curtin annual report 2007
curtin.edu.au curtin annual report 2007 contents
Statement of Compliance 1 Chancellor’s Foreword 2 Vice-Chancellor’s Report 4 About Curtin 8 Vision, Mission and Values 9 2007 Activity Highlights 10 Strategic Foci 10 Strategic Themes 16 The Teaching and Learning Plan 20 The Research Management Plan 24 The Internationalisation Plan 26 The Valuing Curtin Staff Plan 28 Report on Operations 32 Governance of the University 32 Administrative Structure 34 Staffing Matters 36 Significant Issues and Trends 38 Other Disclosures and Legal Requirements 41 Curtin In Figures 45 Independent Audit Opinion 48 Financial Report 2007 49 Performance Indicators 106 statement of compliance
The Hon Mark McGowan, MLA Minister for Education and Training 21st Floor, 197 St Georges Terrace PERTH WA 6000
Dear Minister
In accordance with section 61 of the Financial Management Act 2006, we hereby submit for your information and presentation to Parliament the Annual Report of Curtin University of Technology for the year ending 31 December 2007.
The Annual Report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Financial Management Act 2006.
Yours sincerely
Mr Gordon Martin Professor Jeanette Hacket Chancellor Vice-Chancellor
On behalf of the University Council
Dated this 19th day of March 2008
1 Curtin University of Technology
Chancellor’s foreword
With its exceptional leadership team, i t s d e e p l y
loyal and committed employees, its sound
financial base and the continuing growth in areas
aligned with its core strengths, C u r t i n i s o n c e
again positioned for an exciting year of growth.
2007 was an exciting and University governance, a fundamental One is in the area of health sciences and the productive year for Curtin. requirement for good performance, other in the area of sustainable development. was also strengthened with a detailed The challenges facing the higher education The proposed health research institute review of “matters reserved for Council” sector as a consequence of the booming will build on Curtin’s existing strengths in and the commencement of a review economy, the increasingly competitive higher research and education in health sciences, of “the schedule of delegations”. education environment, and the continuing with an emphasis on the translation of globalisation of education were many. Some of The University continued to strengthen research and knowledge into practice. With these challenges were providing more relevant its strategic direction by further defining the ageing demographic the institute will graduates and postgraduates for the changing its key areas of focus in response to the have particular community relevance in the needs of industry; increasing competition from former coalition government’s diversity areas of health, ageing and wellbeing. industry for the best academics to maintain agenda. This agenda will continue under The proposed sustainable development the highest standards of education and the new Federal Labor Government which institute will be based on the vision of a better research; the changing modes of delivery; has announced that it too will require quality of life for the present population, whilst and the continuing drive for efficiency. universities to differentiate themselves at the same time preserving the ability of future by focusing on their areas of strength. With a continuing emphasis on providing generations to enjoy a high standard of living. excellence in education, we continued a In keeping with the diversity agenda, the Sustainable development is now recognised comprehensive review of our curriculum, University has initiated the development as one of the core concerns of Government the Curriculum 2010 project, to ensure of two new institutes which build on the and the institute will build on Curtin’s existing relevance and efficiency in our core University’s core strengths and foci. strengths and leadership in this area. competencies. The University’s research income and capability also grew significantly, with a notable increase in industry funding into our key areas of research focus.
2 2007 Annual Report
The University will be undertaking • Developed a multi-purpose Recreation significant fundraising activities to assist and Events Centre; and with the development of these initiatives. • Conducted a University-wide In March the University Council held a two- service review designed to simplify day conference off-site, which provided administration and reduce duplication. the opportunity for Councillors to better More importantly, a number of key understand the University’s operations appointments were made, including and to clearly define the University’s Key Professor Andris Stelbovics as Executive Performance Measures. Time was also Dean of the Faculty of Science and spent understanding some of the major Engineering; Professor Paul Dunn as challenges facing the higher education Director of the Western Australian School sector and the effect the changing of Mines (WASM); Professor Robyn Quin as environment and technology would have Pro Vice-Chancellor Teaching and Learning; on the University’s strategic direction. and Professor Jill Downie as Executive Many important initiatives were made Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences. throughout the year, including the following: With these appointments I believe we have in • Fully implemented Curriculum 2010 place an outstanding executive team, led by to completely review and renew the Vice-Chancellor Professor Jeanette Hacket, University’s educational offerings; capable not only of meeting the many and varied challenges facing our University, but • Consolidated the Divisions of Gordon Martin also of taking Curtin to an even higher level. Engineering, Science and Computing Chancellor and Resources and Environment into In conclusion I wish to convey my thanks to the Faculty of Science and Engineering all our staff for their commitment over the to increase synergy in the delivery of past year. It is also my pleasure to thank educational and research programs; the members of Council for their enormous • Implemented a new academic structure contribution in time, knowledge and that will enhance the quality and efficiency experience, and especially Dr David Karpin, of University performance. A new position Adjunct Professor Peter Browne, Ms Georgina of Vice-President Corporate Services, Carnegie and Dr Ruth Shean, who retired reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor, during the year after many years on Council. was established to consolidate the With its exceptional leadership team, its activities of several service areas, to deeply loyal and committed employees, its improve efficiency and effectiveness; sound financial base and the continuing • Implemented a University-wide growth in areas aligned with its core Teaching Performance Index to strengths, Curtin is once again positioned promote and resource teaching for an exciting year of growth. and learning improvement;
3 Curtin University of Technology
Vice-Chancellor’s report
Curtin aspires to be a leading university in
education and research, a n d t h e U n i v e r s i t y i s
well placed to achieve this goal with a commitment
to serve our students and community through
quality teaching, scholarship and research.
Curtin aspires to be a leading university Strategic direction The key areas of focus are: in education and research, serving • Resources, energy, chemistry, the wider region, and the University In 2007 the University continued to engineering and related sciences; is well placed to achieve this goal. position and differentiate itself, to thrive in a diversified higher education sector. • Health, with a focus on chronic conditions In 2007 Curtin implemented a range of Curtin is defining its focus in areas of and developmental health including University-wide initiatives and services to competitive strength and where there is ageing, wellness and lifestyle diseases; strengthen the quality and relevance of present and anticipated market demand. • Sustainability in a broad and integrated teaching, learning and research. These approach to environmental, economic, initiatives promote the sustainability of Curtin has determined that it will be a social, geopolitical sustainability and Curtin’s programs into the future and broad-based education institution but will resilience in Western Australia; the achievement of the University’s reduce its very high number of courses and objectives in serving the community. units to increase the resources which are • Emerging technologies and Information available for each selected area of activity. Communication Technology (ICT); Many Australian universities are facing a static or declining demand in domestic In research, Curtin has identified major • Wealth and prosperity. areas of focus to define the University’s undergraduate places and there is increasing The attraction, retention and development distinctiveness within the diversity policy competition to develop new programs and of quality staff was a high priority, with framework. These major areas of focus services to meet the needs of students and numerous new initiatives in 2007. A new encompass the University’s strengths within employers. Curtin will continue to move Promotions Policy was developed to improve each of the four Faculties and also capture forward with its existing programs, together the career paths of staff. New development the Faculties’ cross-disciplinary strengths. with new and exciting initiatives, to be a opportunities for staff have been provided leading Australian and regional university. through a range of programs offered by the new Organisational Development Unit. Outstanding performance by many staff is highlighted in detail in the Annual Report.
4 2007 Annual Report
To improve the University’s educational A new position of Vice-President Corporate However it is worth highlighting the and research activities, changes were Services was created, which will bring National Carrick Awards in which the made to Curtin’s academic structures and together areas including Financial and University won three of the prized executive management arrangements. Commercial Services, Properties and awards for teaching and excellence and Curtin Information Technology Services. programs that enhance learning. Several senior staffing appointments were Recruitment was undertaken to replace made during the year. Professor Robyn Quin In 2007 the University continued to Professor Greg Craven, Deputy Vice- was appointed as the Pro Vice-Chancellor improve its outcomes in teaching and Chancellor Strategy and Planning, of Teaching and Learning; Professor Andris learning and several initiatives were who resigned to take up the position Stelbovics was appointed the Executive Dean implemented towards achieving this goal. of Vice-Chancellor at the Australian of Science and Engineering; and Professor Catholic University in February 2008. Professor Robyn Quin was appointed to the Jill Downie, formerly the Head of Nursing and position of Pro Vice-Chancellor Teaching and Midwifery, was appointed Executive Dean of Learning with the specific aim of achieving Health Sciences. Professor Paul Dunn was Teaching and the University’s objectives within T&L. A appointed as the Director of the Western Scholarship major initiative undertaken has been the Australian School of Mines (WASM), and The University continued to improve its implementation of the Curriculum 2010 2007 saw Professor Peter Newman and his teaching and learning performance and project. C2010 is designed to enhance the expert team join the University to lead Curtin’s was again recognised with an award of quality of our learning and teaching activities sustainability project. Professors Steven funds under the Learning and Teaching and to ensure the University’s sustainability Tingay and Peter Hall also joined the University Performance Fund. Many University through course renewal and redesign. as experts in Radio Astronomy and both are staff were also recognised for their leaders in the Square Kilometre Array project. teaching and scholarship excellence during the year, details of which are listed throughout the Annual Report.
5 Curtin University of Technology
> Vice-Chancellor’s report (continued)
The support of staff in this project 2007 also saw the introduction of University researchers received awards has been extremely positive, with the the Teaching Performance Index in a range of fields, as detailed later in vast majority welcoming this initiative which is designed to promote the report, and new research staff and and wanting to participate. and reward good teaching. teams joined Curtin in 2007, further enhancing the University’s strengths The University also completed its fifth and performance in specific fields. semester of eVALUate, the student feedback Research assessment tool. The results showed Curtin had strong growth in its research A particularly notable University-wide increased overall student satisfaction funding performance. The University development to assist the University in having risen to 81.4 per cent in second improved its ranking in Research Training improving performance outcomes in both semester 2007 from 79.9 per cent in Scheme Funding to 13th with $12.9 million research and teaching and learning was second semester 2006. The survey (up from 15th in 2006) and ranked 20th the development of a set of expectations information provided valuable feedback for Research Infrastructure Block Grants for academic staff, which cover all major to staff who are then able to identify with $2.1 million (up from 21st in 2006). aspects of academic work including areas of excellence as well as those areas The University’s Institutional Grant Scheme teaching, research, leadership and where improvement could be achieved. ranking improved from 13th in 2006 to service. Curtin Expectations recognises that academic staff may have different The Curtin Annual Student Satisfaction 11th in 2007 with funding of $6.2 million. proportions of duties which may vary (CASS) survey results for 2007 also showed For a third successive year Curtin has during their academic careers. an increased level of overall student increased the University’s Research and satisfaction with their courses, rising from Development funding by $8.7 million, 78 per cent in 2006 to 82 per cent in 2007. representing an increase of 47 per cent.
6 2007 Annual Report
Construction of the University’s Resources Campus development Going forward and Chemistry Precinct commenced in 2007. Located at the southern end of the In 2007 the University made significant While the higher education environment Bentley campus it will create an international investment in campus development to continues to be challenging for Australian centre of excellence for resources-related improve teaching, learning and research universities, Curtin has embraced many education and research. It is anticipated facilities, as well as the overall student new opportunities. With its strategic the Precinct will eventually host the experience on campus more broadly. direction defined to build on its strengths largest group of researchers supporting For example, the University commenced and respond to the needs of our region, the resources, minerals and chemistry construction of a multi-purpose Recreation Curtin is committed to serving our sectors in the southern hemisphere. and Events Centre which will provide students and community through quality greatly enhanced sporting and recreation teaching, scholarship and research. Efficiencies, facilities for students and which will also effectiveness and provide additional space for graduations standardisation and other University events. Construction of two new 200-seat lecture Curtin continued to make great gains in terms theatres was also undertaken during of efficiencies and the effectiveness of our the year to provide additional teaching University-wide services. For example, the and learning space. These will be ready University consolidated 13 different email for the commencement of 2008. systems, achieving one single standard Jeanette Hacket email for staff and one for students. This Financial security is a great achievement and will streamline Vice-Chancellor the provision of our ICT services. In 2007 the University continued to strengthen its financial security through The University also undertook a review of a increased revenue and some improved range of University-wide policies. In particular efficiencies. The University has invested in the Heads of School policy was revised to extensive new capital works projects, and ensure consistency across the University has upgraded facilities and equipment to and it recognises the management role provide high-quality facilities for students associated with the position. Additional and staff. Improved financial outcomes training and personal development will have enabled a significant increase in also be available to Heads of School investment in staff development, teaching to empower staff in these positions. and learning initiatives, research and research infrastructure, and student scholarships.
Curtin completed the year with a significant operating surplus which will enable the University to invest in future activities, in both teaching and research.
7 Curtin University of Technology
about Curtin
Curtin is internationally focused and committed
to service in its wider region. A culturally diverse
university with more than 70 nationalities represented
in students and staff, it fosters tolerance and
encourages the development of the individual
capable of contributing in a global community.
Curtin University of Technology is and workplace standards and needs. conducts vocational courses at Kalgoorlie Western Australia’s largest university A combination of first-rate resources, staff and Esperance. Curtin also has an extensive with more than 40,000 students; over and technology makes Curtin a major research and development program. 17,000 of these are international full-fee contributor to tertiary education, both Curtin University of Technology is a paying students studying either offshore within Australia and internationally. body corporate established under the through a partner or onshore at one of The University’s primary campus is situated in Curtin University of Technology Act the University’s campuses. Research Bentley, six kilometres south of the centre of 1966, an Act of the Western Australian student numbers are approaching 2000. Perth, Western Australia’s capital city. Curtin Parliament. It is domiciled in Australia. The University takes its name from the Prime has two additional metropolitan campuses; The University is not an incorporated Minister of Australia from 1941-1945, John regional campuses in Kalgoorlie, Northam, company under the Corporations Law. Curtin, and its values reflect the leadership Geraldton and Margaret River; and education Therefore it does not have an Australian and strength associated with one of centres in Albany, Armadale, Esperance, Company Number (ACN), nor does it Australia’s pre-eminent prime ministers. Karratha, Midland and Port Hedland. Curtin have a Certificate of Incorporation. also has an offshore campus in Miri, Sarawak, Curtin is internationally focused and Malaysia. Curtin’s newest campus opened in Curtin’s main campus is located at: committed to service in its wider region. the Sydney Central Business District in 2005. Kent Street, A culturally diverse university with more than BENTLEY WA 6102 70 nationalities represented in students and Curtin offers more than 700 undergraduate staff, it fosters tolerance and encourages and postgraduate courses in business, The postal address is: the development of the individual capable engineering, health sciences, humanities, GPO Box U1987, of contributing in a global community. The science, mining and agriculture. The PERTH WA 6845 University’s programs have an applied and University’s Centre for Aboriginal Studies offers www.curtin.edu.au practical focus, and centre on the provision bridging courses for Indigenous students and of knowledge and skills to meet industry the Vocational Training and Education Centre
8 2007 Annual Report
vision, mission and values
The University applies the philosophy of its namesake,
former Prime Minister John Curtin, who said:
“The great university... should look ever forward; for it the past should be but a preparation for the greater days to be.”
Vision Strategic Plan
Curtin will be a leading university The University’s Vision, Mission and Strategic Objectives are in education and research operationalised by its Strategic Plan 2006-2008. serving its wider region Curtin’s Strategic Plan provides a framework for the development of key plans Mission and strategies across all teaching and administrative areas, as reflected in primary statements relating to the Teaching and Learning Plan, the Research Management Curtin is committed to innovation Plan, the Internationalisation Plan, and the Valuing Curtin Staff Plan. and excellence in teaching and The section 2007 Activity Highlights presents Curtin’s activities and achievements research, for the benefit of our over the year in relation to the primary statements of the Strategic Plan. students and the wider community
Values
Integrity – being consistently honest and trustworthy in all activities
Respect – having regard for self and others
Fairness – ensuring just decisions through open decision-making
Care – acting to ensure the welfare of others
9 Curtin University of Technology
2007 activity highlights
Strategic focus 1 Vision and Mission Relevance to Curtin’s Vision, Mission and Strategic Objectives are actioned through its Strategic Plan. This section presents a selection of Curtin’s activities and achievements during 2007, highlighting society’s needs the foci and themes of the Strategic Plan and the priorities of the supporting Enabling Plans. and aspirations JOHN CURTIN MEDALS
The John Curtin Medal, Curtin’s highest non-academic honour, was awarded to Aboriginal activist Dennis Eggington and to life-long community project leader and fundraiser David Goldstone. Mr Eggington is well known and respected as the chief executive officer of the Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS) and as a Nyungar elder and leader. In addition to his active role in the ALS he has served on committees and forums in the fields of education, health, justice and housing, amongst others. Mr Goldstone was honoured for a lifetime of work for charity. He has raised support and funds for causes such as Rotary’s world- wide Polio Eradication Program, the St John of God Foundation Lighthouse Project which provides long-term housing solutions for the young homeless, and the Rotary WA Cord Blood Bank. In total, Mr Goldstone has raised more than $10 million for charity. The John Curtin Medal is presented by the University each year to people who exhibit the former Prime Minister’s qualities of vision, leadership and community service.
10 2007 Annual Report
HIGHLIGHTS
• The John Curtin Weekend in October term outcomes of Attention Deficit • Curtin’s Women in Social & Economic saw more than 350 members of Curtin Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Research (WiSER) unit undertook research Volunteers! – a student-led volunteer into the effects of WorkChoices legislation • The Centre for Research on Ageing, led by group within the University – visit more on the lives of West Australian women. Associate Professor Barbara Horner, has than 30 Western Australian towns to Women working in the areas of aged secured Federal funding of $1.33 million to take part in various community service care, childcare, retail, hospitality and establish the Western Australian Dementia projects. The volunteers came from many cleaning were invited to discuss their Training Study Centre at Curtin. This nations, and they participated in a range experiences at work and any changes collaborative centre will provide training and of activities, including revegetating the that had occurred due to the introduction support for health professionals, resulting Harvey River and assisting OzOpera, of WorkChoices. The research revealed in improved care for people with dementia. the touring arm of Opera Australia, in that these women gained no significant • Curtin’s Executive Dean of Humanities, Borden, with a variety of activities. advantages from the legislation and Professor David Wood, received a continued to be disadvantaged in their • Curtin’s Health Sciences Faculty received major grant from the Sustainable endeavours to achieve work-life balance almost $3 million from the National Health Tourism Cooperative Research Centre and negotiate preferred patterns of work. and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to develop dynamic models to assess This study also contributed valuable for the following research projects: the social, economic and environmental West Australian data into a larger cross- – Associate Professor David Moore, management of tourism along Western institutional national study initiated by from the National Drug Research Australia’s Ningaloo Coast. the National Foundation for Women Institute, was awarded approximately • Dr Hong Wei Wu, from the Department of and the Women’s Electoral Lobby. $750,000 to research the healthcare Chemical Engineering, was awarded more needs and barriers to health service • Curtin’s community radio station Curtin than $900,000 from the then Department utilisation of methamphetamine users FM 100.1 expanded its audience in of the Environment and Water Resources to in order to reduce harms such as the 45-54 age group. Market research work with Monash University on developing psychosis, viral infection and violence. estimated that the radio station had a technology around the use of biomass – Associate Professor Sandra Thompson, listening audience of 145,000 over one for energy generation and utilisation. from the Centre for International Health, week in September, with six out of 10 was awarded more than $1.1 million • Curtin, through its Centre for Perth adults aware of the station. to investigate the management of Developmental Health (CDH), is addressing coronary heart disease in the Indigenous suicide-related issues. In particular, population in Western Australia. CDH Director Sven Silburn received – Professor James Semmens, from $1.14 million in February to develop, trial the School of Public Health, was and evaluate an integrated proactive awarded $700,000 to investigate the postvention support model, to better potential for improving the safety, address the support needs of people quality and provision of surgical bereaved through suicide. The 18-month care in Western Australia. pilot program started in October 2007. – Professor David Hay, from the The Federal Department of Health and School of Psychology, was awarded Ageing has funded the project under its $340,000 to examine the long- National Suicide Prevention Strategy.
11 Curtin University of Technology
> 2007 activity highlights (continued)
Strategic focus 2 CURRICULUM 2010 Student-centred To compete and excel in the increasingly dynamic higher education sector, Curtin implemented the Curriculum 2010 project – a three-year program to learning revitalise the University’s academic offerings.
The University implemented the project to enhance the quality of its learning and teaching performance, improve staff workloads, and determine which existing courses are sustainable in terms of strategic focus, quality and financial viability.
Curriculum 2010 focuses on implementing the course-related objectives of the University’s strategic Teaching and Learning Plan, and its key objectives include: – revising Curtin educational awards, with a focus on redefining the educational emphases of courses and implementing policies which redefine the shape, structure and consistent standards of courses; – initiating a comprehensive review of courses, with a view to eradicating duplication, streamlining awards and significantly reducing the number of units being offered; – implementing an annual course review process; and – implementing tools and processes to ensure the currency of course data.
CARRICK AWARDS
Curtin won three Carrick Awards for teaching excellence and programs that enhance learning. Dr Euan Lindsay, a lecturer in Curtin’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, received a Carrick Early Career Award (one of the 2007 Carrick Awards for University Teaching). He was recognised as one of four outstanding Australian academics with less than seven years of teaching experience. Curtin’s Centre for International Health received a Carrick Award for Programs that Enhance Learning for its postgraduate program in International Health. The University was also awarded $220,000 by the Carrick Institute Promoting Excellence Initiative to develop a Teaching and Learning mentoring program. Curtin also received seven Carrick Citation Awards.
12 2007 Annual Report
HIGHLIGHTS
• The Student Evaluation of Teaching and Similarly, 88 per cent of onshore It completed a new Future Students Learning policy was developed and Curtin students (86 per cent in 2006) said site and overhauled the Curtin home is using data from eVALUate – the online they would recommend Curtin to a page to raise the University’s profile and system for gathering and reporting student friend, relative or other student. give more prominence to marketing feedback on their learning experiences campaigns, events and news. An area • The University’s second Careers Fair – to improve the quality of teaching and for animation, video and interactivity was held in April and attracted several learning activities and enable continuous was also implemented on the home thousand Curtin students. More than improvement based on student feedback. page. Integration of major marketing 120 government and private industry The target of a 35 per cent student campaigns with the Curtin website organisations attended the event, response rate from the eVALUate survey was achieved for the first time. which was organised to give students was exceeded in Semester 1, 2007. an opportunity to meet with leading • Curtin broadened its undergraduate • Curtin received a Carrick Citation employers, such as BHP Billiton, ANZ, scholarship program, with more than for eVALUate and is now seeking and the WA State Government. The Fair 300 new scholarships awarded in 2007 benchmarking partnerships with other also provided students with information on amounting to approximately $2 million. universities by encouraging them to finding employment, preparing resumes Academic Merit and Academic Merit adopt the survey. eVALUate was utilised and performing well at job interviews. Support Scholarships were awarded at Curtin Sarawak, in Malaysia, and in to high academic achievers as a way • An innovative national education Singapore and Mauritius during the year. for Curtin to recognise and encourage project designed to address the severe academic excellence. New scholarship • Curtin completed its fifth semester of the shortage of engineers was launched at categories included the Top TER in High eVALUate survey and the results at the Curtin by the then Federal Minister for School Scholarships, Merit Support end of 2007 indicated an overall student Education Science and Training, the Hon and Engineering Support Scholarships, satisfaction of 81.4 per cent in second Julie Bishop. ‘Engineering Tomorrow’s the Principal’s Recommendation semester 2007. This increased from Engineers’ is a collaborative, Federally- Scholarship and Alumni Scholarship. the 79.9 per cent in second semester funded project which will help to produce 2006. There was also an increase in the engineers with new skills to suit the • Curtin introduced the Innovation response rate in second semester 2007 ever-changing needs of the profession. Scholarships program which provides above that in second semester 2006. an opportunity for innovative thinkers • A Digital Media Unit (DMU), within to receive between $30,000 and • The results of the 2007 Curtin Annual Corporate Communications, was $40,000 over the course of their degree. Student Satisfaction (CASS) survey showed established in April to revolutionise The scholarship is open to students that overall satisfaction among onshore Curtin’s online presence. Its purpose is wanting to study nursing, teaching, students increased from 84 per cent in to better meet the needs of current and aquaculture and aquatic resources, 2006 to 87 per cent in 2007. Eighty-two future students and to compete with other and offers $10,000 for each year of per cent of respondents (compared with 78 universities’ websites. The DMU undertook study to assist with HECS fees, text per cent in 2006) indicated that they would benchmarking and monitoring during the books and related study expenses. recommend their current course of study to year, to set performance indicators for a friend, relative or other student. digital development activities.
13 Curtin University of Technology
> 2007 activity highlights (continued)
Strategic focus 3 INVENTOR OF THE YEAR AWARDS High-impact The impact and relevance of Curtin’s research, and the success of the University’s commercialisation program, was highlighted in the 2007 Western Australian Inventor of the Year research Awards. MillMapper, a technology of the Curtin spin-out company Scanalyse Pty Ltd, was the winner of the Ready for Market category. MillMapper is a tool to capture the internal conditions of large grinding mills on mine sites. It is designed to increase safety and increase mill throughput, resulting in millions of dollars of extra revenue for mine sites. Runner-up in the same category was CryoCell Technology from another Curtin spin-out company, Cool Energy. CryoCell Technology extracts carbon dioxide from natural gas, making it available for geosequestration or industrial applications. The Virtual Observer system, a device which recreates images captured by cameras on buses and taxis as a video-surveillance network, developed by Curtin’s Dr Stewart Greenhill and Professor Svetha Venkatesh, was runner-up in the Early Stage Category.
14 2007 Annual Report
HIGHLIGHTS
• Curtin continued with strong growth in • The School of Public Health installed the The work will help identify crude research activity in 2007, following growth first beta positron emission tomography oil sources, addressing a major of 31 per cent of external research income probe in Australia, and only the fourth issue in petroleum exploration. in 2006. Research productivity remains of its kind in the world, under a grant • The Eye and Vision Epidemiology Research high, while national and international from Cancer Council WA. The hand-held (EVER) group is part of a research program recognition of individuals and research probe can detect tumours less than one that renowned epidemiologist Professor groups at Curtin emphasises widespread centimetre in size, and promises to bring James Semmens established as the excellence in research quality. Curtin’s hope to cancer sufferers faced with the University’s inaugural Chair of Health performance in research productivity prospect of repeated surgery. Principal Services Research. The group comprises is evidenced by the University having investigator Kerryn Butler-Henderson will research expertise from Curtin and the secured approximately $4.43 million in use the probe initially for women with ductal University of Western Australia, and is research funding from the Australian carcinoma. The probe will help to pinpoint complemented with the resources and Research Council (ARC). Projects cover cancer cells during surgery, potentially knowledge of the Association for the a range of issues affecting the broader removing the need for a second operation. Blind WA, ophthalmologists and other community, including water quality, climatic • A group of organic and isotope eye-health stakeholders. The group’s events, digital business-intelligence geochemists at Curtin’s Centre for ongoing investigation of blindness causes systems, energy and resources and child Applied Organic Geochemistry (CAOG) and associations also involves a strategy protection in Indigenous communities. began cutting-edge research for global to help address the expected growth in • Professor Kok Lay Teo was awarded more petroleum exploration. Led by Professor blindness rates in Australia in the next 20 than $1 million by the ARC to investigate Kliti Grice, the State Isotope and Molecular years, due largely to ageing populations. and develop new theory and solution Biogeochemistry Group comprises 11 methods for non-convex and non-linear doctoral and postdoctoral researchers who semi-infinite optimisation problems are studying stable isotopes and molecular which affect many communications geochemistry relevant to petroleum engineering applications. exploration. The group’s capabilities have resulted in collaborations with • The National Gas Separation and Sub- organisations including the Institut Francais Sea Multiphase Flow Loop Facility at du Petrole (IFP), Woodside Petroleum, Technology Park was launched by Chevron, Origin and ARC Energy. Resources Minister Francis Logan. The Facility is led by Professor Robert • Professor Kliti Grice conducted research Amin and is the result of Curtin’s into paleoclimate change and mass successful collaboration with long-time extinction. Her team is applying isotope industry partner Woodside Energy. technologies to algal imprints and other The Facility will address the technical biomarkers to determine whether a and economic challenges associated correlation exists between the conditions with the extraction of offshore oil and that led to climate change and the gas reserves from deep water. deposition of petroleum source rocks.
15 Curtin University of Technology
> 2007 activity highlights (continued)
Theme 1 HIGHLIGHTS
Productive • Curtin currently participates in 16 CSIRO, the Department of Fisheries, partnerships Cooperative Research Centres (CRC); and other WA universities. This initiative 13 as a Core Partner and three as a will bring together and expand research Strong, strategic partnerships have Supporting Participant. Curtin’s high level capability to underpin the conservation and proven to be vital to the growth of of engagement aligns the University’s sustainable management of the State’s Curtin’s research activities in the past, research goals with the goals of the marine environment and resources. and the University will continue to CRC program to undertake research • The Curtin-based Western Australian pursue these alliances in the future. of the highest quality, which will lead to Nanochemistry Research Institute – innovation within Australian industry, for a collaboration with other Western the benefit of the Australian community. Australian universities under the State’s • Curtin has been involved in several Centres of Excellence Program – was CSIRO National Research Flagships, launched by Premier Alan Carpenter. including Wealth from the Oceans, Nanotechnologies are expected to Water for a Healthy Country, Light underpin major developments in the Metals, Energy Transformed, and biomedical and resources areas. The Food Futures Flagship. The National Institute is led by Professor Eric Bakker, Research Flagships are large-scale, who is a leader in the development of multidisciplinary research partnerships biosensors and chemical sensors. which harness world-class expertise • Construction commenced on Curtin’s to tackle national research priorities. Resources and Chemistry Precinct at the • The Premier of Western Australia, the University’s Bentley campus. The Precinct Hon Alan Carpenter, officially launched is a unique collaboration between the the Western Australian Marine Science University, government and industry, which Institution (WAMSI) in May 2007 at the WA will encourage collaborative projects in Maritime Museum in Fremantle. Curtin is geochemistry, hydrometallurgy, forensic one of 12 core partners in WAMSI, joining science, nanochemistry, biotechnology, the Australian Institute of Marine Science, and water quality and treatment. Curtin’s partners in the Precinct are the Chemistry Centre (WA) and BHP Billiton. Stage one of the development is expected to be complete in early 2009.
Courtesy of Woods Bagot
16 2007 Annual Report
Theme 2 HIGHLIGHTS
International • Curtin established high-level collaborations Engineering, Professor Andris Stelbovics, engagement with key Chinese energy research and Professor Jinghai Li, Vice President organisations, thus furthering the of the Chinese Academy of Science University’s international linkages in (China’s equivalent of CSIRO). The science and engineering. In June, agreement will see the two organisations Pro Vice-Chancellor of Research undertake research collaborations and Development Professor Linda across science and engineering. Kristjanson and Professor of Chemical • Curtin hosted more than 40 visits by Engineering Dong-ke Zhang visited China international delegations and greeted many to formalise agreements with Tsinghua guests, including those who attended University – China’s most prestigious Curtin events and graduation ceremonies, university – and the Institute for Coal and visited the Vice-Chancellor. Visitors Chemistry within the Chinese Academy included the Chinese Ambassador to of Science. The goal of the agreements Australia; Netherlands’ Ambassador is to promote clean coal technologies. to Australia; the Permanent Secretary • Curtin and the University of Newcastle for Higher Education Hong Kong; the – the two strongest coal research University of Hyogo, Hyogo Prefecture organisations in Australia – signed Japan; the Chancellor and Board Members a Memorandum of Understanding of Ukrida University Jakarta, Indonesia; agreement in February and established and the Australian Ambassador to Jordan. the Institute for Coal Strategies (ICoalS). • Associate Professor Ian Phau, from the The initiative combines the expertise School of Marketing at Curtin Business of Curtin’s Centre for Fuels and Energy School, received the Leading Editor award and Newcastle’s Priority Research in 2007 from the Emerald publishing Centre on Energy, to advance clean-coal group, the world’s foremost English technology development and facilitate language publisher of academic and joint international efforts. ICoalS is focused professional literature. Associate Professor on engaging high coal-use developing Phau, who coordinates the Marketing countries, such as China and India, in Honours program and founded the research that facilitates cleaner coal Curtin Marketing Association, received use. The initiative also led to a four-way the award for his work as editor of Asia collaboration with the Thermal Power Pacific Journal of Marketing & Logistics. Institute of China and the Institute for Coal Chemistry. The establishment of these collaborations resulted in a significant agreement which was signed in China by Curtin’s Executive Dean of Science and
17 Curtin University of Technology
> 2007 activity highlights (continued)
Theme 3 HIGHLIGHTS
Organisational • Curtin’s students and staff will benefit • Curtin’s Disability Access and Inclusion culture focused from a new $25 million recreation and Plan 2007 – 2011 (DAIP), which covers events facility being built at the Bentley students, visitors and staff with disabilities, on excellence and campus on grounds opposite the existing was lodged in July. It replaced the responsive to its Fitness Centre. The centre will include Disability Services Plan; the first plan in three international-grade sports courts, a any West Australian university in 1997. environment new fitness centre including a women’s The DAIP was lodged with the Human gym, beach volley ball facilities, and a Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission. coffee shop and patio area. The state- Its implementation is well underway, with of-the-art venue will also be a venue for the establishment of the Implementation large events, such as graduations, with Committee made up of senior University seating for 2,500 guests. The recreation staff; an inaugural Universal Design centre is due to open in late 2008. reference group; inclusive curricula embedded in the C2010 and Teaching and • Construction of a world-class Resources Learning agenda; and an agreement to and Chemistry Precinct in the southern undertake an access audit of the Bentley gateway to the campus commenced. The campus in 2008. The needs of students Precinct will attract world-class expertise with disabilities were included in the draft for industry-focused research relevant to policy on fieldwork, and the Disability@ Western Australia’s resources and related Curtin website, as the ‘one stop’ resource industries. It will also provide a major for staff, students and visitors regarding boost to science education, attracting top disability matters at Curtin, was created. quality students to science and resources education, and create the next generation • Journalism lecturer Joseph Fernandez won of industry professionals and researchers. the Clarion Prize at the WA Media Awards. The Precinct will co-locate Curtin’s The Clarion Prize is awarded annually Department of Applied Chemistry and the by the Western Australian Journalists’ Chemistry Centre of WA on the Bentley Association for the best individual campus adjacent to CSIRO Waterford. contribution to the media industry or to its union, the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance. Mr Fernandez was awarded the Clarion Prize for his work as a leader amongst media activists involved in lobbying governments to protect and defend free speech, and for producing practical guidelines on defamation, contempt, freedom of information and the new Australian sedition laws.
Courtesy of James Christou & Partners Architects
18 2007 Annual Report
Theme 4 HIGHLIGHTS
A secure • In 2007 Curtin achieved a healthy surplus • Curtin’s strong financial position means financial future for the second year in succession. it has improved cash and investment The 2007 surplus was $75.7 million, reserves and the financial capability to an outcome achieved through higher invest in a range of strategic initiatives revenues, improved efficiencies and capital works programs. More than and productivity, and a lower rate of $175 million will be invested in physical expenditure. The additional revenue facilities over the next three years. came from a range of areas, including the Commonwealth Grant Scheme, research and other grants, international onshore and offshore fees, and interest on investments. Spending was lower across a number of expenditure categories.
19 Curtin University of Technology
> 2007 activity highlights (continued)
The Teaching and OFFICE OF TEACHING AND LEARNING Learning Plan The Office of Teaching and Learning was created to ensure Curtin’s curriculum is relevant, robust and contemporary in the increasingly competitive higher education environment. It The Teaching and Learning Plan sets will bring together teaching development, learning resources, courses management, and the direction for teaching and learning at project management and support. Professor Robyn Quin was appointed to the newly created Curtin for 2006-2008. It aims to ensure that position of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Teaching & Learning) as part of the University’s commitment Curtin graduates are strategic and creative to excellence in these areas. She came to Curtin from Edith Cowan University, where she was thinkers, who value lifelong learning. Executive Dean in the Faculty of Education and Arts and Pro Vice-Chancellor Engagement and Development. Professor Quin is also an auditor for the Australian Universities Quality Agency, and has worked as a consultant to the Ministry of Education, where she was responsible for curriculum design and implementation in Western Australian government schools.
20 2007 Annual Report
HIGHLIGHTS
• The University implemented the Curriculum Excellence Initiative to develop a divisional University obtained strategic funding 2010 project to enhance its learning Teaching and Learning mentoring program. to implement two projects that will and teaching performance, improve deliver more than $2 million in individual • The annual Curtin Awards for Excellence staff workloads and determine which incentives to divisional teaching in 2008. and Innovation in Teaching provide existing courses are sustainable in terms recognition and reward for outstanding • In line with the recommendation from of strategic focus, quality and financial performances by individuals and teams the Australian Universities Quality viability. It aims to eradicate duplication, in teaching and in enhancing student Agency’s (AUQA) Audit Panel Report, streamline awards and significantly reduce learning. In 2007 the University allocated 20 the Course Review Process is now being the number of units being offered. internal Curtin Excellence and Innovation implemented at Curtin. The initiatives • A Teaching Performance Index (TPI) was in Teaching Awards, totalling $40,000. now in place include an AUQA Standards developed and endorsed to recognise Working Party and the improved • The Student Evaluation of Teaching and reward good teaching practices. definition of minimum standards for and Learning policy has now been The initiative focuses on best practice teaching and learning, which address developed and Curtin is using eVALUate in teaching, and rewards staff who student admission, curriculum, teaching data to improve the quality of teaching demonstrate excellence. The TPI also staff, evaluation, assessment, learning and learning activities, and enable provides tools for teaching staff to improve environment, and course satisfaction. continuous improvement based on their quality of instruction, including training student feedback. eVALUate was utilised • The first University-wide annual for course coordinators and heads of school at Curtin Sarawak, in Malaysia, and in Management of Plagiarism Review in the management of academic programs; Singapore and Mauritius through the year. was also implemented, and staff- the transfer of print-based, distance development sessions on plagiarism • Curtin’s commitment to regional education education materials to a digital format; a and academic integrity were held. The and regional communities in Western comprehensive set of teaching and learning successful completion of the Turnitin Australia saw the University acquire the standards; and a trial of a plagiarism Plagiarism Detection Service trial also executive management responsibilities for detection tool. In addition, an online tool took place in 2007, for use in 2008. the Centre for Regional Education (CRE) for TPI applications was developed. and the Vocational Training and Education • A Teaching and Learning Action Plan • Curtin has continued to improve its Centre. Additionally, a School of Regional, was created and circulated, addressing teaching and learning performance and Remote and e-Learning (RR&E) has been the incorporation of the Disability Access was awarded $500,000 from the Learning established. The inclusion of CRE will and Inclusion Plan strategies in day- and Teaching Performance Fund (LTPF). augment the future opportunities for the to-day business. Also implemented Eighty per cent ($400,000) of the award was new School of Regional, Remote and was a draft Fieldwork Education distributed to improve teaching and learning e-Learning within the Office of Teaching policy, developing (in test mode) a and 20 per cent ($100,000) to recognise and Learning. RR&E is tasked with the University-wide fieldwork website. and reward teaching and learning. delivery of Curtin courses to remote and • The inaugural, year-long Foundations of • Curtin won three Carrick Awards for regional clients through a range of options, Teaching and Learning at Curtin program teaching excellence and programs that including distance education, face-to- attracted an increase in enrolments from enhance learning and seven Carrick Citation face learning and electronic delivery. 75 participants in 2006 to 143 in 2007. The Awards. The University was also awarded • As a further commitment to innovative program was also inaugurated at Curtin’s $220,000 by the Carrick Institute Promoting teaching, and to promote the integration Sarawak, Malaysia campus during the year. of e-learning into Curtin’s courses, the
21 Curtin University of Technology
> 2007 activity highlights (continued)
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS
• Nan Ning, a PhD student with the Institute • Accounting and Business Law student • Conrad Bieganski, a Bachelor of of Multi-Processing and Content Analysis Karrissa Cotterell won the West Australian Engineering (Civil and Construction (IMPCA) and Department of Computing, Business Icon competition. Ms Cotterell Engineering) student, was awarded the was awarded the WA Information won for excelling in the task assigned $5,000 Qantas prize for making the Technology & Telecommunications Award to her as one of four finalists. The task Vice-Chancellor’s List eight times during (WAITTA) (Student Category) for her project involved creating a media statement the course of his studies. Membership “Remote Tracking of Terrorist/Criminal and facing mock media questioning to the VC’s List is granted to the top Using Distributed Mobile Camera”. The over a fictional environmental disaster. one per cent of undergraduates, including project was based on work undertaken for The Business Icon competition is run international and Honours students, her Honours degree, under the supervision by the Australian Experiential Learning across all disciplines and University of Dr Tele Tan, and develops an automated Centre (AELC) and is designed for 18-25 campuses. A total of 505 students visual surveillance system that could be year olds to test their business skills. were added to the VC’s List in 2007. used for large-scale geographical terrorist/ • In 2007 Kate Bickley was the first student criminal tracking. The WAITTA awards in Curtin’s Department of Languages recognise outstanding performance and Intercultural Education (DOLIE) to be and contributions by members of the awarded a Mitsui Educational Foundation IT&T community in Western Australia. (MEF) Study Tour of Japan. The 21-day • Ashley Hunt, who is studying for a MEF Study Tour of Japan is run by the Bachelor of Chemical Engineering, was Mitsui Educational Foundation which the only Western Australian awarded a was established in 1971 by Mitsui & Co prestigious Order of Australia Prize by the (Australia) Ltd to build stronger links Order of Australia Association Foundation between Japan and Australia. Ms Bickley in 2007. Mr Hunt, a third-year student, had undertaken a double degree in was one of four recipients awarded Asian Studies (majoring in Japanese) and $40,000 each towards their studies. The Commerce (majoring in Public Relations). award recognises both community and • Nursing undergraduate Aishah Binte career leadership potential. Mr Hunt was Mohammed Sim was named Curtin’s chosen on the basis of his academic international undergraduate student record and his demonstrated qualities top achiever in 2007 at the inaugural of leadership, initiative and willingness Perth Education City (PEC) Most to be involved in community affairs. Outstanding International Student and Staff Awards. Ms Sim won the award, which is based on academic merit, for achieving the best weighted-average score among all the nominees.
22 2007 Annual Report
GRADUATE ACHIEVEMENTS
• Curtin graduate and artist • Curtin graduate Michelle Webb won • Curtin Film and Television Honours S. Chandrasekaran was invited to show his the 2007 NAIDOC Perth Scholar of graduate Vegard H Sorby was accepted performance art project entitled Bleeding the Year Award for her outstanding into the American Film Institute (AFI) Tent at two prestigious art exhibitions, accomplishments in Indigenous education. Conservatory in Hollywood, US, where Venice Biennale and Documenta. Ms Webb works as coordinator of the he has undertaken the Fine Arts program. The project – a modified version of Aboriginal Bridging Course in Curtin’s Mr Sorby, with fellow Curtin Film and Chandrasekaran’s Doctor of Creative Arts Centre of Aboriginal Studies (CAS). Television graduate Dean Israelite, also won research which he undertook at Curtin She is one of the first Indigenous two awards – the People’s Choice Award – explored the conflicts and tensions people in Australia to graduate with a and the Award for Acting – at the 2007 WA of cross-cultural interactions between Master of Human Rights Practice. Screen Awards for their joint filmmaking individuals, and aimed to establish how project The Department of Nothing. • The prestigious KPMG AdviceBank Award certain human activities, such as bleeding was presented to Curtin Business School • Curtin graduate Kareena May was and drinking which he enacted for the graduate Stuart Ball at the 2007 State named the National Young Planner of the project, are parts of everyday reality. Australian Business Arts Foundation Year at the annual Planning Institute of • Daniel Howell, a 2007 Curtin graduate in Awards (AbaF). Mr Ball was recognised for Australia (PIA) awards in 2007. Ms May Computer Science, accepted a lucrative his work with Country Arts WA, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Urban position as a Software Design Engineer reviewed the organisation’s IT requirements and Regional Planning and a Graduate at Microsoft’s Seattle headquarters, in with the view to upgrading their technology Certificate in Eco-Tourism Development the US. The Microsoft headquarters systems and infrastructure. After from Curtin in 2003. She is a senior employs approximately 22,000 people, implementing his recommendations, town planner with Koltasz Smith – a including 400 Australians of which Country Arts WA increased productivity town planning and urban design project approximately 20 are Curtin graduates. and now benefits from a 40 per cent management consulting firm, with offices reduction in IT support costs. based in Burswood and Busselton.
23 Curtin University of Technology
> 2007 activity highlights (continued)
The Research HIGHLIGHTS
Management Plan • Curtin continues to participate at a high to additional expertise in chemical
The Research Management Plan provides level in discussions on Australian and engineering, oil and gas, petroleum the framework to guide Curtin towards State Government policy, including the engineering and environmental science. Productivity Commission’s review of Public growing and improving its research • The Western Australian Centre for Cancer Support for Science and Innovation, the program. It addresses three broad issues: and Palliative Care, a collaboration establishment of the Higher Education increasing research capacity, research between Curtin and Edith Cowan Endowment Fund, and the assessment differentiation, and knowledge transfer. University (ECU), was officially launched in of research quality in universities. February by Western Australia’s Minister Five broad themes have been identified With external drivers emphasising the for Health, the Hon Jim McGinty. Moyez to focus research activity at Curtin. The importance of research quality, 2007 Jiwa, Professor of Primary Care at Curtin’s themes are consistent with national saw Curtin evaluate the overall quality of School of Pharmacy, and Associate and state research priorities: research and focus on identified areas of Professor Samar Aoun, from ECU, have research excellence. The strong growth • Resources and Energy been appointed as Co‑Directors, taking in research activity in 2006, including • Information and Communication over from Professor Linda Kristjanson, a 31 per cent increase in external who established the Centre’s foundation • Health, Ageing and Wellbeing research income, coupled with continued research team 10 years ago. • Communities and Changing Environments growth in 2007, indicates that research • The Curtin-based WA Nanochemistry productivity remains high, while national • Growth and Prosperity Research Institute – a collaboration with and international recognition of individuals other Western Australian universities and research groups at Curtin emphasises under the State’s Centres of Excellence widespread excellence in research quality. program – was launched by the Premier of • Curtin’s Resources and Chemistry Precinct Western Australia. Nanotechnologies are was launched by the Premier of Western expected to underpin major developments Australia, the Hon Alan Carpenter in March. in the biomedical and resources areas. The This world-class Precinct is a collaborative Institute is led by Professor Eric Bakker. venture supported by BHP Billiton and • The Curtin Energy Research Showcase involves the co-location of the Chemistry was held at the University’s Bentley Centre (WA) and Curtin’s Department of campus in October to highlight key Applied Chemistry. It will bring together research projects in the area of energy more than 300 scientists, engineers and and resources, with particular emphasis support staff in state-of-the-art facilities, on innovative research to ensure the long- and support education, research and term viability of energy and resources regional training to underpin the resources for future generations. Research topics sector. Expertise in hydrometallurgy, included exploration geophysics, water quality and treatment, energy, engineering, business and renewable forensic science, environmental energies, and the attendant issues of and food chemistry, corrosion and sustainability and climate change. biotechnology will be situated within the Precinct, which will be in proximity
24 2007 Annual Report
RESEARCH GRANTS
• Curtin secured approximately $4.43 million sulfide‑rich modern and ancient CRM – a business and marketing strategy in research funding from the Australian environments. The research will lead to a which integrates technology, process and Research Council (ARC) as follows: better understanding of mass extinction business activities around the customer – Professor Zheng-Xiang Li was awarded events, particularly those associated – so that business can better manage $1 million to examine and test causal with global warming, which may be its investment and its contributions to links between Neoproterozoic global crucial to managing current threats to improving long-term profitability. geodynamic and climatic events. biodiversity. The research will also identify • Professor Stephen Zubrick, from the The work involves an international new sources of petroleum in Australia. Centre for Developmental Health (a joint team and will provide insight into how – Professor Kliti Grice was awarded venture with the Telethon Institute for Child plate tectonics interacts with deeper $330,000 under the ARC Linkage Health Research), was awarded almost mantle process, and how major Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities $2 million to measure and model the geodynamic events, like supercontinent Grant to establish Australia’s first state- childhood determinants of human-capital cycles and large-scale plume events, of-the-art high-pressure hydropyrolysis formation and human-capability expansion. impact on the Earth’s climate. system for the molecular and stable The researchers will collect new population – Associate Professor Anna Heitz, Director of isotopic characterisation of high- data on families and integrate them the Curtin Water Quality Research Centre molecular-weight organic materials. with appropriate administrative data (a joint venture with the Water Corporation), She also received $22,000 under the in the education and health sectors to received $870,000 to research advanced ARC Linkage International scheme. more appropriately describe a human- water treatment technologies, to minimise – Professor Daniela Stehlik, from the capability framework. The findings will the formation of emerging disinfection Alcoa Research Centre for Stronger be of policy relevance across levels of by-products in potable and reuse water. Communities, in conjunction with governments and would be assessed – Professor Tharam Dillon, from the Digital researchers from Griffith University in for their generalisability to national Ecosystems and Business Intelligence Queensland, was awarded $640,000 efforts in charting policy responses. Institute, was awarded approximately under an ARC Linkage Grant involving $800,000 to develop a commercially viable Western Australia’s Department for Child innovation, an XML-enabled association Protection and Queensland’s Department rule framework. Successful methods for of Child Safety. The study focuses on a storage and retrieval of data from XML shared problem of recruiting and retaining databases have been developed. The high-quality professional staff to enable next stage consists of identifying patterns child protection service delivery in rural and or knowledge in XML data or association remote communities with high proportions rule mining, and the project will develop a of Indigenous families and children. It aims framework and algorithms for mining such to enable the development of breakthrough data, which will significantly enhance the technologies and best practice models. value of these large document databases. – Professor Peter Love was awarded – Professor Kliti Grice was awarded $350,000 to evaluate the dynamic life cycle $770,000 under the ARC’s Discovery of Customer Relationship Management Program to analyse the characteristics systems. The research aims to design and of organic matter formed in toxic, develop a life-cycle evaluation model for
25 Curtin University of Technology
> 2007 activity highlights (continued)
The HIGHLIGHTS
Internationalisation • Curtin’s international student population • More than 600 international students Plan continues to grow, reflecting its strong sponsored by the Australian Government position and good reputation amongst (AusAID), foreign governments and The Internationalisation Plan aligns the international student population. universities, and international companies closely with the University’s Strategic The number of international students were enrolled at Curtin in 2007. The Plan 2006-2008 and includes outcomes enrolled at Curtin in 2007 increased by International Sponsored Students Section related to staff, students, culture, and core 7.8 per cent, with a marked increase in (ISSU) within the Office of the Deputy activities with an international perspective. enrolments from India. Curtin continues Vice-Chancellor (DVC) International Strategies to increase international student to attract a strong flow of students from provides assistance and support to numbers, internationalise the curriculum and Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and China. sponsored students, including individual develop an international culture amongst case management, pastoral care for • In 2007 more than 9,000 students enrolled Curtin staff are the aims of this plan. students and families, and social events. in Curtin’s programs offered in partnership with higher education institutions in a range • The International Office provided support of countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, to the International Students’ Committee Hong Kong, China and Sri Lanka. Many of for the staging of the Pasar Malam (night these students transfer to Curtin’s Bentley market) event, the highlight of Multicultural campus for the final year of their studies. Week held at Curtin. Multicultural Week reminds the University of the value of its diversity and the wonderful contribution that its staff and students from all cultures make to the teaching, research and community activities of Curtin.
26 2007 Annual Report
• In December Curtin hosted the 2007 • During the year good progress was Conference of the Association for made in the development of several Southeast Asian Institutes of Higher research and teaching relationships with Learning (ASAIHL). More than 120 universities offshore, and the University foreign academics participated in the hosted visits by many delegations from conference, including a large number overseas universities. These visits and of Vice-Chancellors and Deputy the associated relationships developed Vice-Chancellors. The staging of the by Curtin staff resulted in the signing of a Conference at Curtin presented an number of Memorandum of Understanding excellent opportunity for the University’s agreements, student transfer agreements senior staff to meet with counterparts and student exchange agreements. from a range of countries in our region. • Curtin continued to expand its student • In January 2007 new premises for the mobility programs in 2007 through the Curtin Sydney Campus was officially provision of grants to students, to support opened in a specially renovated four- periods of study offshore. A total of storey building close to the CBD. Curtin 107 Curtin students spent at least one Sydney is a joint venture arrangement semester at a partner university overseas, between Curtin and Navitas Ltd and while 91 students from those universities during the year it strongly increased visited Curtin for a similar period. The its student numbers to reach more learning on all levels that is engendered than 800 by the end of the year. New by such exchange programs is an integral course offerings at Curtin Sydney in element of Curtin’s goal to provide an 2007 included the Master of Finance. international experience for all its students.
27 Curtin University of Technology
> 2007 activity highlights (continued)
The Valuing Curtin QUALITY ENHANCEMENT
Staff Plan • An Organisation Development of teaching, research, leadership and
The Valuing Curtin Staff Plan is the Unit was established to provide service. Consultation on the draft has University’s plan for the support, an expanded set of professional commenced and it is expected the final development and growth of its people, development programs supporting document will inform the promotions work environment and organisational senior, academic and general staff. process and performance management. culture. The plan outlines the key people- • In response to employee feedback, • The University increased the diversity management strategies and targets that expanded staff reward programs of its workforce and served its local relate directly to the University’s Vision, were designed and implemented community through the establishment Mission, Values and Strategic Objectives. to recognise excellence in teaching of new employment support programs and learning and research. for Indigenous and disabled workers.
• Substantial work was undertaken • University Council approved the in 2007 to address academic staff adoption of a new academic structure concerns with high workloads, including for Curtin to improve the organisational curriculum reviews, academic workload structure and culture. The structural planning and additional resource reform included standardisation of allocations to academic units. faculty structures and standardisation of positions. The new structure becomes • The University commenced the effective on 1 January 2008. development of a Curtin Expectations document, with the aim of developing an • Substantial work was undertaken overarching set of expectations which across campus facilities as part of the make clear the levels of performance University’s commitment to providing expected of academic staff in the areas a safe environment for its staff.
28 2007 Annual Report
LEADERSHIP
• Regular events were offered for the A national commentator on government • Curtin continued to attract high- senior management group to meet on and public policy, Professor Craven quality academic leaders to its senior key strategic issues in 2007. A two-day made a significant contribution to the positions. Professor Robyn Quin was conference in June, themed Taking Curtin University’s strategy development, appointed Pro Vice-Chancellor of to the Next Level, involved 120 senior governance and external relations. Teaching and Learning; Professor Andris managers working on key challenges Stelbovics was appointed Executive • A review of the responsibilities of the facing the University. A key area of Dean, Science and Engineering; and executive management team effected the conference was to increase the Professor David Wood was appointed changes in University structures to University’s capacity in quality research, Executive Dean, Humanities. improve the spread of load, collaborative teaching and learning, and service synergies, and the level of focus which • Professor Paul Dunn was appointed to the community. Invited speakers can be achieved. The review re-assigned as Director of the Western Australian included local and international leaders the major academic portfolios of School of Mines (WASM) in October 2007. in organisational enhancement. Education, Research and Development, His appointment follows his position • Professor Greg Craven, Curtin’s Deputy and International, to report directly as Director of the Centre for Mining Vice-Chancellor (Strategy and Planning) to the Vice‑Chancellor, and re-titled Technology at the Mining Innovation, resigned in the latter part of the year Executive Deans as Pro Vice-Chancellors Rehabilitation and Applied Research to take up the Vice Chancellorship of to recognise the contribution of these Corporation (MIRARCO) in Canada, the Australian Catholic University in positions to University senior management, a not-for-profit applied research and February 2008. Professor Craven had and to improve Curtin’s ability to recruit in technical service company. Professor previously worked as the Executive a highly competitive labour environment. Dunn has held positions with the Director of the John Curtin Institute University of Queensland and taught for Public Policy and held a Chair in at WASM between 1990 and 1993. Government and Constitutional Law.
29 Curtin University of Technology
> 2007 activity highlights (continued)
AWARDS
• A collaborative Curtin research project It was piloted by community mental health Learning mentoring program. Curtin also which focused on improving pregnancy clinicians within the North Metropolitan received seven Carrick Citation Awards. outcomes for women with serious mental Area Health Service, Mental Health. • Curtin’s Vice-Chancellor’s Awards illness won a 2007 Mental Health Good • Curtin won three Carrick Awards for for Excellence were given to nine Outcomes Award in the Mental Health teaching excellence and programs that individual staff and nine staff groups, Research and Education category. The enhance learning. Dr Euan Lindsay, in recognition of the significant collaborative project involved staff from a lecturer in Curtin’s Department of innovation they demonstrated in their Curtin’s Faculty of Health Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, received a Carrick area of employment and the pursuit Telethon Institute for Child Health Early Career Award (one of the 2007 of excellence in their activities. Research, North Metropolitan Area Health Carrick Awards for University Teaching). He • Curtin’s Excellence and Innovation in Service Mental Health and the Centre was recognised as one of four outstanding Teaching (EIT) Awards Committee awarded for Clinical Research in Neuropsychiatry Australian academics with less than seven 20 recipients with a Curtin Excellence and (CCRN). Entitled “A Clinical Pathway and years of teaching experience. Curtin’s Innovation in Teaching Award. Each award Guidelines for the Provision of Antenatal Centre for International Health received a winner received a certificate in recognition Care to Pregnant Women with Serious Carrick Awards for Programs that Enhance of their contribution to improving the Mental Illness”, the project involved Learning for its postgraduate program in quality of student learning and a prize of the development of an antenatal care International Health. The University was $2000 to enhance teaching and learning. package to help reduce the risk of also awarded $220,000 by the Carrick poorer health outcomes for women with Institute Promoting Excellence Initiative serious mental illness and their babies. to develop a divisional Teaching and
30 2007 Annual Report
STAFF ACHIEVEMENTS
• Following the sad and premature death of information dissemination; and clinical Australian Institute of Nuclear Science Professor Aileen Plant, of Curtin’s Centre research in primary care and related fields. and Engineering (AINSE) for 2007-2008. for International Health, in March, the AINSE is a partnership between the • Associate Professor John Teschendorff University established The Aileen Plant Australian universities and the Australian was awarded for his lifetime of Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship Nuclear Science and Technology successes in teaching and visual arts is intended for a student with an interest Organisation (ANSTO). Its specific mandate education in Australia and South- in Indigenous Public Health issues in is to arrange for the training of scientific East Asia and was presented with the Australia, and is open to students enrolling research workers and to award scientific 2007 Australian Council of University in a Health Sciences degree at Curtin. research studentships associated with Art and Design Schools (ACUADS) The Scholarship honours the work of nuclear science and engineering. Award for Distinguished Teaching. Aileen Plant in public health and, in • Four Curtin staff were honoured in the • Professor Graham Seal, Acting Director particular, in Australian Indigenous health, inaugural Professional Teaching Council of the Australia Research Institute, was through encouraging and rewarding of Western Australia Professional awarded an Order of Australia in the young students who demonstrate Service Awards. The award recipients Queen’s Birthday Honours. Professor academic and leadership potential. were: Dr Susan Beltman, a lecturer in Seal is Australia’s first professor of • Journalism lecturer Joseph Fernandez won the Faculty of Humanities, for her work folklore and his award recognised the Clarion Prize at the WA Media Awards with the Western Australian Institute for his research and contribution as an for his work as a leader amongst media Education Research; Mr Kent Miller Logie, editor and author of approximately 20 activists involved in lobbying governments lecturer, for his work in music education; publications on Australian folklore. to project and defend free speech, Dr Stephan Millet, the Director of the • Dr Bobbie Oliver and Dr Patrick and for producing practical guidelines Centre for Applied Ethics and Philosophy, Bertola, from Curtin’s Faculty of Media on defamation, contempt, freedom of for his role in championing philosophy Society & Culture, won the WA History information and the new Australian sedition in Western Australian schools; and Ms Award section of the WA Premier’s laws. Mr Fernandez lectures in media Ros Marshall, Education Coordinator Book Awards for their publication The law at Curtin and is a member of the at the John Curtin Prime Ministerial Workshops: A History of the Midland Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance’s Library, for her work with school Political Government Railway Workshops. National Ethics Panel as well as a member and Legal Studies curriculum. of the Media Asia Research Group. • Dr Dawn Bennet received the Callaway • Five staff were promoted from Associate Doctoral Award from the Australia • Moyez Jiwa, a Professor of Primary Lecturer to Lecturer, 40 per cent of Society for Music Education (ASME). Care at Curtin, won the 2007 Royal whom were women. Eighteen staff The award recognises the best doctoral Australian College of General Practitioners were promoted from Lecturer to Senior thesis from an Australian university, (RACGP) WA Research Award for Lecturer and 44.4 per cent of them based on the contribution made to ongoing research work that will make a were women. Twenty-five staff were theoretical, empirical, historical and/ significant contribution to general practice promoted from Senior Lecturer to or methodological knowledge. in medicine. Professor Jiwa’s research is Associate Professor, 40 per cent of themed on GP management of patients • Emeritus Professor Brian O’Connor, from whom were women. Four Professors, with cancer symptoms; the effects of GP- the Department of Imaging and Applied of whom 25 per cent were women, specialist interactions on patient outcomes; Physics and the Centre for Materials were promoted to Personal Chairs. methods of improving practice through Research, was elected President of the
31 Curtin University of Technology
report on operations
Members of Council for 2007 Commenced Terminated Due to expire Chancellor Mr Gordon Martin 1/06/2006 current 31/03/2009 Members Appointed by Governor in Council Mr Mark Ashley 30/05/2006 current 31/03/2009 Mr Chris Bennett 25/05/2006 current 31/03/2009 Ms Georgina Carnegie 1/04/2004 31/03/2007 Ms Michele Dolin (Pro-Chancellor) 1/04/2007 current 31/03/2010 1/04/2004 31/03/2007 1/04/2001 31/03/2004 Dr David Karpin 1/04/2004 31/03/2007 Mr Keith Spence 20/06/2006 current 31/03/2009 Mr Ian Fletcher 1/04/2007 current 31/03/2010 Member Nominated by the Minister for Education and Training The Honourable Dr John Cowdell 25/08/2005 current 22/08/2008 Member who is the Chief Executive Officer Professor Jeanette Hacket, Vice-Chancellor 14/08/2006 current ex-officio Members Elected by Full-time Academic Staff Governance of Associate Professor David Charnock 1/04/2007 current 31/03/2010 1/04/2004 31/03/2007 the University 1/04/2001 31/03/2004 Dr Jan Sinclair-Jones 1/04/2005 current 31/03/2008 Members Elected by Full-time Salaried (General) Staff The Council Ms Lyn Marks 1/04/2005 31/03/2007 Mr Liam McGinniss 18/06/2007 current 17/06/2010 The Council is the governing body of the Members Elected by Students University and its powers are set out in Ms Wendy Chan She Ping-Delfos 7/03/2006 6/03/2007 Ms Kate Meenan 7/03/2006 6/03/2007 the Curtin University of Technology Act Mr Lennard Bailey 7/03/2007 31/12/2007 1966 (WA). It has “the management and Ms Collette Swindells 7/03/2007 31/12/2007 control of the property and affairs of the Member Elected by the Alumni Association University and may do all such acts and Vacant things as it may think best calculated to Co-opted Members promote the interests of the University”. Ms Zelinda Bafile 1/04/2007 current 31/03/2010 24/06/2004 31/03/2007 The Act provides for a Council comprising Mr Don Humphreys 1/04/2008 current 31/03/2009 1/04/2005 31/03/2008 the Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor, 06/2002 31/03/2005 members appointed by the Governor, Dr Ruth Shean 1/04/2005 9/05/2007 a nominee of the State Minister for Mr Daniel Tucker 1/08/2007 current 31/07/2010 Education, co-opted members, members Members who are members of bodies that represent the interests of the University in places other than the University’s principal campus elected by the academic and general Adjunct Professor Peter Browne, nominee 19/02/2003 31/03/2007 staff, members elected by students and of the Board, Muresk Institute The Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri 1/04/2006 current 31/03/2008 a member of the Alumni Association. Dr George Chan Hong Nam Members who are members of the Academic Board elected by and from the Academic Board Associate Professor Doug Yorke 1/04/2006 31/03/2007 Professor Jo Ward 11/ 06 /2007 current 31/03/2009
32 2007 Annual Report
GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE (as at 31 December 2007)
CounCIl VICe-CHAnCelloR
CURTIN PLANNING & MANAGEMENT REGIONAL EDUCATION KALGOORLIE ACADEMIC BOARD EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE COMMITTEE COMMITTEE BOARD
MURESK INSTITUTE ACADEMIC BOARD STRATEGIC ASSET GRIEVANCE RESOLUTION FINANCE COMMITTEE BOARD EXECUTIVE PLANNING COMMITTEE COMMITTEE
OCCUPATIONAL MANAGEMENT ACADEMIC SERVICES FEES & CHARGES COURSES COMMITTEE AUDIT COMMITTEE SAFETY & HEALTH COMMITTEE FOR COMMITTEE COMMITTEE CURTIN SARAWAK POLICY COMMITTEE CAMPUS MALAYSIA UNIVERSITY GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL INFORMATION & LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE STUDIES COMMITTEE COMMITTEE COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY STRATEGY & PLANNING UNIVERSITY RESEARCH COMMITTEE UNIVERSITY TEACHING & & DEVELOPMENT LEARNING COMMITTEE COMMITTEE CURTIN INDIGENOUS POLICY COMMITTEE
33 Curtin University of Technology
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Administrative SENIOR OFFICERS
Structure Chancellor Mr Gordon Martin Vice-Chancellor Professor Jeanette Hacket Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Services Professor Jane den Hollander Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Greg Craven Strategy and Planning Chief Financial Officer Mr David Menarry Executive Dean, Curtin Business School Professor Geoff Crockett Executive Dean, Health Sciences Professor Michael Garlepp (to 19/8/07 acting) Professor Jill Downie (from 20/8/07) Executive Dean, Humanities Professor David Wood Executive Dean, Science & Engineering Professor Graeme Wright (to 1/6/07) Professor Andris Stelbovics (from 2/6/07) Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research Professor Linda Kristjanson and Development Pro Vice-Chancellor, Teaching and Learning Professor Robyn Quin (from 14/5/07) Pro Vice-Chancellor, Sarawak Professor John Evans Pro Vice-Chancellor, International Professor Kevin McKenna Executive Director, Corporate Ms Valerie Raubenheimer Communications Executive Director, Properties Mr Stephen Harvey Executive Director, University Planning Professor Robin Watts (to 30/6/07) (position ceased 30/6/07). Executive Director, Strategy and Planning Mr Marco Schulthesis (from 2/7/07) General Counsel and Secretary to Council Ms Pamela Hass (from 1/6/07 to 7/12/07)
34 2007 Annual Report
Administrative Structure
VICe-CHAnCelloR
DeputY CHIeF DeputY VICe-CHAnCelloR VICe-CHAnCelloR FInAnCIAl oFFICeR ACADeMIC SeRVICeS StRAteGY & plAnnInG
CENTRE FOR EXECUTIVE DEANS: ICT PRO VICE-CHANCELLORS ABORIGINAL STUDIES
CURTIN BUSINESS SCHOOL RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES INFORMATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR HEALTH SCIENCES & LIBRARY TEACHING & LEARNING CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS HUMANITIES DIRECTOR INTERNATIONAL (INCLUDING CURTIN SARAWAK) SCIENCE & ENGINEERING EXECUTIVE SERVICES STAFF SERVICES
JOHN CURTIN GALLERY STUDENT SERVICES
PROPERTIES SUPPORT SERVICES
STRATEGY & PLANNING
35 Curtin University of Technology
> report on operations (continued)
Staffing Matters Staff Summary Curtin employed 2,561 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff in 2007 (see table below), with 1,092 classified as academic staff and 1,469 classified as general staff. The 2007 census showed a slight decrease in the number of academic and general staff over the previous year.
Curtin Higher Education Full-Time Equivalent Staff 2006 – 2007 By Classification and Appointment (as at 31 March each year)
Full or Fractional Time Staff (excluding Hourly Paid/Sessional Staff Total Continuing/Permanent Fixed-Term/Temporary 2006 2007 2006 2007 2006 2007 Academic Staff 675 665 435 427 1,110 1,092 General Staff 1,180 1,112 370 357 1,550 1,469 TOTAL 1,855 1,777 805 784 2,660 2,561
Staffing Policies
During 2007 a range of policy revisions were for 2007, an assessment of workplace enacted in relation to Occupational Safety policies and practices was undertaken and Health, Workers’ Compensation, and in conjunction with the Department of Injury Management. Changes were made to Education, Science and Training (DEST). the policy framework which underpins the Discussion papers were released during University’s academic structure, to support the year on a range of staffing related a three-tier structure comprising Faculties, policies and practices, including offshore Schools and Departments. In addition, operations, academic promotion, the existing Recruitment and Selection performance management and senior policy was revised as the first stage in the academic management roles, with a development of a broader Attraction and view to enact changes to these policies Retention strategy for the University. during 2008. A new academic promotions As part of the Commonwealth Government’s policy was agreed to in November 2007 Higher Education Workplace Relations and will be fully implemented in 2008. Requirements (HEWRRs) compliance
36 2007 Annual Report
Industrial Relations
In August 2007 the University provided academic and general staff remain in In August 2007 the National Tertiary details to the Minister for Employment, place until April 2008 and November 2008 Education Union (NTEU) commenced Science and Technology in relation to respectively. The University responded to the proceedings in the Federal Court of compliance with the Higher Education competitiveness of the Western Australian Australia, alleging that Curtin has breached Workplace Reform Requirements labour market and brought forward the its collective agreement by preventing the (HEWRRs), including specific information salary increase scheduled for April 2008 President of the NTEU from sending e-mails on how the HEWRRs have supported and paid it together with the October 2007 to Union members and academic staff and brought about workplace reform. increase. The University administratively through the Broadcast Message System. paid salary increases to academic staff at The University is currently defending its In January 2008 the Minister advised that the the Vocational Training Education Centre position on the basis that the intended emails University was compliant with the HEWRRs (VTEC) whose terms and conditions are were not consistent with the guidelines and confirmed that the University is to covered by a separate collective agreement. pertaining to circulating emails via the receive a 7.5 per cent increase in the 2008 University’s broadcast messaging system. Commonwealth Grant Scheme allocation. The focus for prevention and resolution of disputes in 2007 has been at the The University continued to offer Australian local level and this has been successful, Workplace Agreements (AWAs) and as there were no dispute notifications the existing collective agreements for lodged in the AIRC in 2007.
Occupational Safety AND Health, Workers’ Compensation AND Injury Management
The reportable key performance efficient return to work rates, and provide and 98.06 per cent and 96.6 per cent indicators for 2007 were: support to managers in managing injured/ below benchmarks for the Education Incident Rate 0.033 ill staff. These services have continued to Industry, published by WorkSafe WA. (lost time injuries/100 employees) be streamlined and their effectiveness is A major review of health and safety policies Frequency Rate 0.36 reflected in the Rehabilitation Success Rate. (lost time injuries/ and management systems was commenced 1,000,000 hours worked) Prevention of Occupational in 2007 and will continue throughout 2008. Cost/$100 Wage roll $0.31 Injuries and Illnesses The development of the University’s online Rehabilitation Success Rate 100% system for reporting incidents and hazards Curtin has continued to ensure legislative continued to be refined. It improved the early compliance in this area and improve reporting, intervention and investigation of Workers’ Compensation systems for the prevention of workplace incidents therein, thereby further contributing and Injury Management injuries and illnesses. The effectiveness to the success of the Occupational Safety Curtin maintained an in-house accredited of our systems approach to health and and Health management program at Curtin. injury management service within EduSafe safety management is evidenced by the to assist injured workers, minimise low Incident and Frequency Rate for 2007, workers’ compensation costs, ensure which is substantially below the 2006 rates
37 Curtin University of Technology
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Significant Issues EFFECT OF ECONOMIC AND OTHER FACTORS
and Trends West Australian universities continue to be ‘resources boom’ is the increasing array of affected by soft demand in the domestic opportunities for Curtin to collaborate with student market as a result of the booming industry, particularly the resources sector, in State economy and the associated very tight both research and development activity and labour market. This has caused a significant student work experience and study projects. fall in Western Australia in applications for Curtin has been able to enrol and meet undergraduate places from mature-aged its Commonwealth targets despite the students, who appear to be choosing to challenges posed by slack demand in delay higher education studies. Applications the sector. In 2007 Curtin exceeded from school leavers have stabilised after its Commonwealth-supported student three years of decline, which anecdotal enrolment targets by 45 equivalent full- evidence indicates was a result of students time students and also met its funding seeing increasing opportunities for well- targets. This successful outcome was paid employment in the trades and related achieved by increasing intakes in areas of activities. Curtin’s undergraduate profile has excess demand, without compromising changed, with the mature-aged proportion the institutional minimum TER standard. Of of commencing undergraduate students note is a growing demand for engineering falling progressively over the last three years places at Curtin as the awareness of from 47 per cent in 2005 to 44 per cent outstanding career opportunities in in 2006 and 43 per cent in 2007. The the field grows and the University’s positive side to this change is that there are leadership in this field is acknowledged. increasing opportunities for school leavers to study at Curtin. A notable benefit from the
38 2007 Annual Report
The level of Commonwealth funding per and teachers, to fund further infrastructure to see that the continuing expansion of EFTSL increased in 2007 by 4.4 per cent. In development and to upgrade many research onshore international enrolments has been the context of limited local revenue growth and teaching facilities. As a well-recognised achieved despite the increasingly strong Curtin continues to develop its international and respected reputation in the Asia and Australian dollar. In 2007 China, for the first markets as an additional revenue stream and sub-continent regions Curtin was able to time, topped the list of source countries with as a means of strengthening its presence increase its EFTSL from international students accelerating growth in student numbers at in the global higher education arena. These at onshore campuses by eight per cent in Curtin, compared with other countries. funds give Curtin the capacity to pay salaries 2007. EFTSL at offshore partner campuses sufficient to attract and retain top researchers in 2007 was the same as 2006. It is pleasing
CHANGES TO THE LEGAL ENVIRONMENT AFFECTING THE UNIVERSITY IN 2007
• As a major employer Curtin is subject minimum pay and conditions, the • The Financial Management Act 2006 to the requirements of the Workplace provisions of the Fairness Test, and the (WA), which came into effect from the Relations Amendment (A Stronger Safety range of services and agencies available beginning of 2007, regulates the financial Net) Act 2007 (Commonwealth). The to assist staff with regard to workplace administration, audit and reporting declared intention of this Act was to entitlements and agreements. of statutory authorities and other “strengthen the safety net for agreement- public agencies. For the most part the • The Tax Laws Amendment making in the national workplace relations provisions of the Act apply to Curtin, (Simplified Superannuation) Act 2007 system”. The objects of the Act were to except that the University is specifically (Commonwealth), which received assent establish two new statutory offices – the exempted from certain sections that in March, implemented the Government’s Workplace Authority Director and the relate to the opening of bank accounts, “simplified superannuation reforms”. Workplace Ombudsman – and to define overdrafts, and the preparation and The Act inserted certain provisions their functions and powers; and to institute submission of annual estimates. into the Income Tax Assessment Act a “fairness test” for certain workplace 1997 (Commonwealth) to provide a • Curtin is also required to comply agreements by requiring the Workplace clearer picture of the taxation treatment with Treasurer’s Instructions relating Authority Director to be satisfied that of superannuation savings across all to information required in its annual agreements provide fair compensation to stages of the superannuation investment. report; the establishment and keeping employees in relation to the modification Specifically, the Act set out a three-phase of accounts; the form and content of or removal of protected award conditions. process (the contributions, investments financial statements and reports on • All Curtin staff are covered by collective and benefits phase) for determining the University’s operations; and the agreements and awards or by Australian the applicable superannuation tax. preparation of Key Performance Indicators. Workplace Agreements, which include The University in conjunction with • The Financial Management Regulations employment conditions well in excess the superannuation funds provides 2007 (WA) commenced on 1 February of the minimums/safety net provided information to staff about the changes 2007. Amongst other things, these for in the new law. As required by the to the superannuation arrangements, Regulations allow for certain inspections Act, Curtin provided all of its new and particularly in relation to such matters as of accounting records, and accounting existing staff with a Workplace Relations prescribed and voluntary contributions, and financial management systems of an Fact Sheet to advise them of their basic reasonable benefit limits, and the tax rates agency, and set certain monetary limits rights, protections and obligations in applicable to superannuation benefits. for write-offs and act of grace payments. employment. The Fact Sheet covers
39 Curtin University of Technology
> report on operations (continued)
• The Auditor General Act 2006 (WA) came consistent standards for the conduct of (established under the Do Not Call Register into operation in 2007. The Act established registered providers and the registration Act 2006 (Commonwealth)) which allows the office of Auditor General and defined of their courses. Curtin is required to meet people to opt out of receiving unsolicited the functions and powers of that office. the requirements of the Code in relation telemarketing calls by registering their The Act confers significant investigatory to a wide range of activities and functions home or mobile numbers. The Register powers on the Auditor General to affecting international students, including came into operation from 31 May 2007. examine the efficiency, effectiveness and the registration and marketing of its courses; From that date it is generally unlawful to compliance of an agency with legislation enrolment and pre-enrolment procedures; make telemarketing calls to Australian and other policies; and to investigate any provision of care and support services; telephone numbers listed on the Do Not matter relating to money or property. fair treatment of international students as Call Register. Legitimate calls made on The Auditor General is also empowered consumers; monitoring of student visa behalf of an educational institution such to investigate the commercial activities conditions; and provision of amenities and as Curtin are classified as “designated of agencies including partnerships, joint staff training. Curtin’s International Office, in telemarketing calls” and are not subject ventures and trusts. As a public agency conjunction with Staff Services, undertook a to the Do Not Call prohibition as long as subject to the jurisdiction of the Auditor comprehensive training and communication they meet certain conditions. However, if General, Curtin may receive periodic program to ensure that all relevant staff Curtin staff propose to make unsolicited audits or reviews of its activities. are informed of the new requirements and telemarketing calls to members of the standards contained in the National Code public who are not past or present • The Higher Education Endowment Fund 2007. This training will continue in 2008. Curtin students they are required to Act 2007 (Commonwealth) established submit their calling lists for checking the Higher Education Endowment Fund • Curtin was required to take account of against the Do Not Call Register. in order to generate earnings for capital certain amendments to the Education expenditure and research facilities in higher Services for Overseas Students Regulations • The Chemistry Centre Act 2007 (WA) education institutions. An initial contribution 2001 (Commonwealth) which made various established the Chemistry Centre of $5 billion was deposited in the HEEF changes to the student visa scheme. as a statutory authority and body account. The Act prescribed arrangements Specifically, the amending Regulations corporate for the purposes of: that would apply to the management and inserted a new definition of a student visa; – providing chemical information, operation of the Fund, and the allocation updated the information to be entered on advice and analytical services to of grants. Curtin may be able to benefit the Register of overseas students; and the government in specified areas from allocations from the Fund for eligible required that educational providers supply including forensic science and medicine large-scale projects in the future. DEST with information about any breach of and public health and safety; a student visa. The Migration Amendment – engaging in research and • Curtin is bound by the Education Services Regulations 2007 (No. 4) (Commonwealth) development; and for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 commenced on 1 July 2007. These – earning revenue through certain (Commonwealth) and the associated amending Regulations prescribe additional approved commercial activities. “National Code of Practice for Registration information relating to welfare arrangements Authorities and Providers of Education and • The Chemistry Centre will be based for student visas, including requiring student Training to Overseas Students” (the National in the new Resources and Chemistry visa applications to provide evidence that Code), which are designed to ensure Precinct currently under construction their place of residence will be with “a the quality and integrity of programs and at the southern edge of the Curtin parent or other suitable guardian” or has services delivered to international students. Bentley campus. Curtin’s Department been arranged by the education provider. A substantially revised National Code came of Applied Chemistry will be located in into force in July 2007. This Code, which • Curtin is required to abide by the the same building and will have a close is legally enforceable, provides nationally requirements of the “Do Not Call” Register association with the work of the Centre.
40 2007 Annual Report
Other Disclosures ACT OF GRACE PAYMENTS and Legal Under section 6.4 of the policy on Act of Grace Payments, Curtin undertakes to report through the Annual Report all Act of Grace Payments made in each financial year. In 2007 a sum of Requirements $37,424 was paid, representing payments of $399, $10,650 and $ $26,375 respectively.
ADVERTISING – ELECTORAL ACT 1907 (WA)
Under section 175ZE of the Electoral Act 1907 (WA), the University is required to disclose expenditure for advertising agencies, market research organisations, polling organisations, direct mail organisations, and media advertising organisation costs.
For 2007, the following costs were recorded against these items:
Advertising Agencies Gatecrasher Advertising $1,147,925.02 Marketforce exPress $16,836.54 Market United $ 27, 225.0 0 Media Advertising Organisation $2,727,407.00 Media Decisions Market Research Synovate $78,193.50 Painted Dog $25,000.00 Polling Organisations N/A Direct-Mail Organisations N/A Total $ 4,022,587.0 6
41 Curtin University of Technology
> report on operations (continued)
CAPITAL WORKS
Curtin Recreation and Events Construction of the car park (406 bays) The cost of the Curtin component of the Centre & Kent Street Car Park and new access road off Kent Street Precinct (Applied Chemistry and CCWA) has commenced and is scheduled to be is $101.7 million. The CCWA component Curtin has committed $24.59 million complete by the start of first Semester 2008. will be funded at some $39.7 million to the development of a Recreation via a Treasury loan and repaid by a and Events Centre, to improve the Completion of the building is scheduled lease arrangement with CCWA. recreational opportunities and facilities for mid-December 2008. for its students and staff. The centre will Works commenced on site in January 2007, Resources and Chemistry Research also be capable of hosting a wide range with completion scheduled for early 2009. and Education Precinct of academic events such as graduation The project is currently in the ceremonies and examinations. The State Government’s decision to co- construction phase, with erection of locate the Chemistry Centre of WA (CCWA) The project is currently in the construction the structure (columns, floor slabs, on the Bentley Campus adjacent to the phase, with ground works predominantly etc) well underway and only half of Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial complete. Off-site procurements Level 4 and all of Level 5 to be laid. Research Organisation’s (CSIRO) Waterford and fabrication of structural steel is site will enable the creation of a world- Works have commenced to establish the progressing and expected to be erected class Resources and Chemistry Precinct pedestrian spine from Buildings 202 / 501 from December 2007/January 2008. in the southern gateway to the Campus. to the new building, including lighting and soft landscaping up to Brand Drive.
DIRECTORS’ AND DISABILITY ACCESS AND INCLUSION PLAN OUTCOMES OFFICERS’ LIABILITY INSURANCE After wide consultation Curtin’s Disability in the Curriculum 2010 and Teaching Access and Inclusion Plan 2007 – 2011 (DAIP) and Learning agenda; an agreement to Curtin University of Technology placed covering students, visitors and staff with undertake an access audit of the Bentley Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance. disabilities, was lodged in July and replaced campus in 2008; the needs of students An Excess Directors’ and Officers’ Liability the Disability Services Plan; the first plan in with disabilities included in the draft policy Insurance policy was also secured any West Australian university in 1997. The on fieldwork; and the creation of the providing additional protection and DAIP has also been lodged with the Human Disability@Curtin website as the ‘one stop’ ensuring the University and its Directors’ Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission. resource for staff, students and visitors and Officers’ were adequately covered. regarding disability matters at Curtin. Its implementation is well underway, with the establishment of the Implementation Discussions about a new mandatory Committee made up of senior university requirement regarding Curtin’s agents staff; an inaugural Universal Design reference and contractors and their contribution group; inclusive curricula embedded to Curtin’s plan are underway.
42 2007 Annual Report
PRICING POLICIES ON OUTPUTS PROVIDED
Fees are charged in accordance for his or her student load and the annual factors, such as cost of delivery, ‘market’ with Commonwealth Government course contributions which apply for that factors and legislative requirements. guidelines and University Policy. year. In common with most universities, The 2008 tuition fees were approved under Curtin charges the maximum student Students in Commonwealth Supported places delegated authority by the Vice-Chancellor contribution amount permitted by legislation. are required to contribute towards the cost in June 2007. Approved fees are published of their education. The student contribution Tuition fees for other students are determined on: http://www.fees.curtin.edu.au/index.cfm. amount is calculated for each study period by taking into account a number of
RECORDKEEPING – COMPLIANCE WITH THE STATE RECORDS ACT 2000 (WA)
As Curtin University of Technology was The organisation conducts a in the Recordkeeping Plan, the established under an Act of the Parliament recordkeeping training program. Records Management Policy and the of Western Australia, it is subject to the • A recordkeeping awareness training Records Management Procedures. provisions of the State Records Act 2000 program (online) was released to all • Curtin’s Electronic Document and Records (WA). The University is required to have staff at the beginning of 2006. To date, Management System (EDRMS) project a Recordkeeping Plan approved by the 2,185 staff have completed the training. has involved a review of the current State Records Commission and to ensure All staff are required to complete the recordkeeping training program. that its employees comply with this Plan. awareness training and area heads • The 2006 internal audit of the State Records Commission receive reports that indicate whether University’s recordkeeping practices Standard 2 Recordkeeping Plans: or not their staff have successfully included opportunities for staff to Principle 6 – Compliance completed all recordkeeping modules. comment on the effectiveness of the • Individual and small group training on recordkeeping training program. The efficiency and effectiveness of the aspects of records management have organisation’s recordkeeping system is The organisation’s induction program taken place throughout 2007. New training evaluated not less than once every five years. addresses employee roles and sessions are being developed incorporating responsibilities in regard to their compliance • Throughout 2007 the University has had changes to the Recordkeeping Plan, with the organisation’s recordkeeping plan. a number of project teams working to and will be delivered throughout 2008. address the findings of the internal audit • Information on recordkeeping and • Meetings are held every two months of records management in 2006 and to recordkeeping responsibilities is with the Records Liaison Group to improve the recordkeeping system. included in the University’s induction discuss policies, training, ongoing package for new staff and is discussed • An extensive review of the current developments and projects, and again in staff induction sessions. recordkeeping system has been other recordkeeping matters. undertaken to enable Curtin to develop a • Records staff attend the University’s The efficiency and effectiveness of revised Recordkeeping Plan for submission induction sessions to provide the recordkeeping training program to the State Records Commission additional recordkeeping information is reviewed from time to time. in early 2008 and to prepare for the and handouts to new staff. introduction of an electronic document • In November 2007 a review of Curtin’s • New staff members are added to the and records management system. online recordkeeping awareness training online recordkeeping awareness training was initiated in order to improve the system and are included in status training and incorporate developments reports provided to area heads.
43 Curtin University of Technology
> report on operations (continued)
RISK MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC Major promotional, public relations or REPORT PROCUREMENT marketing activities undertaken include: • educational expos Curtin University of Technology continued Curtin commenced a major initiative in • Curtin Open Day to develop its risk management program 2006 to achieve excellence in procurement • the annual John Curtin Medals in 2007 with the introduction of a as an integral part of the University’s presentation comprehensive strategic and business Strategic Plan. Progress to date is very • involvement in Innovation Week risk management framework, structured encouraging and has delivered improved and National Science Week in accordance with AS/NZS 4360: commercial processes, practices and • public lectures (such as the Haydn Williams 2004. Further work on the University’s systems. Contracts have been executed in Fellowship Lecture and the Ethics Lecture) preparedness for potential crises and 14 separate expenditure categories, with • proactive and reactive media business continuity was also undertaken. substantial savings to date. Strategic supplier liaison as appropriate The University, with the assistance of relationship management is now used to • Curtin facilities and program launches RiskCover, has commenced updating and maximise opportunities from commercial • Curtinnovation corporate integrating business continuity and disaster relationships for added value and innovation. branding campaign recovery planning across the University. • marketing campaigns focused on This process will facilitate the ongoing SUBSIDIARY BODIES undergraduate and postgraduate achievement of University core objectives student recruitment The University had no subsidiary in the event of a major adverse incident. • coordination of visits by bodies as at 31 December 2007. overseas delegations Senior Officer • course and public-interest lecture UNIVERSITY DisclosureS advertising on an ad hoc basis for PUBLICATIONS AND many schools and teaching areas. The senior officers of the University MARKETING ACTIVITIES have declared they do not hold any: The major publications produced • shares in any subsidiary body of by the University each year are: the University held as a nominee • the Annual Report (print and electronic) or held beneficially; or • undergraduate prospectus • interests they have (or a firm of which (domestic and international) they are a member, or an entity in which • postgraduate prospectus they have a substantial interest) in any (domestic and international) existing or proposed contract with the • Curtin Courses Handbook University or subsidiary body, related (print and electronic) body or affiliated body of the University. • Cite magazine (twice a year) • R&D Now and R&D News (both twice a year), and other research- focused publications.
In addition, Curtin’s four teaching faculties also issue publications each year.
44 2007 Annual Report
Curtin in figures
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Full-Year Student Population Full-Year Student Population 2003-2007 Student Numbers (Higher Education only) Higher Education 36032 37116 39562 40360 41348 Student Numbers Student Load Vocation & Education Training (VET) 3712 3998 4083 4859 5006 44000 Student Load 40000 Higher Education 24983 25677 26741 27796 28806 36000 32000 28000 24000 20000 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Student Enrolments by Study Mode Student Enrolments by Study Mode 2003-2007 Internal and Multi-Modal 33714 34653 36808 37510 38335 External 2363 2518 2683 2658 2681 Internal and Multi-Modal External 48000 40000 32000 24000 16000
Number of Students 8000 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Student Enrolments by Gender Student Enrolments by Gender 2003-2007 Female 19341 19601 20576 21274 22119 Male 16691 17515 18986 19086 19229 Female Male 48000 40000 32000 24000 16000
Number of Students 8000 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Student Enrolments by Enrolling Faculty Student Enrolments by Enrolling Faculty 2007 Centre for Aboriginal Studies 364 382 328 388 316 Other* Humanities 7011 7079 7522 7307 7536 4,344 Humanities Curtin Business School 14052 14872 15188 15347 15624 Hlth Sci 7,536 7,763 Science and Engineering 6672 6641 7248 6808 6915 Health Sciences 6095 6275 6854 7273 7763 CRE – Office of T&L 300 355 445 430 464 Curtin Sarawak 762 1207 1543 1805 1744 Sci & Eng 6,915 CBS Extension and Credit Transfer 1253 1031 1128 1705 1820 15,624 *Other includes Centre for Aboriginal Studies, CRE, Curtin Sarawak and Externsion Stuides/Credit Transfer Student Load (EFTSL) by Teaching Faculty Student Load EFTSL by Teaching Faculty 2007 Centre for Aboriginal Studies 320 322 301 386 309 Other* Humanities 5015 4857 4761 4896 5095 2,012 Humanities Curtin Business School 9354 9997 10103 10971 11299 Hlth Sci 5,095 5,274 Science and Engineering 4670 4731 4876 4941 5073 Health Sciences 4323 4306 4574 4954 5274 CRE – Office of T&L 176 180 223 231 245 Curtin Sarawak 1208 1259 1354 1370 1398 Sci & Eng 5,073 CBS Extension and Credit Transfer 27 27 36 49 60 11,299 *Other includes Centre for Aboriginal Studies, CRE, Curtin Sarawak and Externsion Stuides/Credit Transfer
Student Enrolments by Course Level 2003-2007 Not for Degree Undergraduate PG Coursework PG Research 50000 40000 30000 45 20000
10000 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Student Enrolments by Funding Category 2003-2007 C'wealth Supported FP International Aust Fee Paying RTS 50000
40000 30000
20000 10000
0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
ATSI Student Enrolments 2003-2007
540 520 500 480 460 440 420 400 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
FP Intern’l Student Enrolments by Home Country 2003-2007 Hong Kong Indonesia Malaysia Singapore Other 8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Awards Completions by Course Level 2003-2007 Other Undergraduate Undergraduate Honours PG Coursework PG Research 12000 10000 8000 6000 4000 2000 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Full-Year Student Population 2003-2007 (Higher Education only) Student Numbers Student Load 44000 40000 36000 32000 28000 24000 20000 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Student Enrolments by Study Mode 2003-2007 Internal and Multi-Modal External 48000 40000 32000 24000 16000 8000 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Student Enrolments by Gender 2003-2007 Female Male 48000 40000 32000 24000 16000 8000 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Student Enrolments by Enrolling Faculty 2007 Other* 4,344 Humanities Curtin University of Technology Hlth Sci 7,536 7,763
Sci & Eng 6,915 CBS 15,624 *Other includes Centre for Aboriginal Studies, CRE, Curtin Sarawak and Externsion Stuides/Credit Transfer
Student Load EFTSL by Teaching Faculty 2007 Other* 2,012 Humanities Hlth Sci 5,095 5,274 > Curtin in figures (continued)
Sci & Eng 5,073 CBS 11,299 *Other includes Centre for Aboriginal Studies, CRE, Curtin Sarawak 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 and Externsion Stuides/Credit Transfer Student Enrolments by Course Level Doctorates 1407 1400 1577 1475 1462 Student Enrolments by Course Level 2003-2007 Master by Research 216 199 309 329 325 Not for Degree Undergraduate PG Coursework PG Research Master by Coursework 3855 4145 4649 4709 4743 50000 Other Postgraduate 1771 1726 1686 1617 1668 40000 Graduate Certificate 819 938 1064 1052 1213 30000 Bachelor Honours 356 301 246 197 230 20000 Bachelor Pass 25565 26891 28076 28781 29432
Number of Students 10000 Other Undergraduate 484 334 355 487 529 0 Not for Degree* 3536 2993 3370 2538 2845 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 * Most “Not for Degree” students are extension and summer school students who are also enrolled in degree courses. These students are counted in both categories. Year Student Enrolments by Funding Category Commonwealth Supported Places 16421 16119 16606 17216 17886 Student Enrolments by Funding Category 2003-2007 FP International onshore 6481 6856 7563 8272 8820 C'wealth Supported FP International Aust Fee Paying RTS 50000 FP International offshore 7565 8385 9215 8765 8351 RTS/HDR Fee Scholarship 1064 1093 1322 1277 1278 40000 Australian Fee Paying – Postgraduate 3824 4193 4353 4335 4472 30000 Australian Fee Paying – Undergraduate 1198 1047 891 129 192 20000 10000 Number of Students 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Student Enrolments Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders (ATSI) Higher Education 494 515 448 495 466 ATSI Student Enrolments 2003-2007 Vocation & Education Training (VET) 334 442 437 484 497 540 520 500 480 460 440
Number of Students 420 400 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Country FP International Student Enrolments by Home FP Intern’l Student Enrolments by Home Country 2003-2007 Hong Kong 2924 2683 2457 2506 2276 Hong Kong Indonesia Malaysia Singapore Other Indonesia 1078 1185 1238 1228 1169 8000 Malaysia 3602 4124 4263 4232 4198 7000 Singapore 2758 2443 2190 2149 2140 6000 Other 3668 4805 6503 6994 7432 5000 4000 3000 2000 Number of Students 1000 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Awards Completions by Course Level Awards Completions by Course Level 2003-2007 Doctorates 153 146 133 152 162 Other Undergraduate Undergraduate Honours Master by Research 52 55 40 45 48 PG Coursework PG Research 12000 Master by Coursework 1344 1157 1382 1411 1513 Postgraduate/Graduate Diploma 631 606 644 612 628 10000 Graduate Certificate 309 391 497 524 598 8000 Bachelor Graduates 58 74 42 33 21 6000 Bachelor Honours 600 583 538 656 640 4000
Bachelor Pass 5751 5791 5915 5874 5632 Number of Students 2000 Associate Degree/Diploma 86 67 90 99 303 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Total 8984 8870 9281 9406 9545 Year
46 2007 Annual Report
> Curtin in figures (continued)
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Staff Total FTE Staff Total FTE 2003-2007 Higher Education* 2447 2906 3063 3024 2927 Vocation & Education Training (VET) 117 126 113 112 109 3500 3000 2500 *Includes an estimated actual casual/sessional staff FTE of 364 in 2007. 2000 FTE 1500 1000 500 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Academic and General Staff FTE (Full Time and Factional Full Time only) Academic and General Staff FTE 2003-2007 Academic 1030 1065 1124 1110 1093 (Full Time and Fractional Full Time only) General 1417 1512 1581 1550 1470 Academic General 3000 2500 2000
FTE 1500 1000 500 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Staff FTE by Gender (Full Time and Factional Full Time only) Female 1207 1285 1327 1365 1339 Staff FTE by Gender 2003-2007 (Full Time and Fractional Full Time only) Male 1240 1292 1378 1295 1224 Female Male 3000 2500 2000
FTE 1500 1000 500 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Staff FTE by Employment Contract Full Time 2155 2262 2349 2289 2198 Staff FTE by Employment Contract 2003-2007 Factional Full Time 292 315 356 371 365 Full Time Factional Full Time Casual/Sessional 3500 Casual/Sessional* 326 329 358 364 364 2800 *Includes an estimated actual casual/sessional staff FTE of 364 in 2007. 2100 FTE 1400
700
0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Staff FTE by Function (Full Time and Factional Full Time only) Staff FTE by Function 2003-2007 Teaching only 95 105 148 151 133 (Full Time and Fractional Full Time only) Research only 142 157 170 174 191 Teaching and Research Teaching only Teaching and Research 740 769 778 768 739 3000 Research only Other Functions Other Functions 1470 1546 1609 1567 1499 2500 2000 FTE 1500 1000 500 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year
47 Auditor General
INDEPENDENT AUDIT OPINION
To the Parliament of Western Australia
CURTIN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2007
I have audited the accounts, financial statements, controls and key performance indicators of the Curtin University of Technology.
The financial statements comprise the Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2007, and the Income Statement, Statement of Changes in Equity and Cash Flow Statement for the year then ended, a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory Notes. The key performance indicatorsAuditor consist of keyGeneral indicators of effectiveness and efficiency. University Councilí s Responsibility for the Financial Statements and Key PerformanceINDEPENDENT Indicators AUDIT OPINION The University Council is responsible for keeping proper accounts, and the preparation and Tofair the presentation Parliament of of the Western financial Australia statements in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Treasurerí s CURTINInstructions, UNIVERSITY and the key performanceOF TECHNOLOGY indicators. This responsibility includes establishing FINANCIALand maintaining STATEMENTS internal controls AND relevant KEY to thePERFORMANCE preparation and fa INDICATORSir presentation of FOR the THEfinancial YEAR statements ENDED 31 and DECEMBER key performance 2007 indicators that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting Ipolicies; have audited making the accountingaccounts, financial estimates statem thatents, are controls reasonable and inkey the performance circumstances; indicators and ofcomplying the Curtin with University the Financial of Technology. Management Act 2006 and other relevant written law.
TheSummary financial of my statements Role comprise the Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2007, and the IncomeAs required Statement, by the AuditorStatement General of Changes Act 2006, in Eq myuity re sponsibilityand Cash Flow is to Statement express an for opinion the year on thenthe financial ended, a statements,summary of controls significant and accountin key perfgormance policies indicators and other basedexplanatory on my Notes. audit. This was done by testing selected samples of the audit evidence. I believe that the audit evidence TheI have key obtained performance is sufficient indicators and consistappropriate of key to indicatorsprovide a ofbasis effectiveness for my audit and opinion. efficiency. Further information on my audit approach is provided in my audit practice statement. Refer "http://www.audit.wa.gov.au/pubs/Audit-Practice-Statement.pdf".University Councilí s Responsibility for the Financial Statements and Key Performance Indicators AnThe auditUniversity does notCouncil guarantee is responsible that every for amount keeping and proper disclosure accounts, in theand financialthe preparation statements and andfair key presentation performance of theindicators financial is statementserror free. The in accordanceterm ìreasonable with Australian assuranceî Accounting recognises CurtinthatStandards an University audit (including does of not Technology the examine Australian all evidence Account anding every Interpretations) transaction. and However, the Treasurerí my audit s FinancialproceduresInstructions, Statements should and the identify keyand Keyperformance errors Performance or omissions indicato Indicatorsrs. significant This forresponsibility the enough year ended to includes adversely 31 December establishing affect 2007 the decisionsand maintaining of users internalof the financial controls stat relevantements to and the key preparation performance and indicators. fair presentation of the financial statements and key performance indicators that are free from material Auditmisstatement, Opinion whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting Inpolicies; my opinion, making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances; and complying(i) the with financial the Financial statements Management are based Act on2006 proper and other accounts relevant and written present law. fairly the financial position of the Curtin University of Technology at 31 December 2007 and its financial performance and cash flows for the year ended on that date. They Summary of my Role Page 1 of 2 are in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian As4 threquired Floor Dumas by House the Auditor 2 Havelock General Street West Act Perth 2006, 6005 my Western responsibility Australia Tel: 08is 9222to express 7500 Fax: an 08 opinion 9322 5664 on the financialAccounting statements, Interpretations) controls and andkey theperf Treasureríormance sindicators Instructions; based on my audit. This was done(ii) theby testing controls selected exercised samples by theof the University audit evidence. provide I believe reasonable that assurancethe audit evidence that the I have obtainedreceipt, is sufficient expenditure and and appropriate investment to provide of money, a basis the for acquisition my audit opinion. and disposal Further of informationproperty, on my and audit the approachincurring of is liabilities provided ha inve my been audit in accordance practice statement. with legislative Refer "http://www.audit.wa.gov.au/pubs/Audit-Practice-Statement.pdf".provisions; and (iii) the key performance indicators of the University are relevant and appropriate to An audit does not guarantee that every amount and disclosure in the financial statements help users assess the Universityí s performance and fairly represent the indicated and key performance indicators is error free. The term ìreasonable assuranceî recognises performance for the year ended 31 December 2007. that an audit does not examine all evidence and every transaction. However, my audit procedures should identify errors or omissions significant enough to adversely affect the decisions of users of the financial statements and key performance indicators.
GLEN CLARKE ACTING AUDITOR GENERAL 14 March 2008 Page 1 of 2 48 4th Floor Dumas House 2 Havelock Street West Perth 6005 Western Australia Tel: 08 9222 7500 Fax: 08 9322 5664
Page 2 of 2 2007 Annual Report
Financial Report 2007
CONTENTS
Certification of the Financial Statements 50 Income Statement 51 Balance Sheet 52 Statement of Changes in Equity 53 Cash Flow Statement 54 Notes to the Financial Statements 55 Report by the Members of the University Council 102
49 Curtin University of Technology
Certification of the Financial Statements
CERTIFICATION OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The accompanying financial statements of Curtin University of Technology have been prepared in compliance with the provisions of the Financial Management Act 2006 from proper accounts and records to present fairly the financial transactions for the financial year ended 31 December 2007 and the financial position as at 31 December 2007.
At the date of signing, we are not aware of any circumstances which would render any particulars included in the financial statements misleading or inaccurate.
Mr Gordon Martin Professor Jeanette Hacket Mr David Menarry Chancellor Vice-Chancellor Chief Finance Officer
Dated this 20th day of February 2008
Certification of THE Financial Statements required by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
We declare that:
• at the time of this certification, there are reasonable grounds to believe that Curtin University of Technology will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due; and
• the amount of Commonwealth financial assistance expended during the financial year ended 31 December 2007 was for the purpose(s) for which it was provided and complied with applicable legislation, contracts, agreements and program guidelines in making expenditure.
Mr Gordon Martin Professor Jeanette Hacket Chancellor Vice-Chancellor
Dated this 19th day of March 2008
50 2007 Annual Report
Income Statement for the year ended 31 December 2007
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000
Revenue from continuing operations Australian Government financial assistance Australian Government grants 5 188,260 177,929 HECS-HELP – Australian Government payments 5 63,887 58,284 FEE-HELP 5 12,686 12,801 State and Local Government financial assistance 6 21,923 18,391 HECS-HELP – Student payments 19,363 17,320 Fees and charges 7 152,111 145,357 Investment income 8 22,501 14,713 Royalties, trademarks and licences 9 20,721 11,521 Consultancy and contracts 10 26,729 27,965 Other revenue 11 38,294 36,211 566,475 520,492 Deferred Government Superannuation Contributions (4,166) (5,455) Total revenue from continuing operations 562,309 515,037
Expenses from continuing operations Employee benefits 12(a) 274,312 250,241 Depreciation and amortisation 13 23,725 26,906 Repairs and maintenance 14 12,195 8,273 Finance costs 15 1,813 1,839 Impairment of assets 16 (8) (919) Other expenses 17 178,704 151,640 490,741 437,980 Deferred Employee Benefits for Superannuation 12(b) (4,166) (5,455) Total expenses from continuing operations 486,575 432,525 Net operating result for the year 75,734 82,512
The above Income Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
51 Curtin University of Technology
Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2007
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000
ASSETS Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents 19 110,110 76,639 Trade and other receivables 20 25,653 23,634 Inventories 21 1,061 1,509 Other financial assets: Unrestricted 22 561 35 Restricted 23 53,149 47,716 Other non financial assets 24 13,949 13,672 Total Current Assets 204,483 163,205
Non-Current Assets Trade and other receivables 20 64,383 68,488 Other financial assets – unrestricted 22 72,569 72,383 Property, plant and equipment 25 565,419 524,248 Total Non-Current Assets 702,371 665,119 Total Assets 906,854 828,324
LIABILITIES Current Liabilities Trade and other payables 26 6,176 1,777 Borrowings 27 627 660 Provisions 28 50,309 48,650 Other liabilities 29 48,202 47,624 Total Current Liabilities 105,314 98,711
Non-Current Liabilities Borrowings 27 33,824 24,886 Provisions 28 78,627 82,249 Total Non-Current Liabilities 112,451 107,135 Total Liabilities 217,765 205,846
Net Assets 689,089 622,478 EQUITY Reserves 30 31,545 36,566 Retained surplus 30 657,544 585,912 Total Equity 689,089 622,478
The above Balance Sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
52 2007 Annual Report
Statement of Changes in Equity for the year ended 31 December 2007
Other reserves Retained earnings Total Equity Note $’000 $’000 $’000
At 1 January 2006 5,506 519,039 524,545 Adjustment to opening equity – Assets derecognition 1(v) – (6,289) (6,289) Adjustment to opening equity – Grant income 1(v) 19,687 – 19,687 Adjustment to opening equity – Library collection 43 – (2,863) (2,863) Unrealised investment gains for the year 4,886 – 4,886 Operating result for the year – 82,512 82,512 Transferred from retained earnings 30 9,894 (9,894) – Transferred to retained earnings 30 (3,407) 3,407 –
At 31 December 2006 30 36,566 585,912 622,478
Unrealised investment gain/(loss)for the year (8,857) – (8,857) Realised investment gain/(loss) (295) – (295) Unrealised hedging gain/(loss) 29 – 29 Operating result for the year – 75,734 75,734 Transferred from retained earnings 30 4,332 (4,332) – Transferred to retained earnings 30 (230) 230 –
At 31 December 2007 30 31,545 657,544 689,089
The above Statement of Changes in Equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
53 Curtin University of Technology
Cash Flow Statement for the year ended 31 December 2007
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Receipts Australian Government grants received 5(g) 265,528 240,489 HECS-HELP – Student payments 19,363 17,320 Fees and charges 154,765 153,237 Royalties, trademarks and licences 20,721 11,521 Consultancy and contracts 28,657 28,324 Interest received 10,373 6,256 Dividends received 111 275 Distributions received 12,017 8,153 Other 37,573 34,676 Payments Payments to employees (272,678) (251,751) Payments to suppliers (192,322) (155,522) Interest and other costs of finance paid (1,813) (1,839) Net cash provided by operating activities 38(b) 82,295 91,139
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Payment for property, plant and equipment (64,956) (45,028) Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment 254 186 Payment for investments (14,735) (15,447) Net cash used in investing activities (79,437) (60,289)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Repayment of borrowings (827) (639) Proceeds from borrowings 9,517 – Cash used in financing activities 8,690 (639)
CASH FLOWS FROM STATE GOVERNMENT Financial assistance 21,923 17,110 Cash provided by State Government 21,923 17,110 33,471 47,321 Net increase/ (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 76,639 29,318 Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 38(a) 110,110 76,639
The above Cash Flow Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
54 20200707 ANNUAnnuALal REPORTReport
NoNotestes toto ththee FinancialFinancial StStatementsatements foforr ththee yeyearar endeendedd 3131 DecemberDecember 20200707
Note Contents 1 Summary of Signifi cant Accounting Policies ...... 56 2 Financial Risk Management ...... 61 3 Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgements ...... 61 4 Disaggregated Information ...... 62 Revenue 5 Australian Government Financial Assistance including HECS-HELP and other Australian Government loan programs ...... 66 6 State and Local Government Financial Assistance ...... 68 7 Fees and Charges ...... 68 8 Investment Income ...... 68 9 Royalties, Trademarks and Licences ...... 69 10 Consultancy and Contracts ...... 69 11 Other Revenue ...... 69 Expenses 12 Employee Benefi ts...... 70 13 Depreciation and Amortisation ...... 70 14 Repairs and Maintenance ...... 70 15 Finance Costs ...... 70 16 Impairment of Assets ...... 71 17 Other Expenses ...... 71 18 Net Loss on Disposal of Non-current Assets ...... 72 Assets 19 Cash and Cash Equivalents – Unrestricted ...... 72 20 Trade and Other Receivables ...... 72 21 Inventories ...... 74 22 Other Financial Assets – Unrestricted ...... 74 23 Other Financial Assets – Restricted ...... 74 24 Other Non-Financial Assets ...... 75 25 Property, Plant and Equipment ...... 75 Liabilities 26 Trade and Other Payables ...... 77 27 Borrowings ...... 77 28 Provisions ...... 78 29 Other Liabilities...... 79 Equity 30 Reserves and Retained Surplus ...... 79 31 Financial Instruments ...... 81 32 Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority and Senior Offi cers ...... 83 33 Remuneration of Auditors ...... 86 34 Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets ...... 86 35 Commitments for Expenditure ...... 87 36 Defi ned Benefi t Superannuation Plans ...... 88 37 Events Occurring After Reporting Date ...... 92 38 Notes to the Cash Flow Statement ...... 92 39 Non-Cash Financing and Investing Activities...... 92 40 Explanatory Statement ...... 93 41 Related Parties ...... 95 42 Supplementary Financial Information ...... 95 43 Prior Period Error ...... 95 44 Financial Risk Management ...... 96 45 Acquittal of Commonwealth Government Financial Assistance ...... 98
5555 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
1 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial report are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.
(a) Basis of preparation
This general-purpose financial report has been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board, the requirements of the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, relevant sections of the Financial Management Act 2006 and relevant Treasurer’s Instructions.
The financial statements and notes of the University comply with Australian Accounting Standards, some of which contain requirements specific to not-for-profit entities that are inconsistent with IFRS requirements.
Historical cost convention
These financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss.
Accrual basis of accounting
The financial report, except for cash flow information, is prepared using the accrual basis of accounting.
Critical accounting estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Australian Accounting Standards requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the University’s accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the financial statements, are disclosed in note 3.
The financial report is presented in Australian dollars and all values are rounded to the nearest thousand dollars ($’000).
(b) not-for-profit status
For the purpose of the application of Accounting Standards and Interpretations, the University is considered to be a not-for-profit entity.
(c) principles of consolidation
Consolidated financial statements are prepared by combining the financial statements of all entities that comprise the consolidated entity, being the University (the parent entity) and any controlled entities, in accordance with AASB 127 “Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements” and modified by Treasurer’s Instruction 1105.
Consolidated financial statements are not required this year as there are no controlled entities.
(d) Revenue recognition
Revenue from sale of goods, disposal of other assets and the rendering of services is recognised when the University has passed control and the significant risks and rewards of ownership to the buyer of the goods or other assets, or it has provided the service to the customer.
Student fees
Student fees are recognised when the University has provided the service(s) to the student.
Commonwealth supported student income
Income for Commonwealth supported students is recognised when the University has provided the service(s) to the student.
Research income
Research grants from government are recognised as revenue when the University obtains control over the asset comprising the contributions. When the University does not have control of the contribution, does not have the right to receive the contribution or, in the case of reciprocal grants, has not fulfilled grant conditions, the grant contribution is treated as a liability in the Balance Sheet as deferred income.
56 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
Reciprocal research income from other entities is recognised as revenue when the University has provided the service to the customer. Non- reciprocal research income from other entities is recognised as revenue when the University obtains control over the asset comprising the contributions.
Other government grants
Other grants from government are recognised as revenue when the University obtains control over the asset comprising the contributions. When the University does not have control over the contribution, does not have the right to receive the contribution or, in the case of reciprocal grants, has not fulfilled grant conditions, the grant contribution is treated as a liability in the Balance Sheet as deferred income.
Consultancy fees
Consultancy fees are recognised when the University has provided the service(s) to the customer.
Other contributions revenue
Donations, gifts and other non-reciprocal contributions are recognised as revenue when the University obtains control over the assets comprising the contributions.
Contributions of assets are recognised at their fair value. Contributions of services are only recognised when a fair value can be reliably determined and the services would be purchased if not donated.
(e) Acquisition and disposal of assets
All property, plant and equipment with a cost greater than $5,000 (excluding GST) is recorded as a non-current asset at cost, less subsequent depreciation and impairment.
Borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalised as part of the cost of that asset.
Assets acquired at no cost or for nominal consideration are initially recognised at their fair value at the date of acquisition.
Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the disposal proceeds with the carrying amount and are included in the Income Statement.
(f) Depreciation of non-current assets
All non-current assets having a limited useful life are depreciated or amortised over their estimated useful lives in a manner which reflects the consumption of their future economic benefits.
Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis from the time the asset becomes available for use. Estimated useful lives are as follows: • Land Not depreciated • Buildings 5-50 years • Leasehold land and improvements Shorter of 50 years or life of lease • Computing equipment 3 years • Other equipment and furniture 8 years • Motor vehicles 5 years • Leased plant and equipment Shorter of 8 years or lease period • Works of art Not depreciated
Land and works of art controlled by the University are classified as non-current assets. They are anticipated to have indeterminate useful lives since their service potential is not, in any material sense, consumed. As such, no amount for depreciation is recognised.
Assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each reporting date.
Library collections
The total cost of the last three years’ acquisition of library books and journals is considered to represent an acceptable carrying value of the library collection. In each year, that year’s cost of acquisition is added onto the carrying value and the earliest year’s cost of acquisition within the carrying value is written off as an acceptable estimate of the depreciation of the library collection for the current year.
57 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
(g) Impairment of property, plant and equipment
Where the recoverable amount of an asset is less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount is reduced to the recoverable amount. That reduction is an impairment loss, which is recognised as an expense to the Income Statement. Recoverable amount is based on “value in use” and is determined as the depreciated replacement cost of the asset.
(h) Intangible assets
An intangible asset shall be recognised if, and only if: (a) it is probable that expected future economic benefits are attributable to the asset and will flow to the University; and (b) the cost of the asset can be measured reliably.
(i) leases
In accordance with AASB 117 “Leases”, leased assets classified as “finance leases” are recognised as assets. The amount initially brought to account as an asset is the present value of minimum lease payments. An equivalent finance lease liability is brought to account at the same time.
Finance leased assets are amortised on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset.
Finance lease payments are allocated between interest expense and reduction of lease liability over the term of the lease. The interest expense is determined by applying the interest rate implicit in the lease to the outstanding lease liability at the beginning of each lease payment period.
Operating lease payments are recognised as an expense in the Income Statement on a basis which reflects the pattern in which economic benefits from the leased asset are consumed.
(j) Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and current replacement cost. Costs are assigned by the method most appropriate to each particular class of inventory, with the majority being measured on a weighted-average cost basis.
(k) Receivables
Current accounts receivable are recognised at nominal amounts receivable, as they are due for settlement no more than 30 days from the date of recognition. Non-current accounts receivable are recognised at fair value.
Collectability of receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be uncollectable are written off as bad debts. An allowance for impairment of receivables is raised when there is objective evidence that the University may not be able to collect the debts.
(l) Investments
In accordance with AASB 139 “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement”, investments other than unlisted shares are classified as available-for-sale and are measured at fair value. For available-for-sale investments, gains and losses arising from changes in fair value are recognised directly in equity, until the security is disposed of or is determined to be impaired, at which time the cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in equity is transferred to the Income Statement for the period.
Unlisted shares are stated at historical cost unless there has been a permanent diminution in value, in which event a recoverable amount write-down is made.
Interest revenue and other investment income is recognised when earned.
Details of financial instruments are provided in note 31.
(m) payables
Payables, including accruals (expenses incurred but not yet billed), are recognised when the University becomes obliged to make future payments as a result of a purchase of assets or services. Payables are generally settled within a 30-day term.
(n) Interest bearing liabilities
Bank loans and other interest-bearing liabilities are recorded at an amount equal to the net proceeds received. Borrowing costs expense is recognised on an accruals basis.
Borrowing costs for qualifying assets are capitalised net of any investment income earned on the unexpended portion of the borrowings. Other borrowing costs are expensed when incurred.
58 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
(o) employee benefits
Annual leave
This benefit is recognised at the reporting date in respect of employees’ service up to that date and is measured at nominal amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled, including anniversary increments and anticipated salary increases.
Long service leave
The liability for long service leave expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting date is recognised in the provision for employee benefits as a current liability and is measured at the nominal amounts expected to be paid when the liability is settled.
The liability for long service leave expected to be settled more than 12 months from the reporting date is recognised in the provision for employee benefits as a non-current liability and is measured at the present value of expected future payments to be made in respect of services provided by employees up to the reporting date.
Superannuation
The University contributes to a number of superannuation schemes, including both defined contribution and defined benefit schemes.
Payments to defined contribution schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due. The University’s obligation is limited to these contributions.
Defined benefit schemes provide a defined lump-sum benefit to scheme members based on years of service and final average salary. A defined benefit liability is included in the Balance Sheet equal to the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the reporting date (less any past service costs not yet recognised) less the fair value of scheme assets at the reporting date.
The cost of providing benefits is determined using the projected unit credit method, with actuarial valuations being carried out on an annual basis. Actuarial gains and losses are recognised as an income or an expense in the period in which they occur. Where appropriate, the University has adopted the multi-employer provisions of AASB 119 “Employee Benefits” paragraph 30. This is currently relevant to the UniSuper Defined Benefit scheme.
Unfunded superannuation
An arrangement exists between the Commonwealth Government and the State Government to meet the unfunded liability for the University’s beneficiaries of the State Superannuation Schemes on an emerging cost basis. The unfunded liabilities have been recognised in the Balance Sheet under Provisions, with a corresponding asset recognised under Receivables. The recognition of both the asset and the liability consequently does not affect the year-end net asset position of the University. The liability and equivalent receivable are measured actuarially on an annual basis.
Accrued or prepaid salaries
Accrued salaries represent the amount due to staff but unpaid at the end of the financial period, as the end of the last pay period for that financial year does not always coincide with the end of the financial period. The University considers that the nominal carrying amount approximates net fair value.
If the payroll is paid on a date prior to the end of the financial year, the amount prepaid which overlaps the year end is treated as a current asset.
(p) employee benefits on-costs
Annual leave and long service leave on-costs are not categorised as employee benefit costs but are recognised and disclosed separately in accordance with AASB 119 “Employee Benefits”.
(q) Foreign currency
Transactions denominated in a foreign currency are translated at the rates in existence at the dates of the transactions. Foreign currency monetary items which include cash, receivables and payables are translated at exchange rates current at the reporting date. Exchange gains and losses are brought to account in the Income Statement.
The University enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to manage its exposure to foreign exchange risk to material transactions denominated in foreign currency. Hedges of foreign exchange risk on highly probable or firm commitments are recognised as cash-flow hedges. The University reviews the effectiveness of the hedging instrument in offsetting the changes in the cash flows of the hedged transaction, with the effective portion being recognised directly in Equity. The gain or loss on any ineffective portion is recognised immediately in the Income Statement and amounts recognised in Equity are transferred to the Income Statement in the period(s) that the hedged transaction is recognised. Hedge accounting is discontinued by the University when the hedge instrument expires, is terminated, exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. At this point, the cumulative gain or loss recognised in Equity is immediately recognised in the Income Statement.
59 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
(r) Reserves
Reserves are created for funds that are retained and set aside for expenditure on specified items in future periods.
(s) taxes
Income tax
Curtin University of Technology is exempt from income tax as per Subdivision 50-B of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.
Goods and services tax (GST)
Revenue, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST except: • Where the GST incurred on a purchase of goods and services is not recoverable from the taxation authority, in which case the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition or as part of the expense item as applicable; and • Receivables and payables are stated with the amount of GST included.
The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included as part of receivables or payables in the Balance Sheet.
Cash flows are included in the Cash Flow Statement on a gross basis and the GST component of cash flows arising from investing and financing activities, which is recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority are classified as operating cash flows.
Fringe benefits tax
The University is liable to pay Fringe Benefits Tax, and it is included in “Other Expenses” in the Income Statement.
Payroll tax
The University is liable to pay Payroll Tax, and it is included in “Other Expenses” in the Income Statement.
(t) other expenses
Borrowing costs
Bank loans and other interest-bearing liabilities are recorded in the Balance Sheet at an amount equal to the net proceeds received.
Repairs and maintenance
All repairs and maintenance expenditure is charged to the Income Statement during the financial period in which it is incurred.
Research and development
Research and development costs are expensed to the Income Statement as incurred.
(u) Comparative figures
Comparative figures are, where appropriate, reclassified so as to be comparable with the figures presented in the current financial year.
(v) Changes in accounting policy
Asset capitalisation threshold
With retrospective effect from 1 January 2006, the University’s asset capitalisation threshold was increased to $5,000 from the previous amount of $1,000. Property, plant and equipment with cost below the capitalisation threshold is expensed in the year of purchase.
The increase in threshold was introduced in order to simplify administration of the University’s assets, enabling, in particular, more reliable and relevant information from fixed asset stock takes.
The net book value of assets purchased in 2006 and now de-registered amounted to $2.057 million, with the 2006 operating result adjusted for assets cost expensed at $4.547 million and depreciation written back by $2.490 million.
The net book value of assets purchased prior to 1 January 2006 and now de-registered amounted to $6.289 million (Asset cost expensed $19.066 million; Depreciation written back $12.777 million). This amount reduced retained earnings as at 1 January 2006.
The 2006 comparatives have been adjusted to reflect the financial impact of the new accounting treatment.
60 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
Grant policy change
With retrospective effect from 1 January 2006, the University changed its accounting policy in relation to the recognition of research income and other government grant monies. The new policy requires all non-reciprocal grants that have been received by the University to be recognised as income in the year the grants are received. Previously, grants were recognised as deferred income if they were received in advance of the year in which they were expended.
The net effect of the change in the accounting treatment for non-reciprocal grants which were received in 2006 but had not been recognised as income in that year was to increase the net operating result for 2006 by $9.768 million.
The net effect of the change in accounting treatment for non-reciprocal grants which were received prior to 2006 but had not been recognised as income was to increase net assets by $19.687 million as at 1 January 2006.
The 2006 comparatives have been adjusted to reflect the financial impact of the new accounting treatment.
Unspent research grant funds at the end of each financial year are now recognised by way of a Research grants reserve (refer note 30).
2 Financial Risk Management
The University’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks. The financial risks include market risk, credit risk, liquidity risk, and cash-flow interest rate risk.
(a) Market risk
The University has exposure to movements in interest rates and foreign exchange rates. For example, movements in interest rates and foreign exchange rates can affect the fair value of the University’s investments. In order to mitigate this risk, the University seeks to conduct its business in Australian dollars where it is commercially practical to do so and to hedge any material foreign currency transactions. Furthermore, interest rate risk is managed by ensuring that the majority of the University’s borrowings are at fixed interest rates. The University also engages the services of reputable and experienced fund managers together with a recognised investment adviser and ensures that the performance of the investment portfolio is reviewed regularly.
(b) liquidity risk
The University maintains sufficient cash and marketable securities in order to manage liquidity risk.
(c) Cash-flow interest rate risk
The majority of the University’s borrowings are currently at fixed rates of interest in order to manage the effect of adverse interest rate movements.
3 Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgements
Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
(a) Critical accounting estimates and assumptions
The key assumptions made concerning the future, and other key sources of estimating uncertainty at the reporting date that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year include: • Allowances for impairment of receivables – (refer notes 1(k) and 20). • Deferred Government superannuation contribution / Deferred employee benefits for superannuation (refer note 1(o)) • Discount rates used in estimating provisions – discount rates are based on market yields on government bonds. • Estimating useful life of key assets – the useful life reflects the consumption of the key assets’ future economic benefits (refer note 1(f)).
(b) Critical judgements in applying the University’s accounting policies
The judgements that have been made in the process of applying accounting policies which have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial report include: • Estimating the useful life of key assets; • Impairment of property, plant and equipment; and • Impairment of receivables.
61 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
4 Disaggregated Information
(a) Industry – Dual Sector Providers
2007 2006 Higher Total Higher Total VET1 VET Education University Education University Income Statement $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Revenue from continuing operations Australian Government financial assistance: Australian Government grants 187,974 286 188,260 177,627 302 177,929 HECS-HELP – Australian Government payments 63,887 – 63,887 58,284 – 58,284 FEE-HELP 12,686 – 12,686 12,801 – 12,801 State and Local Government financial assistance 9,941 11,982 21,923 8,434 9,957 18,391 HECS-HELP – Student payments 19,363 – 19,363 17,320 – 17,320 Fees and charges 151,184 927 152,111 144,548 809 145,357 Investment income 22,355 146 22,501 14,636 77 14,713 Royalties, trademarks and licences 20,721 – 20,721 11,521 – 11,521 Consultancy and contracts 26,729 – 26,729 27,965 – 27,965 Other revenue 35,475 2,819 38,294 33,361 2,850 36,211 550,315 16,160 566,475 506,497 13,995 520,492 Deferred Government Superannuation Contributions (4,166) – (4,166) (5,455) – (5,455) Total revenue from continuing operations 546,149 16,160 562,309 501,042 13,995 515,037
Expenses from continuing operations Employee benefits 266,782 7,530 274,312 244,281 5,960 250,241 Depreciation and amortisation 22,540 1,185 23,725 25,958 948 26,906 Repairs and maintenance 11,817 378 12,195 7,596 677 8,273 Finance costs 1,538 275 1,813 1,518 321 1,839 Impairment of assets (8) – (8) (920) 1 (919) Other expenses 173,368 5,336 178,704 146,335 5,305 151,640 476,037 14,704 490,741 424,768 13,212 437,980 Deferred employee benefits for superannuation (4,166) – (4,166) (5,455) – (5,455) Total expenses from continuing operations 471,871 14,704 486,575 419,313 13,212 432,525 Net operating result for the year 74,278 1,456 75,734 81,729 783 82,512
1 Vocational Education and Training
62 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
4 Disaggregated Information (continued)
(a) Industry – Dual Sector Providers (continued)
2007 2006 Higher Total Higher Total VET1 VET Education University Education University Balance Sheet $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 ASSETS Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents 112,925 (2,815) 110,110 79,695 (3,056) 76,639 Trade and other receivables 24,783 870 25,653 23,253 381 23,634 Inventories 1,061 – 1,061 1,498 11 1,509 Other financial assets: Unrestricted 561 – 561 35 – 35 Restricted 53,149 – 53,149 47,716 – 47,716 Other non-financial assets 13,933 16 13,949 13,654 18 13,672 Total Current Assets 206,412 (1,929) 204,483 165,851 (2,646) 163,205 Non-Current Assets Trade and other receivables 63,843 540 64,383 67,948 540 68,488 Other financial assets (unrestricted) 72,569 – 72,569 72,383 – 72,383 Property, plant and equipment 531,692 33,727 565,419 489,428 34,820 524,248 Total Non-Current Assets 668,104 34,267 702,371 629,759 35,360 665,119 Total Assets 874,516 32,338 906,854 795,610 32,714 828,324 LIABILITIES Current Liabilities Trade and other payables 5,924 252 6,176 1,777 – 1,777 Borrowings 132 495 627 294 366 660 Provisions 49,926 383 50,309 47,650 1,000 48,650 Other liabilities 47,480 722 48,202 46,060 1,564 47,624 Total Current Liabilities 103,462 1,852 105,314 95,781 2,930 98,711 Non-Current Liabilities Borrowings 29,945 3,879 33,824 20,263 4,623 24,886 Provisions 78,030 597 78,627 81,642 607 82,249 Total Non-Current Liabilities 107,975 4,476 112,451 101,905 5,230 107,135 Total Liabilities 211,437 6,328 217,765 197,686 8,160 205,846 Net Assets 663,079 26,010 689,089 597,924 24,554 622,478 EQUITY Reserves 31,545 – 31,545 36,566 – 36,566 Retained surplus 631,534 26,010 657,544 561,358 24,554 585,912 Total Equity 663,079 26,010 689,089 597,924 24,554 622,478
1 Vocational Education and Training
63 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
4 Disaggregated Information (continued)
(a) Industry – Dual Sector Providers (continued)
Higher Education VET University Other Retained Total Other Retained Total Total reserves earnings Equity reserves earnings Equity Equity Statement of Changes in Equity $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 At 1 January 2006 5,506 494,770 500,276 – 24,269 24,269 524,545 Adjustment to opening equity – (5,791) (5,791) – (498) (498) (6,289) – Assets de-recognition Adjustment to opening equity 19,687 – 19,687 – – – 19,687 – Grant income Adjustment to opening equity – (2,863) (2,863) – – – (2,863) – Library Collection Unrealised investment gains for the year 4,886 – 4,886 – – – 4,886 Operating result for the year – 81,729 81,729 – 783 783 82,512 Transferred from retained earnings 9,894 (9,894) – – – – – Transferred to retained earnings (3,407) 3,407 – – – – – At 31 December 2006 36,566 561,358 597,924 – 24,554 24,554 622,478
Unrealised investment gains for the year (8,857) – (8,857) – – – (8,857) Realised investment gain/(loss) (295) – (295) – – – (295) Unrealised hedging gain/(loss) 29 – 29 – – – 29 Operating result for the year – 74,278 74,278 – 1,456 1,456 75,734 Transferred from retained earnings 4,332 (4,332) – – – – – Transferred to retained earnings (230) 230 – – – – – At 31 December 2007 31,545 631,534 663,079 – 26,010 26,010 689,089
64 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
4 Disaggregated Information (continued)
(a) Industry – Dual Sector Providers (continued)
2007 2006 Higher VET Total Higher VET Total Education University Education University Cash Flow Statement $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Receipts Australian Government grants received 265,242 286 265,528 240,187 302 240,489 HECS-HELP – Student payments 19,363 – 19,363 17,320 – 17,320 Fees and charges 155,170 (405) 154,765 152,071 1,166 153,237 Royalties, trademarks and licences 20,721 – 20,721 11,521 – 11,521 Consultancy and contracts 28,657 – 28,657 28,324 – 28,324 Interest received 10,227 146 10,373 6,179 77 6,256 Dividends received 111 – 111 275 – 275 Distributions received 12,017 – 12,017 8,153 – 8,153 Other 34,765 2,808 37,573 31,826 2,850 34,676 Payments Payments to employees (264,521) (8,157) (272,678) (246,210) (5,541) (251,751) Payments to suppliers (186,892) (5,430) (192,322) (149,890) (5,632) (155,522) Interest and other costs of finance paid (1,538) (275) (1,813) (1,518) (321) (1,839) Net cash provided by operating activities 93,322 (11,027) 82,295 98,238 (7,099) 91,139 CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Payment for property, plant and equipment (64,834) (122) (64,956) (44,000) (1,028) (45,028) Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment 231 23 254 186 – 186 Payment for investments (14,735) – (14,735) (15,447) – (15,447) Net cash used in investing activities (79,338) (99) (79,437) (59,261) (1,028) (60,289) CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Repayment of borrowings (212) (615) (827) (164) (475) (639) Proceeds from borrowings 9,517 – 9,517 – – – Cash used in financing activities 9,305 (615) 8,690 (164) (475) (639) CASH FLOWS FROM STATE GOVERNMENT Financial assistance 9,941 11,982 21,923 7,153 9,957 17,110 Cash provided by State Government 9,941 11,982 21,923 7,153 9,957 17,110 Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents held 33,230 241 33,471 45,966 1,355 47,321 Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 79,695 (3,056) 76,639 33,729 (4,411) 29,318 Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 112,925 (2,815) 110,110 79,695 (3,056) 76,639
65 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
4 Disaggregated Information (continued)
(b) Geographical
Revenue Operating Result Assets 2007 2006 2007 2006 2007 2006 Geographical $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Australia 540,959 493,563 70,934 77,662 901,942 818,748 Asia 20,411 21,129 4,447 4,547 4,518 8,924 Other 939 345 353 303 394 652 562,309 515,037 75,734 82,512 906,854 828,324
5 Australian Government Financial Assistance including HECS-HELP and other Australian Government loan programs
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000
(a) Commonwealth Grants Scheme and Other Grants 45(a) Commonwealth Grants Scheme 119,977 115,438 Indigenous Support Fund 2,133 1,718 Workplace Reform Program 1,581 1,503 Workplace Productivity Program 2,813 1,059 Disability Support Program 154 139 Superannuation Program 6,424 6,216 Capital Development Pool – – Equity Programs 241 332 Learning & Teaching Performance Fund 500 – Total Commonwealth Grants Scheme & Other Grants 133,823 126,405
(b) Higher Education Loan Programs 45(b) HECS-HELP 63,887 58,284 FEE-HELP 12,686 12,801 Total Higher Education Loan Programs 76,573 71,085
(c) Scholarships 45(c) Australian Postgraduate Awards 2,347 2,230 Indigenous Staff Scholarships 21 22 International Postgraduate Research Scholarships 455 463 Commonwealth Education Costs Scholarships 1,158 817 Commonwealth Accommodation Scholarships 1,665 1,354 Total Scholarships 5,646 4,886
66 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
5 Australian Government Financial Assistance including HECS-HELP and other Australian Government loan programs (continued)
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000 (d) DEEWR – Research 45(d) Institutional Grants Scheme 6,178 6,071 Research Training Scheme 12,919 12,364 Systemic Infrastructure Initiative – 10 Research Infrastructure Block Grants 2,109 2,021 Commercialisation Training Scheme 128 – Implementation Assistance Program 61 – Australian Scheme for Higher Education Repositories 118 – Total DEEWR – Research Grants 21,513 20,466 (e) Australian Research Council (i) Discovery 45(e)(i) Project 3,866 3,921 Indigenous Researchers Development – (5) Fellowships – – Total Discovery 3,866 3,916 (ii) Linkages 45(e)(ii) Special Research Initiatives – 26 Infrastructure 500 290 International 217 31 Projects 1,936 2,392 Total Linkages 2,653 2,739 (f) Other Australian Government financial assistance Other (includes Co-operative Research Centre funding) 20,759 19,517 Total Australian Government Financial Assistance 264,833 249,014 Reconciliation Australian Government grants [a+c+d+e+f] 188,260 177,929 HECS-HELP – Australian Government payments 63,887 58,284 Other Australian Government loan programs (FEE-HELP) 12,686 12,801 Total Australian Government Financial Assistance 264,833 249,014 (g) Australian Government Grants Received – cash basis CGS and Other DEEWR grants 45 (a) 133,371 123,378 Higher Education Loan Programs 45 (b) 75,680 68,746 Scholarships 45 (c) 6,598 5,503 DEEWR Research 45 (d) 21,513 20,456 ARC grants – Discovery 45 (e)(i) 3,852 3,908 ARC grants – Linkages 45 (e)(ii) 2,547 2,739 Other Government grants 21,671 16,352 Total Australian Government Grants Received – cash basis 265,232 241,082 OS-Help (Net) 296 (593) Total Australian Government Funding Received – cash basis 265,528 240,489
67 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
6 State and Local Government Financial Assistance
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000 WA State Department of Education and Training 11,444 9,648 WA State Government – other 10,466 8,715 WA Local Government 13 28 Total State and Local Government Financial Assistance 21,923 18,391
7 Fees and Charges
Course Fees and Charges Fee-paying overseas students 121,746 115,832 Continuing education 6,227 6,254 Fee-paying domestic postgraduate students 9,463 8,441 Fee-paying domestic undergraduate students 387 40 Total Course Fees and Charges 137,823 130,567 Other Non-Course Fees and Charges Amenities and service fees (1) 2,347 Examination fees 1,955 1,625 Late fees 355 414 Library fines 161 112 Parking fees 1,755 1,278 Registration fees 582 960 Incidental fees 446 248 Ancillary fees 479 269 Student accommodation 6,692 5,902 Other fees and charges 1,864 1,635 Total Other Non-Course Fees and Charges 14,288 14,790 Total Fees and Charges 152,111 145,357
8 Investment Income
Dividends from investment shares 111 275 Distributions from managed funds 12,017 8,153 Realised movement in value of investments sold 295 – Interest received 10,078 6,285 Total Investment Income 22,501 14,713
68 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
9 Royalties, Trademarks and Licences
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000 Royalties 20,721 11,521 Total Royalties, Trademarks and Licences 20,721 11,521
10 Consultancy and Contracts
Research Consultancy 8,147 9,096 Contract research 18,582 18,869 Total Consultancy and Contracts 26,729 27,965
11 Other Revenue
Trading income ¹ 15,298 13,548 Donations 2,517 2,153 Rental income 2,349 2,091 Sundry income from Australian businesses 4,706 3,945 Sundry income from Australian non-profit organisations 7,181 5,251 Sundry income from overseas sources 1,780 1,888 Insurance claims 43 640 Staff salary recoveries 1,314 1,328 Proceeds from sale of minor equipment 147 103 Conference income 686 607 Exchange rate gains – 109 Other 2,273 4,548 Total Other Revenue 38,294 36,211 ¹ Revenue from sale of goods included under trading income Sales 8,226 7,532 Cost of sales: Opening inventory 552 912 Purchases 6,769 5,683 7,321 6,595 Closing inventory (600) (552) Cost of Goods Sold 6,721 6,043 Gross margin before selling and administrative expenses 1,505 1,489
Inventory purchases are included under “Other Expenses – Inventory used and sold” (See note 17)
69 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
12 Employee Benefits
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000 (a) Employee Benefits Academic Salaries 115,071 104,313 Contribution to funded superannuation and pension schemes 22,404 19,173 Long service leave expense 2,915 3,698 Annual leave 8,270 7,504 Total Academic 148,660 134,688 Non-academic Salaries 99,180 88,975 Contribution to funded superannuation and pension schemes 16,340 16,486 Long service leave expense 2,734 3,316 Annual leave 7,398 6,776 Total Non-academic 125,652 115,553 Total Academic and Non-academic Employee Benefits 274,312 250,241
(b) Unfunded Superannuation Deferred government employee benefits for unfunded superannuation schemes (4,166) (5,455)
13 Depreciation and Amortisation
Buildings 13,931 13,587 Leasehold land and improvements 48 47 Computing equipment 1,864 2,710 Other equipment and furniture 4,300 4,252 Motor vehicles 285 260 Library collections 3,297 6,050 Total Depreciation Expense 23,725 26,906
14 Repairs and Maintenance
Property 5,113 2,726 Minor new works 6,380 5,044 Grounds maintenance 702 503 Total Repairs and Maintenance 12,195 8,273
15 Finance Costs
Interest paid 1,813 1,839 Total Finance Costs 1,813 1,839
70 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
16 Impairment of Assets
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000 Bad debts written off 1,529 698 Movement in allowance for impaired debts (1,537) (1,617) Total Impairment of Assets (8) (919)
17 Other Expenses
Payroll tax 14,621 13,377 Workers’ compensation 664 446 Scholarships, grants and prizes 19,285 15,104 Non-capitalised equipment 4,936 7,282 Advertising, marketing and promotional expenses 5,387 3,545 Telecommunications 2,288 1,673 Travel 13,446 14,134 Staff development and training 3,436 3,407 Inventory used and sold 8,142 7,121 Lease and rental expenses 3,765 3,574 Exchange rate losses 28 – Contract work 34,939 23,154 Amenities and service expense 778 2,284 Offshore partner fee share 5,091 5,463 Utilities and cleaning 9,477 9,164 Fees and commissions 7,040 6,007 Books 2,251 2,105 Computer peripherals and parts 15,194 8,800 Consumables 11,672 9,577 Net loss on disposal of non-current assets 18 21 581 Hospitality 2,036 1,073 Postage and courier 1,374 1,392 Subscriptions 3,635 3,182 Publications 777 833 Staff recruitment 745 554 Graduations 1,149 860 Financial assistance provided/research support 4,001 4,414 Security 270 146 Insurance 1,496 1,748 Occupational health safety and welfare 323 166 Other 437 474 Total Other Expenses 178,704 151,640
71 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
18 Net Loss on Disposal of Non-current Assets
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000 Carrying amount for Disposal of Non-current Assets Property, plant and equipment 275 767
Proceeds from Disposal of Non-current Assets Property, plant and equipment (254) (186) Net Loss on Disposal of Non-current Assets 21 581
19 Cash and Cash Equivalents – unrestricted
Cash at bank and on hand1 19,934 40,482 Deposits2 – At call 176 1,157 – Fixed term 90,000 35,000 Total Cash and Cash Equivalents – unrestricted 110,110 76,639
1 Cash on hand is non-interest bearing and cash at bank is subject to variable interest rates (refer to note 31). 2 Deposits are interest bearing at variable interest rates (refer to note 31).
20 Trade and Other Receivables
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000 Current Student receivables 3,613 6,018 Less: Allowance for impairment of receivables (250) (2,034) 3,363 3,984 General receivables 23,894 21,405 Less: Allowance for impairment of receivables (4,057) (4,269) 19,837 17,136
Deferred Government Contribution for Superannuation 2,453 2,514 Total Current 25,653 23,634 Non-current Deferred Government Contribution for Superannuation 64,383 68,488 Total Receivables 90,036 92,122
Impaired receivables The creation and release of the allowance for impaired receivables has been included in “Impairment of Assets” in the Income Statement. Amounts charged to the allowance account are generally written off when there is no expectation of recovering additional cash. The other amounts within receivables do not contain impaired assets and are not past due date. Based on historical trends, it is expected that these amounts will be received when due. As at 31 December 2007 current receivables for student fees of the University with a nominal value of $0.250 million (2006: $2.034 million) were impaired. The amount of the allowance was $0.250 million (2006: $2.034 million).
72 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
20 Trade and Other Receivables (continued)
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000 The ageing of these receivables is as follows: Less than 12 months 42 709 Greater than 12 months 208 1,325 250 2,034
As at 31 December 2007, current receivables for student fees of $2.092 million (2006: $2.207million) were past due date but not impaired. The ageing analysis of these receivables is as follows: Less than 12 months 1,971 1,902 Greater than 12 months 121 305 2,092 2,207
As at 31 December 2007 current general receivables with a nominal value of $4.057million (2006: $4.269 million) were impaired. The ageing of these receivables is as follows: Less than 12 months 865 1,076 Greater than 12 months 3,192 3,193 4,057 4,269
As at 31 December 2007, current general receivables of $10.667 million (2006: $9.218 million) were past due date but not impaired. The ageing analysis of these receivables is as follows: Less than 12 months 10,667 9,218 Greater than 12 months – – 10,667 9,218
Movements in the allowance for impaired student fees receivables are as follows: Balance at start of year 2,034 4,000 Allowance for impairment recognised during the year 42 709 Receivables written off during the year as uncollectable (840) (648) Unused amount reversed (986) (2,027) Balance at end of year 250 2,034
Movements in the allowance for impaired general receivables are as follows: Balance at start of year 4,269 3,906 Allowance for impairment recognised during the year 936 721 Receivables written off during the year as uncollectable (689) (50) Unused amount reversed1 (459) (308) Balance at end of year 4,057 4,269
1 Represents foreign exchange gains offset against exchange rate losses within “Other Expenses”.
73 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
21 Inventories
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000 Inventories held for resale: Merchandise (at cost) 694 1,179
Inventories not held for resale: General stores (at cost) 118 106 Farming stores (at current replacement cost) 249 224 Total Inventories Not Held for Resale 367 330 Total Inventories 1,061 1,509
22 Other Financial Assets – Unrestricted
Current Interest-bearing loans advanced – Sundry loans 27 35 Foreign currency forward contract 534 – 561 35 Non-Current Available for Sale – Listed shares (at fair value) – 66 – Funds under management (at fair value) 69,898 71,442 69,898 71,508 Unlisted shares and warrants (at cost) 2,389 548 Interest-bearing loans advanced Sundry loans 282 327 Total Non-Current Other Financial Assets 72,569 72,383 Total Other Financial Assets – unrestricted 73,130 72,418
23 Other Financial Assets – Restricted
Non-Current Available for Sale Restricted funds under management – Research activities 33,637 29,347 – Donations and prizes 15,793 14,696 – Trusts 3,719 3,673 Total Restricted Funds Under Management 53,149 47,716 Total Restricted Other Financial Assets 53,149 47,716
Restricted funds are invested as managed funds. All available for sale financial assets are denominated in Australian currency. For an analysis of the credit risk and sensitivity of available for sale financial assets to price and interest rate risk, refer to note 31.
74 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
24 Other Non-Financial Assets
2007 2006 Note $’000 $’000 Current Prepayments 9,025 7,220 Accrued income 4,924 6,452 Total Other Non-Financial Assets 13,949 13,672
25 Property, Plant and Equipment
Land¹ At cost 83,437 82,437 Buildings At cost 438,834 425,885 Accumulated depreciation (72,795) (58,868) 366,039 367,017 Leasehold land and improvements At cost 4,655 4,655 Accumulated depreciation (754) (706) 3,901 3,949 Work in progress Capital projects (at cost) 66,712 26,643
Computing equipment At cost 18,990 19,543 Accumulated depreciation and impairment (17,130) (16,740) 1,860 2,803 Other equipment and furniture At cost 60,963 58,061 Accumulated depreciation and impairment (40,999) (38,379) 19,964 19,682 Motor vehicles At cost 2,225 2,134 Accumulated depreciation and impairment (1,456) (1,352) 769 782 Library collections At cost 15,807 17,150 Depreciation (3,297) (6,050) 12,510 11,100 Works of art At cost 10,227 9,835 Total Property, Plant and Equipment 565,419 524,248
¹ Part of the site upon which the University is located, namely the Bentley campus, Western Australia, is held in trust, in perpetuity.
75 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007 – – 19 (25) 3,336 (3,611) (6,289) (2,863) 12,196 45,033 65,171 (26,906) (23,725) (12,963) Total $’000 524,248 516,046 565,419 524,248 – – – – – – – – – – – – 164 392 9,835 9,671 9,835 10,227 $’000 Works Works of art – – – – – – – – – 4,149 4,707 (6,050) (3,297) (2,863) 11,100 15,864 12,510 11,100 $’000 Library collections (8) – – – – – 782 773 253 769 180 782 409 313 (260) (285) (385) (221) $’000 Motor vehicles
9 – – (12) 512 2,148 1,683 6,325 4,772 (4,252) (4,300) (2,339) (1,873) (3,659) 19,682 20,950 19,964 19,682 $’000 and furniture Other equipment – – – 10 (13) 937 2,803 6,690 9,719 1,860 1,469 2,803 1,436 (2,710) (1,864) (9,707) (1,485) (2,622) $’000 equipment Computing
– – – – – – – – – – 26,643 11,792 66,712 26,643 31,556 52,684 (16,705) (12,615) $’000 Work Work in progress – – – – – – – – – – – – (47) (48) 3,949 3,996 3,901 3,949 $’000 improvements improvements Leasehold land and 4 – – – – 76 (32) 900 (439) 1,366 16,193 11,615 (13,587) (13,931) $’000 367,017 363,874 366,039 367,017 Buildings – – – – – – – – – – – 94 (93) 1,000 82,437 82,436 83,437 82,437 Land $’000 2 , P lant and Eq uipment ( continued ) 3 1 Includes capitalised interest of $0.215 million (2006: nil) Refer note 43 Refer note 1(v) Depreciation Depreciation charge Carrying amount at end of year Additions Cost of disposals Accumulated depreciation on disposals in/(out) Transfers 2007 Carrying amount at start of year Carrying amount at end of year Depreciation Depreciation charge Transfers in/(out) Transfers Adjustment to opening retained earnings Accumulated depreciation on write-offs 2006 Carrying amount at start of year Cost of write-offs during the year Cost of disposals Accumulated depreciation on disposals Adjustment to Library books 2006 Additions 1 2 3 25 P roperty plant and equipment at the beginning end Reconciliations of the carrying amounts property, set out below. financial year are of the current
76 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
26 Trade and Other Payables
2007 2006 $’000 $’000
Current Trade payables 6,176 1,777
27 Borrowings
Current Treasury loans 627 660 Non-Current Treasury loans 33,824 24,886 Total Borrowings 34,451 25,546
Treasury Loans The University has the following loans with the WA Treasury Corporation (WATC):
Principal outstanding Average Maturity 2007 2006 interest rate date Treasury Loans $’000 $’000 Capital works – quarterly principal and variable rate interest repayments 310 353 6.38% 15.10.2017 Muresk campus housing – fixed-rate interest only quarterly repayments with the loan 2,050 2,050 6.50% 15.07.2018 principal to be repaid at date of maturity Bentley campus housing – fixed-rate interest only quarterly repayments with the loan 16,800 16,800 7.05% 15.01.2018 principal to be repaid at date of maturity – quarterly principal and variable rate interest repayments 1,184 1,353 6.38% 15.10.2017 Kalgoorlie Arts Centre – quarterly principal and variable rate interest repayments 4,375 4,990 6.40% 15.10.2014 Chemistry Centre of WA building – fixed-rate interest and principal repayment at maturity1 9,732 – 7.08% 03.11.2008 Total Treasury Loans 34,451 25,546
2007 2006 $’000 $’000 Financing facilities available At reporting date, the following financing facilities had been negotiated and were available: Total facilities: – Treasury Loans¹ 114,119 114,946 Facilities used at reporting date: – Treasury Loans 34,451 25,546 Facilities unused at reporting date: – Treasury Loans 79,668 89,400
¹ The financing facilities include an amount for construction of the University’s Resources and Chemistry Research and Education Precinct which includes the Chemistry Centre of WA building. At reporting date, $9.732 million had been drawn down (2006: nil). The loan is subject to a fixed interest rate and the loan principal is to be repaid at maturity. The carrying amount includes capitalised interest and guarantee fees of $0.215 million. The University has an agreement to re-finance the loan into a 20-year fixed interest rate loan with the WATC at maturity.
77 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
28 Provisions
2007 2006 $’000 $’000
Current Employee benefits provisions Annual leave¹ 22,117 20,083 Long service leave² 21,788 21,563 Superannuation: Deferred Government benefits for superannuation 36(b) 2,453 2,514 Other University pension liabilities 36(a) 102 60 Total Employee Benefits Provisions 46,460 44,220 Other provisions Employment on-costs 2,634 2,506 Redundancy costs 1,215 1,924 Total Other Provisions 3,849 4,430 Total Current Provisions 50,309 48,650 Non-Current Employee benefits provisions Long service leave 12,813 12,105 Superannuation: Deferred Government benefits for superannuation 36(b) 64,383 68,488 Other University pension liabilities 36(a) 721 869 Total Employee Benefits Provisions 77,917 81,462 Other provisions Employment on-costs 710 787 Total Non-Current Provisions 78,627 82,249 Total Provisions 128,936 130,899 Movements in Other Provisions Movements in each class of provision during the financial year, other than employee benefits, are set out below: Employment on-costs provision Balance at beginning of year 3,293 2,842 Addition/(reduction) in provisions recognised 937 1,413 Reduction arising from payments (886) (962) Balance at end of year 3,344 3,293 Redundancy costs provision Balance at beginning of year 1,924 3,657 Addition/(reduction) in provisions recognised 650 566 Reduction arising from payments (1,359) (2,299) Balance at end of year 1,215 1,924
¹ Annual leave (including employment on-costs) Annual leave liabilities (including employment on-costs) have been classified as current as there is no unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 12 months after balance sheet date. Actual settlement of the current liabilities is expected to occur as follows: Within 12 months of balance sheet date 12,991 14,306 More than 12 months after balance sheet date 10,453 6,881 23,444 21,187
² Long service leave (including employment on-costs) Long service leave liabilities have been classified as current where there is no unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 12 months after balance sheet date. Actual settlement of the current liabilities is expected to occur as follows: Within 12 months of balance sheet date 5,111 9,121 More than 12 months after balance sheet date 17,984 13,844 23,095 22,965
78 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
29 Other Liabilities
2007 2006 $’000 $’000 Current Income received in advance 24,240 21,041 Accrued expenses 15,175 20,308 Foreign currency forward contract 505 – Research activities – 94 Trusts 8,282 6,181 Total Other Liabilities 48,202 47,624
30 Reserves and Retained Surplus
Reserves Bookshop future development 30(a) 826 676 General 30(b) – 230 Investments revaluation reserve 30(c) (2,947) 6,205 Hedging reserve 30(d) 29 – Research grants reserve 30(e) 33,637 29,455 Total Reserves 31,545 36,566 Retained surplus 30(f) 657,544 585,912
(a) Bookshop future development The Bookshop Future Development reserve is used to fund special projects or other capital spending undertaken by the Bookshop. Movement in reserve Balance at beginning of year 676 550 Transfer to reserve 150 126 Transfer from reserve – – Balance at end of year 826 676
(b) General The General Reserve represents funding set aside for the ongoing development of University infrastructure and special initiatives. Movement in reserve Balance at beginning of year 230 3,637 Transfer to reserve – – Transfer from reserve (230) (3,407) Balance at end of year – 230
79 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
30 Reserves and Retained Surplus (Continued)
2007 2006 $’000 $’000
(c) Investments revaluation reserve The Investments revaluation reserve arises on the revaluation of available-for-sale financial assets. Where a revalued financial asset is sold that portion of the reserve which relates to that financial asset, and is effectively realised, is recognised in the Income Statement. Where a revalued financial asset is impaired, the portion of the reserve which relates to that financial asset is transferred to the Income Statement. Movement in reserve Balance at beginning of year 6,205 1,319 Unrealised valuation gain/(loss) recognised (8,857) 4,886 Cumulative gain/(loss) transferred to the Income Statement on sale of financial assets (295) – Balance at end of year (2,947) 6,205
(d) Hedging reserve The Hedging reserve represents hedging gains and losses recognised on the effective portion of foreign currency cash flow hedges. The cumulative deferred gain or loss on the hedge is recognised in the Income Statement when the hedged transaction is considered to be ineffective or when the hedge is settled. Balance at beginning of financial year – – Gain/(loss) recognised – – Forward exchange contracts 29 – Balance at end of financial year 29 –
(e) Research grants reserve Non-reciprocal research grants are recognised as income when received. This reserve is provided for the balance of unspent research grants at the end of each financial year. Balance at beginning of financial year 29,455 – Adjustment to opening reserves – grant income 1(v) – 19,687 Transfer to reserve 4,182 9,768 Balance at end of financial year 33,637 29,455
(f) Retained surplus Balance at beginning of year 585,912 519,039 Adjustment to opening retained earnings – Assets de-recognition 1(v) – (6,289) Adjustment to opening retained earnings – Library collection 43 – (2,863) Net operating result 75,734 82,512 Transfer to reserve (4,332) (9,894) Transfer from reserve 230 3,407 Balance at end of year 657,544 585,912
80 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
4 534 309 917 505
4,923 1,472 6,176 Fair $’000 90,036 Value 53,149 34,451 47,698 69,898 110,110 331,349 128,936 217,765
– – 534 Risk Credit $’000 90,036 18,302 Amount Carrying 108,872
– 2,670 5,236 2,566 Equity $’000 3
+5% – – – – $’000 Stment Income
– (2,670) (5,236) (2,566) Equity $’000 Price Risk Sensitivity -5%
– – – – $’000 Stment Income
– – – – – – – Equity $’000 2 6 3 3 6
+1% 87 101 $’000 Stment Income
– – – – – – – Equity $’000 -1%
(2) (6) (3) (3) (6) Interest Rate Risk Sensitivity (87) (101) $’000 Stment Income
– (19) (19) 2 Equity $’000
+10% – – – $’000 Stment Income
– 89 89 Equity $’000
-10% – – – Foreign Exchange Risk Sensitivity $’000 Stment Income
309 534 917 505 1,472 4,923 6,176 Total $’000 90,036 53,149 34,451 47,698 69,898 110,110 331,349 128,936 217,765
– than More $’000 28,582 28,582 5 years
– 4,535 than Less Fixed Interest Rate Maturity $’000 90,000 94,535 1 year
309 5,868 5,868 rate $’000 20,065 34,141 13,767 interest Variable Variable
46 534 917 505 1,472 4,923 6,176 Non- $’000 90,036 53,149 47,698 51,596 interest bearing 202,673 128,936 183,314
nstruments 6.44% 7.18% 6.93% 1.15% Rate % Interest I Average Average Effective Weighted Weighted 5 1,5 inancial F
2007 Financial Assets Receivables Foreign currency hedge receivable Unrestricted investments: – Unlisted securities – Interest-bearing loans advanced – Pre-seed funds Cash and cash equivalents Accrued income – Funds under management Total Financial Assets Total Financial Liabilities Borrowings Employee benefits Payables Foreign currency hedge payable Other liabilities Total Financial Liabilities Total Restricted other financial assets A positive number indicates an increase in operating surplus and equity where Australian the dollar weakens against the foreign currency. Operating result would not be affected as the equity investments are classified as available for sale and no investments were impaired. The Fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities are determined based on either quoted market prices at balance date or cost. Funds under management in unit based funds receive income by way of distributions and do not attract interest. 2 3 4 5 ¹ Funds under management mainly comprises investments in unit based Credit funds. risk exposure relates only on funds under management not in unit based funds. 31
81 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007 –
4 66 447 362 101
6,452 1,777 Fair $’000 76,639 92,122 47,716 71,442 25,546 47,624 Value 295,347 130,899 205,846
–
Risk Credit $’000 92,122 17,753 Amount Carrying 109,875 –
1,613 1,431 3,044 Equity $’000 3 – –
+5% – – $’000 Stment Income –
(1,613) (1,431) (3,044) Equity $’000 Price Risk Sensitivity -5% – –
– – $’000 Stment Income – – – –
– – – Equity $’000 1 6 6 4 4
+1% 50 63 $’000 Stment Income – – – –
– – – Equity $’000 -1%
(1) (6) (6) (4) (4) Interest Rate Risk Sensitivity (63) (50) $’000 Stment Income – –
2 Equity $’000 – –
+10% $’000 Stment Income – –
Equity $’000 – –
-10% Foreign Exchange Risk Sensitivity $’000 Stment Income –
66 447 362 101 6,452 1,777 Total $’000 92,122 76,639 71,442 47,716 25,546 47,624 295,347 130,899 205,846
than More $’000 18,850 18,850 5 years
2,003 than Less Fixed Interest Rate Maturity $’000 37,003 35,000 1 year
362 6,696 6,696 rate $’000 57,705 41,593 15,750 interest Variable Variable
66 46 447 101 6,452 1,777 Non- $’000 92,122 53,689 47,716 47,624 interest bearing 200,639 130,899 180,300
6.11% 6.18% 1.04% 6.78% Rate % Interest Average Average Effective Weighted Weighted
F inancial I nstruments (C ontinued ) A positive number indicates an increase in operating surplus and equity where Australian the dollar weakens against the foreign currency. Operating result would not be affected as the equity investments are classified as available for sale and no investments were impaired. The Fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities are determined based on either quoted market prices at balance date or cost. Funds under management in unit based funds receive income by way of distributions and do not attract interest. ¹ Funds under management mainly comprises investments in unit based Credit funds. risk exposure relates only on funds under management not in unit based funds. 2 3 4 5 2006 Financial Assets Receivables Accrued income Unrestricted investments: – Listed securities Financial Assets Total Cash and cash equivalents – Unlisted securities – Interest-bearing loans advanced – Non-interest-bearing loans advanced – Pre-seed funds – Funds under management¹ Restricted other financial assets Financial Liabilities Payables Borrowings Employee benefits Foreign currency hedge payable Other liabilities Financial Liabilities Total 31
82 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
32 Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority and Senior Officers
(a) Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority and Senior Officers
Names of persons who were members of the Accountable Authority during the financial year
For the purposes of the Financial Management Act 2006, the University Council is the Accountable Authority of the University.
Chancellor Mr Gordon Martin
Members Appointed by Governor in Council Mr Mark Ashley Mr Chris Bennett Ms Michele Dolin, Pro-Chancellor Mr Keith Spence Mr Ian Fletcher (appointed 1/04/2007) Ms Georgina Carnegie (retired 31/03/2007) Dr David Karpin (retired 31/03/2007)
Member Nominated by the Minister for Education and Training The Honourable Dr John Cowdell
Member who is the Chief Executive Officer Professor Jeanette Hacket, Vice-Chancellor
Members Elected by Full-time Academic Staff Associate Professor David Charnock (re-elected 1/04/2007) Dr Jan Sinclair-Jones
Member Elected by Full-time General Staff Mr Liam McGinniss (appointed 18/06/2007) Ms Lyn Marks (retired 31/03/2007)
Co-opted Members Mr Don Humphreys Ms Zelinda Bafile (re-appointed 1/04/2007) Mr Daniel Tucker (appointed 1/08/2007) Dr Ruth Shean (retired 9/05/2007)
Members who are members of bodies that represent the interests of the University in places other than the University’s principal campus The Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam Adjunct Professor Peter Browne, nominee of the Board, Muresk Institute (retired 31/03/2007)
Member who is a member of the Academic Board elected by and from the Academic Board Professor Jo Ward (elected 11/06/2007) Associate Professor Doug Yorke (retired 31/03/2007)
Members Elected by Students Mr Lennard Bailey (Postgraduate) (appointed 7/03/2007) Ms Collette Swindells (Undergraduate) (appointed 7/03/2007 and resigned 31/12/2007) Ms Wendy Chan She Ping-Delfos (Postgraduate) (retired 6/03/2007) Ms Kate Meenan (Undergraduate) (retired 6/03/2007)
83 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
32 Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority and Senior Officers (Continued)
Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority Total remuneration relates to Members’ executive or contracted roles at the University. No remuneration was paid or is payable to Members for their role as members of Council. The number of members of the Accountable Authority, whose total fees, salaries, superannuation and other benefits for the financial year fall within the following bands, are:
2007 2006 Number Number
Nil – $10,000¹ 19 18 $50,001 – $60,000 1 – $90,001 – $100,000 – 1 $100,001 – $110,000 – 1 $110,001 – $120,000 1 1 $120,001 – $130,000 1 1 $130,001 – $140,000 1 – $180,001 – $190,000 2 1 $330,001 – $340,000 – 1 $480,001 – $490,000 1 –
¹ All these members received nil remuneration
2007 2006 $’000 $’000 Aggregate Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority 1,273 970
84 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
32 Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority and Senior Officers (conTinued)
(b) Remuneration of Senior Officers
The number of Senior Officers other than Senior Officers reported as Members of the Accountable Authority, whose total fees, salaries, superannuation and other benefits for the financial year fall within the following bands, are:
2007 2006 Number Number
Nil – $10,000 – 1 $20,001 – $30,000 – 2 $30,001 – $40,000 – 2 $50,001 – $60,000 – 1 $70,001 – $80,000 2 1 $80,001 – $90,000 1 1 $90,001 – $100,000 1 1 $110,001 – $120,000 – 1 $120,001 – $130,000 – 1 $130,001 – $140,000 – 1 $140,001 – $150,000 2 2 $150,001 – $160,000 1 – $160,001 – $170,000 – 2 $180,001 – $190,000 1 – $190,001 – $200,000 – 1 $200,001 – $210,000 – 1 $210,001 – $220,000 1 – $230,001 – $240,000 1 3 $240,001 – $250,000 2 1 $250,001 – $260,000 2 – $260,001 – $270,000 – 1 $270,001 – $280,000 1 – $290,001 – $300,000 – 1 $300,001 – $310,000 1 – $340,001 – $350,000 1 –
2007 2006 $’000 $’000 Aggregate Remuneration of Senior Officers 3,343 3,336
85 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
33 Remuneration of Auditors
During the year the following fees (excluding GST) were paid for services provided by the auditor of the parent entity and non-related audit firms:
2007 2006 $’000 $’000
(a) Auditor of the University Auditing the financial report 199 189 Other audit services 17 10 216 199
(b) Other auditors Other audit services 39 26 Total Remuneration of Auditors 255 225
34 Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets
Contingent Liabilities
[a] Legal Actions
The University is exposed to a number of contingent liabilities as a result of legal actions that have arisen in the normal course of business and which are being defended by the University. While the amounts cannot be reliably quantified, the University does not believe that these legal actions would result in material loss to the University.
[b] Native Title Claims
Native Title claims have been lodged with the National Native Title Tribunal in respect of a portion of land, being Crown land vested in the University, including the Kalgoorlie and Bentley campuses. The University is unable to reasonably estimate the financial impact if the claims were to be successful.
Contingent Assets
Inheritance Property
As at 31 December 2007, the University expects to receive approximately $1.5 million from the proceeds of sale of a property bequeathed to the University. The amount will be a restricted asset to be used in accordance with the bequest.
86 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
35 Commitments for Expenditure
(a) Capital expenditure commitments
Capital expenditure commitments, being contracted future capital expenditure additional to the amounts reported in the financial statements, are payable as follows:
2007 2006 $’000 $’000
Within one year 96,600 60,356 After one year but not more than five years 902 40,553 Total Capital Expenditure Commitments 97,502 100,909 The capital commitments include amounts for: Buildings 97,502 100,909
(b) non-cancellable operating lease commitments Commitments in relation to leases contracted for at the reporting date but not recognised as liabilities, are payable as follows: Within one year 5,836 3,826 After one year but not more than five years 7,194 5,176 More than five years 26,454 26,871 Total Non-cancellable Operating Lease Commitments 39,484 35,873 Representing: Non-cancellable operating leases 39,484 35,873
(c) other expenditure commitments Commitments in relation to purchase orders are payable as follows: Within one year 9,454 9,832
All the above commitments are inclusive of GST.
87 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
36 Defined Benefit Superannuation Plans
(a) Curtin University of Technology Superannuation Scheme 1968-1993
Until 30 June 2006, a group of former employees was entitled, on retirement, death or disablement, to defined benefits under the Curtin University of Technology Superannuation Scheme. In some circumstances the Scheme provided pension benefits. All members of the Scheme had retired, and had either received a pension or were entitled to receive a pension at a future date under certain circumstances. The Scheme was wound up on 30 June 2006. From 1 July 2006 some former members of the wound-up Scheme entered into a contractual relationship direct with the University. The University now provides benefits to those individuals, consistent with their entitlements under the wound-up Scheme. The University meets the benefits directly as they fall due.
2007 2006 $’000 $’000
Reconciliation of the Present Value of the Defined Benefit Obligation Present value of defined benefit obligations at beginning of the year 929 2,741 Current service cost – – Interest cost 52 78 Actuarial loss/(gain) (58) (64) Benefits paid (100) (1,826) Present value of defined benefit obligations at end of the year 823 929 These defined benefit obligations are wholly unfunded, such that there are no assets. The employer contributes, as required, to meet the benefits paid. Reconciliation of the Fair Value of Assets Fair value of assets at beginning of the year – 62 Employer contributions 100 1,764 Benefits paid (100) (1,826) Fair value of assets at end of the year – – Reconciliation of the Assets and Liabilities Recognised in the Balance Sheet Present value of defined benefit obligation 823 929 Fair value of assets – – Net liability 823 929 Liability recognised in the Balance Sheet as: Current 102 60 Non-current 721 869 823 929 Expense Recognised in the Income Statement Interest cost 52 78 Actuarial loss/(gain) (58) (64) Superannuation expense/(benefit) (6) 14
Assets
There are no assets held specifically to meet the University’s obligations with regard to this liability.
Nature of asset/liability
The University has recognised a liability in the Balance Sheet under Provisions in respect of its defined benefit superannuation arrangements. The University has no legal obligation to settle this liability with an immediate contribution or additional one-off contributions. The University intends to continue to meet the cost of the benefits as they fall due.
88 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
36 Defined Benefit Superannuation Plans (Continued)
(b) Government Employees Superannuation Board (GESB)
Scheme Information
Pension Scheme members receive pension benefits on retirement, death or invalidity. The Fund Share of the pension benefit, which is based on the member’s contributions plus investment earnings, may be commuted to a lump-sum benefit. The employers do not bear the cost associated with indexation of any pension arising from the Fund Share. The State share of the pension benefit, which is fully employer-financed, cannot be commuted to a lump-sum benefit.
Some former Pension Scheme members have transferred to Gold State Super Scheme. In respect of their transferred benefit, the members receive a lump-sum benefit at retirement, death or invalidity which is related to their salary during their employment and indexed.
The following disclosures are in respect of the employer-financed benefits only. The Pension Scheme and Gold State Super have been combined in the note disclosure below.
2007 2006 $’000 $’000
Reconciliation of the Present Value of the Defined Benefit Obligation Present value of defined benefit obligations at beginning of the year 71,002 76,457 Current service cost 84 38 Interest cost 4,048 3,759 Actuarial (gain)/loss (1,610) (3,283) Benefits paid (6,688) (5,969) Present value of defined benefit obligations at end of the year 66,836 71,002 These defined benefit obligations are wholly unfunded, such that there are no assets. The employer contributes, as required, to meet the benefits paid. Reconciliation of the Fair Value of Scheme Assets Fair value of Scheme assets at beginning of the year – – Employer contributions 6,688 5,969 Benefits paid (6,688) (5,969) Fair value of Scheme assets at end of the year – – Reconciliation of the Assets and Liabilities Recognised in the Balance Sheet Present value of defined benefit obligations 66,836 71,002 Fair value of the Scheme assets – – Net deficit 66,836 71,002 Net deficit is recognised as a liability in the Balance Sheet as follows: Current 2,453 2,514 Non-current 64,383 68,488 66,836 71,002 Expense Recognised in Income Statement Service cost 84 38 Interest cost 4,048 3,759 Actuarial (gain)/loss (1,610) (3,283) Superannuation expense 2,522 514
89 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
36 Defined Benefit Superannuation Plans (Continued)
(b) Government Employees Superannuation Board (GESB) (continued)
Scheme Assets There are no assets in the Pension Scheme to support the State Share of the Benefit or in the Gold State Super Scheme for current employees to support the transferred benefits. Hence, there is: • No fair value of Scheme assets • No asset allocation of Scheme assets • No assets used by the employer • No expected return of Scheme assets • No actual return on Scheme assets.
Principal Actuarial Assumptions Used
2007 2006
Discount rate (active members) 6.08% p.a. 5.98% p.a. Discount rate (pensioners) 6.08% p.a. 5.98% p.a. Expected salary increase rate 4.50% p.a. 4.50% p.a. Expected pension increase rate 2.50% p.a. 2.50% p.a.
The discount rate is based on the 10-year Government bond rate at the relevant date. The decrement rates used (e.g. mortality and retirement rates) are based on those used at the last actuarial valuation for the Schemes, as at 31 December 2007.
Historical Information
2007 2006 $’000 $’000 Present value of defined benefit obligation 66,836 71,002 Fair value of Scheme assets – – Deficit in Scheme 66,836 71,002 Experience adjustments (gain)/loss – Scheme assets – – Experience adjustments (gain)/loss – Scheme liabilities 2,648 1,739
The experience adjustment for Scheme liabilities represents the actuarial loss/(gain) due to a change in the liabilities arising from the Scheme’s experience (e.g. membership movements, unit entitlements) but excludes the effect of the changes in assumptions (e.g. movements in the bond rate and changes in pensioner mortality assumptions).
Expected Contributions
2008 $’000 Expected employer contributions 5,901
90 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
36 Defined Benefit Superannuation Plans (Continued)
(b) Government Employees Superannuation Board (GESB) (continued) Funding arrangements for employer contributions
(i) Deficit
The following is a summary of the most recent financial position of the Pension Scheme and the Gold State Super Scheme calculated in accordance with AAS 25 “Financial Reporting by Superannuation Plans”. Note that the figures below relate to the Pension Scheme and Gold State Super Scheme as a whole and are therefore not restricted to Curtin employees.
30 June 07 $’000
Accrued benefits 7,219 Net market value of Scheme assets 2,679 Net deficit 4,540
(ii) Contribution recommendations
Curtin contributes as required to pay benefits, when they fall due.
(iii) Funding method
The funding method used by Curtin and other organisations, whose employees are members of the Pension Scheme and the Gold State Super Scheme, is the Pay-As-You-Go method. This method affects the timing of the cost to Curtin. However, unfunded liabilities and the associated expenses are offset by equivalent receivables and income from the Commonwealth Government.
(iv) Economic assumptions
The economic assumptions adopted for the last actuarial review as at 30 June 2007 of the Schemes were:
Expected rate of return on assets (discount rate) 7.50% pa Expected salary increase rate 4.50% pa
Nature of asset/liability
The University has recognised a liability in the Balance Sheet under Provisions in respect of its defined benefit superannuation arrangements (refer note 28). The GESB does not impose a legal liability on the University to cover any deficit that exists in the Schemes.
An arrangement exists between the Australian Government and the Western Australian State Government to meet the unfunded liability for beneficiaries of the State Superannuation Schemes on an emerging cost basis. Accordingly, a corresponding asset is recognised under Receivables (refer note 20).
The recognition of both the asset and the liability consequently do not affect the year-end net asset position of the University.
(c) UniSuper Defined Benefit Plan
Scheme information
The UniSuper Defined Benefit Plan (DBP) is a multi-employer defined benefit plan under superannuation law. However, as a result of an amendment to Clause 34 of the UniSuper trust deed, with effect from 31 December 2006, it is considered to be a multi-employer defined contribution plan under the Accounting Standard AASB 119 – Employee Benefits. This is because, where there is or may be insufficient funds to provide benefits payable under the Deed, the Trustee must reduce the benefits payable on a fair and equitable basis. The employer’s legal or constructive obligation is limited to the amount that it agrees to contribute to the funds and the actuarial and investment risks rest with the employee.
Employer contributions for all superannuation plans of $38.744 million (2006: $35.608 million) were charged as an expense under employee benefits (note 12) as they fell due.
91 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
37 Events Occurring After Reporting Date
No events have occurred since balance date that are likely to have a material impact on the financial report of the University.
38 Notes to the Cash Flow Statement
(a) Reconciliation to cash
Cash at the end of the year as shown in the Cash Flow Statement is reconciled to the related items in the Balance Sheet as follows:
2007 2006 $’000 $’000 Cash and cash equivalents (note 19) 110,110 76,639 Balance as per Cash Flow Statement 110,110 76,639
(b) Reconciliation of operating result from ordinary activities to net cash inflow from operating activities
Net operating result 75,734 82,512 Depreciation expense 23,725 26,906 Movement in allowance for impairment of receivables (1,995) (1,617) Net loss on disposal of non-current assets 21 581 Financial assistance receipts from WA Government (21,923) (17,110) Changes in assets and liabilities: (Increase)/decrease in trade and other receivables 4,082 3,456 (Increase)/decrease in inventories 448 66 (Increase)/decrease in other current assets (811) (480) Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables 4,399 (2,225) Increase/(decrease) in provisions (1,963) (6,413) Increase/(decrease) in other current liabilities 578 5,463 Net Cash provided by Operating Activities 82,295 91,139
39 Non-Cash Financing and Investing Activities
During the financial year, the University incurred $0.215 million in interest and guarantee fee costs relating to the draw down of $9.517 million for the construction of the Chemistry Centre of WA building, which is not reflected in the Cash Flow Statement (2006: Nil). These costs were capitalised as part of the building cost and the associated borrowings.
There were no other significant non-cash financing or investing activities not reflected in the Cash Flow Statement.
92 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
40 Explanatory Statement
(a) Significant variances between current year actual and prior year actual revenues and expenditures
2007 2006 Variance Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 %
Revenue [1] Australian Government grants 188,260 177,929 10,331 6% [2] HECS-HELP Australian Government payments 63,887 58,284 5,603 10% [3] HECS-HELP Student payments 19,363 17,320 2,043 12% [4] State and Local Government financial assistance 21,923 18,391 3,532 19% [5] Investment income 22,501 14,713 7,788 53% [6] Royalties, trademarks and licences 20,721 11,521 9,200 80% [7] Other revenue 38,294 36,211 2,083 0% [8] Deferred Government superannuation contributions (4,166) (5,455) 1,289 -24% Expenses [9] Employee benefits 274,312 250,241 24,071 10% [10] Depreciation and amortisation 23,725 26,906 (3,181) -12% [11] Repairs and maintenance 12,195 8,273 3,922 47% [12] Impairment of assets (8) (919) 911 -99% [13] Other expenses 178,704 151,640 27,064 18% [14] Deferred employee benefits for superannuation (4,166) (5,455) 1,289 -24%
This disclosure is required by Treasurer’s Instruction 945. Note Commentary [1] The increase in Australian Government grants reflects an increase in student numbers and an increase in unit fees offset by changes in mix. [2/3] Items [2] and [3] should be considered together. The increase reflects an increase in student numbers and an average increase in student contribution amounts of 2%. [4] The increase in State and Local Government financial assistance is mainly due to an increase in the number of research grants awarded and received by the University in 2007. [5] The increase in investment income reflects strong investment returns as well as increased cash and investment balances. [6] The increase in Royalties, trademarks and licences is largely due to the increase in student numbers at the Curtin Sydney campus which has completed its second full year of operations. The increase is partially offset by higher expenditure within “Other Expenses”. [7] The increase in Other revenue is due to higher levels of trading activity, including the University Bookshop. The increase is partially offset by increased expenditure within “Other Expenses”. [8/14] The revenue movement is the result of an annual actuarial revaluation. It is offset by an equal movement in the equivalent expense category. [9] The increase in employee benefits is a result of higher average salary rates due to contractual increases and promotions during the year. [10] In 2006 a prior period error was adjusted for the capitalisation of Library collections within Property, Plant & Equipment. It was impracticable to apply the adjustment retrospectively and therefore depreciation expense on the Library collection was not adjusted in 2006 (refer note 43). Depreciation expense for 2007 has reduced accordingly. [11] The increase in Repairs and maintenance expense is due to the increased level of non-capital refurbishment work undertaken during 2007. [12] In 2006, the allowance for impaired student fee receivables was significantly reduced due to improvements in debt management. In 2007, a lesser reduction was required. [13] The increase in Other expenses occurs across a number of expenditure categories and is related to the increases noted in income. In particular, Contract work, Scholarships and Non-capital equipment expenditure have increased as more resources have been required.
93 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
40 Explanatory Statement (continued)
(b) Significant variations between budgeted and actual results for the financial year (continued)
2007 2007 Variance Actual Budget $’000 $’000 $’000 % Revenue [1] Australian Government grants 188,260 181,463 6,797 4% [2] State and Local Government financial assistance 21,923 19,033 2,890 15% [3] Investment income 22,501 12,131 10,370 85% [4] Other revenue 38,294 30,264 8,030 27% Expenses [5] Employee benefits 274,312 287,767 (13,455) (5%) [6] Depreciation and amortisation 23,725 27,848 (4,123) (15%) [7] Repairs and maintenance 12,195 13,350 (1,155) (9%) [8] Other expenses 178,704 165,913 12,791 8%
This disclosure is required by Treasurer’s Instruction 945. Note Commentary [1] The higher than budgeted Australian Government grants is due to the change in accounting policy for research grant income (refer note 1(v)). The budget was prepared on an accruals basis whereas the 2007 Actual is recognised on a cash received basis and does not reflect unspent monies which will be utilised in future years. [2] The higher than budgeted State and Local Government financial assistance is due to the change in accounting policy for research grant income. The budget was prepared on an accruals basis whereas the 2007 Actual is on a cash received basis and does not reflect unspent monies which will be utilised in future years. [3] The variance to budget reflects better than budgeted investment returns achieved through the year and larger than budgeted cash and investment balances from operations and from delays in significant capital projects. [4] The variance to budget in each of these categories mainly reflects under budgeting of trading and sundry income. [5] Employee benefits is lower than budget due to difficulties in recruiting new staff due to the current employment market conditions in Western Australia. [6] The budget for depreciation and amortisation was set based on an asset capitalisation level of $1,000. During 2007, the capitalisation limit was increased to $5,000 (refer note 1(v)) which reduced the number, and value, of depreciable assets compared to budget. This has resulted in a lower than budgeted expense. [7] The budget for repairs and maintenance includes internal refurbishment charges which are eliminated from the 2007 actual expense. Taking this into account, the budget is comparable to the actual expenditure. [8] Other expenses are higher than budget due to a number of factors. Significant variances were noted in Contract work as a result of the use of agency staff to fill vacant positions (see [5]) and for the additional research grants won. Expenditure was also higher for non-capitalised equipment (including Computing costs) as a result of the increase in capitalisation limit for Property, Plant & Equipment which was not factored into the budget.
94 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
41 Related Parties
1. transactions with specified accountable authority and senior officers
1.1 Accountable authority and senior officers’ remuneration and retirement benefits
Details of remuneration and retirement benefits are disclosed in note 32 to the financial statements.
1.2 Other transactions with specified accountable authority and senior officers
University Council members, or their related entities, conduct transactions with the University that occur within a normal employee, customer or supplier relationship on terms and conditions that are no more favourable than those with which it is reasonable to expect the University to adopt if it was dealing at arm’s length in similar circumstances.
These transactions include the following and have been quantified below where the transactions are considered likely to be of interest to users of these financial statements:
2007 2006 $’000 $’000
Transaction Type Related party Purchase consulting services Peter Browne Consulting ¹ – 34 Purchases Curtin Student Guild ² 1,098 3,000 Revenue Curtin Student Guild ² 618 531 Receivable at 31 December Curtin Student Guild ² 142 155 Payable at 31 December Curtin Student Guild ² – 4
¹ Fees charged to the University during the year for consultancy services provided by a related party, Peter Browne Consulting, of which Adjunct Professor Peter Browne is the principal, totalled $nil [2006: $33,638]. There was no outstanding balance at reporting date [2006: $nil]. ² Purchases from the Curtin Student Guild, a related party, aggregated $1.098 million [2006: $3.0 million]. At reporting date $nil [2006: $3,728] remained outstanding. Sales of $0.618 million [2006: $0.531 million] were made during the year. At reporting date $0.142 million remained outstanding [2006: $0.155 million].
42 Supplementary Financial Information
2007 2006 $’000 $’000
Write-Offs Public property written off by the Minister during the financial year 653 – Losses through Theft, Defaults and Other Causes Losses of public moneys and public and other property through theft or default 2 3 Amounts recovered – – 2 3
43 Prior Period Error
The University capitalises its library collections within Property, Plant and Equipment (refer note 1(f)). In 2006 it was identified that in 2005 and prior years, electronic journal subscriptions with a useful economic life of one year or less were incorrectly capitalised. It was impracticable to adjust for this error retrospectively and so an adjustment of $2.863 million was made to the carrying value of Property, Plant and Equipment as at 1 January 2006 to correct the error. This adjustment was recognised against opening retained earnings for 2006 in accordance with Accounting Standard AASB 1008 “Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors”.
95 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
44 Financial Risk Management
Foreign Currency Risk Management
The University undertakes certain transactions denominated in foreign currencies, hence exposure to exchange rate fluctuations arise. The University manages this risk by conducting its contracts and business in Australian dollars where it is commercially practical to do so. Furthermore, the University seeks to hedge any material, highly probable foreign currency transactions by way of permitted instruments with appropriate counterparties. The University does not undertake speculative positions on movements in foreign currency exchange rates.
2007 2006 $’000 $’000
Foreign currency cash as at year end comprised: US Dollar bank account – 1,496 – 1,496
The University does not have any significant exposure to foreign currency assets or liabilities at the reporting date.
Note 31 details the University’s sensitivity to a 10% increase and decrease in the Australian dollar against the Euro. A positive number indicates an increase in operating surplus and equity where the Australian dollar weakens against the Euro.
The impact to Equity is the result of changes in the fair value of derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges. The University’s sensitivity to foreign currency has decreased during the current period due to the disposal of US dollar cash deposits. The sensitivity analysis in Note 31 is unrepresentative of the inherent foreign exchange risk as the year-end exposure does not reflect the exposure during the year relating to material US dollar transactions which are hedged and settled before year end.
Forward foreign exchange contracts
The University enters into forward foreign exchange contracts to cover material, highly probable foreign currency transactions. The table below details the forward foreign currency contracts outstanding at reporting date:
2007 2006
Outstanding Contracts Buy Euro – less then 3 months Exchange Rate 0.6302 – Foreign Currency (EUR’000) 318 – Contract Value (AUD’000) 505 – Fair Value (AUD’000) 29 –
The University has entered into a contract to purchase plant and equipment in Euros. A forward foreign currency exchange contract has been entered into (maturing Feb 2008) to hedge the exchange rate risk arising from the anticipated future purchase, and is designated as a cash flow hedge.
As at reporting date, the amount of unrealised gains under the forward foreign exchange contracts deferred in the hedging reserve is $0.029 million. It is anticipated that the purchase of plant and equipment will be completed by February 2008.
96 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007
44 Financial Risk Management (continued)
Interest Rate Risk
The University is exposed to interest rate risk as the University borrows funds at both fixed and floating interest rates (refer note 27). It also holds Cash & cash equivalents earning interest at variable and fixed rates. The University manages its interest rate risk by ensuring that the majority of its borrowings are at fixed interest rates.
Note 31 details the University’s sensitivity to a 1% increase or decrease in interest rates assuming the change took place at the beginning of the financial year and held constant throughout the reporting period. The University’s sensitivity to interest rate risk has increased over the period due to the increase in Cash & cash equivalents held.
During the period, the University increased its borrowings by $9.732 million including the capitalisation of interest and guarantee fee of $0.215 million in relation to the construction of the Chemistry Centre of WA building . The loan is currently at fixed interest rates maturing in November 2008. The University has an agreement to refinance this loan into a 20-year loan at a fixed rate which has yet to be determined. The uncertainty of the interest rate to be charged is mitigated by the repayment of the loan by way of rent payable from the State Government to the University.
Price Risk
The University is exposed to equity price risks arising from equity investments (which are held for strategic investment purposes rather than trading purposes.
Note 31 details the University’s sensitivity to a 5% increase or decrease in equity prices at reporting date on its funds under management. At reporting date, if the inputs to valuation of funds under management had been 5% higher or lower, with all other variables held constant, operating surplus would not be affected as the equity investments are classified as available-for-sale and investments would not be considered as impaired.
Equity reserves would increase or decrease by $5.200 million (2006: $3.000 million) mainly as a result of changes in the fair value of available-for-sale funds under management.
Credit Risk
The University has exposure to financial loss that would be experienced were a counterparty to default. The University has adopted the policy of only dealing with creditworthy counterparties where this is possible. The credit risk on funds under management and derivative financial instruments is limited as the counterparties are either with banks or investment grade fund managers. For an analysis of credit risk of the University refer to Note 31.
Liquidity Risk
The University manages liquidity risk by maintaining adequate reserves, banking facilities and borrowing facilities by continuously monitoring forecast and actual cash flows and matching the maturity profiles of financial assets and liabilities.
Fair Value Estimation
The fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities shown in Note 31 are determined as follows:
Funds under management are traded on the active market. Hence, the fair value of these investments is based on quoted market prices at the reporting date.
The fair value of Forward Exchange contracts is determined by calculating the forward rate expected, based on the closing mid-point spot rate, interest rates differential between currencies and days to maturity.
Equity shares and other investments are measured at cost as their fair value cannot be measured reliably. This includes unlisted shares and pre-seed capital which are not traded on the active market. The University currently has no intention to dispose of these financial instruments.
The fair value of borrowings equals the carrying amount based on cash flows discounted using borrowing rates provided by the Western Australian Treasury Corporation. The rates vary between 6% to 7% depending on the purpose of the borrowing (2006: 6% to 7%).
97 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007 – – (659) 1,059 1,059 1,718 (1,059) 2006 $’000 – – 659 Workplace Workplace 2,813 2,813 2,154 (2,813) 2007 $’000 Productivity Productivity Program – – – 1,503 1,503 1,503 (1,503) 2006 $’000 – – – Program 1,581 1,581 1,581 (1,581) 2007 $’000 Workplace Workplace Reform – 44 (32) 151 183 139 388 139 133 3,027 2006 2006 $’000 $’000 126,538 126,405 123,378 (126,150) Total 35 28 Program 305 151 154 405 126 388 452 (270) 2007 2007 $’000 $’000 Disability Support 134,211 133,823 133,371 (133,806) – – – – (95) 237 332 332 332 (363) 6,216 6,216 6,579 (6,216) 2006 2006 $’000 $’000 – – – Program Program 370 478 237 241 241 (108) (432) 6,424 6,424 6,856 Equity Support (6,424) Superannuation 2007 2007 $’000 $’000 – – – – – – – 89 89 (89) 1,718 1,718 1,718 (1,718) 2006 2006 $’000 $’000 Pool Fund – – – – – – – – 2,133 2,133 2,133 1,327 (2,133) (1,327) 2007 2007 $’000 $’000 Indigenous Support Capital Development – – – – – – – – – 4,049 2006 2006 $’000 $’000 115,438 115,438 111,389 (115,438) – – – – – 500 500 500 (500) 1,524 Grants Scheme Commonwealth 2007 2007 $’000 $’000 Performance Fund 119,977 119,977 118,453 Learning & Teaching Learning & Teaching (119,977)
G overnment F inancial A ssistance of C ommonwealth A c q uittal D EE WR – CGS and O ther Grants Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period Less expenses including accrual expenses Total revenue including accrual revenue Total Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year Revenue for the period Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period N et accrual adjustments Less expenses including accrual expenses Total revenue including accrual revenue Total Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year Financial assistance received in CASH during the reporting period Revenue for the period N et accrual adjustments Financial assistance received in CASH during the reporting period 45 (a)
98 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007 106 (102) (617) 4,784 4,886 5,503 (4,678) 2006 $’000 Total 347 106 (952) 5,752 5,646 6,598 (5,405) 2007 $’000 1 – 22 22 33 (21) (11)
2006
$’000 Staff Staff 1 – (1) – – – – – 22 21 22 (22) 593 Indigenous (593) Scholarships 2007 2006 $’000 $’000
– – – – – 24 24 OS-HELP 296 (327) (296) 1,378 1,354 1,681 (1,354) 2006 2007 $’000 $’000 – 24 (591) Scholarships 1,689 1,665 2,256 (1,689) Commonwealth Accommodation 2007 $’000 7 8 – – 825 817 (818) (279) 1,096 2,339 2006 2006 71,085 71,085 68,746 $’000 $’000 (71,085) Total 7
– – – 893 (360) Scholarships 1,165 1,158 1,518 (1,165) Commonwealth Education Costs 2007 2007 76,573 76,573 75,680 $’000 $’000 (76,573) – – –
157 463 463 (408) (565) (306) (100) 2006 2006 12,801 12,801 12,901 $’000 $’000 (12,801)
– – – 47 455 455 FEE-HELP (558) (605) (408) (741) International Postgraduate 2007 2007 12,686 12,686 13,427 $’000 $’000 (12,686) Research Research Scholarships – – –
482 172
2,402 2,230 2,230 2,439 (1,920) 2006 2006 58,284 58,284 55,845 $’000 $’000 (58,284)
– – – Awards Awards Australian (Australian 905 482 Government HECS-HELP Postgraduate 2,829 2,347 2,347 1,634 payments only) (1,924) 2007 2007 63,887 63,887 62,253 $’000 $’000 (63,887)
Scholarships ( continued ) G overnment F inancial A ssistance of C ommonwealth A c q uittal Higher E ducation L oan P rograms Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period Less expenses including accrual expenses Total revenue including accrual revenue Total Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year (c) Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period Revenue for the period Less expenses including accrual expenses N et accrual adjustments Total revenue including accrual revenue Total Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year Revenue for the period Financial assistance received in CASH during the reporting period N et accrual adjustments Financial assistance received in CASH during the reporting period 45 (b)
99 Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007 – – – – – – – 2006 $’000 (2) – – 61 61 61 (63) Implementation 2007 $’000 Assistance Program – 962 580 2,601 2,021 2,021 (1,639) 2006 $’000 – – Grants Research Research 962 3,071 2,109 2,109 (3,071) 2007 $’000 Infrastructure Infrastructure Block (3) – 10 10 10
(13) (10) (13) 567 949
2006 2006 21,033 20,466 20,456 $’000 $’000 (20,084) Total – – – – – Initiative 11 (13) (13) (13) Systemic 949 Infrastructure Infrastructure 2007 2007 22,462 21,513 21,513 $’000 $’000 (22,451) – – – – – – – – – – 2006 2006 12,364 12,364 12,364 $’000 $’000 (12,364) – – – – – 33 Scheme (95) 128 128 128 Training Scheme Training 2007 2007 12,919 12,919 12,919 $’000 $’000 Research Training Research Training (12,919) Commercialisation Commercialisation – – – – – – – – – – 6,071 6,071 6,071 (6,071) 2006 2006 $’000 $’000 – (7) – – – – Scheme 118 118 118 (125) Repositories 6,178 6,178 6,178 (6,178) 2007 2007 $’000 $’000 Institutional Grants Australian Scheme for Higher Education
( continued ) G overnment F inancial A ssistance of C ommonwealth A c q uittal D EE WR Research Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period Less expenses including accrual expenses Total revenue including accrual revenue Total Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year Revenue for the period N et accrual adjustments Financial assistance received in CASH during the reporting period Total revenue including accrual revenue Total Less expenses including accrual expenses Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period Revenue for the period Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year Financial assistance received in CASH during the reporting period N et accrual adjustments 45 (d)
100 2007 Annual Report
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2007 – 3,010 6,314 3,575 2,739 2,739 (3,304) 2006 $’000 Total 106 1,459 5,663 3,010 2,653 2,547 (4,204) 2007 $’000 8 – (776) (867) 1,387 3,049 4,282 1,890 3,916 2,392 2,392 3,908 (2,895) (3,825) 2006 2006 $’000 $’000 Total 14 Projects 106 (137) (776) 3,090 3,323 1,387 3,866 1,936 1,830 3,852 (1,512) (3,460) (4,602) 2007 2007 $’000 $’000 (5) – (5) – – 20 88 57 31 31 (68) (540) (540) (535) 2006 2006 $’000 $’000 9 – – – – – 20 237 217 217 Indigenous (540) (228) (540) (540) International Researchers Researchers Development 2007 2007 $’000 $’000 – – – – – 20 20 20 290 290 (339) 1,553 1,892 1,602 2006 2006 $’000 $’000 – – – – – 20 20 20 500 500 Fellowships (492) Infrastructure Infrastructure 1,561 2,053 1,553 2007 2007 $’000 $’000 8 (2) – 50 52 26 26 26 (256) (352) 3,569 3,921 3,913 (3,825) 2006 2006 $’000 $’000 – – – 26 50 50 14 Projects Projects (24) Initiatives (992) (256) 3,610 3,866 3,852 (4,602) 2007 2007 $’000 $’000 Special Research
Linkages ( continued ) G overnment F inancial A ssistance of C ommonwealth A c q uittal Council Grants Australian Research Discovery (ii) Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period Less expenses including accrual expenses Less expenses including accrual expenses Total revenue including accrual revenue Total Total revenue including accrual revenue Total Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year Revenue for the period Revenue for the period N et accrual adjustments N et accrual adjustments Financial assistance received in CASH during the reporting period Financial assistance received in CASH during the reporting period 45 (e) (i)
101 Curtin University of Technology
Report by the Members of the University Council
The members of the University Council present their report for the year ended 31 December 2007.
Members
The following persons were members of the Curtin University of Technology Council during 2007:
Chancellor Mr Gordon Martin
Members Appointed by Governor in Council Mr Mark Ashley Mr Chris Bennett Ms Michele Dolin, Pro-Chancellor Mr Keith Spence Mr Ian Fletcher (appointed 1/04/2007) Ms Georgina Carnegie (retired 31/03/2007) Dr David Karpin (retired 31/03/2007)
Member Nominated by the Minister for Education and Training The Honourable Dr John Cowdell
Member who is the Chief Executive Officer Professor Jeanette Hacket, Vice-Chancellor
Members Elected by Full-time Academic Staff Associate Professor David Charnock (re-elected 1/04/2007) Dr Jan Sinclair-Jones
Member Elected by Full-time General Staff Mr Liam McGinniss (elected 18/06/2007) Ms Lyn Marks (retired 31/03/2007)
Members Co-opted by Council Mr Don Humphreys Ms Zelinda Bafile (re-appointed 1/04/2007) Mr Daniel Tucker (appointed 1/08/2007) Dr Ruth Shean (retired 9/05/2007)
Members who are members of bodies that represent the interests of the University in places other than the University’s principal campus The Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam Adjunct Professor Peter Browne, nominee of the Board, Muresk Institute (retired 31/03/2007)
Member who is a member of the Academic Board elected by and from the Academic Board Professor Jo Ward (elected 11/06/2007) Associate Professor Doug Yorke (retired 31/03/2007)
Members Elected by Students Mr Lennard Bailey (Postgraduate) (elected 7/03/2007 and resigned 31/12/2007) Ms Collette Swindells (Undergraduate) (appointed 7/03/2007 and resigned 31/12/2007) Ms Wendy Chan She Ping-Delfos (Postgraduate) (retired 6/03/2007) Ms Kate Meenan (Undergraduate) (retired 6/03/2007)
102 2007 Annual Report
Report by the Members of the University Council (continued)
Meetings of Members
The number of meetings of the University Council and of each committee of Council held during the year ended 31 December 2007, and the number of meetings attended by each member were:
Council Meetings of committees Meetings Audit Finance Executive Meetings Meetings Meetings Meetings Meetings Meetings Meetings Meetings Members attended held attended held attended held attended held Mr Gordon Martin, Chancellor 8 8 7 9 Mr Mark Ashley 2 8 4 7 Ms Zelinda Bafile (re-appointed 1/04/2007) 6 8 5 7 Mr Lennard Bailey (appointed 7/03/2007) 5 6 Mr Chris Bennett 8 8 7 7 Adjunct Professor Peter Browne (retired 31/03/2007) 2 2 Ms Georgina Carnegie (retired 31/03/2007) 1 2 The Honorable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri 2 8 Dr George Chan Hong Nam Ms Wendy Chan She Ping-Delfos (retired 31/03/2007) 1 2 Associate Professor David Charnock 7 8 (re-elected 1/04/2007) The Honorable Dr John Cowdell 7 8 7 7 Professor Greg Craven (as Acting Vice-Chancellor) 1 1 Ms Michele Dolin, Pro-Chancellor 8 8 5 7 8 9 Mr Ian Fletcher (appointed 1/04/2007) 5 6 3 4 Professor Jeanette Hacket, Vice-Chancellor 8 8 6 7 8 8 Mr Don Humphreys 8 8 7 7 8 9 Dr David Karpin (retired 31/03/2007) 1 2 Ms Lyn Marks (retired 31/03/2007) 2 2 Mr Liam McGinniss (elected 18/06/2007) 5 5 Ms Kate Meenan (retired 6/03/2007) – 1 Dr Ruth Shean (retired 9/05/2007) 2 3 2 4 Dr Jan Sinclair-Jones 7 8 Mr Keith Spence 7 8 6 7 3 5 Ms Collette Swindells (elected 7/03/2007) 6 6 Mr Daniel Tucker (appointed 1/08/2007) 2 3 Professor Jo Ward (elected 11/06/2007) 4 5 5 5 Associate Professor Doug Yorke (retired 31/03/2007) – 2 2 4 Mr Wayne Zekulich 6 6
The number of meetings held represents the number of regular and special meetings held during the time a member was a member of the Council or a committee of Council during the year. The number of meetings held does not include meetings conducted out-of-session for the consideration of circular resolutions.
Neither Professor Greg Craven nor Mr Wayne Zekulich were members of Council during the year.
103 Curtin University of Technology
Report by the Members of the University Council (continued)
Principal Activities
During the year, the principal continuing activities of the University were: (a) to provide courses of study appropriate to a university and to aid the advancement, development and practical application of knowledge; (b) to encourage and participate in the development and improvement of tertiary education whether on a full or part-time basis; and (c) to encourage and undertake research and to aid directly or indirectly the application of science and technology to industry.
No significant changes in the nature of the activities of the University occurred during the year.
Review of Operations
The net operating result for the year ended 31 December 2007 was $75.734 million (2006: $82.512 million).
The operations of the University during the financial year are reviewed in the following accompanying sections of the Annual Report: – Chancellor’s Foreword – Vice-Chancellor’s Report – Report on Operations – 2007 Activity Highlights
Significant Changes in the State of Affairs
No significant changes in the University’s state of affairs occurred during the year.
Matters Subsequent to the End of the Financial Year
No events have occurred since balance date that are likely to have a material impact on the financial report of the University.
Likely Developments and Expected Results of Operations
The University will continue to further its objectives, consistent with the principal activities outlined above. To provide further detail would result in unreasonable prejudice.
Environmental Regulation
Significant environmental legislation that Curtin is subject to are: – Environmental Protection Act 1986 – Environmental Protection Regulations 1987 – Environmental Protection (Controlled Waste) Regulations 2004 – Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 – Environmental Protection (Unauthorised Discharges) Regulations 2004
Insurance of Members of Council and Officers
The University provides Director’s and Officer’s Liability and Employers Practices Insurance and Supplementary Legal Expenses Cover through contracts with external insurance providers. The cover applies to members of Council and Executive Officers of the University.
Proceedings on behalf of Curtin University of Technology
No material legal proceedings have been initiated by or against Curtin University of Technology during 2007.
This report is made in accordance with a resolution of the members of the University Council.
Gordon Martin Chancellor
Curtin University of Technology Bentley, Perth, WA
Dated this 19th day of March 2008
104 2007 Annual Report
performance indicators
CONTENTS Certification of Performance Indicators 106 Curtin’s Institutional Performance Indicators 107 Section A – Higher Education Performance 108 Section B – Vocational Education & Training Performance 125
105 Curtin University of Technology
> performance indicators (continued)
CERTIFICATION OF PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
We hereby certify that the performance indicators are based on proper records, are relevant and appropriate for assisting users to access Curtin University of Technology’s performance, and fairly represent the performance of Curtin University of Technology for the financial year ended 31 December 2007.
Mr Gordon Martin Professor Jeanette Hacket Chancellor Vice-Chancellor
On behalf of the University Council
Dated this 20th day on February 2008
106 2007 Annual Report
Curtin’s Institutional INTRODUCTION
Performance Curtin is committed to innovation and Section A indicators focus on Curtin’s Indicators excellence in teaching and research, for higher education operations whilst the benefit of our students and the wider those in Section B relate to Curtin’s community. The institutional effectiveness Kalgoorlie-based vocational education and efficiency Performance Indicators (PIs) and training programs (VET). used by Curtin are designed to demonstrate The diagram below summarises progress towards meeting Teaching and the approach. Learning and Research and Development objectives and targets as espoused in the Trend data for the last three to four years University’s Strategic and Enabling Plans. are provided so that overall direction and rate of progress can be seen. The performance indicators used These trend data also illuminate broad are divided into two categories – changes in cases where short-term effectiveness and efficiency – and variability may hide longer-term trends. are used in the following context:
– Effectiveness measures the extent to which outcomes have been achieved
– Efficiency measures the resources used to attain a certain level of output.
A1.1 Effectiveness A1 Teaching and Learning A1.2 Efficiency A. Higher Education A2.1 Effectiveness A2 Research and Development A2.2 Efficiency
B. Vocational Education B1 Effectiveness & Training B2 Efficiency
107 Curtin University of Technology
> performance indicators (continued)
Section A A1 Higher Education Teaching and Learning Performance Indicators Higher Education Ref Name Objective Employment & Study Destinations Performance a Quality graduates of New First Degree Graduates
A1.1 Perceived Teaching Quality – b Quality teaching Effectiveness Australian Graduate Survey
Student progress c Subject Load Pass Rate & achievement
Teaching and Learning d Efficient T&L expenditure Expenditure per EFTSL
Teaching and Learning Expenditure A1.2 e Efficient T&L expenditure per Successful EFTSL Efficiency Graduate Productivity Rate Student progress f (Undergraduate, Postgraduate & achievement Coursework and Research degrees)
A2 Higher Education Research and Development Performance Indicators
Research Higher Degree Enrolments g Research intensity as a Percentage of Total Enrolments
Institutional Grants Scheme (IGS): h Comparison between Curtin Research funding and all Australian Universities
All Research Funding: Comparison between Curtin and the i Research funding A2.1 Averages for ATN Universities Effectiveness and National Ranking
Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) j Funding: Comparison between Research funding Curtin and all Australian Universities
Number of Research Publications: Comparison between Curtin k Research publications and the Averages for ATN and all Australian Universities
Research Funding per 10 FTE Academic Staff: Comparison between l Research funding efficiency Curtin and the Averages for ATN Universities and National Ranking A2.2 Efficiency Research Publications per 10 FTE Academic Staff: Comparison Research publications m between Curtin and the Averages efficiency for ATN Universities and all Australian Universities.
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Section A A1.1 Teaching and Learning Effectiveness Higher Education Performance
Ref Name Objective Employment & Study Destinations A1 Teaching and a Quality graduates of New First Degree Graduates Learning Performance Perceived Teaching Quality – b Quality teaching Indicators Australian Graduate Survey c Subject Load Pass Rate Student progress & achievement Strategic Objective: To provide excellent teaching that facilitates learning. Quality graduates, measured by: Therefore the latest available national data, which is from the 2006 AGS survey, applies (a) Employment and Study to the views of students who completed/ Destinations of New First graduated in 2005. In addition to this national Degree Graduates data Curtin also has access to the views of its Benchmark gauge: Australian 2006 graduates from the results of the latest Universities’ Average survey conducted in 2007. These results are included in the accompanying table. This indicator measures Curtin’s effectiveness in both assisting students to The 88 per cent of graduates in their ‘mode reach their full potential and in producing of choice’ easily exceeds Curtin’s target graduates who are of productive value of a minimum 82 per cent. It also exceeds to employers and the community. the benchmark of 84 per cent which is the 2006 graduates’ ‘mode of choice’ for all Table 1 shows results from the Australian Australian universities. The benchmark data Graduate Survey (AGS), which combines are sourced from the latest GCA report 2006. the Graduate Destination Survey (GDS) and Course Experience Questionnaire (CEQ), to The percentage of Curtin graduates summarise the major activities of new first employed has increased each year since degree (i.e. bachelor, bachelor honours, and 2004, demonstrating the continuing diploma) Curtin graduates each year of the attractiveness of a Curtin degree to students series, and compares these with the national and employers. It is acknowledged that average sourced from Graduate Careers labour market conditions do influence this Australia (GCA). Surveys in each year deal indicator. For example, the decline in the with the graduates of the previous year. percentage of students choosing to go on to full-time study can be attributed in part to the very strong labour market in WA.
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Table 1. Employment and Study Destinations of New First Degree Graduates1 2004 – 2007 – Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents only
2004 survey 2005 survey 2006 survey 2007 survey
Activity Curtin All2 Curtin All2 Curtin All2 Curtin All2
Full-Time Work 55% 53% 59% 55% 66% 55% 67% n/a
Full-Time Study 21% 23% 20% 23% 13% 20% 12% n/a
Not Working, Seeking FT Work 7% 5% 6% 5% 4% 4% 3% n/a
PT Work, Seeking FT Work 8% 8% 6% 8% 7% 8% 6% n/a
PT Work, Not Seeking FT Work 6% 6% 6% 6% 7% 8% 6% n/a
Not Working, Seeking PT Work 1% 1% 1% 1% 0% 0% 1% n/a
Unavailable for Work/Study 2% 4% 2% 3% 3% 5% 5% n/a
Total 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% n/a
% Graduates in Mode of Choice3 79% 81% 84% 82% 87% 84% 88% n/a
Curtin Target (minimum) 80% 82% 82%
Benchmark (Australian Universities’ Average) 81% 82% 84%
Total Number of Respondents 2,044 64,965 2,059 65,738 2,010 66,702 2,165 n/a
Response Rate 61% n/a 57% n/a 62% n/a 69% n/a
Rounding errors may occur 1. Data are taken from the Australian Graduate Surveys conducted by Curtin and other universities of all their graduates. 2. All refers to All Australian universities. Whilst Curtin has access to its 2007 survey results, national data for 2007 are not available until 2008. 3. Definition: The percentage of new first degree graduates working in the mode of their choice as a percentage of the total number of graduates seeking work. Mode of Choice = (the number of graduates in full time work + number in part-time work, not seeking f/t work) / (total number of respondents minus those in full- time study and those unavailable for study or work). Notes: • Graduates are surveyed in the year following their completion/graduation. For example, the 2007 survey applies to students who completed their course in 2006. • GDS/AGS data are frequencies and not means thus standard deviations are not reported. • Survey data for 2007: Confidence Level = 99%; Confidence Interval = 1.53. • National data from the 2007 survey are not yet available.
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Section A Quality teaching, measured by: In addition to this national data Curtin Higher Education Performance also had access to its own results of the (b) Perceived Teaching latest survey, conducted in 2007, which Quality – Australian are included in the accompanying table. A1 Teaching and Graduate Survey (AGS) On average 88 per cent of Curtin’s 2006 Learning Performance Benchmark gauge: Australian graduates (surveyed in 2007) were broadly Universities’ Average Indicators satisfied with their course experience. This is The 22-item Australian Graduate Survey a slight decline against the previous survey Strategic Objective: (AGS) conducted by Curtin and other findings of 89 per cent, and is again below To provide excellent teaching institutions provides graduate outcome the Curtin target of 90 per cent. The 2007 that facilitates learning. measures of teaching and learning within result also failed to achieve the benchmark the Course Experience section. The AGS of 90 per cent which is the percentage asks graduates to rate their perceptions of broadly satisfied graduates from all using five aspects of their recently Australian universities, using data from the completed course: good teaching, clear most recent national survey (2006). Curtin goals and appropriate standards, generic continues to implement development and skills, overall satisfaction and (new in 2007) change initiatives directed toward continuous graduate qualities. This new scale, which improvement in the quality of teaching and replaces appropriate assessment and learning, to achieve better outcomes. appropriate workload, assesses a number The 2007 total respondents and the of general skills that are not specific to response rate were slightly below last year. the area of study. It also addresses how This has come about due to the use by the course contributed to the graduate’s GCA of an external third party agent to enthusiasm for further learning and how manage online AGS (oAGS) for participating they value other diverse perspectives institutions including Curtin. These agents and ideas. Graduate perceptions of the inadvertently deleted 856 responses from extent to which they have developed Curtin’s online responses. While 655 generic skills, together with their overall responses were recovered and included satisfaction, are fundamental to monitoring in the total respondents of 2,328, the the quality of teaching and learning. remaining 201 responses were lost. Had Surveys in each year deal with the graduates the 201 responses been counted, Curtin’s of the previous year. In the years 2004 to 2007 total respondents would reach 2,529 2006 AGS survey data for all universities and the response rate over 50 per cent. were analysed by the Australian Council for Educational Research on behalf of the GCA. Graduates assign scores across a range from –100 to +100 against each criterion. A score of –100 corresponds to complete disagreement while at the other end of the scale +100 indicates complete agreement. Results are shown in Table 2.
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Table 2. Perceived Teaching Quality – Australian Graduate Survey (AGS) 2004 – 2007 Average Graduate Score –100 (complete disagreement) to +100 (complete agreement)
2004 survey 2005 survey 2006 survey 2007 survey AGS Scale Curtin All4 Curtin All4 Curtin All4 Curtin All4 +20 +20 +19 Good Teaching +16 +17 +19 +20 n/a (42.1) ( 39.1) (40.3) +20 +19 +17 Clear Goals and Standards +17 +16 +17 +18 n/a (35.7) ( 37.4 ) (39.5) +21 +20 Appropriate Assessment2 +20 +23 +23 +22 n/c n/a (42.4) (43.6) +3 +5 Appropriate Workload2 0 +7 +8 +8 n/c n/a ( 37.0 ) (35.4) +35 Graduate Qualities2 n/c n/c n/c n/c n/c +42 n/a (40.6) +37 +36 +35 Generic Skills +37 +36 +37 +37 n/a (33.6) (35.7) (39.9) +37 +37 +34 Overall Satisfaction +34 +38 +39 +40 n/a (46.3) (47.6 ) (49.2) Percent Broad Agreement5 Overall Satisfaction 89% 89% 90% 90% 89% 90% 88% n/a
Curtin Target (minimum) 90% 90% 90%
Benchmark (Australian Universities Average) 89% 90% 90%
Number of Respondents1 2,584 67,878 2,229 69,071 2,393 72,980 2,328 n/a
Response Rate 41% n/a 43% n/a 50% n/a 49% n/a
1. Since 1998 a student undertaking a double major has had the option of completing two Australian Graduate Surveys. Of the 2,328 Curtin respondents to the 2007 survey, 755 provided additional information about a major. 2. In 2007 a new scale Graduate Qualities was collected for the first time in place of Appropriate Assessment and Appropriate Workload which are no longer collected in the AGS. Therefore these scales are marked n/c or not collected for previous years. 3. n/a = not available. 4. All refers to All Australian universities. 5. Broad agreement includes responses of 3, 4 and 5 on a 5-point scale where 5 is strongly agree, so eliminating disagree and disagree strongly. Notes: • Graduates are surveyed in the year following their completion/graduation. For example, the 2007 survey applies to students who completed their course in 2006. • Bracket figures are the standard deviation for each CEQ/AGS scale. • Survey data for 2007: Confidence level = 99%; Confidence interval = 1.91. • National data for 2007 are not yet available.
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Section A Student achievement and students were awarded a passing grade. Higher Education Performance progress, measured by: The data in Table 3 shows that Curtin’s overall Subject Load Pass Rate in 2007 was 86 per cent, (c) Subject Load Pass Rate (SLPR) the same as in 2006, and 2 per cent below A1 Teaching and Benchmark gauge: National Rates the Curtin target of at least 88 per cent. within 4 Broad Discipline Categories Learning Performance However, within each of the four main The Subject Load Pass Rate indicator Branches of Learning subgroups that Curtin Indicators (also often referred to as ‘Success Rate’ measures, Curtin’s achieved SLPRs in or ‘Progress Rate’) measures quantity 2007 that exceeded the benchmarks for Strategic Objective: and timeliness of students attaining a these subgroups which is the all Australian To provide excellent teaching pass result in their units of study. Sound universities rates sourced from the curriculum design, good pedagogy, that facilitates learning. Commonwealth Government’s Learning and appropriate assessment practices and Teaching Performance Fund (Department learning support should sustain subject load of Education, Employment and Workplace pass rates and thus course progression, Relations (DEEWR) 2008)) national data (see minimising course completion times. notes Table 3). An all-universities benchmark This indicator is the percentage in each SLPR using all Branches of Learning academic year of assessed subject load combined, against which Curtin can test its (based on credit points studied) for which overall SLPR of 86 per cent is not available.
Table 3. Subject Load Pass Rate (SLPR) by Branch of Learning1 2004 – 2007 Student Load Passed as a Percentage of Student Load Assessed Branch of Learning 2004 2005 2006 2007 Engineering, Processing 85% 87% 89% 88% Built Environment 91% 87% 91% 92% Agriculture, Renewable Resources 89% 91% 89% 90% Sciences 89% 88% 85% 84% Mathematics, Computing 83% 81% 79% 80% Science, Computing, Engineering, 85% 85% Architecture, Agriculture Benchmark 81% 82% Admin, Business, Economics, Law 86% 85% 84% 84% Benchmark 82% 82% Humanities 87% 84% 84% 86% Social Studies 90% 87% 87% 87% Education 93% 93% 92% 92% Visual/Performing Arts 90% 90% 91% 89% Humanities, Arts and Education 88% 88% Benchmark 85% 85% Health Sciences 95% 95% 94% 95% Benchmark 90% 91% Total 88% 87% 86% 86% Curtin Target (minimum) 88% 88% 88% Benchmark 86% n/a n/a Rounding error may occur. 1. Data source: the Commonwealth annual student statistical collections. The Subject Load Pass Rates presented in the table exclude Higher Degree by Research student load. Notes: • Benchmark source: 2008 DEEWR (former DEST) Student Outcome Indicators for Learning and Teaching Performance Fund. The benchmark includes Commonwealth Supported bachelor degree students only. National overall SLPR not published for 2006 and 2007.
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A1.2 Teaching and Learning Efficiency
Ref Name Objective Teaching and Learning d Efficient T&L expenditure Expenditure per EFTSL
Teaching and Learning Expenditure e Efficient T&L expenditure per Successful EFTSL
f Graduate Productivity Rate Student progress & achievement
Efficient teaching and learning It is important to note that average expenditure, measured by: expenditure per EFTSL is largely dependent on the mix of disciplines taught by an (d) Teaching and Learning institution. Curtin’s high representation of Expenditure per EFTSL laboratory-based courses raises service Benchmark gauge: Average delivery costs when compared to institutions for WA Universities where non-laboratory based courses (e) Teaching and Learning feature more prominently. Also, Curtin incurs Expenditure per Successful EFTSL higher than average costs in supporting the delivery of regional higher education Benchmark gauge: None programs through its presence in Kalgoorlie,
Teaching and Learning expenditure relates to Northam, Esperance, Margaret River, Albany, the teaching of award course programs. The Geraldton, Karratha and Port Hedland. two indicators reported in Table 4A show: (i) the average cost of teaching each Equivalent Full-Time Student Load (EFTSL) where load is sourced from the Commonwealth annual statistical collections; and (ii) the average cost of teaching each successful EFTSL. Both of these provide an insight into the efficiency with which monies directed towards the Teaching and Learning objective have been spent. Table 4B shows the comparison after adjusting for inflation (i.e. in “2007 dollars”).
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Section A Table 4A. Teaching and Learning Expenditure1 at Historical Cost 2004–2007 Higher Education Performance 2004 2005 2006 2007 (1) Actual Expenditure ($’000) $325,837 $338,091 $348,880 $388,619 A1 Teaching and (2) Total Taught EFTSL 22,543 23,905 23,814 24,317 (3) Successful EFTSL 19,748 20,773 20,575 21,017 Learning Performance Indicator (d) Teaching and Learning $14,454 $14,143 $14,650 $15,981 Expenditure ($) per EFTSL Indicators Curtin Target $14,500 $14,500 $14,500 Benchmark (Average WA Strategic Objective: $16,984 $17,494 NA Universities prior year) To provide excellent teaching Indicator (e) Teaching and Learning $16,500 $16,275 $16,957 $18,491 that facilitates learning. Expenditure ($) per Successful EFTSL Curtin Target $16,500 $16,500 $16,500
1. Teaching and Learning Expenditure reported above excludes that for the Kalgoorlie VET sector. All University Expenditure is now reported: (i) on Teaching and Learning or Research and Development, in line with the University’s objectives; and (ii), consistent with the University’s Financial Statements. For these reasons, the data may differ from those shown in earlier Annual Reports. Notes: • Benchmark source: From Murdoch University’s T&L expenditure per EFTSL spreadsheet. Benchmark for T&L expenditure per successful EFTSL is unavailable.
Table 4B. Teaching and Learning Expenditure at Constant Dollar Value 2004-2007 Expenditure & EFTSL details 2004 2005 2006 2007 (1) Actual Expenditure ($’000) $345,781 $351,405 $355,858 $388,619 (2) Total Taught EFTSL 22,543 23,905 23,814 24,317 (3) Successful EFTSL 19,748 20,773 20,575 21,017 Indicator (d) Teaching and Learning $15,339 $14,700 $14,943 $15,981 Expenditure ($) per EFTSL Indicator (e) Teaching and Learning $17,510 $16,916 $17, 275 $18,491 Expenditure ($) per Successful EFTSL Cost Adjustment Factor/Higher 1.188354 1.213309 1.236362 1.261089 Education Indexation Factor1 1. Cost Adjustment Factors and Higher Education Indexation Factor in the table are extracted from DEEWR (former DEST) Notification of the Making of Determinations under the Higher Education Support Act 2003 and can be used to convert historical cost figures to December 2007 price levels. From 2005 the Higher Education Indexation Factor has replaced the Higher Education Cost Adjustment Factor (CAF) but the two factors are comparable.
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Student progress and Table 5A. Graduate Productivity Rates1 2004 – 2007 achievement, measured by: Graduations per 10 FTE Academic Staff2 (f) Course Completions per 2004 2005 2006 2007 10 FTE Academic Staff Undergraduate 52.6 60.5 62.0 62.8 Curtin Target (minimum) 57.0 57.0 57.0 Benchmark gauge: ATN average Benchmark (ATN in prior year) 49.3 50.4 50.8 Postgraduate Coursework 18.9 20.7 24.9 24.5 The indicator Graduate Productivity Rates Curtin Target (minimum) 20.0 20.0 20.0 provides an insight into the efficiency with Benchmark (ATN in prior year) 25.1 24.8 27.0 which monies directed towards the Teaching 1. For each year shown (X) graduates (the numerator) are taken as those with awards approved in the and Learning objective have been spent. period 1 January to 31 December in year X-1. Thus for 2007 there would have been 87.3 graduates for every 10 FTE teaching in the period 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2006. These rates show changes over time 2. Included in the denominator are staff from all funding sources categorised as ‘teaching’ or ‘teaching and research’. An average of the staff in the previous three years is taken. in the output of graduates for every Notes: • Curtin Source: Student Record System S1. 10 full-time equivalent staff. Table 5A • Benchmark Source: 2004-2006 DEEWR Selected Higher Education Student and Staff Data Collection. provides the rates for undergraduate Table 5B shows Postgraduate Research productivity rates with the data disaggregated and postgraduate coursework students, to the Masters and Doctoral levels. The denominator is restricted to staff eligible to where the numerator is based on graduate supervise research students. There were significant increases in both Masters and numbers and the denominator on ‘teaching’ Doctoral completions in 2007. As a result, the research higher degree productivity rate and ‘teaching and research’ staff only. is at a new high of 3.59, and exceeds the Curtin Target of at least 3.00 for the first time. In 2007 Curtin achieved its targets of at It has also widened the margin by which Curtin exceeds the ATN benchmark. least 57 undergraduate graduates and 20 postgraduate coursework graduates Table 5B. Research Degree Completions Productivity Rate 2004 – 2007 Research Higher Degree Completions per 10 full-time equivalent per 10 FTE academic staff. Curtin’s 2007 Academic Staff1 undergraduate productivity rate, as in 2004 2005 2006 2007 previous years, is considerably above the Masters 0.79 0.61 0.65 0.77 1 Australian Technology Network (ATN) Doctoral 2.15 1.98 1.99 2.82 benchmark. However, the 2007 postgraduate All Research 2.94 2.60 2.64 3.59 productivity rate of 24.5 was a fractional Curtin Target (minimum) 3.00 3.00 3.00 decline against the 2006 figure, and for the Benchmark (ATN in prior year) 2.55 2.52 2.40 first time fell below the ATN benchmark. 1. Staff data comprise a three year average of teaching and research academic staff of Lecturer B level and above in academic organisational units only and from all funding sources. Hourly paid academic staff are excluded. These staff data are derived from the Commonwealth annual statistical collections. An average of the staff in the current and previous two years is taken. Notes: • Curtin Source: Graduate Studies. • Benchmark Source: 2004-2006 DEEWR Selected Higher Education Student and Staff Data Collection.
1 The ATN universities consist of the five major former Institutes of Technology across Australia: Queensland University of Technology; University of Technology, Sydney; RMIT University; the University of South Australia and Curtin University of Technology.
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Section A A2.1 Research and Development Effectiveness Higher Education Performance Ref Name Objective Research Higher Degree Enrolments as g Research intensity A2 Research and a Percentage of Total Enrolments
Institutional Grants Scheme (IGS): Comparison Development h Research funding between Curtin and all Australian Universities
Performance All Research Funding: Comparison between Curtin i Research funding and the Averages for ATN and National Ranking Strategic Objective: To focus on areas of high impact, Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) Funding: Comparison j Research funding high quality research. between Curtin and all Australian Universities Number of Research Publications: Comparison k between Curtin and the Averages for Research publications ATN and all Australian Universities
Data for five performance indicators that These indicators are compared to those assist in demonstrating how effectively Curtin for other universities to determine Curtin’s is meeting its Research and Development relative performance. They are presented Objectives are presented below. Three alongside averages for the universities in indicators (h),(i) and (j) show the quantity and Western Australia, the ATN and the broad proportion of research funding received; spectrum of Australian universities. while indicator (g) (which previous to this year was in the Teaching and Learning section) gauges research intensity in terms of proportion of research students. Indicator (k) measures research publications output.
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Research intensity Table 6A. Research Higher Degree Enrolments by Level and Total increase, measured by: Research Enrolments as a Percentage of Total Curtin Enrolments: 2003-2007 (g) Research Higher Degree Research Higher Degree 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Enrolments and Load Masters 247 210 259 282 309 as a Percentage of Total Doctoral 1403 1445 1495 1442 1429 Enrolments and Total Load Total Research 1650 1655 1754 1724 1738 Benchmark gauge: WA and % of Total Enrolments 5.1% 5.0% 4.9% 5.0% 4.8% National averages Curtin Target (minimum) 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% All WA Universities Benchmark 5.3% 5.2% 5.2% One of Curtin’s educational strategies All Australian Universities 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% to raise its research profile is to increase Benchmark Curtin’s National Ranking the proportion of research higher degree 21 20 18 (of 90 Australian Institutions) enrolments to equal to or greater than Notes: 5 per cent of total enrolments and • All enrolment data are for the year at 31 March. • Benchmarks source: DEEWR Selected Higher Education Student Statistics research degree EFTSL greater than or 2006 for Western Australian and Australian universities. equal to 4.5 per cent of total EFTSL. Table 6B. Research EFTSL as a Percentage of Curtin’s Total EFTSL Table 6A shows that while research 2003–2007 enrolments in 2007 slightly exceeded 2006, Research Higher Degree 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 as a percentage of the total it fell behind Masters 110 89 126 154 149 the target and the benchmarks for Western Doctoral 814 840 831 849 843 Australian and Australian universities. The Total Research 924 929 957 1003 992 position is similar when measured in EFTSL % of Total EFTSL 4.2% 4.1% 4.0% 4.2% 4.1% (Table 6B). In Australia, Curtin ranks 18th Curtin Target (minimum) 4.5% 4.5% 4.5% in percentage of research enrolments and All WA Universities Benchmark 4.9% 4.9% 4.9% All Australian Universities 23rd in percentage of research EFTSL, 5.0% 5.0% 4.9% Benchmark two places higher than in 2006. These National Ranking 26 25 23 rankings place Curtin in the first half of (of 90 Australian Institutions) the list of 90 Australian higher education Notes: • All EFTSL data are for the year at 31 March. institutions for this measure (DEEWR, 2006). • Benchmarks source: DEEWR Selected Higher Education Student Statistics 2006 for Western Australian and Australian universities. There is growth in the 2007 research enrolments arising from an increase in the Masters program. This offsets a decline in Doctoral students.
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Research funding (input) Table 7. Institutional Grant Scheme Funds and Percentage Share of growth, measured by: National Total 2005-2007 (Ranked by 2007 share) ($’000) % Share % Share % Share (h) Institutional Grant Scheme Rank University 2007 2007 2006 2005 (IGS) proportion of National total. 1 University of Melbourne (M) 35,583 11.8 11.5 11.3 Benchmark gauge: All 2 University of Sydney (M) 30,505 10.1 10.3 10.3 Australian Universities 3 University of Queensland (M) 28,900 9.6 9.7 10.0 4 University of New South Wales (M) 22,769 7.5 7.8 8.2 The IGS is considered a key national research 5 Monash University (M) 22,280 7.4 7.2 7.2 performance indicator. It is distributed 6 Australian National University 18,059 6.0 6.0 5.7 across universities by a performance-based 7 University of Western Australia (M) 16,912 5.6 5.7 5.6 8 University of Adelaide (M) 16,500 5.5 5.5 5.6 formula comprising research income, 9 University of Tasmania (M) 7,70 4 2.6 2.4 2.5 weighted 60 per cent; publications, 10 per 10 University of Newcastle (M) 7,587 2.5 2.4 2.3 cent; and using the two most recent years’ 11 CURTIN UNIVERSITY 6,178 2.1 2.1 2.0 data on higher degree research student 12 Griffith University 6,170 2.0 2.1 2.2 places (measured in EFTSL), 30 per cent. 13 Flinders University of SA (M) 6,167 2.0 2.1 2.3 14 University of Wollongong 5,847 1.9 1.9 1.9 Table 7, providing IGS allocations by 15 Queensland University of Technology 5,833 1.9 1.8 1.7 university, is ranked according to each 16 Macquarie University 5,749 1.9 1.9 2.0 institution’s share of the total IGS for 2007. 17 La Trobe University 5,501 1.8 1.9 2.0 Curtin improve its ranking by two places 18 Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology 5,391 1.8 1.8 1.8 to 11th place in 2007 and sits above the 19 Murdoch University 5,262 1.7 1.8 1.7 midpoint in this ordering in which the ATN 20 University of South Australia 4,998 1.7 1.6 1.6 21 University of Technology, Sydney 4,935 1.6 1.4 1.4 universities are identified through use of 22 Deakin University 4,410 1.5 1.4 1.3 italics, the Western Australian universities with 23 James Cook University 3,977 1.3 1.3 1.4 bold type, and those with medical schools 24 University of New England 3,370 1.1 1.2 1.2 and supporting departments with the letter 25 University of Western Sydney 3,225 1.1 1.1 1.2 ‘M’. This last group of universities has the 26 Swinburne University of Technology 2,505 0.8 0.8 0.7 advantage of enhanced access to National 27 Victoria University 1,976 0.7 0.7 0.7 Competitive Research Grants schemes (for 28 Charles Darwin University 1,952 0.7 0.5 0.4 29 Edith Cowan University 1,945 0.6 0.6 0.6 example, medical research funding through 30 Charles Sturt University 1,711 0.6 0.5 0.5 National Health & Medical Research Council). 31 University of Canberra 1,656 0.6 0.6 0.6 They include the University of Western 32 Southern Cross University 1,539 0.5 0.5 0.5 Australia, the only West Australian university 33 Central Queensland University 1,315 0.4 0.4 0.4 performing at a higher level than Curtin. 34 University of Southern Queensland 1,028 0.3 0.4 0.4 Their exclusion from the ranking would 35 University of Ballarat 865 0.3 0.3 0.2 see Curtin move to second place behind 36 Australian Catholic University 683 0.2 0.2 0.2 37 University of the Sunshine Coast 241 0.1 0.1 0.1 Australian National University. Curtin’s IGS 38 Australian Maritime College 233 0.1 0.1 0.1 allocation should be assessed in this context. 39 Melbourne College of Divinity 222 0.1 0.1 0.1 Curtin has also exceeded its target 40 Batchelor Inst Indigenous Tertiary Ed 127 0.0 0.0 0.0 by improving its national ranking 41 Bond University 121 0.0 0.0 0.0 42 University of Notre Dame, Australia 101 0.0 0.0 0.0 from 13th to 11th in 2007. Total 302,035 100.0 100.0 100.0
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Research funding (input) In Table 8 the indicator ‘All Research Funding’ overall higher performance when measured growth, measured by: uses allocations by source to demonstrate against the ATN average. Curtin maintains the level of research undertaken at Curtin in its position at 11th in the national ranking in (i) Total Research Funding 2004, 2005 and 2006 compared with the the sector (42 universities) exceeding the Benchmark gauge: ATN Average, ATN and all Australian universities’ averages. target of 12th place. All research funding and National ranking Evidence of outcomes in relation to the types increased in 2006, with substantial Research and Development objective can increases in Australian Competitive Research be demonstrated by Curtin’s continued Grants and Public Sector research funding.
Table 8. All Research Funding: Comparison between Curtin, the Average of all ATN Universities and National Ranking 2004 – 2006 2004 2005 2006 Curtin ATN1 Nat Curtin ATN1 Curtin ATN1 Nat Source of Research Funding Nat Rank $’000 $’000 Rank $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Rank Australian Competitive 7,721 7,723 20 8,640 9,848 19 11,877 11,402 17 Research Grants2 Other Public Sector 8,752 7,515 12 7,9 8 5 7,9 87 15 13,795 11,474 10 Research Funding2 Industry & Other 10,855 7,9 0 4 12 13,650 8,601 10 14,929 10,184 11 Funding for Research2 Cooperative Research 5,145 2,958 9 6,156 3,333 7 7,10 9 3,694 6 Centres Funds3 Other Sources (i.e. IGS, Research Quantum 7,18 8 6,244 16 7,56 4 6,637 17 8,092 7,210 17 & Research Infrastructure) Total Research Income 39,662 32,344 13 43,996 36,406 11 55,803 43,963 11 Curtin Target 12 12 12 1. ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities. 2. Source data: the Commonwealth’s Finance and Publications Research Data Collection and made available to institutions by the Australian Vice-Chancellors’ Committee (AVCC). 3. CRC data are obtained for all Australian universities from the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR). For further information see Table 9. Notes: • Except for CRC data, which are reported for financial years, financial data are for calendar year periods.
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Research funding (input) Table 9. DEEWR CRC Funding Financial Year 2006/2007 growth, measured by: % DEEWR CRC Funding Financial Years 2004/2005, 2005/2006 and 2006/2007 – University Ranking According to % Share in 2006/2007 (j) Cooperative Research ($’000) % Share % Share % Share Rank University Centre (CRC) Funding 06/07 06/07 05/06 04/05 Benchmark gauge: National ranking 1 University of Queensland 19,179 14.7 13.9 13.0 2 University of Melbourne 12,260 9.4 9.6 7.8 Table 9, which expands on the Cooperative 3 University of Sydney 7,8 9 8 6.0 5.4 4.9 Research Centre Funding data in Table 4 Monash University 7,78 5 5.9 9.0 8.2 5 University of Western Australia 7,491 5.7 5.2 6.1 8, demonstrates the amount of applied 6 CURTIN UNIVERSITY 7,10 9 5.4 4.7 4.6 collaborative research at Curtin reflecting 7 University of Adelaide 6,813 5.2 5.2 5.5 in particular the University’s commitment 8 James Cook University 5,849 4.5 4.5 4.8 to collaboration with external organisations 9 University of Tasmania 5,733 4.4 3.6 4.6 in research and development, technology 10 Murdoch University 5,242 4.0 3.1 2.9 transfer and innovation. Success in 11 University of New South Wales 4,887 3.7 3.2 3.2 CRC funding is thus an expression of 12 Queensland University of Technology 4,640 3.5 3.2 3.0 13 Southern Cross University 4,005 3.1 2.8 2.3 another of the University’s strategic 14 Griffith University 3,728 2.8 3.2 4.4 objectives: Engage in productive national 15 Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology 3,378 2.6 2.6 3.2 and international partnerships. 16 University of New England 3,001 2.3 2.5 2.6 17 Australian National University 2,572 2.0 2.6 3.6 Established through the Commonwealth 18 University of South Australia 2,310 1.8 1.9 1.8 Government’s Cooperative Research Centres 19 University of Wollongong 1,983 1.5 2.2 2.2 Program, CRCs link public and private 20 Swinburne University of Technology 1,768 1.4 1.8 2.7 sectors across Australia, bringing together 21 University of Newcastle 1,588 1.2 1.0 1.3 a wide range of expertise and facilities, with 22 Charles Sturt University 1,460 1.1 1.1 1.1 a focus on new and innovative research, 23 University of Canberra 1,371 1.0 1.4 1.2 leading to competitive technological 24 Charles Darwin University 1,344 1.0 1.4 1.1 25 Victoria University 1,283 1.0 0.8 0.8 applications. Commonwealth CRC funding 26 Central Queensland University 1,173 0.9 0.7 0.6 data differ from those for the other research 27 University of Technology, Sydney 1,035 0.8 0.4 0.5 funding categories insofar as it covers the 28 La Trobe University 937 0.7 0.8 0.8 financial rather than the calendar year. 29 Macquarie University 899 0.7 0.7 0.5 30 University of Western Sydney 683 0.5 0.3 0.0 Curtin exceeded its target by improving 31 Flinders University of SA 598 0.5 0.7 0.4 its national ranking by one place from 32 Deakin University 419 0.3 0.3 0.4 7th in 2005/6 to 6th in 2006/7. 33 University of Southern Queensland 278 0.2 0.1 0.0 34 Edith Cowan University 91 0.1 0.0 0.0 35 Australian Maritime College 67 0.1 0.0 0.0 36 Australian Catholic University 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 36 Batchelor Inst Indigenous Tertiary Ed 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 36 Bond University 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 36 Melbourne College of Divinity 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 36 University of Ballarat 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 36 University of Notre Dame, Australia 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 36 University of the Sunshine Coast 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Total 130,857 100.0 100.0 100.0
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> performance indicators (continued)
Research publications discussion demonstrates that referees, expert The additional initiatives and incentives growth measured by: in the appropriate field, have judged the work that were put in place to address the under worthy of acceptance and dissemination to achievement in research publications in (k) Number of Research the peer research community. The number recent years has resulted in an 11 per cent Publications of publications produced is a measure of increase in publications in 2006 against Benchmark gauge: ATN the quantity and quality of research and 2005. Despite the publication rate remaining and National average development underway or completed. slightly below the ATN average, it is within five publications of the National average of Research publications are considered an Table 10 gives Curtin’s relative performance 1031.1, which is also the Curtin Target. important measure of research performance in respect of the Publications indicator over throughout the university sector. The the period 2004 – 2006 against averages publication of research findings and for the ATN and all Australian universities.
Table 10. Research Publications: Comparison between Curtin totals, Average of all ATN Universities and Average of all Australian Universities1 2004 – 2006
2004 2005 2006 Publication Type Curtin ATN2 All3 Curtin ATN2 All3 Curtin ATN2 All3 Books 11.8 11.9 15.5 6.5 8.8 16.5 13.6 12.3 17.3 Book Chapters Journal Articles 902.1 926.6 880.9 915.0 1018.6 9 67.2 1012.9 1116 1014.1 Conference Publications Total Publications 914.0 938.5 896.4 921.5 1027.5 983.7 1026.5 1128.3 1031.3 Curtin Target 896.4 983.7 1031.3 1. Source data for Research publications data: the Commonwealth’s Finance and Publications Research Data Collection and made available to institutions by the Australian Vice-Chancellors’ Committee (AVCC). 2. ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities. 3. All refers to the average of all Australian Universities.
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Section A A2.2 Research and Development Efficiency Higher Education Performance Ref Name Output/Objective Research Funding per 10 FTE Academic Staff: A2 Research and l Comparison between Curtin and the Averages Research funding efficiency Development for ATN Universities and National Ranking Research Publications per 10 FTE Academic Staff: Comparison between Performance m Research publications efficiency Curtin and the Averages for ATN Universities Strategic Objective: and all Australian Universities. To focus on areas of high impact, high quality research. Research funding efficiency, toward the Research and Development measured by: goal are being earned and applied.
(l) Total Research Funding per Table 11 compares Curtin’s research 10 FTE Academic Staff funding performance per 10 FTE academic staff with the averages for the ATN and all Benchmark gauge: ATN Australian universities. Curtin’s funding of average and National rank $656,000 per 10 FTE remains above the The indicator ‘Research Funding per 10 FTE ATN average and surpasses the Curtin Academic Staff’ provides an insight into target of $500,000. Curtin also improved its the efficiency with which monies directed National ranking by three places to 14th.
Table 11. Research Funding per 10 FTE Academic Staff: Comparison between Curtin, the Average of all ATN Universities and the National Ranking 2004 – 20061 2004 2005 2006 Curtin ATN2 Curtin ATN2 Curtin ATN2 Nat Nat Nat Source of Research Funding $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Rank Rank Rank /10 FTE /10 FTE /10 FTE /10 FTE /10 FTE /10 FTE Australian Competitive 92 93 24 102 116 23 140 129 20 Research Grants Other Public Sector 104 89 15 94 92 19 162 129 14 Research Funding Industry & Other 129 96 13 161 101 10 175 114 12 Funding for Research Cooperative Research 61 35 11 73 38 8 84 41 6 Centre Funds Other Sources (i.e IGS, Research Quantum 85 75 21 89 77 21 95 81 19 & Research Infrastructure) Total 471 388 17 519 425 17 656 493 14 Curtin Target 500 500 500 1. FTE Academics are from all funding sources in academic organisational units and include the category of teaching & research staff with a level of Lecturer B or above and research only academic staff at all levels. Hourly paid academic staff is excluded. All staff data are derived from the Commonwealth annual statistical collections. 2. ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities.
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Research publications Research publications per 10 full‑time Table 12 shows that in respect of the productivity, measured by: equivalent (FTE) academic staff at number of research publications per 10 Curtin are provided in Table 12 and FTE Academic staff, Curtin’s output of 10.9 (m) Total Number of Research include comparisons with the research publications per 10 FTE academic staff in Publications per 10 FTE publication rates for ATN and all Australian 2005 rose to 12.1 in 2006. Although it still Academic Staff universities. All staff data are derived from remains below the ATN average of 12.6, the Benchmark gauge: ATN the Commonwealth annual statistical output is for the first time on par with the and National average collections. The definition of academic National average, which is Curtin’s target. research staff is identical to that used for the efficiency indicators (Note 1 of Table 11).
Table 12. Number of Research Publications per 10 FTE Academic Staff1: Comparison of Curtin, Average of all ATN Universities and Average of all Australian Universities, 2004 – 2006 2004 2005 2006 Publication Type Curtin ATN2 All3 Curtin ATN2 All3 Curtin ATN2 All3 Books 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 Book Chapters Journal Articles 10.7 11.1 11.0 10.8 11.8 12.3 11.9 12.5 11.9 Conference Publications Total 10.8 11.2 11.2 10.9 11.9 12.5 12.1 12.6 12.1 Curtin Target 11.2 12.5 12.1 1. FTE Academics are from all funding sources in academic organisational units and include the category of teaching & research staff with a level of Lecturer B or above and research only academic staff at all levels. Hourly paid academic staff is excluded. 2. ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities. 3. All refers to the average of all Australian Universities.
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Section B Vocational Education and Training Performance Indicators Summary Vocational Ref Name Output/Objective Percentage of Graduates n Quality teaching Education & Training Satisfied with Courses B1 Effectiveness Performance o Employment Rate of Graduates Quality graduates
Strategic Objective: p Graduates in Further Study Quality graduates to supply quality teaching and skills Expenditure per Student B2 Efficiency q Efficient T&L expenditure formation services to both meet customer Curriculum Hour needs and provide education and training for employment in the region B1 V ocational Education & Training Effectiveness
Quality teaching, measured by: of training services, and as assessed as part of a nationally conducted Graduate (n) Percentage of Graduates Survey. In 2007, Curtin continued to exceed Satisfied with their Course both State and National averages. Benchmark gauge: National average The National surveying body carries out Table 13 covering the years 2004 – 2007 biennial detailed small area sampling. signals the extent to which Curtin met In 2004 and 2006 the survey returns are individual student needs in terms of skills deemed insufficient for reporting purposes. formation outcomes through provision
Table 13. VET Graduate Satisfaction 2004 – 2007 2004 20051 2006 20071 90% 90% Curtin n/a n/a (89%) (91%) Number of Respondents 1,558 1,673 87% 88% State n/a n/a (87%) (87%) Number of Respondents 36,068 36,544 88% 89% National n/a n/a (88%) (89%) Number of Respondents 345,012 391,597 Notes: • 1 Bracketed percentages represent estimates prepared by the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER), provided to the Western Australian Department of Training and Employment (WADOT), and are intended as a better measure of the full year’s outcomes given the data collected in June. Unbracketed percentages are generated from actual rather than estimated responses. • Rounding errors may occur. • Data for 2004 and 2006 were unavailable because the national surveying body switched from annual to biennial ‘detailed’ small area sampling. Consequently the relevant 2004 and 2006 survey returns for Curtin were deemed insufficient for reporting purposes. • Number of respondents, response rate in percentage, sample size and standard deviation for Curtin, state and national data in 2005 and 2007 are sourced from NCVER report. Confidence level and interval are not reported. Survey Data for 2007: Curtin: Response rate = 98%; sample size = 424 and standard deviation = 0.8 State: Response rate = 98%; sample size = 6,053 and standard deviation = 0.8 National: Response rate = 98%; sample size = 40,626 and standard deviation = 0.8
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Quality graduates, measured by: Table 14, showing the proportion of Curtin VET graduates in 2007 had higher graduates in employment in the year employment rates and lower unemployment (o) Employment Rate of Graduates following their graduation, indicates the rates than both the State and National Benchmark gauge: WA extent to which the desired outcomes averages, continuing the pattern set in 2005. and National average were successfully achieved in terms of an employable and adaptable graduate.
Table 14. VET Graduate Employment 2004 – 2007 2004 20051 2006 20071 No. % No. % No. % No. % Curtin 89% 91% Employed n/a n/a 372 n/a n/a 376 (91%) (92%) 5% 3% Unemployed n/a n/a 22 n/a n/a 13 (5%) (3%) 5% 6% Not in Labour Force n/a n/a 22 n/a n/a 25 (4%) (5%) Number of Respondents 1,541 1,669 State 78% 83% Employed n/a n/a 5,241 n/a n/a 4,681 (78%) (83%) 8% 6% Unemployed n/a n/a 563 n/a n/a 340 (9%) (6%) 13% 11% Not in Labour Force n/a n/a 866 n/a n/a 641 (13%) (11%) Number of Respondents 34,211 34,974 National 80% 81% Employed n/a n/a 32,231 n/a n/a 31,094 (79%) (80%) 9% 8% Unemployed n/a n/a 3,735 n/a n/a 3,183 (10%) (9%) 11% 10% Not in Labour Force n/a n/a 4,347 n/a n/a 3,980 (11%) (10%) Number of Respondents 329,118 378,830 Notes: • 1 Bracketed percentages represent estimates prepared by the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER), provided to the Western Australian Department of Training and Employment (WADOT), and are intended as a better measure of the full year’s outcomes given the data collected in June. Unbracketed percentages are generated from actual rather than estimated responses. • Rounding errors may occur. • Data for 2004 and 2006 were unavailable because the national surveying body switched from annual to biennial ‘detailed’ small area sampling. Consequently the relevant 2004 and 2006 survey returns for Curtin were deemed insufficient for reporting purposes. • Numbers of respondents, response rate in percentage, and sample size for Curtin, state and national data in 2005 and 2007 are sourced from NCVER report. Confidence level and interval and standard deviation are not reported. Survey Data for 2007: Curtin: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 422 State: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 5,781 National: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 39,062
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Quality graduates, measured by: of effectiveness in achieving the desired higher percentage of Curtin VET graduates outcome of meeting customer needs. enrolled for further study in 2007 compared (p) Graduates in Further Study Table 15 provides these data for the period with 2005. The gap between the Curtin Benchmark gauge: WA 2004 – 2007, with Curtin benchmarked outcome and the State and national and National average against State and National data. Note that benchmarks has been significantly reduced. respondents may also be in work whilst The proportion of graduates who enrol in engaging in further study. A significantly further study provides another measure
Table 15. VET Graduates Enrolled in Further Study 2004 – 2007 2004 20051 2006 20071 No. % No. % No. % No. % 22% 25% Curtin n/a n/a 92 n/a n/a 102 (20%) (23%) Number of Respondents 1,529 1,669 Target – Exceed State and National Percentages 37% 33% State n/a n/a 2,416 n/a n/a 1,881 (36%) (34%) Number of Respondents 33,649 34,974 34% 32% National n/a n/a 13,415 n/a n/a 12,147 (33%) (31%) Number of Respondents 324,042 378,830 Notes: • 1 Bracketed percentages represent estimates prepared by the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER), provided to the Western Australian Department of Training and Employment (WADOT), and are intended as a better measure of the full year’s outcomes given the data collected in June. Unbracketed percentages are generated from actual rather than estimated responses. • Rounding errors may occur. • Data for 2004 and 2006 were unavailable because the national surveying body switched from annual to biennial ‘detailed’ small area sampling. Consequently the relevant 2004 and 2006 survey returns for Curtin were deemed insufficient for reporting purposes. • Numbers of respondents, response rate in percentage, and sample size for Curtin, state and national data in 2005 and 2007 are sourced from NCVER report. Confidence level and interval and standard deviation are not reported. Survey Data for 2007: Curtin: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 422 State: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 5,781 National: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 39,062
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B2 Vocational Education and Training Efficiency
B2 Vocational Education The indicator Expenditure per Student and Training Efficiency Curriculum Hour provides an insight into the efficiency with which monies directed Efficient teaching and learning towards the VET goal have been spent. expenditure, measured by Table 16 records expenditure and (q) Expenditure per Student Student Curriculum Hours (SCH). Curriculum Hour Ratios of Expenditure to SCH, with the Benchmark gauge: Not available numerator definition altered to reflect Teaching or Non-Teaching Costs respectively, are shown together with an overall Total Cost per SCH indicator.
Table 16. Expenditure per Student Curriculum Hour 2004 – 2007 2004 2005 2006 2007 Total SCH 699,587 622,379 6 67,924 656,868 Curtin Target in SCH 565,388 565,388 565,388 Total T&L Expenditure $15,492,823 $14,497,642 $12,466,442 $14,703,8861 Teaching Expenditure per SCH $11.29 $11.40 $8.98 $10.57 Non-Teaching Expenditure per SCH $10.86 $11.90 $9.68 $11.81 Total Teaching Expenditure per SCH $ 22.15 $23.30 $18.66 $22.38 1 Total T&L expenditure includes $7.758 million of other non-teaching related expenditure. Notes: • Rounding Errors may occur.
128 Curtin University of Technology Annual Report 2007
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