THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE • AUSTRALIA
Annual Report 200
Contact Annual Report 2002 The University of Newcastle University Drive Callaghan NSW 2308
Australia 2 www.newcastle.edu.au
UoN 2003/0119 The Hon Andrew Refshauge Minister for Education and Training New South Wales Parliament House Macquarie Street Sydney NSW 2000
Dear Mr Refshauge, On behalf of the Council of the University of Newcastle, we have the honour of transmitting to you, pursuant to section 10 of the Annual Reports (Statutory Bodies) Act 1984, a report on the work and activities of the University of Newcastle for the twelve months ended 31 December 2002.
Ric Charlton AM Chancellor
Roger Holmes Vice-Chancellor and President
Annual Report 2002 1 2 The University of Newcastle Expenses
tal $285.048m
Libraries $14,592m 5.119% Libraries
To
Public Services $3,344m 1.173%
Other Activities $0,913m 0.320% Other
Student Services $9,726m 3.412%
Academic Activities $0,913m 0.320% Academic
2
Buildings and Grounds $12,237m 4.293%
Other Academic Support Services $16,049m 5.630% Other
Administration and Other General Institutional Services and Other General Administration $48,080m 17.031%
otal University Revenue and Expenses 200
T
otal $282.307m
ees and Charges $48,080m 17.031%
T
F
Scholarships and Prizes $1,787m 0.633% Investment Income $1,420m 0.503% Donations and Bequests $1,110m 0.393% Consultancy and Contract Research $20,574m 7.288% Consultancy and Contract NSW Government Grants $0,977m 0.346% NSW Government Grants
Higher Education Contribution Scheme $56,165m 19.895%
Other Revenue $27,347m 9.687%
Commonwealth Government Grants $124,847m 44.224% Commonwealth Government Grants
Revenue
Annual Report 2002 3 Key Statistics 1998-2002 Student Enrolments 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Total Student Enrolments 19097 19254 19090 19800 21980 By Level Higher Degree Research 877 961 922 1037 1145 Masters by Coursework 949 905 949 1118 1601 Other Postgraduate 773 828 816 1023 1126 Bachelor 14747 14773 14664 14732 16166 Other Undergraduate 51 12 3 - - Cross-institution 28 34 31 41 34 Enabling 1257 1108 1078 1136 1485 Non-award 415 633 627 7131 423 By Faculty/Unit Business and Law 3629 3603 3687 3853 4068 Education and Arts 6667 6713 6568 6600 7111 Engineering and Built Environment 2464 2421 2347 2423 2744 Health 2728 2801 2736 2852 3009 Science and Information Technology 2210 2301 2351 2538 3106 English Language and Found Stud Centre 1257 1108 1078 1136 1485 Other University 142 307 323 398 457 By Campus^ Callaghan 17323 17451 17220 17850 19772 Central Coast 1774 1803 1870 1950 2208 By Funding Source Government Subsidised 16985 16646 16347 16384 17491 International Students 1167 1318 1362 1716 2262 Domestic Fee-Paying Postgrad 668 821 942 1256 1374 Postgraduate Education Loan Scheme ----288 Fee-Paying Non-standard Semester ----192 Fee-Paying Undergraduate ----27 Employer Funded 67 85 58 9 156 Non-award 210 384 368 415 157 Zero Load# --1320 33 By Commencing/Continuing Status Commencing 7703 7802 7996 9013 8791 Continuing 11394 11452 11094 10787 13189 By Gender Female 10590 10757 10762 11017 12081 Male 8507 8497 8328 8783 9899 By Attendance Type/Mode Full-time 11920 11805 11695 11725 12089 Part-time 6409 6623 6508 6941 8684 External 768 826 887 1134 1207
4 The University of Newcastle Other Information Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander 211 217 220 226 294 Student Program Load (EFTSU) 14741 14596 14469 14693 15926 Postgraduate 1477 1469 1483 1629 1991 Undergraduate 12360 12289 12150 12159 12912 Other 904 837 836 905 1023 Award Course Completions 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 By Level Higher Degree Research 143 105 103 145 111 Higher Degree Coursework 195 331 390 386 502 Other Postgraduate 454 390 513 451 454 Bachelor 2795 2963 3026 2984 3047 Other Undergraduate 30 12 13 2 - Total 3617 3801 4045 3968 4114 By Faculty Business and Law 594 853 882 866 962 Education and Arts 1392 1343 1520 1500 1452 Engineering and Built Environment 442 439 440 370 440 Health 751 752 761 747 744 Science and Information Technology 438 414 442 485 516 Total 3617 3801 4045 3968 4114 Other Information Higher Degree 338 436 493 531 613 Other than Higher Degree 3279 3365 3552 3437 3501 Total 3617 3801 4045 3968 4114
*EFTSU - Equivalent Full-time Student Unit #Zero Load - HDR students who have exceeded the maximum times allowed for completion of the program under DEST funding ^Campus refers to the program campus, not the teaching campus. Callaghan campus denotes all study locations other than the Central Coast. Variations to previously published data are due to either rounding (load figures) or revised data.
Annual Report 2002 5 6 The University of Newcastle Contents
Report From the Vice-Chancellor and President ______10 Charter ______11 Functions of the University ______12 Aims And Objectives ______13 Vision ______13 Values ______13 Mission ______13 Strategic Direction ______13 What the University of Newcastle strives for in its Graduates ______14 Management and Structure ______15 The Council ______15 Parliamentary Members ______15 The Official Members ______15 Appointed Members______15 Members appointed by the Minister ______15 Member appointed by Council ______16 Elected Members ______16 Corporate Governance ______17 Senior Management ______17 Committees ______18 Academic Structure ______19 Teaching and Learning ______20 University Medals ______20 New Programs & Other Initiatives ______22 Vice-Chancellor’s Division ______25 ELFS ______25 Flexible Delivery ______26 Communication & Information Services ______26 Education Services ______26 Research and Research Training ______27 Research Funding ______27 Research Management ______27 Research Centres ______28 Relevance of Research to the Community______29 Relevance of Research to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples ______31 Research Training ______32 Research Scholarships ______33 Research Support for Ethics ______33 Animal Services Unit ______33 Research Support Unit ______33 Biomolecular Research Facility______33 Advanced Mass Spectrometry Unit ______33 Electron Microscope and X-Ray Unit ______33
Annual Report 2002 7 Our Students ______35 Student Statistics ______35 Domicile of Students 2002 ______35 Students by Gender 1998-2002 ______36 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students 1998-2002 ______36 International Student Enrolments 1998 - 2002 ______37 International Student Enrolments by Gender & Home Address 2002 ______37 Student Enrolment & Load (EFTSU) by Campus 1998 - 2002 ______39 Student Numbers by Campus 1998 - 2002 ______40 Enrolment of Students by Attendance Mode 1998-2002 ______41 Enrolment of Students by Attendance Mode 2002 ______41 Exchange Programs ______42 Student Support Services ______42 Disability Services______42 International Student Support ______43 Student Loan Scheme ______43 University Counselling Service ______43 University Health Service ______44 Student Recruitment, Careers & Employment Office ______44 Chaplaincy Services ______44 Communication & Information Services ______45 Residential Services ______45 NUSport ______45 Student Awards & Achievements ______46 New Scholarships______47 Student Equity Initiatives ______49 Sporting Acheivements ______50 Our Staff ______51 Organisational Reform & Development ______51 Health and Safety ______53 Safety in Research ______55 Outside Study Program (OSPRO) ______55 Outside Study Program Application Criteria by Year and Gender ______56 Academic Promotions______57 Recruitment ______57 Honours List 2002 ______57 Exceptional Service Medal ______57 Vice-Chancellor’s Award for General Staff Excellence ______58 Staff Awards ______58 Acknowledgements ______59 Obituaries ______60 Equal Employment Opportunity ______60
8 The University of Newcastle Our Community ______66 Foundation Unit ______66 Communication & Information Services ______66 Education Services ______66 Faculty Reports ______67 Vice-Chancellor’s Industry & Community Luncheons ______70 Alumni Activities ______70 Public Lecture Programs ______71 The Morpeth Lecture ______71 CofFee Public Lecture Series ______71 Sir Ninian Stephen Lecture ______71 The 2002 Human Rights/Social Justice Lecture ______71 Glenn Murcutt Public Lecture ______71 NUSport & the Community ______71 Honorary Degrees ______72 Freedom of Information - Statement of Affairs ______72 Organisational Performance ______73 Finance and Facilities Management ______73 Commonwealth Government Funding Policy ______73 University Budget Policy ______73 Financial Management ______73 Physical Infrastructure ______76 Education Services ______76 Risk Management & Insurance ______76 Donations ______77 AUQA Audit and Quality Assurance ______79 The AUQA Visit to the University of Newcastle ______79 Quality Assurance at the University of Newcastle ______81 Benefits of the Institutional Strategic Plan ______81 Planning & Quality Framework ______81 Performance Reports to University Council ______82 National Comparability ______82 Data Sources ______83 Consumer Response ______83 Dean of Students ______83 Graduate Destination Survey and Course Experience Questionnaire ______84 Other Student Feedback ______85 Composite Student Questionnaire Data ______86 Curriculum Review ______86 Ethnic Affairs Priority Statement ______87 Independent Audit Report & Financial Report ______89 University of Newcastle ______89 The University of Newcastle Research Associates Limited (TUNRA) ______115 GraduateSchool.com Pty Limited ______138 Organisational Chart ______151 Access ______152
Annual Report 2002 9 Report from the Vice-Chancellor and President
2002 has been an enjoyable, busy and challenging year that contained many highlights of major significance to the University, the Hunter, Central Coast and other regions of NSW that we serve, Australia and internationally. 2002 will be remembered by most of us as the year of the Bali ‘bombings’ and the tragic loss of many Australian and Indonesian lives, and the lives of many other nationals from around the world. Australians have always been frequent travellers, and we as a people have enjoyed the status as fun loving and energetic tourists, as well as being prepared to travel to all parts of the globe for work, study, to visit family and friends, and to enjoy the history, cultures and experiences of other nationalities and countries. The events of October 12 2002 reminded us of the horrors of terrorism and the potential for us to be vulnerable to such attacks anywhere in the world, including here in Australia. Ironically, 2002 will also be remembered as the year in which the University of Newcastle came ‘of age’ in its international education programs. With 11% of our students as international students studying in Australia, off-shore in Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and other countries, or flexibly online through GraduateSchool.com or by distance programs, from more than 70 countries world wide, we can now claim to be a major player in international higher education. • the opening of the Birabhan Higher Education Centre, the Birabhan Cultural Festival held during October 17-20 and the In recognising this achievement, I pay tribute to our leaders, staff appointment of the first indigenous member of the University and strong supporters of international higher education throughout Council, Dr Bill Jonas; the University as well as our partners and agents supporting international higher education and research training. • fiftieth anniversaries for the disciplines of engineering and music at the University of Newcastle; and 2002 will also be remembered as the year of the Crossroads Review of Higher Education, initiated by the Federal Minister for •a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) appointment made to Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson. Over the past Professor Graham Goodwin. decade the environment in which universities operate in Australia The Australian Universities Quality Agency (AUQA) undertook its has changed markedly. Soon we expect a report from the Minister onsite audit in September 2002 and subsequently in its Quality that will signal policy changes that will affect the way we will Audit Report of the University, released on 5 February 2003, operate and are funded. described the University as ‘a well-established, research-intensive In less than 20 years universities have moved from a position where university that covers a wide range of disciplines’. The report also they were funded principally by government to a funding base that said ‘The University is well connected with the communities it for most institutions includes little more than 50% of revenue from serves’. government. At the same time demands from government, both state University of Newcastle students are consumers and expect value and commonwealth, for accountability have increased. for money and we are determined to give them that value. Every Students are now contributing from their own pockets a significant year we test students’ level of satisfaction through surveys and proportion of the cost of their university education. On behalf of the questionnaires, and when our students graduate we encourage Australian Vice-Chancellors I have spoken out about modest them to give a full and honest appraisal of their university allowances available to students and the disincentive to study that experience through the Graduate Destination Survey and the the current HECS repayment regime presents. I will continue to press Course Experience Questionnaire independently administered by these issues on behalf of some students who find themselves, as part the Graduate Careers Council of Australia. of a poverty cycle, requiring significant hours of part-time work. During 2002 and coming into 2003, we are committed to continue Other matters of significance to the University during 2002 were: to build a University that is recognised internationally for the contribution we are making in research and for the high quality of •The implementation of the new organisational structure for the our teaching and service to students. University promulgated in 2001 with five Faculties and the associated appointments of five Pro Vice-Chancellors; 25 Roger S Holmes multidisciplinary Schools as academic organizational units and Vice-Chancellor and President three Divisions: University Services, Research and International; 24 February 2003
10 The University of Newcastle Charter
After initially operating as a College of the University of New South Wales, the University of Newcastle was established by an Act of the New South Wales Parliament in 1964 (The University of Newcastle Act 1964), which was later replaced by The University of Newcastle Act, 1989. The Higher Education (Amalgamation) Act, 1989, provided for the amalgamation of the Hunter Institute of Higher Education and the Newcastle Branch of the State Conservatorium of Music with the University of Newcastle from 1 November, 1989. Under the Act the University has the authority to adopt a By-law. The University’s current By-law was Gazetted on 25 June 1999 (amended 22 September 2000), and provides a legislative framework for the conduct of elections and terms of office for members of the Council, functions of the Academic Senate, the establishment and operations of Convocation, making of Rules by the Council and the Vice-Chancellor, graduates of the University, the term of office of the Chancellor and the use of the University Seal.
Annual Report 2002 11 Functions of the University
In December 2001 the University of Newcastle Act 1989 was (3) The University has other functions as follows: amended by the Universities Legislation Amendment (Financial and (a) the University may exercise commercial functions comprising other Powers) Act 2001 (commenced 1 March 2002). the commercial exploitation or development, for the University’s The amendment makes additional provisions for the financial and benefit, of any facility, resource or property of the University or in other powers of the University, particularly by expanding the object which the University has a right or interest (including, for and functions of the University (Section 6), and by specifying the example, study, research, knowledge and intellectual property manner in which the University should manage its commercial and the practical application of study, research, knowledge and activities including the commercial activities of its controlled entities. intellectual property), whether alone or with others, The object and functions of the University under the amended (b) the University may develop and provide cultural, sporting, Section 6 of the Act are: professional, technical and vocational services to the community, Object and Functions of University (c) the University has such general and ancillary functions as may be necessary or convenient for enabling or assisting the 6. (1) The object of the University is the promotion, within the limits of University to promote the object and interests of the University, the University’s resources, of scholarship, research, free inquiry, the or as may complement or be incidental to the promotion of the interaction of research and teaching, and academic excellence. object and interests of the University, (2) The University has the following principal functions for the (d) the University has such other functions as are conferred or promotion of its object: imposed on it by or under this or any other Act. (a) the provision of facilities for education and research of (4) The functions of the University may be exercised within or university standard, having particular regard to the needs of outside the State, including outside Australia. the Hunter region, the Central Coast and surrounding areas, (b) the encouragement of the dissemination, advancement, development and application of knowledge informed by free inquiry, (c) the provision of courses of study or instruction across a range of fields, and the carrying out of research, to meet the needs of the community, (d) the participation in public discourse, (e) the conferring of degrees, including those of Bachelor, Master and Doctor, and the awarding of diplomas, certificates and other awards, (f) the provision of teaching and learning that engage with advanced knowledge and inquiry, (g) the development of governance, procedural rules, admission policies, financial arrangements and quality assurance processes that are underpinned by the values and goals referred to in the functions set out in this subsection, and that are sufficient to ensure the integrity of the University’s academic programs.
12 The University of Newcastle Aims and Objectives
Vision Strategic Direction The University of Newcastle will be recognised for the excellence of The University of Newcastle has set a direction for each of the our education and research, the strength of our partnerships and the strategic themes for the next three years as detailed in its value of our contribution to regional, national and global enrichment. Institutional Strategic Plan (ISP): Teaching and Learning Values In pursuing excellence in teaching and learning while reflecting the The University values: values of the University, our strategies will focus on: • Our students and staff • sharpening the nexus between teaching and research; • Our region • supporting the professional development of our teachers; •Freedom of enquiry and expression • developing collaborative student-centred support systems; and • Liveliness and innovation • reviewing the content of our programs and courses to ensure •The creation, dissemination and application of new knowledge we are preparing graduates who are global citizens and valued professionals. • Pursuit of lifelong learning Research and Research Training • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ culture and aspirations In strengthening our role as a research-intensive university with a reputation for excellence, our strategies will focus on: • Diversity, equity and social justice • developing areas of existing and emerging strength; • Environmentally sustainable practices • maintaining strong ties with our regional and other • Equitable access to education and employment industry partners; •Fair and ethical standards of behaviour • establishing new partnerships; • Effective and responsive management • initiating cross-faculty and cross-discipline collaboration across thematic research areas; and Mission • fostering the development of our researchers and research students. The University of Newcastle: Our Students • prepares graduates who contribute to society, are adaptable Our students and their education are of prime importance to us. In global citizens and are sought out by employers; creating a vibrant and supportive learning environment, our • undertakes outstanding research, including creative works and emphasis will be on: scholarship; and • developing student focussed services and systems; • contributes to social, economic and cultural enrichment and • supporting the aspirations of: people from our region; environmental sustainability. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and members of equity groups; • encouraging the enrolment of international students and the internationalisation of our university; and • fostering a culture that respects and values diversity.
Annual Report 2002 13 Our Staff What the University of Newcastle Strives for Our staff are integral to the achievement of our mission. They are a in its Graduates valued resource. Our strategies for building a stimulating and • Comprehensive and well founded knowledge in relevant rewarding workplace will include: discipline(s), appropriate professional knowledge and skills, and • resourcing and supporting staff appropriately; high ethical standards • fostering their training and development; • Development of a broad range of skills designed to successfully meet challenges both within and outside their chosen discipline • implementing Managing for Performance; and • Ability to think logically and laterally, critically and creatively, • targeting and recruiting people with identified strengths analyse and synthesise, consider different options and viewpoints, and attributes. and apply these effectively in decision-making and problem-solving Our Community • Ability to demonstrate adaptability, liveliness, innovation The University has a strong commitment to the community it serves: and inventiveness its region; its alumni community; its Indigenous partners; its friends • High level of oral and written communication skills across the nation and the world. In keeping with its commitment to operating in partnership with others, it will: • Commitment to lifelong learning, continued intellectual development and creativity • strengthen its ties with its partners; •A capacity for teamwork and effective participation • develop better systems of communicating with its alumni and other friends; and • Respect for and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures and aspirations • foster events that offer the regional community cultural and academic learning experiences. • Appreciation and valuing of cultural and intellectual diversity Organisational Performance • Ability and willingness to contribute to the life of their community In assuring the quality of our organisational performance, we • Information literacy including skills in acquiring, organising and will develop: presenting information • integrated management information systems that are • Respect for and commitment to environmentally accessible and reliable; sustainable practices • improved planning tools, • mechanisms for consultation with our stakeholders; and • organisational performance measures.
14 The University of Newcastle Management and Structure
The Council (c) Appointed Members (5) The Council is the governing body of the University. It has, by virtue The appointed members comprise four persons appointed by the of Section 16 of the University of Newcastle Act, 1989, the Minister from, as far as practicable, the following categories: responsibility for the management of the affairs and concerns of (a) persons experienced in the field of education or the arts; the University and may act in all matters concerning the University. (b) persons experienced in technology, industry, commerce or The Council holds six ordinary meetings each year. Except when it is industrial relations; considering confidential items, Council meetings are open to (c) persons who are practising, or have practised, a profession; members of the University. and the Council may appoint any other person to be a member of Under the University of Newcastle Act, 1989 the Council consists of the Council. 19 members: Members appointed by the Minister (4) •Two parliamentary members Mr Wilton Ainsworth •Three official members; BSc(NSW) (reappointed for a term of office of four years expiring 31 August 2006) • Five appointed members (four members appointed by the Meetings of the Council attended: 5/6 Minister and one member appointed by the Council); and Ms Judith Dwyer • Nine elected members. Dip Ed, BEc(N.E.), MMan (Technol.Syd) The Council may, at its discretion, appoint an additional member. (term of office expired on 31 August 2002) The provision has always been invoked to provide for a greater Meetings of the Council attended: 1/4 breadth of background and expertise on the Council. Dr William Jonas AM Members of the Council during 2002 were: BA(Hons), DipEd (NSW), MA, PhD (PNG), DUniv (honoris causa) (appointed for a term of office of four years expiring 31 August 2006) (a) Parliamentary Members (2) Meetings of the Council attended: 1/2 One Member of the Legislative Council elected by that Council The Honourable Peter Breen MLC Ms Julie Midson York JP Meetings of the Council attended: 2/6 Dip School Admin, BAdminLeadership(N.E.) (reappointed for a term of office of four years expiring 31 August 2006) One Member of the Legislative Assembly elected by that Assembly Meetings of the Council attended: 6/6 Mr John Charles Price MP Meetings of the Council attended: 2/6 Ms Patricia Moran BA(Macq),GradDipTecLib(WSyd), MEdStud (b) The Official Members (3) (term of office expired on 31 August 2002) The Chancellor Meetings of the Council attended: 3/4 Mr Ric Charlton, AM Ms Sharryn Brownlee BE, MESc(Syd), FTSE, FAIM, FAICD (appointed for a term of office of four years expiring 31 August 2006) Meetings of the Council attended: 6/6 Meetings of the Council attended: 0/2 The Vice-Chancellor Professor Roger Holmes BSc, PhD(Q’ld), DSc, DUniv (honoris causa)(Griff), FAA Meetings of the Council attended: 6/6 The President of the Academic Senate Professor Linda Connor BA(Hons)(Syd), PhD Meetings of the Council attended: 5/6
Annual Report 2002 15 Member appointed by Council (1) Four persons who are members of Convocation (but who are not members of the academic or non-academic staff of the University or Mr Michael Johns, LLM(Syd) students of the University) elected by members of Convocation: Meetings of the Council attended: 6/6 Mr Khalil Kharwa (d) Elected Members (9) BSc, Dip Ed, MEd Stud Two persons who are members of the academic staff of the University (ceased to have the qualification for office on 15 February 2002) elected by members of the academic staff of the University: Meetings of the Council attended: 0/1 Associate Professor William Warren Ms Jean McGarry MA, MPsych(Clin.), PhD, Dip Law(LPAB)(Syd), FAPS AssocDip(SocWelfare)(N’cle CAE), BA(SocSC)(Curtin), Dip Ed, (term of office expired on 31 August 2002) MEd(Technol.Syd.) Meetings of the Council attended: 4/4 (casual vacancy from 22 February to 31 August 2002) Meetings of the Council attended: 3/3 Associate Professor Timothy Roberts BSci (Adel), PhD (Flinders) Ms Jill Scott (elected for a two year term of office expiring on 31 August 2004) BA, ATCL Meetings of the Council attended: 2/2 (term of office expired on 31 August 2002) Meetings of the Council attended: 3/4 Dr Ingeborg Koch PhD (ANU) Emeritus Professor Godfrey Tanner (term of office expired on 31 August 2002) MA (Camb) Meetings of the Council attended: 3/4 (died 10 July 2002) Meetings of the Council attended: 2/4 Associate Professor Wayne Reynolds BA, Dip Ed, PhD Mr Christopher Tola JP (elected for a two year term of office expiring on 31 August 2004) BA Meetings of the Council attended: 2/2 (elected to a three year term of office expiring on 31 August 2005) Meetings of the Council attended: 2/2 One person who is a member of the non-academic staff of the University elected by members of the non-academic staff of the University: Ms Jane Snell BTeach/BA(Hons) Ms Vicki Petersen (elected to a three year term of office expiring on 31 August 2005) GradDipMedia(Aust FilmTV & Radio Sch), BA Meetings of the Council attended: 2/2 (re-elected for a two-year term of office expiring on 31 August 2004) Meetings of the Council attended: 5/6 Emeritus Professor Ken Dutton BA(Syd), MA(Syd), Docteur de l’Université (Paris), One person who is an undergraduate student of the University but DLitt(honoris causa), FACE, Officier dans l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques who is not a member of the academic or non-academic staff of the (elected to a three year term of office expiring on 31 August 2005) University elected by the undergraduate students of the University: Meetings of the Council attended: 2/2 Ms Kylie Rooke The Deputy Chancellor (re-elected for a one year term of office expiring on 31 August 2003) Professor Trevor Waring Meetings of the Council attended: 4/6 BA, MSc, FAPS One person who is a postgraduate student of the University but (re-elected to a three year term of office expiring on 31 August 2005) who is not a member of the academic or non-academic staff of the Meetings of the Council attended: 6/6 University elected by the postgraduate students of the University: Ms Suzanne Snead BSc, MSc(Southern Mississippi) (term of office expired on 31 August 2002) Meetings of the Council attended: 4/4 Mr Gavin Hazel BEd(Eng/Hist)(Hons), MEd Stud (elected for a one year term of office expiring on 31 August 2003) Meetings of the Council attended: 2/2
16 The University of Newcastle Corporate Governance The Senior Executive Group is the Vice-Chancellor and President’s chief advisory committee and comprises the senior The Council of the University of Newcastle in 2002 completed a management of the University. The five Pro Vice-Chancellors are process of self-review which allowed the Council to apply the each responsible to the Vice-Chancellor for the academic leadership principles of quality assurance to its operations. and efficient and effective operation of their Faculty and also have To ensure the delivery of responsible corporate governance to the a University wide portfolio: University the Council also attends an annual strategic planning Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Roger Holmes retreat where they assess and review their own progress and that Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian English of the University under the strategies and targets enunciated in the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Ron MacDonald Institutional Strategic Plan. Vice-President (University Services) Ms Linda O’Brien Senior Management President of the Academic Senate Professor Linda Connor Vice-Chancellor and President Pro Vice-Chancellor, Business and Law The Vice-Chancellor and President of the University is appointed by and Pro Vice-Chancellor, International Professor Bernard Carey the Council under Section 12 of the Act. The Vice-Chancellor and Pro Vice-Chancellor, Education and Arts President is the chief executive officer of the University. He has charge and Pro Vice-Chancellor, of the overall direction of corporate planning, budget activities and Central Coast Campuses Professor Terry Lovat external relations of the University. Under the Council, he manages and supervises the administrative, financial and other activities of the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Engineering University. He consults with and advises the Academic Senate and and Built Environment other bodies, supervises the discipline of the University and puts into and Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research Professor Adrian Page effect the by-laws, reports or resolutions passed or adopted by Pro Vice-Chancellor, Health Council. The Vice-Chancellor is ex-officio a member of every Faculty and Pro Vice-Chancellor, Business Board and of all committees within the University and may preside at and Community Links Professor John Marley any meeting of those Boards and Committees. Pro Vice-Chancellor, Science and Information Technology and Pro Vice-Chancellor, Teaching and Learning Professor Bill Hogarth
Annual Report 2002 17 Committees (e) to determine, after consultation with each of the faculties, schools, boards or other bodies concerned, any matter concerning any The Council receives advice on academic matters from the Academic course of study or examination that is not solely within the Senate, the peak academic decision-making body of the University. province of any single faculty, school, board or other body, The following standing committees also facilitate the operations of (f) to consider, and report to the Council or to any other body the Council: within the University on, any matter affecting the policies and Animal Care and Ethics Committee activities of the University or of any such body, Audit Committee (g) to exercise such other functions as may be conferred or Disciplinary Appeals Committee imposed on the Academic Senate by the rules. Discipline Committee Gladys M Brawn Memorial Gift Committee The President of Academic Senate is the senior elected Honorary Degrees & Exceptional Service Medals Committee academic in the University, with primary responsibility to the Human Research Ethics Committee Academic Senate. Kelver Hartley Awards Committee Committees of the Academic Senate Medals Committee Promotions Appeals Committee The following committees report to and/or are advisory to the Promotions Committee (Academic) Academic Senate: Resources and Administration Committee Faculty Boards: Tender/Expressions of Interest Review Committee Faculty of Business and Law Academic Senate Faculty of Education and Arts The Academic Senate is the principal academic body of the University of Newcastle. Together with the University Council and Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment the Vice-Chancellor, it constitutes the supreme executive authority Faculty of Health of the University. It is the primary forum for debate on all academic issues in the University and has a major role in academic quality Faculty of Science and Information Technology assurance processes. The Academic Senate has the mission to Portfolio Committees: protect, promote and enhance the excellence of the core academic activities in the University - teaching and research. The majority of Central Coast Campuses Portfolio Committee the members of the Academic Senate are elected by the academic Community Relations Portfolio Committee staff of the University. Curriculum, Teaching and Learning Portfolio Committee The Functions of Academic Senate are specified in Part 3 Section 28 of the University of Newcastle By-law 1999: Information Technology Portfolio Committee Functions of Academic Senate International Portfolio Committee The Academic Senate is the principle academic body in the Postgraduate Programs Portfolio Committee University, and has the following functions: Research Portfolio Committee (a) to advise the Council on matters concerning the academic Student Progress Sub-Committee activities of the University, TAFE - University Articulation Committee (b) to consider, and report to the Council on, any matter referred to it by the Council, (c) to refer matters to any faculty, school, board or other body within the University for consideration and report, (d) to consider, and report to the Council on, any proposal concerning teaching, scholarship or research that is made by any faculty, school, board or other body within the University,
18 The University of Newcastle Committees reporting to and/or advisory to Academic Structure the Vice-Chancellor: Faculties 2NUR FM Advisory Board The University’s academic organisation includes five faculties: Academic Staff Consultative Committee Business and Law; Education and Arts; Engineering and Built Environment; Health; and Science and Information Technology. Board of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education and Training The Executive Head of each Faculty is the Pro Vice-Chancellor. Each Pro Vice-Chancellor is responsible to the Vice-Chancellor for academic Board of Central Coast Campuses leadership and the efficient and effective operation of the Faculty. Board of the English Language and Foundation Studies Centre The Pro Vice-Chancellor is assisted by a Deputy Executive Dean, the General Staff Consultative Committee Heads of School and by seven to nine Assistant Deans who each have a Faculty-wide portfolio for an aspect of the University’s Occupational Health and Safety Committee: strategic plan. Chemical Technical Sub-Committee Each Faculty has a Faculty Board to advise the Pro Vice-Chancellor Evacuation Technical Sub-Committee on matters which affect the Faculty including the teaching, assessment, research and community service activities of the Institution Biosafety Committee Faculty; recommendations to the relevant University Committee on Radiation Technical Sub-Committee matters concerning admissions, enrolment and progression in the programs for which the Faculty is responsible; and quality assurance Outside Study Programs Appeals Committee mechanisms for teaching and learning in the Faculty. Planning and Quality Steering Committee Schools Portfolio Committees: The functions of a School are - Central Coast Campuses Portfolio Committee a) to encourage and facilitate scholarship and research in the Community Relations Portfolio Committee disciplines related to the School and, where appropriate, the Faculty and elsewhere in the University; Curriculum, Teaching and Learning Portfolio Committee b) to provide teaching, and other services with respect to the Information Technology Portfolio Committee courses offered in the School and where appropriate to other International Portfolio Committee courses offered in the Faculty and elsewhere in the University; Postgraduate Programs Portfolio Committee c) to co-ordinate the teaching and assessment duties of members of staff involved in those courses; Research Portfolio Committee d) to foster student participation in the work of the School; and Selection Committee for Vice-Chancellor’s Award for General Staff Excellence e) to contribute to the Strategic Plan and objectives of the University, in accordance with prescribed policies of the University. University Foundation Board Each School has a Head of School who serves as the responsible officer The range of University committees is regularly reviewed to to the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty for the efficient management determine the appropriateness or otherwise of the committees and of the teaching, research and service activities of the School. their terms of reference. Institutes and Centres are also established to further the academic Except when they are considering confidential items, members pursuits of the University. Each Institute or Centre is managed by an of the University may attend meetings of any University appointed Director, generally a member of the academic staff of the committees as observers. University, and in most cases is overseen by a Board. The Rules and other provisions relating to Faculty Boards, School Boards and Boards of Studies are published on the University’s website http://www.newcastle.edu.au/
Annual Report 2002 19 Teaching and Learning
The University’s Institutional Strategic Plan for 2002-2005 includes strategies that will focus on: • sharpening the nexus between teaching and research; • supporting the professional development of our teachers; • developing collaborative student-centred support systems; and • reviewing the content of our programs and courses to ensure we are preparing graduates who are global citizens and valued professionals.
University Medals A University Medal may be awarded to a graduate who in addition to achieving First Class Honours, is judged by the Medals Committee to have displayed outstanding ability in the discipline concerned. University Medals, based on studies completed in Semester 2, 2001, were awarded to the following students: Faculty Name Specialisation Business and Law Grant Wayne Turner Economics Education and Arts Ivan Lyden Powell Classics Matthew Morgan Fenwick English Matthew Thompson English Vicki-Ann Marlene Sienczuk Fine Art Aidan Robert Parkinson Music University Medals, based on studies completed in Semester 1, 2002, were awarded to the following students: Faculty Name Specialisation Education and Arts Izabela Pluta Fine Art Engineering and Built Environment Leonie Freeston Electrical Engineering Science and Information Technology Mark Llewellyn Smith Mathematics Kathleen Mary Humble Mathematics Jason Paul Tyler Mathematics Amy Richards Psychology
20 The University of Newcastle University Medals, based on studies completed in Semester 2, 2002, were awarded to the following students: Faculty Name Award Business and Law Corey James McHattan Bachelor of Laws/Diploma in Legal Practice Education and Arts Kylie Agllias Bachelor of Social Work Jennifer Boddy Bachelor of Social Work Tamar Brown Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) Helen Clulow Bachelor of Teaching/Bachelor of Social Science Katherine Dynon Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) Renay Greig Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) Susan Grujevski Bachelor of Arts (Honours - History/English) Michelle Hungerford Bachelor of Fine Art Natalie James Bachelor of Teaching/Bachelor of Arts Elizabeth O’Hearn Bachelor of Music Elizabeth Roberts Bachelor of Arts (Honours - History) Galina Myers Bachelor of Arts (Honours - History) Helle Sjovaag Bachelor of Arts (Communication Studies) Kathryn Slattery Bachelor of Arts (Honours - History) Steven Threadgold Bachelor of Arts (Honours - Sociology and Anthropology) Georgina Woods Bachelor of Arts (Honours - English) Engineering and Built Environment Fabrizio Capodicasa Bachelor of Engineering (Software) Barry Jacobs Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental) Helen Giggins Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) Dane Lidgard Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) Nicholas Martin Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) Kelly Ann O’Connell Bachelor of Science (Architecture) Bachelor of Architecture Mark Solomon Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) Matthew Stephens Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) David Sutherland Bachelor of Science (Architecture) Bachelor of Architecture Kamran Zarakhsh Bachelor of Construction Management (Building) Faculty of Health Carmen Burgess Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition and Dietetics) Suzzanne Byrnes Bachelor of Medicine Amanda Cox Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Honours) James Daniel Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Honours) Paul Livingstone Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Faculty of Science and Information Technology Catherine Chisholm Bachelor of Mathematics (Honours) Karen Durand Bachelor of Environmental Science (Honours) Craig Evans Bachelor of Science (Honours) Natasha Matthews Bachelor of Science (Psychology)
Annual Report 2002 21 New Programs and Other Initiatives Faculty of Education & Arts A number of new programs and other initiatives commenced in New Programs: 2002 or were approved for introduction during 2002. Graduate Certificate in Education Studies (Creative Arts and Design) Faculty of Business & Law A program developed collaboratively by the Schools of Education New Programs: and Fine Art. Bachelor of Aboriginal Studies/Bachelor of Laws Graduate Certificate in Educational Studies This new combined degree program and the special entry scheme for (History Teaching) Indigenous students reflect the School of Law’s commitment to Graduate Certificate in Social Science (Specialising in increasing the number of Indigenous law graduates in the community Human Service Management) and to assist Indigenous students to achieve a measure of self- This program is intended for students interested in management in determination. While the Indigenous special entry program in law is a diverse range of human services including welfare, social policy, an affirmative action initiative, the program is not designed only for health, community development, family services, youth services, this group and will be attractive to other law students. correctional services and the like. Master of Business Administration/Master of Graduate Certificate in Social Sciences (e-Humanities) Information Technology This combined degree program was approved for introduction in Masters of Aboriginal Studies Degrees the 2003 academic year. The program allows students to undertake These degrees are for both domestic and international students and studies in the business disciplines of the Master of Business will be introduced in 2003. The international Masters will involve an Administration while also studying technically advanced IT courses innovative collaboration with University of Oulu (Finland) and in the Master of Information Technology. University of Kansas (USA) where students will complete 50% of Master of International Business their award with one of our sister University partners. The Master of International Business was approved for introduction Master of Applied Linguistics in the 2003 academic year. The program is designed to meet the The Master of Applied Linguistics degree has been accredited by the needs of students who wish to undertake business studies, which Teacher Qualifications Advisory Panel of the NSW Department of incorporate an international focus. Education and Training for teaching ESL in NSW state schools. Doctor of Business Master of Multi Media The Doctor of Business was approved for introduction in the 2003 A menu of Fine Art courses offered by the school for delivery from academic year. The program will be the first specific research 2004. These courses will be delivered online and in flexible mode. doctorate in business studies at the University of Newcastle, and will meet the needs of the Australian and international business community for a high-level theory-based professional qualification. Doctor of Business Administration The Doctor of Business Administration was approved for introduction in the 2003 academic year. The goal of our DBA, as a coursework-based professional doctorate, is to further develop the competencies of practicing managers and business professionals and to equip them with the capability to make leadership contributions to their own organisations, wider industries and communities. The DBA will be predominantly offered face-to-face, with opportunities for the study of selected courses online (in restricted locations), with structured support for all coursework.
22 The University of Newcastle Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment Initiatives: New Programs: Master Class The School of Architecture & Built Environment hosted renowned Central Coast Campus Programs Australian architect Glenn Murcutt, winner of the 2002 Pritzker Engineering, surveying and computer science programs were Architecture Prize. Murcutt led a two week residential Master Class successfully introduced at Ourimbah, with 39 students undertaking for architects, teachers, senior architecture students and the first year of these degree programs. Dr Brian Williams was postgraduates with the aim of fostering lifelong professional appointed Director of Engineering Programs, Central Coast learning. Other tutors for the Master Class included Newcastle Campuses to oversee the programs and mentor students. graduates and conjoint professors, and recognised architects Peter Partnership with PSB Academy Stutchbury and Richard Leplastrier. The Faculty’s partnership with PSB Academy to offer several NURAPID engineering programs in Singapore continues to expand with over Mr Willy Sher of the School of Architecture & Built Environment 400 students enrolled in 2002. The first lab visits were held in May received a University Teaching Development Grant to implement a and September with over 250 students visiting the Callaghan web-based self-assessment system to help undergraduates develop campus to complete one week of intensive laboratory sessions as their professional skills and competencies throughout their studies. part of their program requirements. The implementation of NURAPID demonstrates the University’s Architecture Program recognition of the importance of attaining both generic and The Architecture program at the University of Newcastle received full professional core skills required by employers and accrediting bodies. accreditation for a further five years after review by the joint national UNISS visiting panel of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA) UNISS - The University of Newcastle Industry Scholarship Scheme - and the Board of Architects (BOA). The panel’s report indicated that continues to expand and now includes 77 scholarships. In 2002, a the quality of documentation presented was exceptional and that in new program model was introduced specifically for rural scholars general, the problem-based learning program remains at the leading and sponsors. UNISS Rural differs from the standard UNISS program edge of architecture programs in Australia. as scholars undertake an additional year of industry placement, Cadetship Framework for Bachelor of thus increasing the total program length to six years. The aim is to Construction Management (Building) enhance the relationship between the sponsor and scholar, and The University of Newcastle’s partnership with the Tasmanian Tamworth City Council will offer the first of the rural scholarships in Building and Construction Industry Training Board was strengthened Civil Engineering at a value of $73,000. in 2002 with the announcement of a cadetship framework for the Robotic Dog University’s Bachelor of Construction Management (Building) degree The Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment accepted on behalf program. In conjunction with the Master Builders Association, the of the University a state-of-the-art robotic dog from Sony. This program will link cadets to industry mentors to assist in their presentation marked the 10th anniversary of the University’s completion of the Construction Management program via distance relationship with the Sony Institute of Higher Education, Shohoku learning. University staff will provide additional tutorial support, College. The robotic dog will allow staff and students to continue mentoring and marketing of the program. their research into robotics and artificial intelligence, primarily in association with the Nubots team. The Nubots team was placed third at RoboCup 2002 for their manipulation and training of the robotic dogs to play soccer. Keynote Address Professor Chen Swee Eng enhanced the University of Newcastle’s reputation as a world leader in problem-based learning techniques as he was invited to present a keynote address at the 4th Asia-Pacific Conference on Problem-Based Learning in Thailand in December. The paper was entitled Quality Assurance and Problem-Based Learning.
Annual Report 2002 23 Faculty of Health Faculty of Science and Information Technology New Programs: New Programs: Bachelor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety Bachelor of Information Technology The University launched a new undergraduate program, the Next year the Faculty will deliver a new Bachelor of Information Bachelor of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety in Technology degree with a strong emphasis on problem based June 2002. The program is taught in Singapore through a learning. This program will be delivered at Callaghan and Ourimbah partnership with Novo Environmental Technology Services, a in conjunction with Engineering and Built Environment and Business Division of the Productivity & Standards Board. The program is a and Law. The new Bachelor of Communication will commence in collaborative effort between the Faculties of Health and Science 2003 taking over from the BA (Communication Studies) following an and Information Technology. extensive review. In addition the new Bachelor of Illustration (Natural History) will commence in 2003 as a development from the Bachelor Bachelor of Physiotherapy of Design. Plans are in place to redevelop the professional The commencement of the Bachelor of Physiotherapy program this postgraduate programs in Psychology for 2004. year is a major new teaching initiative. This year students commenced clinical education at the Newcastle University Sports Programs in IT, Biotechnology, Environmental and Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Clinic. Occupational Health and Safety The Faculty has this year put extensive amount of effort into our Master of Pain Medicine international activities with ongoing discussions in Singapore with The first cohort of students completed the Master of Pain Medicine PSB and NOVA for the delivery of programs in IT, Biotechnology, course in 2002. This program is conducted by the Internet and Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety. Discussions are attracted candidates from Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong. also taking place in China in conjunction with NOVA for programs Seven general practitioners and three specialists will become the in Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety. Many of our first graduates. programs are cross Faculty initiatives with Engineering, Health and Initiatives: Business. On shore we are also having discussions with private providers in Sydney and Melbourne about the delivery of our IT Radiation Therapy Funding Agreement with the programs. The Faculty has extensive relationships with Norwegian Department of Health and Ageing universities and gets a large number of students from this country. In 2002 the Discipline of Medical Radiation Science obtained funding from the Federal Department of Health and Ageing for a Initiatives: five year period to increase its intake of students into the Bachelor Mentoring Program of Medical Radiation Science (Radiation Therapy) program. This The Faculty is very concerned about support structures for new funding means that the Radiation Therapy intake will increase from students and this year ran a very successful mentoring program for the small figure of 18 students per year to about 40 students per new students in Science. Next year we are extending the program year. This funding is in addition to the 2001/2002 funding to cover all international students in the Faculty. organised by Dr Peter O’Brien from the Mater Hospital to assist the appointment of a new Radiation Therapy lecturer. Recruitment Plan We have developed a recruitment plan for next year with strong staff Teaching and Learning Unit commitment to visiting high schools and career fairs. The Faculty in One of the many initiatives of the newly constituted Faculty of cooperation with the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment Health is the establishment of a Teaching and Learning Unit. This has been running the Science and Engineering Challenge. These Unit is part of the move toward greater devolution of responsibility Challenges concentrate on Year 10 students and encourage them to in teaching and the development of an enhanced environment for pursue science and engineering. Students undertake problems in creating new opportunities in teaching, both of which were teams and design, construct and develop solutions. identified as priorities in the Review of the University’s Organisational Structures and Administrative Arrangements document (October 2000). The setting up of the Unit also reflects the need for improved support for interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary teaching, another priority strongly noted in the review of the University.
24 The University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor’s Division The International Foundation Program conducted two student intakes in 2002 in February and July English Language and Foundation Studies (ELFS) Centre totalling 82 students from 19 different countries of origin. Of the With the establishment of the English Language and Foundation students that completed their IFP studies in November, over 93% Studies Centre (ELFS Centre) at the beginning of 2002, the obtained direct entry into their undergraduate studies at Newcastle University was able to locate all its ELICOS and preparatory University (9% of these students were eligible for direct entry but programs into one centre. An important element of the new centre needed to change their area of undergraduate study). is the opportunity to provide all students with ongoing support once they commence their degree programs through the The semester two/summer term intake continued its growth with 26 establishment of the Learning Support Unit into the new centre. students studying IFP over 2002/2003. These students will graduate in February 2003 for entry to University studies in the same month. The ELFS centre is composed of the following six programs and areas: Again the Medical preparatory program proved to be a successful Newstep and rewarding program, with all four Medicine undergraduate conducted at both Callaghan and Ourimbah, continues to provide positions being filled in a very competitive learning environment. young people between the ages of 17 and 20 who have Introductory Academic Program (IAP) grew in strength with over 70 experienced some disadvantage in their schooling with the students (mainly postgraduate) enrolling in the five week course opportunity to prepare for tertiary study. Approximately 130 over 2002. These students are provided with the opportunity to students per year proceed to undergraduate study following the gain academic skills and competencies to help them succeed in Newstep program. The application process for Newstep has been their preferred academic program. reviewed in 2002. The Co-ordinator has given presentations on Newstep and the selection process to Year 12 Advisers and Careers English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Advisers in the region. Students (ELICOS) The numbers for ELICOS in 2002 increased by 25% over 2002. The Open Foundation students are coming from a diverse range of countries, with a is conducted at both the Callaghan and Ourimbah campuses. The growing body of students from South America. Approximately 300 program is offered as both a part-time full-year program and as an students undertook studies at the ELICOS Centre in preparation for intensive, one-semester program. In 2002, 762 students completed further study at the University of Newcastle. ELICOS is also Open Foundation and of these 628 have been made offers of experiencing an increase in its study tour programs with tour undergraduate places at the University of Newcastle. Through groups from China, Japan and Hong Kong arriving in 2002. 2002 we have developed courses in Open Foundation for delivery by distance. The Learning Support Unit provides both individual and group assistance to students across all Yapug levels of the University. This can take many forms ranging from classes is a preparatory program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait in essay writing to individual work in building mathematical skills. Islander people and had a successful year with three students being offered places in Medicine.
Annual Report 2002 25 Flexible Delivery Educational Services The School of Fine Art, Faculty of Education and Arts, conducted a Some new services and products supplied by Educational Services pilot videoconference with Tamworth TAFE in an initiative to trial during 2002 to support Teaching and Learning were: the delivery of art programs in a flexible mode. The first • Installation of a videoconferencing centre in the Auchmuty presentation was an art theory lecture, which was combined with a Library; tutorial. The feedback from students and the TAFE staff was very positive and it offers the school opportunities to expand the flexible • Production of major educational media projects, including: delivery of Fine Art programs into the future. • Dual diagnosis - an interactive CD-ROM simulation on assessment for drug and alcohol produced conjointly with the Communication and Information Services School of Nursing and Hunter Mental Health; Use of the University’s online learning software - BlackBoard, • Singapore PSB - a tutorial CD-ROM for the Faculty of increased fourfold during 2002. To cope with this increased Engineering and Built Environment, to support international demand, both the hardware and the BlackBoard application itself students in senior undergraduate years. were upgraded, providing increased functionality to students and to academic staff. The improved hardware ensured greater speed of • Animal Lab Techniques- a video produced in conjunction with operation and reliability in access and system performance. By end the Research Division and the Animal House, to demonstrate of year 750 instructors and more than 16,000 students were appropriate methods for the treatment of animals in registered in the system across more than 800 courses. experimental situations. The programs will be used as part of orientation and ongoing staff education. • Short Loans Online provides students with access to essential readings, whether students are located remotely or on-campus.
26 The University of Newcastle Research and Research Training
The University’s Institutional Strategic Plan for 2002-2005 includes Research Management strategies that will focus on: The restructure of the University became effective on 1 January (1) developing areas of existing and emerging strength; 2002 and provided the opportunity to improve institutional (2) maintaining strong ties with our regional and industry partners; arrangements supporting research and research training. (3) establishing new partnerships; The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) continues to be responsible (4) initiating cross-Faculty and cross-discipline collaboration across for the direction and management of research and research training thematic areas; and in the University. The Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) is his standing (5) fostering the development of our researchers and research students. deputy and is a key facilitator at the Faculty level. Policy and administrative support is provided through Research and Research Research Funding Training Services (RRTS). Each Faculty has an Assistant Dean with The University of Newcastle continued its strong research and responsibility for research and research training. research training performance throughout 2002. The new University The Research Portfolio Committee (RPC) was formed in January structure facilitated cross-Faculty and cross-discipline collaboration. 2002. It provides advice on policy matters arising from the external Partnerships with other significant institutions and organisations context and the University’s own development of research and were developed and strengthened throughout the year. Research research training. The composition of the Committee includes the funding consisted of $27.62 million from external sources with an PVC (Research) [Chair], DVC (Research), Assistant Dean (Research) additional $2.20 million from the University’s operating grant being for each Faculty, established researchers, a nominee from the spent in support of research activities. Research scholarships were University Services Division, a postgraduate student representative supported through an allocation of a further $1.61 million from the and the Director, Research Services. This membership provides operating grant. systematic and comprehensive input to Committee deliberations The move to performance based research block funding programs and multiple conduits for information flows back to operational brought about a change in the allocation of the University’s areas. To facilitate the work of the RPC, some functions were operating grant. The Institutional Grants Scheme (IGS) was devolved to Faculties and two sub-committees took responsibility introduced to support higher education institutions’ research and for operational matters. research training activities, allowing them to fund their research The Research Training Sub-Committee (RTC), chaired by the DVC activities in accordance with their own strategic judgements. The (Research), considered matters of student progress, examiners’ reports Research Training Scheme (RTS) provides funds to support higher and requests for relaxation of degree requirements. These gave the degree by research places. In addition, regional universities are Sub-Committee insight into policy issues for referral to the RPC. currently eligible for Regional Protection Funds (RPF). The Research Grants Sub-Committee (RGC), chaired by the PVC Block funding is awarded on the basis of the performance (Research), had responsibility for the comprehensive raft of internal indicators of research income, research publications research higher research support schemes, within a framework of devolved funding degree enrolments and research higher degree completions. and managerial responsibility. Each year the University devotes a part Performance data collected for 1999 and 2000 determines the IGS of its Operating Grant funds to support its research programs. In and RTS awarded for expenditure in 2002. On the basis of its 2002 2002 operating grant funds of approximately $2.2 million were used IGS and RTS funding of $19.61 million, the University maintained to fund the RGC research support schemes, including Early Career its ranking in the top 10 research universities in Australia. Funding Researcher grants, New Staff grants, Visitor grants, Travel grants, of $1.02 million was provided under RPF in 2002. Conference Establishment grants, Collaborative grants, and Project The Research Infrastructure Block Grant (RIB Grant) is awarded on grants. The Committee also resolved cases falling beyond policy the basis of a university’s share of national grants in the Australian guidelines and considered policy matters for referral to the RPC. Competitive Grants Index. The University was awarded $2.75 Faculty Research Committees took responsibility for implementation million from the RIB Grant for expenditure in 2002. Both the IGS/ of University policy matters and for operational decisions in RTS and the RIB Grant allocation confirm that the University management of research and research students. continues to maintain its strong research performance and is retaining a significant share in funding from national allocations. In 2002 the University continued its strong performance in gaining major research grants from competitive grants sources. It was one of the most successful institutions in gaining grants from the Australian Research Council. Total funding awarded by the ARC for new research projects to commence in 2003 was $6.95 million. The 35 new projects that were awarded ARC funding went to all five Faculties. The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) awarded the University funding totalling $6.61 for nine research projects.
Annual Report 2002 27 Research Centres Commonwealth Funded Research Centres - Newcastle as the lead site: Consistent with its goals in developing new and existing strengths in research and research training and in promoting research collaboration, ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development the University supports the establishment of research centres which Special Research Centre (SRC) for Integrated Dynamics and Control facilitate specific projects between researchers from within the Special Research Centre for Multiphase Processes University and individuals from industry and other organisations. Commonwealth Funded Research Centres - The University was successful in being awarded a prestigious ARC Newcastle in partnership with other universities: Centre of Excellence in 2002. The ARC Centre of Excellence in CRC-Mining Biotechnology and Development will bring together a unique CRC for Integrated Engineering Asset Management group of experts to study the differentiation and maturation of CRC for Advanced Composite Structures male germ cells. There are few areas where intensive study of the CRC Coal in Sustainable Development complex processes that control cell behaviour and fate could have CRC for Conservation and Management of Marsupials such immediate, practical applications in the development of CRC Construction Innovation Australian biotechnology industries, the management of animals in Australian CRC for Renewable Energy the Australian environment and the health and well-being of the CRC for Satellite Systems Australian people. The Centre has been funded for five years at KCTR Centre for Asia Pacific Social Transformation Studies $1.9 million per year. Industry Funded Institutes in Partnership with The University is also a partner in the ARC Centre of Excellence External Organisations in Integrative Legume Research, established in 2002 and Hunter Medical Research Institute based at the University of Queensland. Legumes are of particular Newcastle Bone and Joint Institute interest for human health and this project is aimed at generating innovative results in legume biology, with benefits for basic University Research Centres knowledge of plant development and breeding technology. Centre for Teaching and Research (CTR) in Bulk Solids and Particulate Technologies The University has a node in two new Co-operative Research Umulliko Indigenous Higher Education Centre for Interdisciplinary Centres (CRCs) awarded in 2002: Study of Property Rights CRC-Mining is a Commonwealth centre funded to bring together Centre for Literary and Linguistic Computing researchers from a range of disciplines, mining companies and Cultural Industries and Practices Research Centre mining supply companies to develop mining equipment and Centre for Advanced Food Technology and Nutrition systems. The objectives are to bring together expertise in Centre for Sustainable Use of Coasts and Catchments mechanisms, geological systems, sensors, systems and information Young Children’s Education Research Centre handling to improve mining operations by: Centre for Electronic Commerce for Global Business Centre of Full Employment and Equity • reducing the economic and personal risks in mining; Employment Studies Centre • improving equipment performance and asset utilisation; Centre for the Studies of Research Training and Impact Centre for Special Education and Disability Studies • reducing environmental impacts of mining; Centre for Environmental Dynamics • developing new mining equipment where appropriate. Centre for Infrastructure Performance and Reliability Centre for Sustainable Technology CRC for Integrated Engineering Asset Management will Centre for Legal Education involve more than 100 of Australia’s leading researchers in Centre for Health Law, Ethics and Policy engineering, IT, business and the humanities, and four major Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics industry partners in a novel, coordinated and comprehensive Centre for Mental Health Studies approach to the maintenance of Australia’s national infrastructure. Mothers and Babies Research Centre The CRC will address this need using a globally unique, multi- Centre for Health Services Research dimensional methodology, integrating cutting edge asset Centre for Life Sciences management technologies with production and operations Centre for Materials management and other enterprise management systems. Research Centre for Gender and Health There are now three Commonwealth funded research centers based at Centre for Urban and Regional Studies the University, nine centres in which the University has a partnership Family Action Centre role with other institutions and two industry funded research institutes. Recognition is also given to areas of research expertise in the University through 26 University research centres.
28 The University of Newcastle Relevance of Research to the Community The University is committed to research that is of demonstrable benefit to the national and international community and to the local region. Relationships between local organisations and the University contribute to the development of research areas that are of specific relevance to the local community. During 2002, research activities of direct benefit to the Hunter and Central Coast regions included the following examples:
Researcher/Department Funding source Project Amount Hunter Water The sustainable effluent irrigation plantation Geary, Mr P Corporation/University of project (SEIPP): Quantifying sodium accumulation $11,000 Environmental and Life Science Newcastle Collaborative and leaching rates in soils of an effluent irrigated Research Grant. plantation. Hunter Water McGuirk, Dr P Corporation/University of The role of water in constructing cultural capital $8,500 Environmental and Life Science Newcastle Collaborative in new suburbs. Research Grant. Redden, Dr A NSW Department of Land and Examination of microzoop lankton grazing rates in $5,000 Applied Sciences Water Conservation Dee Why Lagoon and Tugge rah Lake. Redden, Dr A NSW Department of Land and Coastal Lagoon Primary Production in Selected $5,000 Applied Sciences Water Conservation Estuaries Fityus, Dr S Geoscience Australia Geotechnical Study of Newcastle Regolith $8,800 Engineering Heinrich, Dr H Design, Communication and Macquarie University Minmi Dinosaur $3,500 Information Technology Lester, Professor J NSW Department of Aboriginal Young Aboriginal Fathers Project $44,481 Aboriginal Studies Affairs Donne , Dr S Delta EMD, Australia Pty Ltd Development of High Power EMD $7,500 Environmental and Life Science Fletcher, Mr R Bernard van Leer Founda tion Engaging Fathers - II $430,600 Family Action Centre Redden, Dr A, Sanderson, Dr B NSW Dept of Land and Water Physical properties of Myall Lakes "ooze". $2,500 Applied Sciences Conservation Redden, Dr A NSW Dept of Land and Water Relationship between catchment development $5,000 Applied Sciences Conservation and phytoplankton production in coastal lagoo ns. MacFarlane, Dr G Biomarkers of Heavy Metal Stress in Estuarine Lake Macquarie Council $8,733 Environmental and Life Science Biota in Lake Macquarie Pearson, Dr S Vulnerable Fauna: Powerful Owls (Ninox Strenua) Geography and Environmental Lake Macquarie Council $1,500 in the Southern Hunter Science A Ground water Recharge, Groundw ater Quality Binning, Dr P Scone Shire Council & Coal and & Groundw ater Management Investigation $5,000 Engineering Allied covering the Kinddon Pond s & Tributaries Aquifer. Diffuse pollutant loading from on-site wastewater Geary, Mr P Lake Macquarie City Council treatment systems and other land uses in the $3,487 Environmental and Life Science Stony Creek Catchment Hydrological Research into the Design & Geary, Mr P Wyong Shire Council Effectiveness of Blue Haven Wetland in Reducing $6,384 Environmental and Life Science Pollutants in Stormwater Runoff.
Annual Report 2002 29 Researcher/Department Funding source Project Amount
Wills, Prof R and Bowyer, Dr M Rural Industries Research and Delaying postharvest senescence of cut flowers $18,000 Applied Sciences Development Corporation using n itric oxide. Mahon y, Dr M Declining Amphibian Applied conservation biology of a threatened $1,725 Environmental and Life Science Popu lations Task Force (DAPTF) forest dependent frog. De Santolo, Mr J University of Techno logy, Agreement Making Issues Papers $11,000 Aboriginal Studies Sydney - Jumbunna A spatial analysis of the needs and lives of Hartig, Dr K NSW Health HIV/AIDS affected people living in the Hunter $42,500 Environmental and Life Science Valley. Markwell, Dr K, MacFarlane, Dr Responsible scuba diving and snorkeling in Lake G & Stolk, Mr P Lake Macquarie City Council $2,455 Macquarie marine environments Environmental and Life Science The impact of pearl farming on nutrient and heavy Dunstan, Dr H & Toia, Prof R NSW Fisheries metal cycling in sediments at selected sites in Port $5,000 Environmental and Life Science Stephens. Pond , A/Prof D Medical Practice and Popu lation BHP Welfare TrustThe Mentorship Project $54,623 Health Stuart, Dr J and Blackwell, Prof The effects of cigarette smoke on immune and John Hunter Children's Hospital C inflammatory responses in Aboriginal and non- $24,000 Research Founda tion Medical Practice Aboriginal children with middle ear infections. Chang es in the composition of entrance channel Gladstone, Dr W NSW Department of Land and communities associated with frequen t artificial $5,000 Applied Sciences Water Conservation opening of coastal lagoo ns (ICOLL Chann el Ecology Project) Clulow, Dr J and Mahon y, Dr M Cryobiology and other assisted reproductive World Wide Fund for Nature $5,000 Environmental and Life Science technologies for conserving endang ered frogs. Sibbritt, Mr D, Adams, Dr J, Southgate, Ms E and Walker, Hunter Area Health Perfecting Health Care Delivery $57,500 Ms R, Medical Practice Gladstone, Dr W Wyong Shire Council Impacts of Jetties on Seagrasses. $2,000 Applied Sciences Ladwig, Dr J, Gore, A/Prof J and NSW Departme nt of Educ ation Development of a statement and framework for Griffith, Mr T 19,481 and Training Quality Pedagog y for NSW public schoo ls. Education Mahon y, Dr M Survey of vertebrate pests in the Port Stephens Hunter Water Corporation $3,000 Environmental and Life Science area. Heitmeyer, Ms D, Maynard, Mr Introductory history of the Aboriginal peoples of J and Blyton, Mr G Muswellbrook Shire Council $18,182 the Muswellbrook Upper Hunter Arm. Aboriginal Studies Factors influencing the pattern of growth of Schreider, Dr M Wyong Shire Council seagrass Zostera capricorni in the estuaries of $2,500 Applied Sciences Central Coast, New South Wales
30 The University of Newcastle Relevance of Research to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples The University is proud to host its Indigenous Higher Education Centre, Umulliko, which is now in its sixth year of operation. Umulliko continued throughout 2002 to contact and establish links with other education organisations and centres as well as maintaining a strong focus on forging strong Aboriginal community ties. The staff of Umulliko are actively engaged in research and research training. In 2002 there were 29 Indigenous candidates undertaking research Master and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs through the Centre. These candidates are enrolled across a number of Faculties within the University and receive mentoring, supervision and other assistance from the staff at Umulliko. In 2002, the following research projects received funding:
Chief Investigators Granting Bod y/Scheme Project Title Funds The Aboriginal Fight for Liberty and Freedom - The Maynard, Mr J ARC Discovery Indigenous Researchers hidden history of African-American influence on the $71,607 Aboriginal Studies Development 1920's rise of Aboriginal political activism. Lester, Professor J NSW Department of Aboriginal Affairs Young Aboriginal Fathers Project $44,481 Aboriginal Studies De Santolo, Mr J University of Technology, Agreement Making Issues Papers $11,000 Aboriginal Studies Sydney - Jumbunna Lester, Professor J and The Inspire Foundation and the Durri Aboriginal Kempsey Aboriginal Community Website Development $24,831 Neal, Ms P Corporation Medical Service Evaluation Proposal Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres The Aboriginal Political Response to the "Model Maynard, Mr J $20,000 Strait Islander Studies Aboriginal State". Heitmeyer, Ms D, Maynard, Introductory history of the Aboriginal peoples of the Muswellbrook Shire Council $18,182 Mr J and Blyton, Mr G Muswellbrook Upper Hunter Arm. Indigenous business model for career vocational Lester Prof J Enterprise Career Education Foundation $20000 education and training
The new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Multi-Purpose Centre, Birabahn, was completed in 2002. The opening of the building marked a significant consolidation of long-term efforts of the University to participate in effective Aboriginal studies and research, and to become a national and international leader in Indigenous education and research. The building has brought together all of the Indigenous education and research units of the University.
Annual Report 2002 31 Research Training Consistent with its research goals, the University has as one of its objectives the maintenance of its position as a leading national provider in research training. In 2002 the University made a three year appointment for a Co-ordinator, Supervisor Training and Development to provide for appropriate training and support for research higher degree supervisors. There were 1145 research higher degree candidates enrolled in 2002. Of these, (769) 67% were registered for the degree of PhD. In 2001,111 candidates received their research higher degrees.
Completion of Research Higher Degrees 2001 Master
PhD 25
20
15
10
5
0
Business Education Engineering Health Science and and Law and Arts and Built Information Environment Technology Faculty
The University is working to a target of having at least 6% of student load in each Faculty attributable to research higher degree candidates. Some Faculties have already exceeded this target.
Research Higher Degree Load as a proportion of Total Load 2002
% 8 6 4 2 0
Business Education Engineering Health Science and and Law and Arts and Built Information Environment Technology
Faculty
32 The University of Newcastle Research Scholarships The University continues to expand its provision of research scholarships, building on the base of Commonwealth funded Australian Postgraduate Awards with University funded equivalent scholarships. There were 145 University scholarships funded from competitive research grant sources in 2002. The total number of research scholarships from all sources increased from 390 in 2001 to 396 in 2002. The value of research scholarships held at the University in 2002 was approximately $6.73 million.
Research Scholarships
500 University Scholarships - Externally Funded 400 University Scholarships - 300 University Funded
200 Australian Postgraduate Awards (Industry) 100 Australian Postgraduate 0
Number of Scholarships Awards 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002
Year
Research Support for Ethics Research proposals from staff and research higher degree students projects on campus, and the provision of training programs for that involve human participants are reviewed by the Human researchers who use animal models in their work. During 2002, 51 Research Ethics Committee (HREC), a committee of the University surveillance visits were carried out. The researcher training program Council. Separate human research ethics sub-committees review continued with 89 participants in a total of four modules the research protocols emerging from undergraduate, diploma and comprising legislation, animal handling and common research coursework programs. procedures, anaesthesia and aseptic surgical techniques. In 2002, there were 269 applications to the HREC for new projects. In June 2002, the NSW Animal Research Review Panel conducted A further 21 projects were granted a renewal of ethics approval as an inspection of the University under the NSW Animal Research Act. the research was to extend beyond the three-year approval period At the conclusion of the visit, the inspection team provided informal and there were 107 applications for variations to approved advice that the University of Newcastle was considered to be research protocols. setting the benchmark with respect to successful implementation of the Act. The formal report arising from the inspection was highly Research higher degree students accounted for 44% of the satisfactory, with special commendation given to the approach of new applications. the ACEC and the activities of the Animal Services Unit. The University complies with the requirements of the NSW Animal Only one special condition was applied to the University’s Research Act (1985) and its Regulations through the work of the continuing accreditation as an animal research establishment, Animal Care and Ethics Committee, a committee of the Council. In where priority was to be given to refurbishment of the air- 2002 there were 65 applications for new projects involving animals, conditioning system at the David Maddison Building if long-term 47 applications for renewals of continuing projects and 72 holding of animals was to continue at this site. Action will be taken applications for variations to existing projects. with respect to this condition during 2003. The Animal Care and Ethics Committee (ACEC) also oversees the conduct of surveillance visits to animal facilities and research
Annual Report 2002 33 Animal Services Unit Research Support Unit The Animal Services Unit consists of breeding and holding facilities The Research Support Unit centralises procedures that are expensive for animals approved for use under the Animal Research Act. to establish and maintain by individual researchers and provides the Through the Unit, research staff associated with the University of specialised staff required to enable a first class facility to function. Newcastle have access to genetically and microbiologically defined They offer a variety of essential services to local researchers. rats, mice, and guinea pigs, specific pathogen free holding areas, The Biomolecular Research Facility (BRF) was established in individually ventilated cages for infection containment and internal 1995 to promote excellence in Biomolecular research by co- and external large animal holding areas. Animal holding facilities ordinating the major equipment acquisitions necessary for assisting include procedure rooms and operating theatres. The Behavioural biomolecular research in the Hunter region. It provides: Sciences Animal House joined the Animal Services Unit on 1 January 2002. • DNA and protein sequencing; During 2002 the Animal Services Unit supplied and held 4942 mice, • protein characterisation; and 1132 rats, 344 guinea pigs, 37 wallabies, 18 cats, 189 chickens, 4 • flow cytometry and cell sorting. pigs, 1 possum, 9 rabbits, 52 dunnarts, 25 quail and 80 tadpoles to approved research projects. The fast turnaround time has been of great benefit to local researchers, who would otherwise have to send their samples out of Newcastle and The Animal Services Unit is committed to the University’s pursuit of experience lengthy delays before receiving their results. excellence in research, while adhering to the requirements of the Animal Research Act (NSW), ensuring welfare of animals at all times In 2002, 9 local, 25 national and 6 international research groups and supporting the use of alternatives to animals where appropriate. used the BRF services, with Newcastle DNA processing over 4200 samples. The Advanced Mass Spectrometry Unit has been developing its facilities. In 2002 a grant of $430,000 was awarded to Associate Professor A. Sim, Professor P. Dunkley, Professor J. Rostas and Professor R. Scott by The Wellcome Trust for a Proteomic and Genomic Analysis Facility (MALDI-TOF). This equipment will be purchased and installed in the coming year. The Electron Microscope and X-Ray Unit provides access to scientific equipment for which users may have only periodic demand. In 2002, the Unit continued to supply a high resolution imaging and analysis service to the discipline areas of Architecture, Building and Design, Engineering, Science, Mathematics, Medicine and Health Sciences. The Unit also provided a service to external clients through The University of Newcastle Research Associates Limited (TUNRA). Users from outside the University included Pasminco Metals Sulphide, Incitec, Hydromet Operations, EnviroManagers, Pacific Power, CCI POPE and James Cook University. The Unit has commenced a re-equipping program with funds from a University grant of $300,000, an Australian Research Council Linkage-Infrastructure grant of $337,000 and external funding of $15,000 to purchase a Phillips X Pert PRO X-Ray Diffractometer and a SPECTRO X-Lab 2000 X-Ray Fluorescent Spectrometer This equipment has now been installed.
34 The University of Newcastle Our Students
The University’s Institutional Strategic Plan for 2002-2005 includes Domicile of Students strategies that will focus on: Student Enrolments, 2002 • developing student focussed services and systems; by permanent home residence . • supporting the aspirations of: people from our region, Newcastle 6681 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and members Lake Macquarie 3941 of equity groups; Central Coast 2979 • encouraging the enrolment of international students and the internationalisation of our university; and Port Stephens 778 • fostering a culture that respects and values diversity. Upper Hunter 410 Lower Hunter 1879 Student Statistics Taree 182 As at 31 March 2002, there were 21980 students enrolled at the Sydney - City 8 University from throughout Australia and the world. Statistics Sydney - East 39 concerning their enrolment are provided in the following tables: Sydney - North 399 Sydney - North West 261 Sydney - South 207 Sydney - South West 146 NSW - Central West 145 NSW - Far North Coast 82 NSW - Mid North Coast 307 NSW - Murray Region 17 NSW - New England 340 NSW - North West 4 NSW - Riverina 20 NSW - South Coast 84 NSW - Southern Tablelands 38 NSW - Western Plains 97 Canberra 102 Northern Territory 21 Queensland 158 South Australia 49 Tasmania 55 Victoria 147 Western Australia 40 Overseas 2345 Unknown 19 Total 21980
Annual Report 2002 35 Enrolments by Gender, 1998 - 2002
14000
12000
10000
8000
Enrolments 6000
4000
2000
0 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002
Year Female Male
Enrolments By Gender 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Female 10590 10757 10762 11017 12081 Male 8507 8497 8328 8783 9888
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Enrolments 1998-2002
350
300
250
200
150 Enrolments
100
50
0 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Year
Abo riginal & Torres Strait Islander Enrolments 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 211 217 220 226 294
36 The University of Newcastle International Student Enrolments 1998 1167 1999 1318 2000 1362 2001 1716 2002 2262
2002 Enrolments by Gender within Region/Country of permanent Home Residence Region/Country of Permanent Home Residence Total Female Male Total Americas Argentina 1 1 Brazil 2 3 5 Canada 5 5 10 Caribbean, nfd 1 1 Chile 1 1 Mexico 1 1 Peru 2 2 United States of America 150 107 257 Venezuela 1 1 158 121 279 North Africa and The Middle East Iran 1 4 5 Jordan 1 4 5 Saudi Arabia 2 2 Sudan 1 1 Turkey 2 10 12 United Arab Emirates 2 2 52227 North-East Asia China (excludes SARs and Taiwan) 60 55 115 Hong Kong (SAR of China) 80 101 181 Japan 21 27 48 Korea, Dem. People’s Rep. of (North) 1 1 Korea, Republic of (South) 29 12 41 Macau (SAR of China) 1 2 3 Taiwan 28 17 45 220 214 434
Annual Report 2002 37 Region/Country of Permanent Home Residence (cont.) Total Female Male Total North-West Europe Austria 1 1 2 Belgium 1 1 Denmark 1 2 3 England 1 3 4 Finland 1 1 France 3 5 8 Germany 5 6 11 Ireland 1 1 Netherlands 1 1 Norway 134 100 234 Sweden 19 15 34 United Kingdom, nfd 3 9 12 168 144 312 Oceania and Antarctica Cook Islands 1 1 Fiji 2 7 9 New Zealand 1 2 3 Papua New Guinea 5 15 20 Samoa 7 2 9 Samoa, American 2 2 Solomon Islands 2 2 Tonga 1 1 Vanuatu 1 1 18 30 48 South-East Asia Brunei Darussalam 1 1 Burma (Myanmar) 1 1 Cambodia 1 1 East Timor 3 3 6 Indonesia 37 40 77 Laos 6 4 10 Malaysia 80 103 183 Philippines 16 9 25 Singapore 128 350 478 Thailand 31 20 51 Vietnam 8 10 18 310 541 851 Southern and Central Asia Bangladesh 14 14 Bhutan 1 1 India 11 92 103 Maldives 2 2 Nepal 1 1 Pakistan 1 2 3 Sri Lanka 5 2 7 20 111 131
38 The University of Newcastle Region/Country of Permanent Home Residence (cont.) Total Female Male Total Southern and Eastern Europe Cyprus 1 1 Greece 1 1 Italy 1 1 Portugal 1 1 Russian Federation 3 3 Spain 1 3 4 3811 Sub-Saharan Africa Botswana 24 32 56 Ghana 1 1 Guinea 1 1 Kenya 19 17 36 Lesotho 1 1 Liberia 1 1 Malawi 1 1 Mauritius 1 2 3 Mozambique 2 4 6 Nigeria 2 2 4 Senegal 1 1 South Africa 2 9 11 Southern and East Africa, nec 1 1 Tanzania 1 1 Zambia 1 1 Zimbabwe 15 19 34 70 89 159 Unknown 2810 University Total 974 1288 2262 ‘nec’ - not elsewhere classified; ‘nfd’ - not further defined; ‘SAR’ - Special Administrative Region.
Student Enrolments and Equivalent Full-Time Student Unit (EFTSU) by Campus 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Callaghan Enrolments 17323 17451 17220 17850 19772 EFTSU 13403 13318 13170 13375 14395 Central Coast Enrolments 1774 1803 1870 1950 2208 EFTSU 1338 1278 1299 1318 1531 Total Enrolments 19097 19254 19090 19800 21980 Total EFTSU 14741 14596 14469 14693 15926
Student Enrolments by Attendance Mode 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 External 768 826 887 1134 1207 Full-time 11920 11805 11695 11725 12089 Part-time 6409 6623 6508 6941 8684 Total 19097 19254 19090 19800 21980
Annual Report 2002 39 International Student Enrolments, 1998-2002
2500
2000
1500
1000 Enrolments
500
0
1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Year
International Student Enrolments 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 1167 1318 1362 1716 2262
Student Load (EFTSU) by Campus 1998-2002 18000
16000
14000
12000
10000 Load 8000
6000
4000
2000
0
1998 1999 2000 2001 2002
Year Callaghan Central Coast
Student Load (EFTSU) by Campus 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Callaghan EFTSU 13403 13318 13170 13375 14395 Central Coast EFTSU 1338 1278 1299 1318 1531
Total EFTSU 14741 14596 14469 14693 15926
40 The University of Newcastle Enrolments by Campus, 1998-2002 25000
20000
15000
10000 Enrolments
5000
0 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Year Callaghan Central Coast
Student Enrolments by Campus 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002
Callaghan Enrolments 17323 17451 17220 17850 19772 Central Coast Enrolments17741803 1870 1950 2208
Total Enrolments 19097 19254 19090 19800 21980
Enrolments by Attendance Mode 2002 Enrolments by Attendance Mode 2002 5% Full-Time 12089 (55%) Part-Time 8684 (40%) External 1207 (5%) Total: 21980
40%
55%
Full-time Part-time External
Annual Report 2002 41 Exchange Programs Student Support Services The University has 74 exchange partners. This number having been To help students reach their full academic potential and to cater for reduced since 2001 after careful review of the partners. Since the their needs, the University provides a range of services accessible to exchange program commenced we have hosted 754 international all students. exchange students and sent 305 Australian students overseas on Student Support Services have endeavoured to promote an exchange programs. This number is steadily increasing as a result of integrated and consolidated approach to the delivery of quality the University’s scholarship program. In 2003, 65 international support services for students. In 2002 several services were exchange students will enrol in Semester 1 and 50 Australian integrated, to achieve the aim of providing a more effective and students will go overseas. targeted delivery of programs to our students. The figures on the provision of scholarships since 1997 provide an Student Support Services staff were in involved in the management indication of the numbers of outgoing students with the average of several serious incidents during 2002. A timely response by for the period 1997 to 2002 being 39. experienced staff ensured that students and staff affected by these Scholarships incidents received support. Year Other achievements included the revision of the Grievance 1997 20 scholarships Procedure for Students, in consultation with student representatives 1998 36 scholarships and staff, and a review of student debt management processes. Work commenced on an upgrading of web based information for 1999 28 scholarships student support. 2000 60 scholarships Disability Services 2001 42 scholarships 2002 48 scholarships In 2002, 950 students declared that they had a disability on their enrolment form and 431 students registered with the Student Support Service (Disability). Students continued to be provided with support for lectures, assessment requirements and exams through the provision of notetaking, scribes, alternative exam arrangements, AUSLAN interpreters, negotiation with academic staff, advocacy and general support. Through the Adaptive Technology Centre, students accessed services including: translation services for course notes, tests and research material; training and support in the use of adaptive software and equipment; library technology and equipment including ergonomic furniture; closed circuit TVs; voice recognition software, screen enlargement software, screen reading software, brailling software and a braille embosser. The Student Support Service (Disability), in conjunction with Careers and Student Employment held an employability workshop for students with a disability and together with Deakin University ran the Willing and Able Mentoring program placing students with a mentor from the local community to assist with the transition to employment. Funding was granted from HEEP to develop a comprehensive website for students with a disability studying at the University of Newcastle.
42 The University of Newcastle International Students Support University Counselling Service Some outcomes of a strategy developed to provide specific pastoral During 2002, the University Counselling Service continued to care and support services for international students are: support the teaching, learning and research functions of the University by providing a range of professional counselling services • Delivery of the reception service and temporary accommodation to students and staff members. for new arrivals • Contribution to various University Orientation Programs Students • Delivery of the International Student Care Program The Service assisted students to adjust to University by the direct • Delivery of the Family Care Program for spouses and families of provision of Orientation Programs to specific groups and by supporting international students and resourcing Faculty-based programs. Individual counselling was • Delivery of a comprehensive social program to connect students provided to 900 students, of whom 71% were undergraduates, 11% more closely with the local community postgraduates and 4% students from enabling programs. • Organisation and delivery of the Going Home Program and Farewell Ceremony International students comprised 16% of our student clients. Support • Provision of loans to students in times of emergency for International students was provided in various ways, both directly • Delivery of information and advice to students with personal/ and by way of consultation to Faculties and other University units. social difficulties. Staff Another outcome designed to facilitate the hosting of an The Service provided 520 counselling sessions to 141 staff members. international and multicultural activity was: Regular Workshops on stress management skills were provided to both students and staff members throughout the year. During 2002 •The Cultural Exchange Program undertaken in collaboration the Service provided critical incident stress management for students with Jesmond Public School. and staff affected by several critical incidents. Student Loan Scheme Interest-free emergency loans are available to students who demonstrate a genuine need and for whom continued study may be placed in jeopardy if assistance is not available. In 2002, a total of 522 students were provided with loans totalling $428,397 (average $765 per student). The principal calls on funds were textbooks and study materials, rental bonds and rent and other bills. A further 650 students were provided with payment plans to allow gradual repayment of the General Service Charge.
Annual Report 2002 43 University Health Service Student Recruitment, Careers and Employment Office The Health Service is a fully accredited general practice which A new Unit formed this year by amalgamating the former Careers continued to provide routine and emergency medical care to and Student Employment Office, Prospective Students & the Unilink students, staff and visitors on the Callaghan campus. Program Units. Staff in the new Unit provide a comprehensive service to prospective students, students and graduates of the The Health Service is particularly well used by international students University relating to study options, careers and employment issues. (19% of total consultations in 2002). Administration staff are familiar with the special medical insurance arrangements for these Services include: advice on pathways and admission to University, students and their dependents and processes have been developed school/community liaison, part-time/vacation employment, graduate to minimise any additional costs. As well, medical and nursing staff vacancies, job seeking skills/strategies, program and career have an awareness and understanding of international students’ planning. The University’s equity and diversity agenda has been potential medical problems and the difficulties of seeking medical extended through the Unilink Program which was expanded in care away from home. 2002 to include 24 schools in the Newcastle and Central Coast regions. Each year, the Health Service organises visits to the Callaghan campus by the Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service Mobile Donor Collection Proposed innovations for 2003 include the Colleague of the School Bus. The response by students and staff is always excellent and the Network and Prospect a prospective student tracking system. These Australian Red Cross Blood Service has expressed its appreciation for will strengthen the University’s links with local and regional schools the University’s support of this vital community service. and the community. Chaplaincy Centre One of the biggest events the chaplains were involved in last year was co-hosting, (with one chaplain from the University of New England), the national Tertiary Campus Ministry Association (TCMA) annual conference in Armidale from September 29 to October 2. Approximately 80 chaplains, including 11 from such countries as Denmark, Finland, Germany, India, Hong Kong, Canada, USA and Zimbabwe attended the conference.
44 The University of Newcastle Communication and Information Services Education Communication and Information Services, in collaboration with other • NUSport is a Registered Training Organisation, delivering portfolios within the University Services Division, completed a major nationally recognised training and qualifications in the areas of enhancement to the student administration system during the year, fitness, and sport and recreation. In 2002, 407 staff achieved a developing and implementing a full online enrolment service. This has qualification through NUSport. Of these, 62% of participants had a major impact on the speed of service to students and provided were either current students or graduates of the University. significant efficiencies in administrative processes. • In 2002, NUSport facilitated approximately 24 undergraduate and post graduate student projects in regards to: Graduate In addition, an online admissions service to support the UAC process School of Business Strategic Management working with was also developed and implemented. This new service enables NUSport’s Strategic Plan; IT postgraduate project group acceptance of offers over the web, providing better service and more examining NUSport’s bookings systems and related protocols; timely information to the University and to prospective students. and students from Leisure and Tourism, Communications and Business assisting with EUG arrangements. Residential Services •Through its Kindergym sports program, NUSport facilitates all The University of Newcastle provides approximately 1000 beds in University of Newcastle research into obesity and sport in three colleges and a “motel standard” residence (Barahineban) relation to children. located on the south-eastern corner of the Callaghan campus. A co- • University Physical Education students utilise NUSport facilities ordinator manages all accommodation while each college is under for the practical components of their courses. the care of a Head and a team of residential staff. International • Neal J Dickinson Award - NUSport awarded 46 grants totaling House allocates up to 50% of its beds to international students, $5,984 to NUSport club members, to complete qualifications in while Edwards Hall and Evatt House provide up to 25% of their sports related fields of First Aid, coaching and sports administration. beds to international students. Each college has its own ethos and Facilities and Services students have a choice of catered or self catered lifestyles. •The Newcastle University Sports Physiotherapy and The University Accommodation Service offers a free service to all Rehabilitation Clinic opened as a new clinic in The Forum as students seeking assistance in finding accommodation outside the an initiative of the Faculty of Health and Discipline of Callaghan campus, or advice on any housing problems during their Physiotherapy. Physiotherapy students are able to gain University careers. The University also provides short term valuable experience in the clinic. accommodation for international students at two off-campus residences called Univille, at Jesmond and Shortland. Univille Participation accommodates students from overseas who are attending language •The 2002 Composite Student Questionnaire (CSQ) shows that of courses at the University, as well as students who require temporary the students who had used sport and recreation facilities, 83.8% accommodation until they find something more permanent. of commencing and 87.8% of continuing indicated they used The Student Accommodation on the Forum. The CSQ also shows that 72.7% of commencing and Ourimbah Campus 76.7% of continuing students were either satisfied or very satisfied with the sport and recreation facilities available. The Residence on campus provides 26 furnished, air-conditioned • International Development Services was approached to take an single room self-catering accommodation units. Each room has a active role in promoting NUSport to international students. well-appointed study area, its own bathroom and a small •A NUSport Open Day in Semester 2 was arranged for mid-year refrigerator. Fully equipped kitchens serve groups of six students commencing students. and there is a spacious, comfortable common room. Programs and Activities The Student Support Unit at the Ourimbah campus also assists students with off-campus accommodation. • NUSport administered 33 affiliated clubs in 2002 • 500 University staff attended the Health Fair held on 9 April 2002 • NUSport’s Positive Living program of social and recreational NUSport activities attracted 660 participants in 2002 Newcastle University Sport (NUSport) is a non-profit company, limited • 100 students from Singapore visited the Faculty of Engineering by guarantee, which initiates, develops, operates, manages and and Built Environment and NUSport coordinated 4WD/ maintains sporting and recreational services, facilities and Sandboarding tours for students to get the Australian relationships for and in support of the University and its community. experience in their short stay. NUSport facilities, including the Forum Sports and Aquatic Centre, are located in the grounds of the Callaghan campus and are available for use by all members of the local and sporting communities, University staff and students, and graduates of other universities.
Annual Report 2002 45 Student Awards & Achievements Faculty of Health
Faculty of Business & Law James Alexander Daniel was awarded the ADInstruments Prize for Human Structure and Function; the Australian Scientific Prize for Cellular Corey McHattan won the Evatt Medal awarded annually to the and Molecular Science; and the Biorad Prize for Biomedical Science. student with the best performance in the Bachelor of Laws or Bachelor of Laws/Diploma in Legal Practice. The Greta Spall Prize was awarded jointly to Michael Fryer (B.Biomedical Science) and Adrienne Hanson (B.Science Biotechnology). Faculty of Education & Arts Tammie Roy a graduate student in the School (Discipline of David Middlebrook a PhD student won the $15,000 Bendigo Anatomy) has won the Australian and New Zealand Council for the Bank Tattersalls Art Prize. Care of Animals in Research and Teaching (ANZCCART) Student Caroline Hale a recent Master of Fine Art graduate won the $1,000 Award for her paper Building Partnerships Between Animal Ethics Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Foundation for the Arts Award for Committees and Researchers. Excellence at the Gold Coast International Ceramic Art Award. Erin Hardman (1st year BOHS) and Marcia King (2nd year Neal Smith a Bachelor of Fine Art (Honours) student was awarded BOHS) have been selected for a year long trainee scholarship with the Freeman Foundation Travelling Scholarship worth $5,000. ANSTO in Sydney. Lorraine Palmer a Bachelor of Fine Art (Honours) won the overall Maureen Nunn was the top BOHS graduate completing studies in prize, worth $2,500 in the regional Waste as Art Competition. 2001 and was awarded the WorkCover Authority prize of $500. Susan Mary Smith was awarded the Harcourt Publishers Award Ibthal Samarayi a MFA student was awarded $500 in the for First Year Nursing. Photographic Section and Muamer Cajic, an Honours student was awarded $500 in the Painting Section of the Gosford Art Prize. Faculty of Science & Information Technology Peter Morris a second year BFA student was awarded a grant of $2500 from Gosford City Council for a Spray Can Art Project. Fiona Pfennigwerth an Honours student in Wildlife Illustration (School of DCIT) was the recipient of the annual William Fletcher Troy Main won an English Teachers’ scholarship with the Trust Grant worth $1000 for students from institutions across NSW Department of Education and Training. The scholarship gives him offering programs in Art, Design and Performing Arts programs. guaranteed employment as a teacher at the end of his training and pays his HECS as well as a training grant of $15000 for his final year. Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment
The University of Newcastle’s soccer playing robot team has placed third in the Legged League at RoboCup 2002, surpassing all previous performances of new teams in the history of the league. RoboCup 2002 is the International Robot Soccer Competition, which was played in Japan this year to coincide with the FIFA World Cup. Heath Raftery a UNISS student, received a student scholarship from the Apple University Consortium to attend the World Wide Developers Conference in San Jose. Alexander Sabella currently completing a combined telecommunications and photonics degree, was the sole Australian student to win a Lucent Global Science Scholars Program in 2002 including $US5,000 and an internship at Lucent Technologies. Six students studying Mechanical, Mechatronics, Computer or Electrical Engineering (Jeffrey Davis, Leigh Dunkley, Ashley Hobart, Sylvia Meredith, Brendon Robinson and Peter Tabner) received $4,000 Royal Australian Navy scholarships and also spent eight weeks working as part of the Navy’s Fleet Intermediate Maintenance Activity.
46 The University of Newcastle New Scholarships • Undergraduate Nursing Scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students – established by the New Scholarships offered in 2002 and announced for 2003 were: School of Nursing and Midwifery in the Faculty of Health to • Ourimbah Campus SRC Scholarship – established as a encourage and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander result of the Student Representative Committee of the Student students enrolling in the Bachelor of Nursing. Two scholarships Union requesting the Ourimbah campus management to match valued at $500 each year for three years. dollar for dollar, whatever the Union provided. Two scholarships • Redfern Photonics Undergraduate Scholarship – are offered to the value of $500 for one year. established for students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science • Katherine Lindsay Undergraduate Scholarship in Law – (Photonics) program in the Faculty of Science and Information established in recognition of the accomplishments of Katherine Technology. One scholarship valued at $4000 for one year only. Lindsay, who was the first graduate from the former Faculty of • Hunter Water Corporation Undergraduate Scholarships – Law. One scholarship valued at $2000 for one year. for an Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander Student and Student • The Institution of Surveyors (NSW Central Western) with a Disability. Scholarship – established to support a first year student who • New South Wales Indigenous Medical Student has been a permanent resident in the Central Western region of Scholarships – A jointly funded initiative between Rotary and NSW for a period of over 5 years and is enrolled in a program/ the NSW Health Department. The aim of the project is to combined program leading to a Bachelor of Surveying degree. establish a scholarship fund that can be used for the purpose of One scholarship offered to the value of $1000 for one year. assisting Indigenous students studying medicine at the • The NSW Country Surveyors Undergraduate University of Newcastle. Scholarship – established to support a first year rural student • Uncle Bob Smith Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander enrolled in the Bachelor of Surveying program. One scholarship Health Scholarship –The scholarship program is an initiative offered to the value of $4000 per annum. of the Hunter Health Aboriginal Employment Strategy. One • Mayne Health Undergraduate Scholarships – these scholarship for one year only. scholarships will promote the professionalism of Mayne Health • Mental Health Nursing Graduate Diploma Scholarship – nurses through undergraduate studies and to foster good working established in collaboration with Hunter Health, Central Coast relationships and partnerships with the University sector. Ten Health and the School of Nursing and Midwifery with a grant scholarships will be offered valued at $1000 for one year only. from the Centre for Mental Health Studies, NSW Health to assist in the recruitment and retention of mental health nurses. Assistance in the payment of tuition fees and the General Service Charge to a maximum of $4500.
Annual Report 2002 47 • Mental Health Nursing Masters (Coursework) • Evatt House-Mark Charles Undergraduate Scholarship – Scholarship – established in collaboration with Hunter Health, established in 2002 by the student body of Evatt House with Central Coast Health and the School of Nursing and Midwifery the policy of “From the students for the students”. This with a grant from the Centre for Mental Health Studies, NSW scholarship is the result of the Evatt House community wishing Health to assist in the recruitment and retention of mental to provide a scholarship to encourage academic, sporting and health nurses. Assistance in the payment of tuition fees and community excellence. One scholarship will be offered for $500 General Service to a maximum of $4500. for one year. The scholarship has been named after Mark Charles who was a resident at Evatt House for six years. Mark • Scholarship for Social Contribution to the NGSB – was a keen sportsman for Evatt House, avid rugby player and established for those students who wish to pursue a second mountaineer. Mark was also a true scholar, receiving the postgraduate Master’s degree, and to encourage students to University Medal and the Evatt House Academic Award two contribute to the social and intercultural life of the NGSB. Two years in succession. As an integral member of the Evatt House scholarships worth 50% of fees (excluding general service community we wish to honour his name, as Mark unfortunately charge) are available, one for international students and one for lost his life in a mountaineering accident on 11 June 2000. Australian students wishing to study a second Master’s program at NGSB. One scholarship will be offered in January and June of • The Philip Emlyn Thomas Honours Scholarship in each year. Environmental Studies – established in honour of the late Philip Emlyn Thomas, an industrial chemistry graduate of the • Scholarship for Outstanding Performance in an NGSB University, by his wife Jennie. One scholarship for $2000 for program – established for those students who wish to pursue one year. a second postgraduate Master’s degree, and to encourage students to pursue the highest possible level during their • Jennie Thomas Travelling Art Honours Scholarship – studies. Two scholarships worth 50% of fees (excluding general established to support an honours student enrolled in the service charge) are available for students wishing to study a School of Fine Art program to travel, view, appreciate and gain second Master’s program at NGSB, one will be offered in a greater understanding of works of art internationally. One January and June of each year. scholarship for $2500 for one year. • David Beer Undergraduate Scholarships – established by • Yutta-muru (good pathway) Undergraduate the Vice-Chancellor to assist country students to study Medicine, Scholarship – This scholarship was established through the Health Sciences or Nursing, where those students meet the entry generosity of Mr Mike Rodger, a private citizen of the Central criteria but are financially disadvantaged in pursuing the Coast. Its purpose is to assist Indigenous students with program. Up to 12 scholarships will be offered at a value of education expenses. One scholarship for $1000 for one year. $4000 per annum for the minimum duration of the program.
48 The University of Newcastle Student Equity Initiatives Significant among the initiatives to support students with a disability were: The University’s Institutional Strategic Plan identifies diversity, equity and social justice among its core values, and lists the (i) the continuation of an Equipment Loans Scheme designed to following goals for its students: enable students with a disability to purchase the technology they need in order to manage their studies; 1) Our student body reflects diversity of the Australian community; and (ii) the dissemination and monitoring of the University’s revised 2) As a community we affirm the richness of social and cultural diversity. Disability Action Plan; (iii) the continuing operation of the Adaptive Technology and Those goals clearly articulate a determination to improve access to Assistive Learning Centres which provide technology support to University for people from socio-economically disadvantaged students with a disability; backgrounds, people with a disability, people from rural and (iv) the establishment of closer links between the Learning Support isolated areas, and people from non-English speaking backgrounds. Program and Disability Services to coordinate support for In addition, there is a strong commitment to increasing the students with a disability; and representation of women in non-traditional areas of study and in (v) in keeping with the University’s expectation that responsibility higher degrees by research in those disciplines of study where for students with a disability be devolved to the Faculties, the women are under-represented. The University also has a particular distribution to all Faculties of a manual detailing strategies for and longstanding commitment to assist Indigenous students. assisting students with a disability. In 2002, the University appointed a Working Party to develop a The encouragement of women students to commence or to Student Equity Plan for the forthcoming triennium. Members of the continue study in non-traditional areas was a continued focus Working Party included representatives of student groups, throughout the year. In view of the difficulty across the sector in Indigenous people, academics and administrators. attracting women into these areas, the University’s Working Party A range of strategies implemented to assist students from low SES on Women in Non-traditional Areas obtained funding to undertake backgrounds included: a project designed to establish close collaboration with professional associations and, ideally, achieve the inclusion of gender • the expansion of the University’s equity schools link inclusiveness as a criterion in the accrediting process of courses. program - Unilink; • continued support for the enabling programs - Newstep and The Diversity in Engineering project continued to conduct schools Open Foundation - which offer students alternative pathways visits, manage a dedicated website, and deliver orientation sessions to higher education; and for female students. An initiative in the Faculty of Science and • funding of non-repayable Equity Grants for students whose Technology involved Primary School girls interested in IT being part enrolment is threatened by financial difficulty. of a process of discussion of the Bachelor of Information Technology, designed to ensure that the undergraduate program These strategies are designed to maintain the University’s current targets and captures the interest of girls beyond junior secondary access and success rates for this group. The proportion of students years when research indicates they lose interest in areas that are aged under 25 from low SES backgrounds in 2002 grew from 32% not traditional for women. of students in 2001 to 33%, and the representation of students over 25 from low SES backgrounds from 31% in 2001 to 33% - The region in which the University operates has a low percentage more than twice the state indicator. of people from non-English speaking backgrounds, with the result that the representation of this group within the student body is The University assists rural and isolated students through the relatively low. The University does tap into the Circuitbreaker Regional and Rural Preference Scheme, the Rural/Remote Entry intensive language, numeracy and study skills program in secondary Scheme to the Bachelor of Medicine, and a number of outreach schools with a view to providing motivation to students from non- activities designed to increase awareness of the higher education English speaking backgrounds to participate in higher education. options available to rural students. In addition the Learning Support program within the University The Faculty of Business & Law was successful in its application for provides language and academic support skills to students enrolled funding under the University’s Higher Education Equity Program at the University. Advisors are trained in teaching English as a (HEEP) to establish an orientation program tailored to students second language. from rural and isolated areas. The project to be implemented in 2003 incorporates a ‘buddy system’ whereby current students will The University continues to support initiatives that will enhance be developed as mentors to assist new students from rural and access, participation and positive outcomes for members of equity isolated areas to settle in and find their way around campus. A target groups. Its success - particularly in relation to students from project officer will also monitor the progress of students from this low SES backgrounds - is evident in the statistics. Moreover, at a equity target group during their first semester of study. The long- time when diversity is under challenge, the University is committed term aim is to retain rural students by providing support to them. to fostering a community that both reflects the rich diversity of the wider community, and positively celebrates that diversity.
Annual Report 2002 49 Sporting Achievements • Newcastle University Sport welcomed 3,200 students who converged on Newcastle during July 7-13 for the 2002 Arrive Alive Eastern University Games. The University of Newcastle team of 280 students swept the medals pool with 8 gold, 4 silver and 4 bronze medals to become overall winner. Gold medals were won in Archery, Women’s Badminton, Baseball, Men’s Basketball, Men’s Rugby, Men’s Soccer, Women’s Tennis, and Women’s Touch. Silver medals were won in Women’s Rugby, Men’s Squash, Men’s Touch, and Women’s Volleyball. Bronze medals were won in Mixed Netball, Women’s Softball, Women’s Squash, and Men’s Hockey. •A team of 220 athletes and officials represented Newcastle at the Australian University Games (AUG) in Adelaide from 30 September to 4 October 2002. The University of Newcastle placed sixth overall. Gold medals were won in Women’s Touch, Men’s Soccer, Women’s Water Polo, Women’s Rugby, Diving (Krystle Hitchcock), Tae Kwon Do (Lane Kvannli). Silver medals were won in Athletics 400m (Amber James), Diving (Krystle Hitchcock), Tae Kwon Do (Pativaat Bonxoong). Bronze medals were won in Men’s Baseball, Tae Kwon Do (Lachlan Gorrie), Diving - Synchronised (Krystle Hitchcock). • In 2002 Martin Kelly, a PhD student in Chemistry, won a bronze medal in Judo at the Commonwealth Games in Manchester. Also in the Commonwealth Games team was Yvette Rodier, who trains at The Forum under former Olympian Donna Procter. • University of Newcastle athletes at the AUG, Mark Whiteman (sitting volleyball) and Belinda Wright (softball) also represented Australia in national teams in 2002. • Stephen Coombes was selected as Sportsperson of the Year for his performances in cricket in 2001. • Blues for sporting accomplishments were awarded to Jenny Anne Fetch for Tennis and Nathan Jones for Touch Football. Colours for contribution to sports administration were awarded to Andrew Bendeich (Rugby); Steven Bennett (Baseball); Rebecca Chester (Women’s Soccer); David Smith (Waterski); and Sturt Watson (Ultimate Frisbee).
50 The University of Newcastle Our Staff
The University’s Institutional Strategic Plan for 2002-2005 includes As well as the macro level restructuring the University has also strategies that will focus on: taken a proactive approach in workplace reform across a significant • resourcing and supporting staff appropriately; number of areas leading to greater productivity, better outcomes • fostering their training and development; for students and a decrease in operational costs. These gains have • implementing Managing for Performance; and been made through the implementation of flexible work • targeting and recruiting people with identified strengths and attributes. arrangements and the application of job redesign in areas such as the University libraries. The implementation of workplace reform Organisational Reform and Development through the application of the Enterprise Agreements has also led to the attainment of the Workplace Reform Second Round funding The primary focus throughout 2002 for the University of Newcastle, in from DEST. This has resulted in the University obtaining an terms of staff, has been the implementation and ongoing evolvement additional $7.2 million in funding. of the organisational restructure and supporting reform processes in response to the external review. The organisational restructure, Significant progress has been made during 2002 in regard to the implemented from 1 January 2002, has been a large scale major devolvement and implementation of academic workload profiling change process across the entire organisation that has significantly and modelling. Initially this involved a central project team drawing impacted on staff and leadership throughout the University. together the various corporate information sources and progressing a workload profiling format and system. This centralised group has The University deliberately adopted a positive approach to change, to now been disbanded with workload co-ordinators returning to their progress the reform agenda. This involved a broad-based consultative Faculties to progress workload in a way that meets the needs of process on the principles underpinning the restructure, emphasis on job Faculty and academic staff. A Workload Policy and Implementation redesign and development for staff, and the devolvement of Group comprising the Deputy Executive Deans from the five accountability and decision making within a unitary framework. Faculties provides direction and leadership to the project in Significant emphasis has been placed on supporting the leadership consultation with the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) to group across the University through the launch of the Leadership ensure a standard approach but still allowing flexibility within Support Program. This Program included Orientation Workshops in the five Faculties. early 2002 for 129 senior academic and general staff and the Progress towards implementation of Managing for Performance development of a leadership self assessment instrument. The (MFP) initiated in 2001 continued throughout 2002. This initiative facilitation of workshops involving 298 registrations assisted the provides for mutual setting of goals and objectives to assure leadership group dealing with issues such as role clarification, alignment with the strategic direction of the organisation and budgeting, delegations, change management processes and organisational unit as well as providing constructive feedback on establishing the Leadership networks. The Leadership Support Program performance, recognition of achievements and the identification and however remains in its infancy and work in the coming year will implementation of development needs for staff. Following feedback progress staff development for this particular group in the organisation. through the initial training in relation to MFP, and in light of the In addition to the leadership group a large number of workshops restructure where substantial changes were made to roles and (over 37) have been held for staff across the University. The purpose reporting lines, the University adopted a “just-in-time” approach to of these workshops has been to address aligning the roles of staff, implementation. This has meant a focus initially on general staff MFP the flow of work and work processes with the emerging structure. with the rollout aligned to the Faculties and Divisions planning Workshops include aspects of business planning, client service, processes facilitated by Human Resource Services. teamwork and communication, and redesign of work which were A pilot program for general staff has been implemented involving the all priorities for the staff participating. This level of activity in Faculty of Business & Law, Faculty of Health, Human Resource Services workplace reform has led to a significant number of general staff and Facilities Management. The assessment of this pilot program will classification reviews flowing out of job redesign. be provided early in 2003 and will influence the full rollout for general staff as well as inform development of the academic staff MFP program. During 2002 the University also finalised the development of the 360 degree feedback tool tailored for general staff and academic staff within the University. Work is continuing with respect to developing the policies and procedures that may apply in utilising this tool. This will be piloted in the coming year.
Annual Report 2002 51 As well as addressing the development of leadership capabilities for senior staff, a broad range of staff development has been provided for all staff including 345 courses and workshops in which there were 3,768 registered program participants. The graph below shows the attendance of staff by program category.
Staff Development Attendance by Categories - 2002 Leadership Support Program 7%
Managing For Performance Information 5% Technology Teaching & 26% Learning 8%
Workplace Skills 20%
Occupational Health & Safety 34%
The graph demonstrates: •A focus on OH&S (see comment on page 53) • Significant IT (26%) staff development to support Institutional Strategic Planning IT objectives. •A wider range of Workplace Skills (20%) to meet identified staff needs, including: • Establishment of supervisor development program for general staff supervisors of which 45 attended. •Awarding of the Diploma of Business (Frontline Management) to 24 staff. • Project Management training for 34 staff currently working in project teams.
52 The University of Newcastle Health and Safety SEG have endorsed, during 2002, an overarching Occupational Health and Safety management framework for the University. This framework addresses increased legislative obligations for the University and progresses a number of occupational health and safety initiatives such as: • Broad consultation and agreement on establishment of a University community OH&S consultation mechanism; • Development and implementation of co-ordinated risk analysis tools and training; • Commencement of an Employee Assistance Program for University staff and their families; •Targeted occupational health & safety training to address specific OH&S needs; • Contractor safety management. Occupational Health & Safety performance has continued to improve as demonstrated below. However the University is conscious of its obligations and will continue to develop Occupational Health & Safety management systems and initiatives to ensure ongoing improvement in relation to occupational health and safety performance.
Annual Report 2002 53 Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) 1998 – 2002
Days
14.00
12.00
10.00
8.00
6.00
4.00
2.00
0.00 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Years
Severity Rate (Average Time Lost) Days
16.00
14.00 Severity Rate
12.00
10.00
8.00
6.00
4.00
2.00
0.00 97/98 98/99 99/00 00/01 01/02 Years
54 The University of Newcastle Safety in Research The three Sub-Committees of the University’s Occupational Health & Safety Workplace Committee considered a total of 121 Research Grant applications that were identified as having safety implications by their respective Principal Investigators. This represents a significant increase over the number considered in previous years, up from 80 in 2001. A series of Hazardous Substances, Biosafety and Radiation safety training sessions was conducted during the year and attended by audiences drawn from the research community at the University.
Outside Study Programs Outside Study Programs enhance the professional development of an academic staff member as a researcher, teacher or practitioner in his or her discipline. There are three criteria under which eligible staff may apply for OSPRO: • Progress/Completion of a Higher Degree • Progression of Research • Improvement of Teaching and Learning. The following tables provide an indication of the number of applications for the period 2000 to 2002. The figures indicate a steady increase in the total number of applications for OSPRO for the period with a significant increase in the number of applications from females. The greatest increase occurred in the Progression of Research criteria, thus continuing its strong emphasis across the period. This trend continues to maintain consistency with the University’s strategic research objectives. In 2002, 12.8% of the female University population made application for Outside Study Programs compared to 9.4% in 2001 and 9.2% in 2000. The continuing increase supports the University’s equal opportunity, access and affirmative action initiatives.
Annual Report 2002 55 Outside Study Program Application Criteria by Year and Gender
Progression of Research
100 80 Male 60 Female 40 Total Applications 20 0 2000 2001 2002 Year
Improvement of Teaching and Learning
8
6 Male 4 Female 2 Total Applications 0 2000 2001 2002 Year
Progression to Higher Degree
15
10 Male Female 5 Total Applications 0 2000 2001 2002
Year
56 The University of Newcastle Academic Promotions Recruitment The following table shows statistics by gender and level for the The University continues to attract high quality staff, through 2002 Academic Staff Promotions Round. targeting active and passive job seekers, and utilises academic networking to identify and encourage potential staff with a total of Level A to Level B 10 new Professors and Associate Professors (Level E and D) Applied Successful % appointed in 2002. Success in continuing to recruit and retain high quality staff is evidenced, for example, by the fact that 80% of the Women 11 5 45% academic workforce possess a higher degree and currently 77% of Men 18 8 44% staff in Levels B to E meet the McKinnon benchmark definition of Total 29 13 45% research active, whilst 23% of Level A staff are research active. Level B to Level C Applied Successful % Honours List for 2002 Women 12 6 50% Officer (AO) in the General Division Men 23 9 39% Emeritus Professor Beryl Nashar, OBE, for service to the community, Total 35 15 43% particularly through raising awareness of issues affecting women, and to education. Level C to Level D Member (AM) in the General Division Applied Successful % Professor Robert Batey, for service to medicine and medical Women 2 0 0% education in the fields of gastroenterology and hepatology, Men 14 3 21% particularly through Hepatitis C research. Total 16 3 19% Professor Alan Hewson, for service to medicine and medical Level D to Level E education in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology, particularly throughout the Hunter region. Applied Successful % Medal (OAM) in the General Division Women 0 0 0% Dr Keith Murree Allen, conjoint academic in the Faculty of Health, in Men 2 2 100% recognition of his contribution to music. Total 2 2 100% Ms Elizabeth Holowell, for service to education, particularly as a Total teacher of violin at the University of Newcastle Conservatorium. Applied Successful % Ms Carmel Lutton, for service to music education, particularly Women 25 11 44% through the Newcastle Conservatorium Foundation and Friends of Men 57 22 39% the Conservatorium. Total 82 33 40% Analysis of the 2002 academic promotions round has shown a Exceptional Service Medal strong correlation between the final promotions outcomes as In 1997 the Council of the University resolved to establish the assessed by the University’s Promotions Committee and the Exceptional Service Medal. This Medal may be awarded by the individual Faculties assessments and recommendations. This is a Council to recognise exceptional and sustained contributions by a strong indicator that the criteria and the academic promotions staff member, former staff member or a member of the community process is robust and consistently applied across the University. towards some aspect of the University’s activities.
Annual Report 2002 57 In 2002 Mr Brian Penfold received an Exceptional Service Medal for University Security Services his contributions to the University over a career spanning 33 years. Peter Boyd Mervyn Allan Brian started work at the University in 1968 in a clerical position, James Doolan Rick Adamson completed a Bachelor of Commerce with Honours in 1979 and by Gordon Aitken Michael Bromilow his retirement in 2001 was Executive Director, Finance and Property Paul Clark William Clough Division. Throughout his career, Brian has been meticulous in Peter Delaney Marlene Duncan providing up to date, relevant and reliable information to staff of Leanne Eyers Terry Ford the University. Matthew Hampel Angela Holzhauser Robert Metz Ross Morton Brian Penfold’s nomination for the Exceptional Service Medal relates Lance Nathan Kile Nicholas largely to the dedication and loyalty he has shown to the University Tom O’Donohue Kevin Onslow of Newcastle in his capacity as a senior administrator and taxation Neil Parker Doug Schuck specialist. One of Brian’s greatest achievements is that he was Graeme Skelly Wade Skelly instrumental in convincing the New South Wales State Government Gavin Smith Graeme Wallace to grant the University unlimited investment powers. This process Bryce Wilson Willie Wilson involved several years of intense lobbying and has allowed the Michelle Woodhouse Rodney Hill University to significantly enhance its investment income. Highly Commended Vice-Chancellor’s Award for General Industrial Design Workshop Staff Staff Excellence Ken Oliver Domanic Lieb In 1998 the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for General Staff Excellence Scheme was introduced as a way to recognise and reward general Staff Awards staff for outstanding or exceptional service. Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) Award In 2002, a record number of 19 nominations were submitted for Professor Peter Dunkley (Sparke Helmore Prime TV Award) consideration, 13 for the Individual Award and 6 for a Team Award. Dr Geoffrey Isbester (Pulse Young Medical Researcher of the year) The committee was impressed with the quality of the nominations, Sherman Eureka Prize for Environmental Research many demonstrating the high level of performance and dedication Associate Professor Eric Kennedy and Associate Professor Bogdan shown by general staff throughout the restructure. After careful Dlugogorski from the School of Engineering were awarded the consideration the following awards were made. prestigious Sherman Eureka Prize at a presentation in Sydney on 13 Individual Awards August 2002 for their research into ozone-depleting substances. Jenny Smith Talbert Abrams Award, First Honourable Mention - Executive Assistant to the Director, Professor John Fryer Faculty Services, Professor John Fryer has been awarded the prestigious Talbert Faculty of Education and Arts Abrams Award, First Honourable Mention from the American Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing for a paper in their Susan O’Connor journal Photogrammetric Engineering and Remote Sensing. Human Research Ethics Officer Research and International Division Andrew Bish Electronic Engineering CRC Satellite Systems Faculty of Science and Information Technology Team Awards Wollotuka Admin Support Team Cheryl Newton Adelle Grogan Darlene Beitsch Suzie Cole Mandy Kelly Brooke Kenny Cheryl Cullen
58 The University of Newcastle Acknowledgements for 2002 International Association for Media and Communication Research Royal Society Associate Professor Frank Morgan has been appointed the Professor Graham Goodwin on the signal honour of his election to President of the International Association for Media and Fellow of the Royal Society Communication Research. Appointment Chemeca Medal of Emeritus Professor Eric Colhoun Professor Graeme Jameson was awarded the Chemeca Medal. The Ministerial Appointments Chemeca Medal is the most prestigious award in the chemical The NSW Minister for Health advised of his intention to appoint engineering profession in Australia and New Zealand and is Deputy Chancellor, Professor Trevor Waring, to the role of President awarded in recognition of outstanding contribution to the practice of the NSW Psychologists Registration Board and confirmed of chemical engineering. Professor Waring’s appointment to the membership of the New Australian Universities Alumni Council South Wales Mental Health Sentinel Events Review Committee. Mr Robert Lutton was appointed President of the Australian Professor Terry Lovat, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Education and Arts has Universities Alumni Council. been appointed by Minister Watkins to a new ministerial advisory The Newcastle University Postgraduate Student committee which has been established to develop a 10 year Association (NUPSA) Supervisor of the Year Award strategic plan for public education (schools and TAFE) and to went to Dr Melissa Monfries from the School of Education. provide a strong voice for public education in the community and with the federal government. NUPSA Special Award NUPSA presented a Special Award this year to Dr Mitch O’Toole in Professor Scott Holmes was appointed by Her Excellency the the School of Education for his efforts in mentoring and teaching of Governor, on the advice of the Executive Council, on 11 April 2002, postgraduate students enrolled in the School of Education. to the Small Business Development Corporation of New South Wales from 10 April 2002 until 31 March 2004 2002 Telstra NSW Young Business Woman of the Year was awarded to the General Manager of NUSport, Ms Samantha Martin. AHEIA Following the 2002 Australian Higher Education Industrial NSW Intervarsity Management Competition Association (AHEIA) Executive Committee election for three The team of Master of Business Administration (MBA) students positions, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Brian English has been from the Newcastle Graduate School of Business (NGSB), coached elected as an Ordinary Member for a term of two years for formal by Suzanne Ryan, the former Deputy Director of the NGSB, won the appointment at the AHEIA Annual General Meeting on 11 prestigious NSW Intervarsity Management Competition sponsored November 2002 to the AGM in 2004. by the international consulting firm, The Boston Consulting Group. The team was: Standards Award • Cameron Ricketts – a geologist currently working with the Professor Adrian Page has been awarded a 2002 Standards Award Insolvency Administrators, Star, Dean-Willcocks, Crosbie in Newcastle; for outstanding service by a chair/convenor. The Standards Awards •Thomas Relf – a manufacturing cost accountant with Hunter are presented annually to exceptional recipients who have Valley veterinary pharmaceuticals firm, Jurox Pty Ltd; distinguished themselves through extraordinary service to the • Ren Sun - a dentist in Charlestown; development of standards and standardisation. This year the • Bruce Whitley - a chemical engineer and small business entrepreneur. program was expanded to recognise the enormous contribution of nominating organisations, Chair/ Convenors, Board and Committee members, Projects Managers and Standards Australia staff as well as in the international arena.
Annual Report 2002 59 Annual Book Prize Obituaries Professor Victor Emeljanow and his co-author, Associate Professor • Mr Laurie Bogan died on 12 October 2002. Mr Bogan founded Jim Davis of the University of New South Wales have been awarded the Jean Bogan Memorial Prize for piano composition in 1989. the British Society of Theatre Research, Annual Book Prize for their • Mr Harry Bradford died on 21 November 2002. Harry joined the work, Reflecting the Audience: London Theatre going 1840-1880. This Department of Civil Engineering at Tighes Hill in May 1961 and in is the highest award for British Theatre reference works. The book May 1965 became the Amenities Assistant and Plant Officer in the has also been shortlisted for the George Freedley Prize from the University. The Bradford lounge at the University is named after him. Library Association of America. • Dr Brian Smith’s death in Western Australia was reported in Fastest 100 Growing Companies 2002 Award The Newcastle Herald on 4 December 2002. Dr Smith established GraduateSchool.com received an award under the ‘Fastest 100 the Open Foundation program in 1975 which transformed Growing Companies 2002’ awards announced on 25 April 2002 mature age study at the University. He was also the inaugural under the category of Future Winners. recipient of the Exceptional Service Medal in 1998. • Emeritus Professor Godfrey Tanner died on 10th July 2002. A Lower Hunter Civic Design Awards church service was held at the Christ Church Cathedral in The staff of the Facilities Management portfolio and architects Newcastle on 16 July and a Memorial Service to celebrate the Professor Richard Lepastrier, Professor Peter Stutchbury and Ms Sue life of Godfrey was held on 1 August 2002 at the Griffith Harper, received three awards at the 2002 Lower Hunter Civic Duncan Theatre. Design Awards: • the Dangar Award (commercial/industrial category); • the Sustainable Development Award; and Equal Employment Opportunity • the overall award (across all categories), the Landcom Award The Equity and Diversity Unit provides leadership in policy advice and for excellence in Civic Design. development on matters with implications for staff and student equity. Professional Officer’s Award 2002 Continued efforts were made during 2002 to consult and Dr Bernard Curran, Director Foundation Unit, was awarded the collaborate with Faculties in addressing under-representation of Professional Officer’s Award 2002 by the Australian University employment equity target groups and to determine employment Alumni Council. equity strategies tailored to the specific needs of each Faculty and Convocation Medal for Professional Excellence congruent with the direction of the University’s Institutional award to Deputy Chancellor, Professor Trevor Waring. Strategic Plan. Newton-John Award Efforts have been made during the year towards establishing a to Professor Eileen Doyle. higher profile for equity through maintaining an Equity and Diversity web page, incorporating equity issues into the Leadership Alumni Medals Support Program for senior managers and monitoring human to Dr John Berryman, CEO of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind resource management policies and practices to ensure equitable Children; and consistent application in the workplace. Professor Mohamed Khadra, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University of Canberra (Sydney Chapter); Other specific priorities actioned in 2002 included: Hon. Virginia Chadwick, CEO Great Barrier Reef Marine Park • increasing the proportion of Indigenous Australian staff in Authority; and ongoing, contract and casual employment, and in traineeships; Professor Bill Caelli, Founder and Director of ERACOM • distributing a Cultural Sensitivity Manual to explain basic etiquette Pty Ltd (Brisbane Chapter). and protocols in dealing with people from other countries; • revising the Staff Grievance Procedures; • organising a highly successful Reconciliation Week Walk in May, which was attended by more than 300 staff, students and members of the wider Hunter community; • targeting Faculties which are non-traditional for academic women’s participation in employment; and • organising the second Human Rights and Social Justice Lecture to raise awareness of these issues among the University and wider community.
60 The University of Newcastle The University strengthened its commitment to Indigenous Statistics relating to women’s participation are produced employment in 2002. A major emphasis was placed on automatically from the University’s human resource management maintaining relationships with local Indigenous employment system. Information about other EEO target groups (other than organisations and the wider Indigenous community throughout the women) is based on data collected through a voluntary survey and Hunter region. The University continued to run Indigenous Cultural not on a census of staff. Because of this, information relating to the Awakening training using Indigenous community elders as co- participation of these groups should be used only as an facilitators. About 50 staff have attended this training. approximate indication of employment at the University of people from other equity groups. Statistics are at 31 March 2002. As at March 2002, the University had 45 Indigenous staff, representing 2.6% of all staff in ongoing positions or in contracts of more than six months, an increase from 1.8% in 2001. In addition, 21 Indigenous people were employed in casual and short term work opportunities, predominantly in landscape gardening. These staff have not been counted in the employment figures. EEO statistics for 2002 show positive redistributive effects in some data from the previous year’s report. In particular: • the proportion of academic staff who are women rose from 33% to 35%; • 38% of academic staff promotions went to women, compared to 20% in the previous reporting year; • the proportion of Indigenous academic staff increased from 2.2% to 2.8%; • the proportion of Indigenous general staff increased from 1.6% to 2.5%; • the proportion of Indigenous academic staff employed in full-time ongoing appointments increased from 43% to 72%. See Tables on pages 62-65 for academic and general staff numbers by level and employment basis.
Annual Report 2002 61 Work
Disability
Requiring
People with a
Adjustment at
with a
People
Disability
People Whose
English
was not
Language
as a Child
First Spoken
Groups
Minority
Religious
and Ethno-
People from
Racial, Ethnic,
People &
Islanders
Aboriginal
Torres Strait
Men Women
Actual Number Number Counted
Respondents
101840 90 648 80 545 295 21 18 2 150 11 115 9 50 5 16 2
STAFF
TOTAL
$49,545 134 73 74 60 10 17 13 8 4 $61,934 334 256 189 145 4 57 47 15 3 $73,669 186 153 130 56 42 26 19 7 $84,749 85 76 72 13 2 23 20 3
- - - - -
Salary Band
$ From $ To
$36,509 $52,154 $63,888 $76,928 $99,094
Level
The University of Newcastle — 2001 (Reference date: 31 March 2002)
1.Level (Academic Staff)
Table 1.1 Staff Numbers by Level
Level A Level B Level C Level D Level E
Total
62 The University of Newcastle with a
People
Disability
Adjustme
Requiring
nt at Work
Disability
People with a
Language
not English
First Spoken
People Whose
as a Child was
Groups
Minority
Religious
and Ethno-
People from
Racial, Ethnic,
Strait
Torres
People &
Islanders
Aboriginal
(Academic Staff)
Men Women
Actual Number Number Counted
Respondents
21 17 5 16 4 2 2 1 33 9 25 8 2 1 1
56 29 32 24 2 9 10 1 83 59 55 28 1 15 12 6 1 30 6 12 18 1 1
17 6 6 11 1 1 12 11 2 10 4 2
588 511 408 180 13 115 86 41 14
840 648 545 295 18 150 115 50 16
STAFF
TOTAL
< 1 Year
< 1 Year
3+ Years
1 < 3 Years
1 < 3 Years
Full-Time
Fractional
Full-Time
Fractional
Employment Basis
Casual
Contract 3+ Years
The University of Newcastle — 2001 (Reference date: 31 March 2002)
Tenurable
2. Employment Basis
Table 2.1 Staff Numbers by Employment Basis
Total
Annual Report 2002 63 Work
Disability
Requiring
People with a
Adjustment at
with a
People
Disability
People Whose
English
was not
Language
as a Child
First Spoken
Groups
Minority
Religious
and Ethno-
People from
Racial, Ethnic,
People &
Islanders
Aboriginal
Torres Strait
Men Women
Actual Number Number Counted
Respondents
43 41 24 19 2 1 3 1
1,373 1,069 471 902 27 85 75 70 17
STAFF
TOTAL
$27,552 13 10 5 8 7 1 1 $29,003 45 30 18 27 2 4 $33,353 201 144 54 147 7 10 7 16 6 $36,252 259 202 54 205 4 13 11 5 1 $42,055 293 210 91 202 4 21 18 12 4 $46,405 206 156 90 116 1 13 14 16 5 $52,205 167 141 54 113 1 13 13 6 $60,905 102 94 53 49 1 9 7 6 $65,266 44 41 28 16 3 3 2
------
-
Salary Band
$ From $ To
$25,522 $27,552 $29,003 $33,353 $36,252 $42,055 $46,405 $52,205 $60,905
$65,255
Level
1. Level (General Staff)
Table 1.1 Staff Numbers by Level
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 Level 7 Level 8 Level 9 Level 10 and above Total
The University of Newcastle — 2001 (Reference date: 31 March 2002)
64 The University of Newcastle with a
People
Disability
Adjustme
Requiring
nt at Work
Disability
People with a
Language
not English
First Spoken
People Whose
as a Child was
Groups
Minority
Religious
and Ethno-
People from
Racial, Ethnic,
Strait
Torres
People &
Islanders
Aboriginal
(General Staff)
Men Women
Actual Number Number Counted
Respondents
58 24 17 41 7
93 47 34 59 2 4 5 2 92 79 41 51 2 6 8 8 1 60 9 18 42 1 1 42 15 10 32 2 2 2 1 57 45 7 50 6 4 1
806 708 331 475 14 58 50 51 11 165 142 13 152 1 8 6 6 4
1,373 1,069 471 902 27 85 75 70 17
STAFF
TOTAL
< 1 Year
< 1 Year
3+ Years
1 < 3 Years
1 < 3 Years
Full-Time
Fractional
Full-Time
Fractional
Employment Basis
Casual
Contract 3+ Years
The University of Newcastle — 2001 (Reference date: 31 March 2002)
2. Employment Basis
Table 2.1 Staff Numbers by Employment Basis
Total
Permanent
Annual Report 2002 65 Our Community
The University’s Institutional Strategic Plan for 2002-2005 includes Foundation Unit strategies that will aim to: The Foundation Unit, a new unit within University Services, has • strengthen its ties with its partners; specific responsibility for the coordination of University fundraising • develop better systems of communicating with its alumni and activities, advising on policies and strategies to achieve fundraising other friends; and outcomes and for providing the administrative processes to manage the University’s approach to fundraising. More specifically the • foster events that offer the regional community cultural and Foundation Unit will: academic learning experiences. 1. Work with the Vice-Chancellor, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Business & By 2005 the University will ensure that: Community Links), the Vice-President (University Services) and the • Our contacts and relations with alumni, Convocation, retired Faculties and Divisions in the development of fundraising initiatives. staff and other friends of the University are strong and 2. Support the Foundation Board in its aim to significantly increasingly important to them as well as the University; increase funds for specific projects that further the vision of the •We are recognised for the strength of our strategic regional, University through a comprehensive advancement program. national and international partnerships that offer mutual 3. Facilitate the development of plans, policies, procedures and benefit and improved outcomes. Learning and outcomes from promotional material which support University fundraising. partnerships are shared widely; 4. Provide expertise and services to support fundraising •The University Foundation actively assists the University in campaigns including: coordinating the development of major fundraising endeavours and strategies; fundraising projects, developing and maintaining relationships •We provide leadership in scholarly debate within the regional with high level prospects, receiving enquiries, processing and wider communities; and donations, maintaining the quality of data held to support •We are recognised for genuine partnerships founded on mutual fundraising operations and operating as a clearing house for respect with Australian Indigenous and International First Nations. approaches to prospects. Structure Communication and Information Services In 2002, following the University restructure, the Business and The installation of a new data communications firewall at Hunter Community Links Portfolio was established. The appointment of a Area Health Service by Communication and Information Services in Pro Vice-Chancellor with responsibility for the portfolio is an collaboration with HAHS IT staff, provided academic and health indication of the importance the University places on the sector staff both within the University and HAHS campuses with community and business. improved data communications and access to University networks and online services. A new videoconferencing centre was established within the Auchmuty Library and a link implemented to New England Area Health Service in Tamworth to support initiatives in rural health being undertaken by the Faculty of Health.
Education Services Addition of Wollotuka, and James Fletcher, Orange, Tamworth, and Gosford Hospitals Libraries’ collections to University Library’s catalogue and circulation systems. Addition of the Pender Archive, the Coquun-Hunter River project, and a virtual sourcebook for Aboriginal Studies in the Hunter Region, to the Archives website. Inaugural Summertime Reading program, One Summer, One Book, One University, with staff across the University reading and discussing Barry Maitland’s new Brock and Kolla mystery Babel.
66 The University of Newcastle Faculty of Business and Law Faculty of Education and Arts NBS/KPMG Year 11 Business Plan Competition School of Aboriginal Studies The inaugural NBS/KPMG Year 11 Business Plan Competition Official Opening of the new $3.5m Birabahn Building which was culminated in the final judging of the four finalists at the University jointly celebrated by a spectacular Opening Ceremony as part of the in early December. The competition is an initiative designed to University’s first four day Cultural Festival in October 2002. facilitate business thinking among high school students. Over 500 School of Fine Art students from across New South Wales entered the competition. The four finalist teams from Merewether High School, Schools Visit Day: The school hosted two information sessions Murwillumbah High School, Forster High School and Northern detailing the fine art study options, which attracted over 180 Beaches Christian College - North Sydney presented their business students from as far field as Dubbo, Tamworth, Armidale, Port plans in front of a panel of judges and an audience of family, Macquarie and Bathurst. Along with program outlines and meeting teachers and Faculty staff. Competition sponsor KPMG donated a the staff the visitors were taken on tours of studio facilities and prize of $2000 to the winners, Forster High School, with $1000 viewed exhibitions in the art gallery and foyer gallery space. going to the team and $1000 to the high school. Gallery Program: Diabetes Care Program The School of Fine Art Gallery: In collaboration with Central Coast Health and the Central Coast • co hosted an exhibition of aboriginal art Kinections to coincide Division of General Practice, the Central Coast School of eBusiness with the Birabahn Cultural Festival. The exhibition attracted and Management embarked on a cost and health benefit analysis of over 700 visitors during the festival events and established a local joint Central Coast Health and General Practitioners Diabetes important links for the school with the Indigenous art Care Program. The paid researcher has been housed in the School community of the region. and has worked with the on-campus Central Coast Health personnel. • hosted an exhibition and fundraiser First Chance to celebrate the Initial results have been released and show very positive outcomes. 25th anniversary of the Special Education Centre at the University. • hosted an exchange exhibition of works on paper from The University of Southern Carolina to launch a new association between the two art schools. • Produced an exhibition in the Chancellery to promote work produced by final year Students in Occupational Therapy. Launch of SOFA - a magazine profiling the activities of the School of Fine Art. Links with the TAFE Sector: • New England Institute of TAFE (Tamworth campus) ongoing flexible degree program, with a pilot video delivery of a theory lecture/tutorial in October 2002. • Hunter Institute of Technology (Hunter St campus) Valuable partnerships expanding to support TAFE articulated students moving into the Bachelor of Fine Art Degree program. • Great Lakes Institute of Technology (Forster/Tuncurry) the School of Fine Art was included in initial talks with this institute in July to look into opportunities of offering a flexible degree program in the future. In the short term plans are in place to support: intensive workshops, professional development for staff and artist in residence programs.
Annual Report 2002 67 School of Language & Media Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment David Kelly, a candidate for the degree of Master of Creative Arts, The Faculty successfully organised and hosted major events in both signed a contract with Pan-Macmillan (Picador) for the novel which Newcastle and Singapore in celebration of 50 years of is the creative-work part of his thesis. engineering education in Newcastle. The Newcastle dinner was held on 19 October 2002 and over 400 guests attended including Helen Garner was Creative Writing Fellow in the School in first alumni, past staff, senior industry contacts and members of the semester. She was the subject of the lead article in the Newcastle University executive. The Reunion Dinner was followed by a Recovery Herald Weekender for 11 May 2002. BBQ and Open Day at the Faculty on 20 October 2002 to allow Dr Nancy Wright as Director of The Centre for the Interdisciplinary graduates to return to the campus to see changes and developments. Study of Property Rights hosted a conference on The Status of The event was enjoyed by all and provided an invaluable Women in Australia and Canada on 22-23 March 2002 at The opportunity for the Faculty to re-establish links with graduates and Customs House, Newcastle. also highlight its recent successes and achievements. Industry HEAT 3 in the new series was published at the end of April 2002. sponsorship for the Eng50 Anniversary enabled the establishment Its title, I Have Never Worn Sunglasses, was drawn from Gerald of a Faculty scholarship fund of $25,000 that will be used to Murnane’s essay The Breathing Author, originally given at a seminar provide targeted scholarships to undergraduate students. in his honour at the University of Newcastle in September 2001. The Faculty followed up the Newcastle anniversary event with a HEAT 4 was published in November. dinner in Singapore on 13 December 2002. This dinner was The Conservatorium organised as a University-wide event with the aim of linking to engineering graduates in celebration of the Faculty’s history, Celebrating 50 Years of the Newcastle Conservatorium presenting an Honorary Doctorate to Khaw Boon Wan, Senior 2002 marked the 50th Anniversary of the Newcastle Minister of State for the Ministry of Information, Communications Conservatorium. The 50th Anniversary Celebration Ceremony and and the Arts, and launching the University’s Singapore Alumni Concert was held on 22 February 2002 in the Conservatorium Chapter. Over 130 guests attended the dinner and once again it Concert Hall. The Conservatorium also held a 50th Anniversary Gala was a highly successful function that renewed links with graduates Dinner on 18 May 2002 at the Newcastle Club. and industry with a view to forming closer and more productive Sponsorship Agreement links in the future through the alumni chapter. In 2002 a sponsorship agreement was initiated with Kwai Australia. The Science and Engineering Challenge initiative that is jointly conducted by the Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment and the Faculty of Science & Information Technology was recognised in 2002 through the award of the UK Institute of Physics for Promoting Public Awareness in Physics. The Science and Engineering Challenge program expanded in 2002 with seven challenge events being in held in locations such as Newcastle, Central Coast, Dubbo, Tamworth, Kempsey, Muswellbrook and Canberra. These regional Challenges culminated in the Super Challenge Cup that was held at the Newcastle Regional Museum as the major event of National Science Week. Productivity Standards Board (PSB) in Singapore 2002 marked the launch of a major partnership with the Productivity Standards Board (PSB) in Singapore by the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment. CHAPPY (Children Helping Achieve Planet Preservation with You), an interactive educational CD-ROM produced by Faculty staff and students in conjunction with BHP, received a World Summit Business Award for Sustainable Development Partnerships at the World Summit on Sustainable Development, Johannesburg, September 2002.
68 The University of Newcastle Faculty of Health Industry Partnerships in Nursing Education Centre for Research and Education for Health Ageing An exciting pilot program is currently being offered to enrolled (CREHA) nurses employed by Mayne Health. The program commenced in February 2002 and is offered as a collaborative venture involving CREHA is a joint initiative of Baptist Community Services, the the School of Nursing and Midwifery, the Hunter Institute of Faculty and Hunter Medical Research Institute, developed for the Technical and Further Education and the Australia wide facilities of promotion and care for older Australians. Its goals are: Mayne Health. •To be a true multi professional organisation influencing a healthy Australia The program, currently offered to enrolled nurses employed by •To develop workforce education and training Mayne Health, will enable hospital-trained enrolled nurses to •To strengthen research and policy networks complete the requirements for the Bachelor of Nursing degree •To develop strong partnerships within the Hunter region and within two calendar years. The Bachelor of Nursing is a vocational general community. degree that specifically and comprehensively prepares students for professional nursing practice in a variety of health care settings. It Each organisation has both significant achievements and projects is the recognized pathway for people who wish to become a underway concerning ageing and the aged care industry. These Registered Nurse. efforts are now to be coordinated and linked to add value and attract increased support. CREHA will be a new virtual centre Mayne Health has provided scholarships to staff who undertake facilitating the coordination of the various activities and this program and considers this to be a worthwhile investment in organizations within the Hunter/Central Coast and New England staff development and retention. The program is unique in its areas. It will have offices at Newcastle and Gosford. distance education offering to students located across all the eastern states of Australia and the ACT as well as the active This project has grown out of the Aged Care Research and involvement of three organisations in delivering the courses. Education Services (ACRES) facility directed by Professor Irene Stein, jointly funded by Baptist Community Services NSW and ACT and Australian Institute of Radiography’s 53rd Annual the University of Newcastle. National Conference Family Action Centre Research Project The Australian Institute of Radiography’s 53rd Annual National The Family Action Centre has embarked on a new research project Conference (ANC) was held in Coffs Harbour in March, 2002. The called Stories of Successful Community Initiatives. The project Australian Institute of Radiography (AIR) is the peak professional proceeds from the premise that stronger communities are healthier body representing diagnostic radiographers and radiation therapists communities. There is growing recognition that socially isolated in Australia and the Annual National Conference (ANC) is the people are less healthy than people who have a diverse range of diagnostic radiography conference. quality relationships and are socially connected with their Tony Smith and Shane Dempsey were the Scientific Program community. In this sense health is measured in the broadest terms Coordinators for the conference that focused attention on the Faculty as including physical, mental and social well-being. and the University. The conference highlighted the role of medical Newcastle University Sports Physiotherapy and radiation practitioners in patient interactions and in influencing health Rehabilitation Clinic outcomes of individual patients and of the community as a whole. The Newcastle University Sports Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Clinic opened in 2002 in the Forum Sports and Aquatic Centre on the Callaghan Campus. The clinic is the first stage of a proposed multidisciplinary clinical service operated by the Faculty. Other health professional services are planned with the inclusion of a dietician, exercise physiologist, psychologist and sports physician considered essential. The Forum is an ideal environment for a physiotherapy clinic, with its gymnasium, courts, exercise studios and Olympic pool all located in the same building. Developed as a collaborative venture by staff from the Discipline of Physiotherapy in the Faculty and from Newcastle University Sport (NUSport), the clinic will facilitate collaborative investigations by researchers from Faculty disciplines with an interest in sporting and musculoskeletal clinical problems. This research and educational activity helps to ensure that clinical services provided to clients are evidence-based and are at the cutting edge. In addition, community services are central to its role as a University clinic. Annual Report 2002 69 Vice-Chancellor’s Industry and Singapore Alumni Chapter Community Luncheons The Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment held a 50th In 2002, eight luncheons were held involving different Faculties and Anniversary Dinner in Singapore on Friday 13 December 2002. The areas of the University engaging with members of the community and function also marked an important occasion for alumni with the business. For the first time, a luncheon was held involving members of signing of papers for the registration of the University of Newcastle NUSport and relevant sporting industry and community representatives. Singapore Alumni Chapter. The Chapter’s first President will be Dr William Tan (Kiang Meng), Alumni Activities who is in the final year of his Bachelor of Medicine at the University. In 2002, alumni events were held in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Dr Tan is Director of Wilcare Services and Consultancy Pty Ltd. Hong Kong, the Philippines and Singapore to promote the Commerce and Master of Business Administration graduate Mr University and recognise the achievements of alumni. Edwin Teng, who is accountant for Façade Master Pty Ltd, will be Chapter Treasurer and Mr Hendrik Halim, Master of Applied The Convocation Awards Dinner was held on 22 March 2002. Management graduate and Managing Director of Kingsford Professor Trevor Waring was presented with the 2002 Convocation Education Pty Ltd, the Open Polytechnic of New Zealand, will be Medal for Professional Excellence and Professor Eileen Doyle was Secretary. A number of key alumni members agreed to be Patrons of presented with the 2002 Newton-John Award for innovation and the Chapter, including prominent Singapore MP and businessman creativity in the Hunter region. Mr David Chew Heng Ching, who was a speaker on the evening. The Sydney Alumni Chapter hosted a cocktail party held at Parliament House on 17 May 2002 to welcome new graduates. This David graduated with first class honours in Industrial Engineering was also an occasion to present Alumni Medals (Sydney) to Mr and a Bachelor of Arts in economics from the University in 1974. He John Berryman and Professor Mohamed Khadra. The Chapter also is the Executive Chairman of two Singapore companies and sits on the board of several others as well as being a Member of hosted a Christmas function at Taronga Zoo on 29 November 2002. Parliament for the past 18 years. He also studied in Australia under A Recognition Ceremony was held on 30 May 2002 in Manila, the Colombo Plan. David will be awarded an honorary degree of Philippines to celebrate the achievements of graduates. On 1 June Doctor of Engineering from the University of Newcastle in 2003. 2002, the University also held an Overseas Graduation Ceremony in the Hotel Intercontinental, Hong Kong. The ceremony was followed Other patrons include Professor Chen Swee Eng, Faculty of by an alumni dinner attended by members of alumni and strategic Engineering and Built Environment, the University of Newcastle; partners to the University. Professor Tan Chin Nam, Ministry of Manpower (BE, HonDEng); Mr Gary Quinlan, Australian High Commissioner to Singapore The Brisbane Alumni Chapter hosted a function at Customs House, (BA(Hons)); and Dr Khaw Boon Wan, Ministry of Information, Brisbane on 12 July 2002. The Alumni Medal (Queensland) was Communication and the Arts, Singapore Government. presented to two recipients: The Honourable Virginia Chadwick and Professor William Caelli. The Melbourne Alumni Chapter hosted a cocktail party at Melbourne Zoo on 13 September 2002. This was the first official function for Emeritus Professor Ken Dutton, who was elected to the position as Warden of Convocation on 1 September 2002. Ms Jane Snell was elected as the Deputy Warden of Convocation at the Annual General Meeting of Convocation on 22 October 2002. Convocation Management Committee members Mr Chris Tola and Professor Trevor Waring were also elected to Council.
70 The University of Newcastle Public Lecture Programs NUSport and the Community The Morpeth Lecture •The University of Newcastle, NUSport and the NSW Institute of Sport have a tripartite agreement for flexible learning in A joint initiative of the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle and the conjunction with athlete development. University of Newcastle, the 2002 Morpeth Lecture was delivered • NUSport entered sponsorship and training arrangements with by internationally renown biblical scholar Professor Phyllis Trible. Josh Blair (national Ironman); Martin Kelly (national and Using a feminist perspective, Professor Trible explored the story of international Judo); Gary Boyd (national and international Miriam in the bible in her lecture A Mosaic for Miriam. Sailing); Yvette Rodier (swimming). CofFee Public Policy Lecture Series • 21 primary and 22 secondary schools used NUSport facilities and staff for school sport, end of year activity days and school The School of Policy provided some financial support for the staging swimming carnivals. of the series of the Centre of Full Employment and Equity Public • Heavy weights area for teams training completed in 2002. The Policy Lectures. The aim of the series was to stimulate debate in Newcastle Knights will centralise training at NUSport in 2003. Employment Policy. Key speakers in the series were Jenny Macklin • NUSport hosted the Hunter Renal Resource Centre information (Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Minister for stand (division of Hunter Health) for Kidney Week. Employment, Education, Training and Science), Michael Raper (Past • NUSport played a major role in My Business Is Your Business President of ACOSS and Director, National Welfare Rights Network), Hunter Chamber of Commerce expo showcasing our facilities Tony Abbott (Minister of Employment and Workplace Relations) and and services. NUSport has an active role in the Hunter Business Kerry Nettle (Australian Greens Senator for NSW). Chamber, particularly through NUSport General Manager Sir Ninian Stephen Lecture Samantha Martin, who is a member of the Chamber Board. •The NSW Cancer Council Relay for Life was promoted by NUSport. The Sir Ninian Stephen Lecture was established in 1993 to mark the arrival of the first group of Bachelor of Laws students. The Right Honourable Sir Ninian Stephen, former Governor General of Australia, delivered the inaugural lecture bearing his name. The Lecture is delivered by an eminent lawyer at the commencement of each academic year. The 2002 lecture titled International Law and Australian Law in the 21st Century was delivered by Professor Hilary Charlesworth of the Australian National University in May. 2002 Human Rights/Social Justice Lecture The University of Newcastle has established the Annual Human Rights/Social Justice Lecture Series to provide an opportunity for the members of the University and wider community to reflect on issues of social justice that confront and challenge Australians. A lecture entitled The Great Australian Brain Robbery: The Hijacking of the Australian Conscience was given by the Honourable Justice Marcus Einfeld AO QC on Thursday 19 September 2002 to a capacity audience of 600. Glenn Murcutt: Public Lecture On 16 July 2002 the renowned Australian architect and winner of the prestigious 2002 Prtizker Architecture prize, Glenn Murcutt spoke at a public lecture in the Life Sciences Lecture Theatre. Mr Murcutt spoke on his work and his perceptions of the contemporary condition of architecture in Australia.
Annual Report 2002 71 Honorary Degrees The University of Newcastle has conferred honorary degrees during 2002 on the following: • Dr Ruth Dircks (Doctor of Education) • Dr John Hart (Doctor of Engineering) • Dr June Heinrich (Doctor of Education) • Dr Khaw Boon Wan (Doctor of Engineering) • Dr Geoffrey Leonard (Doctor of Business) • Dr Poon Kam-kwong (Sammy Poone) MBE (Doctor of the University) • Professor Beverley Raphael (Doctor of Medicine) • Dr Anne von Bertouch (Doctor of Letters) • Dr David Williams (Doctor of Science)
Freedom of Information - Statement of Affairs The University is subject to the Freedom of Information Act 1989 (NSW). Procedures are in place to enable anyone wishing to obtain information to do so and the emphasis is on the facilitation of access to documents, wherever possible.
Applications Personal Non-Personal 2001 2002 2001 2002 New 5 0 0 0 Brought Forward 0 0 0 0 Total to be Processed 5 0 0 0 Granted in Full 5 0 0 0 Granted in Part 0 0 0 0 Refused 0 0 0 0 Deferred 0 0 0 0 Total Completed 5 0 0 0 Transferred Out 0 0 0 0 Withdrawn 0 0 0 0 Total Processed 5 0 0 0 Carried Forward 0 0 0 0 Fees Received $90 0 0 0 There were no Ministerial Certificates, no formal consultations, no requests for amendment of personal records and no reviews or appeals. Wherever possible the University continues to provide information to anyone making an enquiry without a formal application under the Freedom of Information Act.
72 The University of Newcastle Organisational Performance
The University’s Institutional Strategic Plan for 2002-2005 includes Strategies strategies that will focus on: •The University’s Budget aims to serve the University’s mission • integrated management information systems that are and implement policies and directions as determined by the accessible and reliable; University through the Council, Academic Senate and other • improved planning tools; University bodies. • mechanisms for consultation with our stakeholders; and •The Budget aims to support the University’s approved student • organisational performance measures. profile, as negotiated with the Commonwealth Government, especially in terms of achieving agreed student enrolment and Finance and Facilities Management course objectives of the University. •The three-year Budget is prepared in the context of the forward Commonwealth Government Funding Policy view of the University’s strategies and directions as Commonwealth Government grants are the principal source of incorporated in its Strategic Plan. revenue for the University providing 44.2% (2001-50.6%) of the •The University seeks to maintain its research growth impetus, University’s total revenue (excluding Higher Education Contribution which is supported through the process of distributing research Scheme (HECS) funds. Full audited financial statements for the infrastructure funding to Faculties predominately on the basis 2002 operating year are provided later in this report. of performance. •A Strategic Initiatives Fund is maintained to provide seed University Budget Policy funding for new academic and administrative initiatives. Operating Funds are allocated to all Faculties and Divisions on the Principles basis of a comprehensive resource allocation model, which was introduced in 1995. The model distributes most funds to Faculties The Council has resolved that the University’s budget formulation on a weighted student teaching load basis with other Divisions activities should be informed by the following considerations: receiving a fixed proportion of the total Operating Fund. The model •The University should maintain a policy of achieving a balanced provides predictive information that facilitates the formulation of Operating Fund. three-year budget plans. The University’s policy is to achieve a •The University should maintain a reasonable level of reserve funds. balanced Operating Fund over that period. • Where appropriate, the Budget should be presented in the form Financial Management of programs and activities so that outcomes and performance can be assessed from year to year. Providing a secure financial framework is essential to enable the • Financial responsibility is devolved to Pro Vice-Chancellors and University to meet the challenges ahead and to achieve its strategic Heads of Schools so that, within the context of the overall objectives. To this end, increasing emphasis is being given to the University policies and guidelines, Faculties and Divisions have diversification of income sources, development of more the opportunity to allocate funds according to their own sophisticated costing and pricing techniques, linking resource perception of needs and priorities, consistent with the priority planning to the budget process, incorporating performance University’s Institutional Strategic Plan. based incentives into the budget process and more effective risk •The University should reduce its reliance on government funding management. Within this context the financial management of the for operating purposes by increasing revenue from other sources University is based on the following strategies and policies: (e.g. fee paying courses, industry, strategic partnerships). • DEST Capital Roll-In funding is to be used for capital purposes only and is only available for other (non-capital) purposes with the specific approval of the Council. •The physical fabric of the University should be appropriately maintained. • Provisions for future employee entitlements should be maintained at appropriate levels.
Annual Report 2002 73 Payment Performance Performance Indicators for 2002 are as follows: Accounts Payable at: 31 Mar $’000 30 Jun $’000 30 Sept $’000 31 Dec $’000 Current 1,222 1,731 1,759 705 Less than 30 days overdue 40 44 46 25 Between 30 and 60 days overdue 1,156 240 664 311 Between 60 and 90 days overdue 32 20 75 6 More than 90 days overdue 221 24 58 10 Total 2,671 2,059 2,602 1,057 Quarter Ended: 31 Mar 30 Jun 30 Sept 31 Dec Percentage of accounts paid on time 69.75% 66.14% 69.84% 63.43% Total dollar amount of accounts paid on time $21.465m $19.235m $22.409m $17.462m Total dollar amount of accounts paid $30.774m $29.081m $32.085m 27.529m Investments The University’s investment portfolio in 2002 consisted of the following managed funds: • Macquarie Investment Management Ltd - Macquarie Treasury “Plus” Fund - Macquarie Balanced Growth Fund • Citigroup Asset Management Australia - Citigroup Diversified Trust
In addition, the University holds capital guaranteed redeemable shares (maturity date 31 December 2006) and another relatively small parcel of bequeathed investments with a market value of $2.716m at 31 December 2002. The following chart indicates managed fund returns for the year compared to the New South Wales Treasury Corporation benchmarks: General Funds Special Fund Return on Investment $’000 $’000` % Macquarie Treasury Plus Fund 10,206 - 4.44 Macquarie Balanced Growth Fund - 11,140 (5.55) Citigroup Asset Management Australia Ltd - 18,988 (3.21) Benchmark - NSW Treasury Corporation - Cash Facility (General Funds) - - 4.64 - Balanced Facility (Special Funds) - - (5.36)
74 The University of Newcastle General Recurrent Fund - Operating Budget For the year ended 31 December 2003 (at December 2002 cost levels). 2003 Budget $’000 Income Commonwealth Government Grant 160,977 NSW State Government Grant 997 Other Income 38,100 200,074 Expenditure Faculties 113,570 Divisions 56,095 Central Overheads 47,708 217,373 Surplus/(Deficit) for the Year (17,299) Accumulated Surplus/(Deficit) at 1 January 2003 12,036 Accumulated Surplus/(Deficit) at 31 December 2003 (5,263)
General Recurrent Fund - Operating Grant Comparison of actual and budgeted income and expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2002. Actual $’000 Budget $’000 Income Commonwealth Government Grant 159,610 155,978 NSW State Government Grant 977 987 Other Income 36,148 33,899 196,735 190,864 Expenditure Faculties 105,477 108,903 Divisions 53,016 55,002 Central Overheads 34,587 36,278 193,080 200,183 Surplus/(Deficit) for the Year 3,655 (9,319) Accumulated Surplus/(Deficit) at 1 January 2002 8,381 8381 Accumulated Surplus/(Deficit) at 31 December 2002 12,036 (937)
Annual Report 2002 75 Physical Infrastructure Risk Management and Insurance (a) Major Building Projects Completed During 2002 The University has continued an ongoing risk management program which involves the identification and assessment of the University’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Multi Purpose Centre risk exposure and strategies for appropriate management. The This project provides for the construction of a multi purpose centre broad objectives of the risk management program are to achieve containing teaching, office and other spaces. Construction improved occupational health and safety standards for students, commenced in 2001 and the building was completed in March staff and visitors, and recurrent savings in relation to maintenance 2002 at a cost $3.395m. of operations and insurance costs, including workers’ compensation. The University also identifies perceived risks and (b) Capital Projects in Progress and in Planning/Design Stages encourages the adoption of risk management plans to promote Hunter Building Refurbishment safety in the University community. This is a major refurbishment of an existing teaching building. Work During 2002 the University and Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu commenced in 2000 and continues in stages as the ongoing performed a risk assessment of the University’s operations. The utilisation of the building for teaching and research purposes permits. primary objectives were to identify significant risks to be addressed by University management and to provide a framework that will Language Centre Extension assist the University in integrating risk management with its Work commenced on the planning of a major extension of this management practices. building in 2000. This project has since been deferred, and there During the year the University had in place comprehensive are no immediate plans for it. insurance policies in relation to Industrial Special Risk (including Information and Communication Technology Building machinery breakdown), Professional Indemnity, Directors & Officers, Motor Vehicle, Personal Accident (including Travel), Goods in Transit, Planning commenced in 2001 for the construction of an Marine and Workers’ Compensation. Information and Communication Technology building to meet the needs of teaching and research in information and communication technology. This project remains in progress.
Education Services Contributions to organisational performance included: management of digital copyright requirements for the University via Short Loans Online; increased opening hours at City Campus Library and Computing Lab; and installation of a debtor’s interface with the library system enabled greater recovery of library debts.
76 The University of Newcastle Donations Hunter Water Corporation Ltd 3,500 Kelver Hartley Award Bequest Fund The University is indebted to those organisations and individuals (managed by Perpetual Trustee Company Ltd) 145,398 who make donations. Such funds play an important role in the KPMG 37,683 ongoing activities of the University. The University is most Lawler Partners 48,000 appreciative of the support that it now acknowledges and is Lovat, Prof T J 4,000 pleased to note that an increasing number of members of the Macquarie Manufacturing Pty Ltd 1,000 public are providing support by way of bequest. Mason, Ms Judith 35,000 The following list includes donations to the University during 2002. Matheson, Mr Graham 5,000 Many donations have been made to the University that are not McCosker Partners Pty Ltd 29,800 reported because of the donor’s wish to remain anonymous. Only Miller, Mr Philip 1,072 donations of $1,000.00 and over are reported below, with the Nelson Bay RSL Memorial Club 6,000 permission of the donor. The University wishes to thank all the NSW Country Surveyors Association 4,000 donors during the past year. NUSport 5,000 Pavel Investments Pty Ltd 5,000 ($) Donations 2002 Pickles, Mr G J 2,000 Port Waratah Coal Services Ltd 42,000 Amount ($) Rackshaw Morgan Jones Pty Ltd 18,000 Asthma Foundation of NSW, The 18,842 Rotary Club of Morisset 2,500 Barker, Dr R M 10,000 Rotary Club of Tamworth, First Light 4,000 Bear, Dr & Mrs V & A 6,000 Sawyers-Miller, Mrs Joan L 1,000 Board of Surveyors of NSW 2,000 Sparke Helmore 8,716 Bogduk, Prof Nikolai 22,563 Spruson & Ferguson 1,250 C R Hutchison Consulting Surveyors 5,000 Tarrant, Prof H A S 2,120 Carney, A/Prof S L 2,470 Thomas Simpson & Masters P/L 14,307 Central Coast Campus Union 1,000 Thomas, Ms Jennie 260,000 Coal & Allied Industries Ltd 11,818 Titian Light Pty Ltd 130,000 Combustion Instrumentation P/L 1,818 TUNRA 6,818 Convocation Pty Ltd 56,510 University of Newcastle Union Limited, The 1,000 Cunningham JP, Mr James 2,000 Waratah Engineering Pty Ltd 6,000 Cutcher & Neale 37,050 Wawrzyniak, Mr S 1,000 Delta Electricity 6,000 Wyong Shire Council 1,818 Dunkley, Prof Peter 10,000 The following group has not given permission in 2002 to publish Ecoflex Constructions 1,818 details of their donations: Ewald, Dr Benjamin 2,090 Friends of the University of Newcastle 30,000 Andrew Thyne Reid Charitable Trust Garden City Shopping Centre 1,500 Forsythes Godfrey Pembroke Financial Consultants 19,500 Hunter Economic Development Corporation Habourside Haven Villages 2,000 Institute of Surveyors NSW Hunter Water Australia Pty Ltd 4,400 Newcastle Port Corporation White, Emeritus Prof Saxon
Annual Report 2002 77 Donations-In-Kind 2002 Faculty of Education and Arts The Conservatorium • Kawai Australia Pty Ltd: a Kawai grand piano, model ge30ep • Ms Jennie Thomas: a Johannes electric organ School of Fine Art • Jim Richard and Dinah Beeston: floor looms, tapestry loom, spinning wheels, woollen and linen yarns and associated equipment Faculty of Science and Information Technology School of Mathematics and Physical Sciences • JDS Uniphase, Inc.: Assorted optical components (Fibre Bragg Gratings) • Alcatel Submarine Networks: Several spools of optical fibre totaling 200km in length
Education Services Auchmuty Library - Archives Rare Books and Special Collections Unit • Mrs B Sharpe and the Late Mrs M Faulkner (with permission of Mr John Faulkner): Scholey-Upfold Family and Business Archive, 1827+. Introduction and Inventory is located on the Web at: www.library.newcastle.edu.au/archives/scholey_upfold/ index.htm •The late Barbara Curthoys (with permission of Dr Geoff Curthoys, Manly): Research archive of the late Barbara Curthoys: Newcastle left-wing and women’s history
78 The University of Newcastle The AUQA Visit and Quality Assurance at the University of Newcastle
The AUQA Visit to the University of Newcastle The AUQA Audit Report contains a summary of findings together with lists of commendations and recommendations. The latter An Overview of the Audit suggest possible improvements and in some cases endorse actions The following overview of the AUQA visit is based on pages 5 to 8 already being undertaken by the University. AUQA does not of AUQA’s Report of an Audit of The University of Newcastle prioritise these recommendations, and recognises that it is the published in January 2003. University of Newcastle’s responsibility to respond in a manner consistent with its local context. Background Summary of Findings In 2001, the Australian Universities Quality Agency (AUQA) appointed an Audit Panel to undertake an academic audit of the The University of Newcastle is a well-established, research-intensive University of Newcastle. The Report of the audit provided an university that covers a wide range of disciplines. It has recently overview and then detailed the Audit Panel’s findings, undergone a major restructuring simultaneously with a series of recommendations and commendations. A full copy of the Report is detailed self-evaluative exercises. The Audit Panel formed the view available online at http://www.auqa.edu.au that these were well conducted and are already leading to demonstrable improvements. The University’s Performance Portfolio, The Audit Process submitted for the purposes of this audit, comprised a succinct and AUQA bases its audits on each organisation’s own objectives, well-structured summary of its self-review, which in many areas, together with the standard MCEETYA National Protocols for Higher greatly aided the audit task. Education Approval Processes (http://www.dest.gov.au/highered/ The University’s new structure is well designed to aid systematic mceetya_cop.htm). The major aim of the audit is to consider and quality assurance in a complex organisation. It ensures a system of review the procedures an organisation has in place to monitor and representation feeding into policy making, and a system for achieve its objectives. consistent policy deployment through Portfolio-based Assistant On 7 June, 2002 the University of Newcastle presented its Deans. The structure is in its early days, and the Audit Panel submission (Performance Portfolio, 2002) to AUQA, along with anticipates experience with implementation will reveal that some comprehensive supporting documentation describing its strategic issues are still to be resolved, such as the role and status of directions and the range of mechanisms it has in place to monitor Academic Senate. Also, the Panel was presented with a range of the achievement of objectives and to assure and enhance quality official documents, such as Terms of Reference for Portfolio across its core activities. The Audit Panel met on 24 June, 2002 to Committees, which did not appear to accurately reflect the new consider these materials. structure. It will be important for the University to ensure that such documentation is accurate in order to facilitate implementation and The Audit Panel Chairperson and Audit Director undertook a avoid confusion. preparatory visit to the University on 4 June, 2002. During that visit, clarification of a number of items was effected, additional The University is well connected with the communities it serves. A information was sought and obtained, and arrangements for the major feature of this is its multi-site structure, with campuses at audit visit were finalised. Callaghan and Ourimbah, and Business and Law, Music and Health sites variously distributed in Newcastle City and the surrounding The audit visit took place over 3 to 6 September, 2002. A region. While this provides more points of access to relevant delegation of the Panel visited the Ourimbah campus on the first communities, it also poses challenges in terms of achieving consistent morning. Thereafter, the Audit Panel was based at the Callaghan implementation of quality assurance policies and processes. Not all campus, and a telephone interview was held with a number of sites of the University currently enjoy parity of esteem. Given that students at a distance. The Audit Panel decided that an audit visit to much of an effective quality assurance culture depends upon the University’s offshore activities would not be required. professional commitment and a positive, engaging staff culture, this In all, the Audit Panel spoke with over 250 people during the audit disparity compromises the attainment of the University’s goals. visit, including the senior management, academic staff, general and technical staff, undergraduate and postgraduate students, representatives from the University Council, unions and the community. Sessions were also available for any member of the University community to meet with the Audit Panel and a number of people took advantage of this opportunity.
Annual Report 2002 79 In general, the University has sound systems for assuring the quality As a research-intensive university, the University is a leader in a of its curriculum and teaching practices. The Audit Panel draws number of areas and can claim a sound, broad base to its research attention to particular areas where the overall system was not as profile. There are numerous schemes in place for fostering research, robust. For example, the University is engaged in a range of many of which are clearly proving to be effective. A major challenge international activities. It did not provide an evaluation of these is ensuring that support for high quality research is available on an activities in its Performance Portfolio (although a quality assurance appropriate basis across all campuses. procedures document for the Newcastle Graduate School of The Audit Panel felt that the University somewhat overstated the Business was provided), and upon investigation the Audit Panel status of some of its human resources activities. Many systems are formed some concerns about the adequacy of the quality assurance very recent or still being introduced and therefore their system in this area. effectiveness cannot be determined. Examples include Managing The University has been recognised as a leader in a specific area of for Performance, the Workload Management System and pedagogic development and innovation - namely, Problem-Based developing a strategic approach to Staff Development. These are Learning - and justifiably so. This continues to be a major strength of promising, but implementation to date has been slow. those disciplines within the University that take advantage of it. In The Audit Panel concluded its visit confident that the University is very other disciplines, the level of pedagogic development and innovation active in the area of quality improvement. There are many new policies is somewhat less active. The lack of strong benchmarks and high-level and processes being developed in response to identified opportunities performance in those benchmarks that are available meant that the for improvement. Although in most cases it was too soon to audit the Audit Panel was unable to confirm the University’s statement that it is effectiveness of these developments, the Audit Panel is optimistic that “one of Australia’s leading universities in terms of teaching and this level of activity bodes well for the University in the near future. learning”. Course Experience Questionnaire results for teaching are just at national averages; access to computing and online resources is low; and usage of online methods is in the early stages of uptake. The University is performing well regarding Indigenous students. It has a number of specific and effective structures and systems in place for increasing the number of Indigenous students and their success rates, as well as lifting the quantity and quality of Indigenous research. An opportunity exists to strategically align these resources and provide a more focused and co-ordinated overall effort.
80 The University of Newcastle Quality Assurance at the University of Planning and Quality Framework Newcastle The University of Newcastle’s Quality Framework is a cyclical model Benefits of the Institutional Strategic Plan (ISP) of continuous improvement (Figure below) with four key stages: The University of Newcastle’s ISP is a significant achievement. It • Planning - establishes what the University aims to achieve and marks a major shift in the University’s view of itself in the world, how it will go about it: its goals, objectives and strategies where it has moved into closer alignment with the needs of its • Actions - implementation of the strategies outlined in the stakeholders and to a stronger focus on management. The planning phase University’s progress and current successes demonstrate that the • Outcomes - how the University knows it is being successful: change has been beneficial. While the ISP is prominent in the minds what results are being achieved and how these compare with of the senior executive, and while it is clear that it is not intended the established targets to be a blueprint that is rigidly adhered to, it is emerging as the • Improvement - how the University uses the data it collects to fundamental document for staff generally to use in guiding the influence ongoing improvement in planning, actions and outcomes University’s evolution.
Review of performance Institutional Strategic Plan measures University wide plans Faculty & Division Plans Feedback to stakeholders School and Unit Plans Individual Performance Plans On-going monitoring of Improvement Planning (Managing for Performance) improvements
Reviews: Implementation of the Faculties & Divisions strategies included in the Programs & Courses plans: Performance Measures Teaching and Learning including (where Research & Research appropriate) external Training benchmarks: Outcomes Actions Our Community Student Evaluation of Services and infrastructure Teaching and Courses Composite Student Questionnaire etc
The University of Newcastle Quality Framework
Annual Report 2002 81 The University’s Institutional Strategic Plan 2002 - 2005 includes The University of Newcastle planning and quality framework the following commitments: comprises four sections (these being planning, action, outcomes In assuring the quality of our organisational performance, we and improvement). The proposed performance reports to Council sit will develop: in the outcomes quadrant of the framework, the main objective of regular reporting is for Council to be able to monitor the • integrated management information systems that are performance of the University in line with its governance role. accessible and reliable; • improved planning tools; The integrated University of Newcastle planning and management • mechanisms for consultation with our stakeholders; and cycle to operate from 2003 onwards, will outline major milestones in • organisational performance measures. the area of Planning and Budgeting, Action, Outcomes (Performance Reports) and Improvements. The proposed frequency for performance The University of Newcastle has a clear commitment to quality, reports to be submitted to Council (March and August of each year) through continuous improvement of performance, informed by allows the incorporation of data provided for both external reporting feedback from key stakeholders and internal and external requirements and internal management purposes. performance reviews. Although formal planning and quality improvement processes have only been in place over the last National Comparability decade, much has been achieved in a relatively short time. “Each university has to prioritise the use of its resources and use The University’s response to the External Review of 2000 through them to best effect. Knowing whether it is succeeding in its aims is restructure has provided an outstanding opportunity for the another more demanding level of difficulty. The key consequential University to complete the embedding of planning and quality within question is how university leaders will know where their institutions an over-arching framework, to better link plans and budgets and to stand and how they can be improved.”
strengthen performance measurement and reporting against plans. Source: McKinnon, K.R., Walker, S.H., Davis, D. 2000, Benchmarking: A manual for A major recommendation from the review was that planning, Australian universities, Department of Education, Training and Youth Affairs budgeting and quality assurance must be aligned. In response to this recommendation, a Planning and Quality Steering Committee, The performance of a University cannot be determined only by chaired by the DVC, has been established to further develop the financial bottom line measures that apply to commercial firms or University’s approach to planning and quality. other large semi-governmental organisations, such as profit or return on assets. The features common to Australian universities are This limited life committee also oversaw the University’s preparation that they are all: for the AUQA audit, with the support of two working parties: one to review and develop the planning and quality framework and the new • internally self-governing, including establishing the standards approach, while the other managed the preparation for the audit. of graduating students; • non-profit institutions, governed by state or federal legislation; Performance Reports to the University Council • teach at the tertiary level; The planned introduction of regular performance reporting from 2003 • undertake research; and is intended to provide Council with an integrated basket of • provide services to the community. performance measures i.e. a comprehensive summary of high level, Australian universities have historically held the view that their University-wide and nationally comparable performance information. diversity of missions, locations and ages make comparisons, These indicators will assist in monitoring the performance of the especially rankings of excellence, invidious and unfair. Nevertheless, University over time, in relation to its own strategic goals and targets benchmarking performance is seen as essential in universities to and with respect to other Australian universities. Further performance provide reference points for good practice and focus for improved indicators will be developed for the Senior Executive Group to assist functioning. The challenge is to identify measures that will provide with the internal management of the University. a valid and balanced picture of the parameters that distinguish good universities. Bearing this in mind, the performance measures proposed for the University of Newcastle will be compared or benchmarked to the national result wherever possible.
82 The University of Newcastle Data Sources Consumer Response Given the importance of time-series, national comparison and cost, The Dean of Students the proposed performance measures will wherever possible be • informs students about policies and procedures; based on the utilisation of pre-existing datasets/collections, namely: • facilitates communication between students and the • All universities collect a vast array of information to fulfil academic community; statutory reporting obligations to the Commonwealth • monitors the experience of students in the academic environment; Department of Education, Science & Training (DEST) • identifies the particular needs and areas of concern of students; • All university graduates participate in the Graduate Careers • assists students to resolve their grievances themselves; Council of Australia’s (GCCA) annual Graduate Destination • communicates patterns of general concern to the appropriate Survey (GDS) and Course Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) University staff. • Many universities provide information to the Australasian In 2002 there were 447 student contacts made with the Dean of Association of Higher Education Facilities Officers (AAPPA) for Students. The contacts were for the following: their annual benchmark survey report • 280 requests for support, assistance or explanation Most of the information used to compile the performance reports • 37 requests for information for Council will only be updated annually, however the timing of • 125 complaints of unfair treatment these updates will vary depending on the data collection of interest. •5 requests for support at a disciplinary hearing (e.g. GDS/CSQ results available in December; DEST Semester 1 In the course of the year the Dean of Students advised the submission due in May). Vice-Chancellor of a number of issues of general concern that had Given that performance measurement and reporting sits in the arisen from specific problems facing particular students or groups outcomes quadrant of the University’s Planning & Quality of students. These included the following issues: framework, a performance report should ideally be submitted to •The importance of appropriate labelling of distance learning Council prior to the annual review the ISP, a process timetabled to programs so that international students do not enrol in occur during the last three months of each calendar year (ideally be them inadvertently. submitted for consideration at Council’s August meeting). • Misunderstanding by students of the Special Consideration and As previously mentioned, a vast array of data relating to various aspects Withdrawal policies. of the University’s performance already exists. The challenge has been • Lack of understanding by students of the nature of plagiarism to determine which data items are of most critical importance to and cheating. strategic, institution-wide performance monitoring. Therefore, an •Warning to students about potential weapons on campus. interim report could be generated for consideration at Council’s March • Stress on international students with debts. meeting, when a report on University-wide performance against plans • Concern for the welfare of international students with is due to be submitted to Council for noting. This report could contain inadequate financial support. alternative performance measures, as well as preliminary student • Disadvantage to students without home computers and enrolment information for the current year. computer skills. • Sense of isolation of Ourimbah students. •The importance of staff training in student-staff relations. All of these issues have been taken up and have either been resolved or are under active consideration by the University.
Annual Report 2002 83 Graduate Destination Survey and Course Experience Questionnaire
Major Destinations or University of Newcastle First Degree graduates 1995 – 2002
35
30
25 Public Sector Employment 20
Private Sector
Percentage 15 Employment
10 Not working, seeking FT work
5
0
1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002
The Graduate Destination and Course Experience Questionnaires are conducted annually by the University on behalf of the Graduate Careers Council of Australia (GCCA). In 2002, the employment trend for first degree graduates decreased slightly from 54.0% in 2001, to 53.3%. However, of bachelor degree graduates who were available for full-time employment, the percentage in full-time employment increased slightly from 76.9% in 2001 to 77.1% in 2002. The percentage of graduates undertaking further study also increased, from 16.7% in 2001 to 18.9% in 2002.
84 The University of Newcastle The number of new graduates who were unemployed and seeking Other Student Feedback to the University full-time work increased from a record low of 4.6% in 2001 to The first of the Value statements in the University’s Institutional 5.9% in 2002. However, this figure still compares favourably with Strategic Plan reads: “The University values its staff and students”. the national average of 6.1%. The University is committed to providing all its students with a The Course Experience Questionnaire surveys the opinions of new world class educational experience. Student feedback on teaching graduates about the course that they have recently completed. Five and learning, and all other aspects of university life that contribute facets of the course are examined: to that experience are part of the quality assurance mechanism for (1) the quality of teaching; achieving that objective. (2) the clarity of goals and standards; In 1998, the University devised and administered its first Composite (3) the nature of the assessment; Student Questionnaire (CSQ). The CSQ was a comprehensive (4) the level of the workload; and instrument, designed to seek student opinion not only on academic (5) the enhancement of their generic skills. In addition, on the same matters but on a range of “lifestyle” issues from campus food scale, the final item seeks an indication of respondents’ overall outlets, the service provided at the Student Enquiry Counter and the levels of satisfaction with their recently completed courses. Cashier’s booth, to sport and recreation and physical security. The The fields of study that performed above the national mean for objective was to dispense with a number of separate questionnaires overall satisfaction in the 2002 survey included: communications that were being administered by various sections of the University, and journalism; literary studies; film and photographic arts; to glean what students thought about their services. business administration; banking and finance; hotel and The questionnaires have been refined and administered each year hospitality management; chemical engineering; civil engineering; from 1998. The reports for 1998, 1999 and 2000 have been widely mechanical engineering; health support activities; medical circulated. The outcomes pointed out many aspects of the radiography; occupational therapy; speech pathology and University that the students were satisfied with as well as a number audiology; and food science and technology. With the completion of issues that were of concern to students. Faculties and Divisions of the 2002 Course Experience Questionnaire, the University now are required to inform the Academic Senate each year on how they has 10 years of data available as an input to quality assurance intend to respond to the feedback provide by the CSQ. processes such as course reviews. The results from the 2000 administration of the survey show that the overall satisfaction with course quality for both commencing and continuing students had increased from 1998. In addition, results also show that for both commencing and continuing students ratings for many of the questions concerning course experience improved between 1998 and 2000. In 2001 the fourth CSQ was conducted. The results for the period 1998 to 2001 follow in the next section. The CSQ is now a regular annual exercise, and in conjunction with the Course Experience Questionnaire, conducted by the Graduate Careers Council of Australia, provides useful feedback to the University on the quality of its courses and services to students. The University also developed online course evaluations for implementation in 2002. This will provide an online method of creating and delivering Student Evaluations of Teaching (SET) and Student Evaluations of Subject (SES) surveys which are vital to quality improvements. With the increasing prevalence of online courses particularly at the postgraduate level this will be an important quality assurance tool for University.
Annual Report 2002 85 Composite Student Questionnaire Data Overall Satisfaction with Programs 1998 1999* 2000 2001 Callaghan Callaghan commencing 3.55 3.71 3.65 3.58 Callaghan continuing 3.42 3.55 3.53 3.50 Central Coast Central Coast commencing 3.58 3.72 3.68 3.54 Central Coast continuing 3.51 2.65 3.74 3.54
* 1999 data are not strictly comparable with other years, due to the response categories being different to those used in other years. The CSQ reports the responses of current students to questions which have been tabulated above using the Likert scale of 1–5, with one being least favourable and five most favourable.
Overall Satisfaction with Programs
5 Callaghan 4 commencing Callaghan 3 continuing Central Coast 2 commencing Central Coast 1 continuing 1998 1999* 2000 2001
Curriculum Review The Academic Senate is the peak academic decision-making body of the University, and as such has the overall responsibility for quality assurance of the University’s academic programs. This responsibility applies to both the initial development of courses and subjects and the regular five yearly reviews of the University’s programs. The Academic Senate is assisted in its role in academic planning and quality assurance by the Curriculum Teaching & Learning Portfolio Committee, which advises on undergraduate courses and subjects; the Postgraduate Programs Portfolio Committee, which advises on postgraduate coursework programs; and the Research Portfolio Committee, which advises on postgraduate research programs.
86 The University of Newcastle Ethnic Affairs Priority Statement Improvements planned for 2003 include: The University of Newcastle, through its Ethnic Affairs Priority •The Curriculum Teaching and Learning Portfolio Committee, Statement (EAPS), recognises the cultural and linguistic diversity of established in 2002, will champion a University wide approach its internal community, and the wider community it serves. The in 2003 to ensure that the planning process for curriculum University is committed to the provision of a learning and working development and review takes account of the EAPS. environment which recognises, values and supports individual •The Faculty of Health will include “commitment to teaching differences among a diverse range of Australian and international NESB students” as a standard desirable criterion in students and staff. advertisements for all new academic appointments in 2003. The acknowledgment of the multicultural nature of Australian •The Staff Induction Program coordinated by Human Resource society is reflected in the University’s commitment to provide: Services (HRS) will inform staff of the EO Online self-paced • adequate support programs for students and staff with learning program, which includes cultural diversity elements. different language and cultural backgrounds; •A move to Managing For Performance in 2003 involves • effective awareness programs to increase the knowledge of the mandatory supervisor training which includes elements of services and opportunities offered; cultural awareness and equity. • curriculum review that ensures a sensitivity to the multicultural nature of the University’s student population; and • A Working Party in HRS is reviewing Staff Selection Training. • promotion and publicity of its linguistic and cultural resources. Inclusion of a cross cultural segment is under consideration. A number of strategies have been implemented to ensure that the The University population is drawn from the local, national and University’s EAPS is supported across the institution. These include: international community and in 2002 consisted of: •Faculty reviews and meetings affirm the commitment of • 176 domestic students from non-English speaking backgrounds; academic and technical staff to cultural and linguistic sensitivity • 2262 fee paying overseas students (1996 in Award Courses); in course design and delivery. • 235 staff from racial, ethnic, and ethno-religious minority groups. • Curriculum review procedures and external professional accrediting bodies actively ensure that reference materials are drawn from a range of appropriate cultural backgrounds; material relating to Australia’s multicultural experience is included in courses and programs offered by Faculties; and site visits and studies are undertaken in settings involving diverse cultural backgrounds. • Staff in Communication and Information Services ensure that faculties’ marketing and communication information for prospective students from culturally diverse backgrounds is culturally appropriate. •The University-supported community radio station 2NUR-FM continues its ethnic broadcasting strategy on evenings and weekends. The success of this has again been confirmed with the continuation of grant funding from the government under the Ethnic Broadcast Grants Scheme. • Media releases and the staff newsletter, Uninews, are monitored for coverage of items meeting the EAPS objectives. In 2002, 9% of the 210 media releases included multicultural themes, as did about 13% of Uninews articles. •The level of use of the University’s Grievance Procedures are monitored. No formal grievances relating to race, ethnicity or cultural differences were lodged in 2002.
Annual Report 2002 87 Organisational Chart
Foundation Unit
School of Behavioral Sciences
Faculty of Science & Information Technology
School of Applied Sciences
School of Mathematical & Physical Sciences
School of Design, Communication & Information Technology
School of Enviromental & Life Sciences
Planning & Business Improvement
Vice President President Vice (University Services) (University
Popul ation
Nursing & Nursing
lty of He alth
ool of Medical
Facu
School of Biomedical School of Sciences
School of Health School of Sciences
Sch Practice &Practice Health
School of School of Midwifery
iliti es
c
Services
Fa
Management
Senate
& Built
g & Built g &
ulty of
Fac
Env ironm ent
ool of
Eng ineerin
Sch Architecture Env ironm ent
School of Engineering School of
School Electrical of Eng ineering & Comput er Science er Comput
Edu cation Services
2
al
Soci
& Arts
lty of Edu cation
rigin al Studi es
ool of Liberal Arts
ool of Edu cation
ool of Fine Art
ool of Langu age
ool of
llotuk a School of
ces
i
Facu
Abo
Sch Wo Sch
Sch
School of HumanitiesSchool of
Sch & Media
Sch Science
The Con servatorium
Serv
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Deputy Vice-Chancellor
Business Business
sin ess
Bu
Graduate
Law
lty of Busin ess &
ool
ool of Poli cy
ool of Law
ool of Busin ess
Facu
New castle Sch
Central Coast School Coast Central of eBusiness & Management
Sch
Sch
New castle Sch
Council
ce-Chancellor
uni cation &
Services
Inform ation
Vi
Comm
Found ation
&
Studi es Centre
Eng lish Langu age
Services
Management Structure 200
Community
Stud ent, Alumni &
national
Services
Services
Inter
Developmen t
Human Resources Human
ning
Services
Trai
Research
Research & Research
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research
ol
UNG S
Scho
T
Graduate
of Newca stle
The U nive rsity
Central Research Central Suppo rt Services
eaching and Research and eaching T Services
Annual Report 2002 151 Access
The University welcomes enquiries from the public by telephone, by mail or in person. Office hours are from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Monday to Friday. Postal Address: University Secretary The University of Newcastle Callaghan NSW 2308 Phone: +61 2 4921 5000 (General Enquiries) Phone: 1800 636466 (Freecall Information Line) Phone: +61 2 4921 6856 (Marketing and Public Affairs) Fax: +61 2 4921 6922 (Records Management Office) Email: [email protected] Internet: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/ Produced by the University of Newcastle Designed and formatted by Business Services, The University of Newcastle Printed by NCP Print run and cost: 750 @$8.26 per copy. ISSN 1036-4765
152 The University of Newcastle