Information access, privacy, complaints and public interest disclosures (continued) Table D: Conclusive presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure: matters listed in Schedule 1 of the Act
Number of times consideration used* Overriding secrecy laws
0
Cabinet information
0
Executive Council information
0
Contempt
0
Legal professional privilege
0
Excluded information
0
Documents affecting law enforcement and public safety
0
Transport safety
0
Adoption
0
Care and protection of children
0
Ministerial code of conduct
0
Aboriginal and environmental heritage
0
*More than one public interest consideration may apply in relation to a particular access application and, if so, each such consideration is to be recorded (but only once per application). This also applies in relation to Table E.
Table E: Other public interest considerations against disclosure: matters listed in table to section 14 of the Act
Number of occasions when application not successful Responsible and effective government
0
Law enforcement and security
0
Individual rights, judicial processes and natural justice
1
Business interests of agencies and other persons
0
Environment, culture, economy and general matters
0
Secrecy provisions
0
Exempt documents under interstate Freedom of Information legislation
0
144 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Table F: Timeliness
Number of applications Decided within the statutory timeframe (20 days plus any extensions)
4
Decided after 35 days (by agreement with applicant)
4
Not decided within time (deemed refusal) Total
8
Table G: Number of applications reviewed under Part 5 of the Act (by type of review and outcome)
Decision varied
Decision upheld
Total
Internal review
0
2
2
Review by Information Commissioner*
0
3
3
Internal review following recommendation under section 93 of Act
0
0
0
Review by ADT
0
0
0
0
5
5
Total
*The Information Commissioner does not have the authority to vary decisions, but can make recommendation to the original decision-maker. The data in this case indicates that a recommendation to vary or uphold the original decision has been made.
Table H: Applications for review under Part 5 of the Act (by type of applicant)
Number of applications for review Applications by access applicants
0
Applications by persons to whom information the subject of access application relates (see section 54 of the Act)
1
APPENDICES | 145
Appendix J Information access, privacy, complaints and public interest disclosures (continued) Privacy The University’s Privacy Management Plan is consistent with the requirements of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (NSW) and sets out the policies and practices the University has adopted to ensure compliance with this Act and the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002. The Complaints and Information Management Office provides advice regarding the requirements of privacy legislation and the correct application of the University’s Privacy Management Plan. In 2012 the Complaints and Information Management Office: • conducted two internal reviews under Section 54 of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998, lodging the results with the NSW Privacy Commissioner • received a request to amend personal information in accordance with Section 15 (2) of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998
• received three complaints regarding a breach of privacy legislation • proactively reported one potential privacy breach to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner NSW • assisted with several staff enquiries • continued to focus on raising staff awareness regarding compliance with the privacy legislation, with 184 staff completing privacy awareness workshops. Complaints Complaint activity decreased in 2012, with 173 complaints received compared with 214 complaints in 2011. Of these, 28 per cent (48) were formal complaints compared with 54 formal complaints in 2011. Formal complaints are those that relate to potentially unlawful behaviour, may result in a disciplinary action, or where the facts are in dispute. Of the formal complaints received, 52 per cent (25) were upheld with the remainder being dismissed, withdrawn, referred to another process, or suspended.
Statistical Information on PIDs
In 2012 focus was placed on raising staff awareness of the University’s complaints resolution process. Complaints awareness sessions were provided as part of the staff induction program, through the Staff Development portal. Advice was also provided to staff, students and the general public as required. Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994 (NSW) In 2010 the Protected Disclosures Act 1994 (NSW) was substantially amended and renamed the Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994 (NSW) (PID Act). Section 31 of the PID Act requires the University to report information about their obligations on a six monthly and annual basis. The University’s Ethical and Accountable Conduct – Public Interest Disclosures Policy sets out the practices to ensure compliance with this Act. In 2012 PID awareness was promoted via training modules, available through the Staff Development website.
1 January to 31 December 2012
Number of public officials who made PIDs
0
Number of PIDs received
0
Of PIDs received, number primarily about: -
Corrupt conduct
0
- Maladministration
0
-
Serious and substantial waste
0
-
Government information contravention
0
-
Local government pecuniary interest contravention
0
Number of PIDs finalised 146 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
0
Appendix K Controlled entities GraduateSchool.com PTY Limited Following an extensive review process during 2012 the University decided to transfer the operations and net assets of GraduateSchool. com Pty Limited (GradSchool) to the University. The transfer occurred on 11 September 2012 and the company is currently in the process of deregistration. Prior to the transfer, GradSchool provided services to market and administer the delivery of the bulk of the University’s post-graduate degrees and executive programs offered in an online learning environment. Newcastle Innovation LTD Newcastle Innovation Ltd has been operating for more than 40 years, facilitating the transfer of knowledge, technology, and scientific research from the University to industry, government and commercial partners. As a not-for-profit entity, Newcastle Innovation focuses on contracted research projects and seeking industry collaboration for new technology opportunities arising from research at the University. The current Board comprises six highly respected members of the local business and academic community who provide leadership through a diversified skill set. Amongst its key performance measures, Newcastle Innovation tracks new intellectual property disclosures and revenue from technology transfer, as well as consulting and contract research activities.
UoN Services Limited
UoN Singapore PTE LTD
Established in 2006, UoN Services Limited resources and manages various student activities, events, facilities and support.
UoN Singapore Pte Ltd was established in 2006 to manage the University’s resources and contractual obligations associated with the delivery of degree programs offered in Singapore in partnership with PSB Academy. In 2011 the company widened its objectives to include working with other high quality educational partners in the region, supporting the recruitment of international students, carrying out research activities, and supporting the University’s research and other objectives in South East Asia. The activities of the company are supported by a Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer of UoN Singapore Pte Ltd, as well as research active academic staff and administrative staff located in Singapore.
UoN Services’ mission is to provide a vibrant and supportive campus life, and deliver a range of services and facilities including food and retail. It provides entertainment, arts and common meeting grounds as well as social centres for students and staff of the University. UoN Services Limited is governed by a Board of Directors, which includes student representatives, University appointees and independent directors with expertise from various business sectors. In 2012 the management of University student accommodation on Callaghan and Ourimbah campuses was transferred to UoN Services. Student accommodation provides on-campus living for approximately 980 students in five colleges. A number of new food and beverage operations were established at the Callaghan campus, including a self-serve “survival station” offering free kitchen facilities to campus users. In partnership with the University of Newcastle, UoN Services Limited created improved social spaces for students and staff at Callaghan campus through significant refurbishments at Bar on the Hill and the Derkenne Courtyard. Significant progress was made during 2012 on the implementation of the UoN Services strategic business plan, with 85 per cent of the threeyear strategic goals completed or in progress and on track to be achieved.
The company’s performance measures are focussed on financial performance, maintaining the high standards in teaching in Singapore that the University has in Australia, and carrying out research through its staff at the same level as in Australia for equivalent staff, whilst linking the University to research and business opportunities in South East Asia. It has met these objectives in 2012. In 2012 UON Singapore Pte Ltd supported 1,900 students (1,459 EFTSL) who studied in Singapore across 11 degree programs in partnership with PSB Academy Pte Ltd and the Singapore Accountancy Academy - Global Education (SAAGE). Two new partner entities have signed legal agreements in 2012 to deliver programs in 2013. They are LearningHub Global Institute Pte Ltd, the higher education and executive training arm of the National Trade Union Congress, and SMF Institute of Higher Learning Pte Ltd, the higher education and training arm of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation.
APPENDICES | 147
Compliance Index
Letter of Submission Application for extension of time Charter Aims and objectives Access Management and structure Summary review of operations Funds granted to non-government community organisations
Inside front cover Not applicable 9 5, 9 See inside back cover 9 to 21 2 to 7 and 109 to 111 Not applicable
Disclosure of Controlled Entities Disclosure of Subsidiaries Multicultural Policies and Services Program (formerly EAPS) Agreements with the Community Relations Commission Occupational Health and Safety Waste Budgets
Economic or other factors
109 to 111
Inclusion of unaudited financial statements
38 to 59
Human resources Consultants Equal Employment Opportunity Disability Plans Land Disposal Promotion
90 to 99, Appendix A and Appendix D Not applicable 96 to 97 and Appendix D 97 Not applicable 32
Consumer Response
Appendix J
Payment of Accounts
111
Time for Payment of Accounts
111
Risk management and insurance activities
108
Internal audit and risk management policy attestation
148 | THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
Not applicable
Not applicable 98 to 99 106 to 107 110
Volume Two
Identification of audited financial statements
Research and development
97 and Appendix D
Volume Two
Appendix I
15 to 111
Not applicable
Financial Statements
Legal Change
Management and activities
Appendix K
Privacy Investment performance Liability management performance Exemptions Performance and numbers of executive officers
Not applicable Appendix J 111 109 to 111 Not applicable Appendix G
Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009
Appendix J
Public Interest Disclosures
Appendix J
Implementation of Price Determination
Not applicable
Credit card certification
Not applicable
Requirements arising from employment arrangements
Not applicable
Public availability of annual reports Production costs and printing requirements Availability on internet and non-printed version
See inside back cover See inside back cover See inside back cover and Volume Two on CD
Access and Printing Costs: Volume One and Volume Two The University welcomes feedback and enquiries from the public by telephone, postal mail, email or in person. Office hours 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday Postal address University Secretary The University of Newcastle Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia T +61 2 4921 5000 (General Enquiries) T +61 2 4921 6934 (Media Unit) F +61 2 4921 7417 (Secretariat, Council Services and Chancellery) E secretariat@newcastle.edu.au W www.newcastle.edu.au This Annual Report is available in electronic form at the following address: www.newcastle.edu.au/service/annual-reports
Edited by Rebecca Thurlow and Ellen Carlson, Secretariat, Council Services and Chancellery, The University of Newcastle Design Marketing & Public Relations, The University of Newcastle Photography Murray McKean Photography Intervision Photography Conor Ashleigh ABN 15 736 576 735 Printed by NCP CD produced by NCP Print run 400 copies (Volume One), 100 copies (Volume Two), 400 copies (CD Volume Two) Total external cost $16,955.80 ($18,651.38 inclusive of GST) ISSN 0313-007x (print) ISSN 2200-4572 (online) UoN 2013/1002 | CRICOS Provider 00109J