2011 Part One | Annual Review Annual Report Foreword from the Chancellor
This year marked a further two milestones in the University’s $400 million Building Life Impact campus development program. Part One | Annual Review | 2011
In March, Defence Minister, the Hon. 2004–2010. A graduate in law from the Report of the Council of the University Stephen Smith, offi cially opened the new University of Adelaide, he had a long and of Adelaide fl agship engineering building. The nine-level distinguished legal and judicial career that For the period 1 January 2011 building, home to the Faculty of Engineering, included the role of President of the Human to 31 December 2011 Computer and Mathematical Sciences, was Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission. awarded the 6 Star Green Star Certifi cate by During his time as Chancellor, his strong To His Excellency, Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce the Green Building Council of Australia and is inclusive leadership, commitment to the AC CSC RANR Australia’s fi rst 6 Star Green Star education principles of equity and community, and his Governor of South Australia. building. status locally, nationally and internationally May it please Your Excellency, I have the proved invaluable to the University. In October, Federal Tertiary Education honour to transmit to you the Report of the Minister, Senator the Hon. Christopher Prominent South Australian businessman, Council of the University of Adelaide for the Evans, opened the new three-level learning Dr Ross Adler AC, served on the University period 1 January 2011 to 31 December hub for students known as Hub Central, Council for 11 years which included nine 2011, furnished in compliance with Section which brings together learning and social years as Chair of the Finance Committee 25 of the University of Adelaide Act 1971 spaces, including food and service retail and three years as Deputy Chancellor. Dr (1 June 2007). outlets and student information services, Adler’s expertise and wide experience in creating a fi rst port of call for all students. It business and fi nance played an important also merges with the Barr Smith Library and part in helping the University achieve a sound provides new connections through to lecture fi nancial position. theatres and across campus. This year several well-known members of the In March, 170 fi rst-and second-year students University community passed away: former from the earthquake-affected University of long-serving Chair of the Finance Committee Canterbury in New Zealand were offered and Deputy Chancellor, the Hon. Samuel the chance to undertake their fi rst–semester Jacobs AO QC; prominent philanthropist Dr studies at the University of Adelaide. The Kym Bonython AC; former South Australian students studied arts, commerce or sciences Supreme Court Judge, the Hon. Dr Ted as part of their study abroad program. The Mullighan QC; and Emeritus Professor John support from the University staff, alumni and Prescott and Emeritus Professor Angas the Adelaide community for this initiative Hurst AM, both from the School of Chemistry proved enormous. and Physics. For the fi rst time since my appointment as Amongst my other engagements, those Chancellor, I had the privilege of presiding of interest included: the James Crawford over the Singapore graduation ceremonies Oration delivered by controversial US The Hon. Robert M. Hill in late March, and also delivering the Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia; the Chancellor graduation address at the Ngee Ann Don Dunstan Foundation Keynote Address, Polytechnic Convention Centre. Amongst delivered by Prime Minister the Hon. Julia the 150 students who graduated from the Gillard MP; the Adelaide Benefactors University’s programs offered at the Ngee Circle Annual Dinner; two meetings of the Ann - Adelaide Education Centre, there were University Chancellors’ Council; the 2011 fi ve PhD students and 16 prize winners. My Annual Hawke Lecture, delivered by the Hon. visit to Singapore also coincided with the Dame Silvia Cartwright, former governor Singapore Alumni Reunion, which provided of New Zealand; delivery of the Keynote an opportunity to meet fellow alumni. Address at the National Biodiversity Forum; tours of various institutes at the University The University’s Bonython Hall was once of Adelaide; launch of the Australian again the venue for the April and September Research Council Centre of Excellence graduation ceremonies, celebrating the in Plant Cell Walls at the Waite Campus; achievement of over 6000 students, the University’s Open Day in August; the including Australia’s fi rst Indigenous Rhodes Distinguished Alumni Gala Dinner; and the Scholar, Rebecca Richards. Rebecca 1961 Graduates’ Golden Jubilee Celebration received her Bachelor of Arts with Honours and Luncheon. in Anthropology. She was amongst a group of 28 Indigenous students who graduated Finally, I would like to acknowledge all in 2011. members of Council and its sub-committees and the staff of the Council Secretariat for Also during the graduation ceremonies, in their work during the year. It has been a recognition of their distinguished service, privilege to work with such a dedicated two long-serving members of the University group of individuals and I look forward with community were admitted to the degree of pleasure to the year ahead. Doctor of the University. The Hon. Dr John von Doussa AO QC was Chancellor from
1 2011 | Annual Report
Contents Part One: Annual Review
3 From the Vice-Chancellor and President
4 Mission, Vision and Values
4 2011 At a Glance, highlights of 2011
6 Student Statistics
6 Financial Performance Summary
7 Research Activity
7 Staff Statistics
8 Higher Education Environment
10 Governance
14 Planning and Quality
18 Learning and Teaching
24 Research and Research Training
36 Internationalisation
42 Community Engagement
52 Infrastructure, Property and Technology
56 Financial Overview
The University’s fi nancial statements can be found in Part Two: Financial Statements
2 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
From the Vice-Chancellor and President In my last Annual Report, it is fi tting to refl ect on the past decade of my tenure, as well as the most recent 12 months.
It has been a remarkable ten years. We more than fi ve times the number of pathways have seen a dramatic turnaround of the of just three years ago. University’s fi nancial situation driven by a Focusing on students and research are strong growth strategy, from an operating obvious mainstays for a university but loss of over $6 million in 2001 to our current our growth in community engagement is very sound position. Total student numbers something of which we are particularly have grown in this time by 70% and the proud. We have physically opened up the numbers of international students have University to the community and we have almost tripled so that today they make up warmly invited them to our campuses. We almost 30% of our total student body and cannot underestimate the genuine sense bring a wonderful multicultural element to of community goodwill and ownership, and Adelaide. Our research income has risen in turn, our responsibility as an institution, rapidly and the volume and impact of our to fulfi l a social and cultural role in addition research portfolio continues to grow at an to research and education. There was no astonishing pace. better example of this than our welcome to The year saw continued growth in student the University of Canterbury students for a numbers and revenue with considerable semester of study following the Christchurch James A. McWha AO success in competitive research grants. earthquake. This is exactly what a great Vice-Chancellor and President Despite a strong Australian dollar, the Global university should be doing. Financial Crisis (GFC), changes to visa As we begin 2012, we face the intensely and migration regulations and increased competitive higher education market competition from other countries, we have produced by the new student demand- experienced a record international student driven system and a host of associated new intake. There is, however, little doubt that the government requirements. Our ability to international market is tightening. continue to attract the best students—from We have invested heavily in staff every school and region—is absolutely development: examples of this include our critical. inaugural Festival of Learning and Teaching, Being able to respond to student and infrastructure, with the completion and expectations and deliver an education that is opening of the new student learning space, seen to provide real value to them and to the Hub Central, and ongoing construction of the workforce will become a point of difference science and research building, Illumin8. for successful, forward-thinking universities We continue to place very high priority on like ours. a high-quality student experience and we I have every confi dence in the talent, drive are working hard to diversify our student and commitment of our staff in ensuring the body, extending our reach and infl uence and University continues to grow and achieve. raising aspirations in new and traditionally I thank the members of the Council, senior under-represented communities. We are management, our affi liates and many making a difference with initiatives in the volunteers and all our staff for their continuing northern suburbs such as our partnership dedication to research and teaching, which with The Smith Family and new educational bring so much benefi t to our community. opportunities in the Spencer Gulf region, particularly in Port Augusta with TAFE collaborations in these regions and elsewhere. We now have over 200 pathways into our courses from TAFE qualifi cations,
3 2011 | Annual Report Mission, Vision 2011 and Values At a Glance
Highlights of 2011 Mission January To be recognised internationally as a great Nineteen out of 22 research discipline areas research university and an Australian at the University of Adelaide are rated at leader in research and teaching excellence, or above world standard in the inaugural committed to making a positive impact Excellence in Research for Australia on the lives of our students, staff and (ERA) results alumni as well as the local, national and A record number of offers for places in international communities. degree programs go out to potential students, continuing the decade’s rapid growth in student numbers Two University of Adelaide health researchers are appointed Offi cers of the Order of Australia in the Australia Day Honours List for Vision their outstanding service to medical research The University of Adelaide will build upon February its tradition of innovation through high- impact research and excellent teaching Senator the Hon. Kim Carr, the Federal across a broad range of disciplines Innovation Minister, visits the campus to and professions. It will be a growing, hand out the fi rst free Apple iPads given to all internationally focused and fi nancially fi rst-year Science students, and to ’light up’ sustainable institution, enterprising in the construction site for the University’s new its approach to new opportunities as science and research building they arise, and clear and consistent in More than 170 new students benefi t from a its essential directions. It will provide total of $2.3 million in scholarships awarded a vibrant intellectual environment that at a special presentation ceremony will be satisfying for staff , rewarding for students, and engaging of the community, Festival time hits the University of Adelaide engendering a sense of pride in our with Adelaide Fringe events held across the contribution to contemporary society. campus and staff, students and graduates taking part in Fringe events around the city
March The University offers support to students from the earthquake-affected University of Values Canterbury in Christchurch and just four days later, welcomes 170 students for a semester We will pursue excellence in all that we do. of study We will act with fairness, integrity and Australia’s fi rst 6 Star Green Star education responsibility. building, housing the Faculty of Engineering, We will respect the rights and Computer and Mathematical Sciences, is responsibilities of freedom of inquiry and offi cially opened by Defence Minister, the expression. Hon. Stephen Smith We will encourage innovation, creativity New graduates from more than 12 countries and breadth of vision. attend the University’s Singapore graduation We will be engaged with the local, national ceremony and hear from the new Chancellor, and international communities. the Hon. Robert Hill
4 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
April July October Nine top jazz students from the Elder The University of Canterbury students return One of the University’s most famous Conservatorium of Music receive acclaim at home to Christchurch after a semester of graduates, NASA astronaut and aerospace South Australia’s 2011 Jazz Awards successful study and tremendous hospitality engineer, Dr Andy Thomas, launches the inaugural Research Week University health researchers lead an from the Adelaide community Australia-fi rst program combining nursing Students of vocational education and training The University of Adelaide is awarded a services and technology, designed to will have improved pathways to higher record $44.8 million in National Health and improve the mental health and wellbeing of education through agreements signed with Medical Research Council (NHMRC) funding new mothers and infants TAFE SA for health and medical research Thousands of students and their families The University of Adelaide is awarded The revolutionary, new three-level $42 million celebrate graduation in 12 ceremonies in international accreditation for its business learning hub for students is offi cially opened Bonython Hall programs from one of the world’s most by Federal Tertiary Education Minister, respected accrediting bodies – the Senator the Hon. Christopher Evans May Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Medical student Mark Hassall becomes the Business (AACSB) International Industry and community-linked research University’s 105th Rhodes Scholar at the University of Adelaide gets a $4.3 August million boost with Australian Research November Council Linkage Project funding for 11 South Australia’s only industrial-scale wind Plant scientist Professor Peter Langridge is new research projects tunnel is launched at Thebarton Campus named South Australia’s 2011 Scientist of The University seeks accreditation as Improved nutrition for billions of people the Year; and Nobel Laureate and University South Australia’s fi rst Fair Trade university around the world and the development of Professor of Literature John Coetzee wins and offi cial provider of Fair Trade certifi ed clean, green biofuels are two key aims of the Arts Award in the South Australian of the products, such as coffee, tea, chocolate and the new Australian Research Council (ARC) Year awards sugar, across all campuses Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls at The Inaugural Festival of Learning and A new brain tumour research lab opens Waite Campus Teaching brings together staff, students to investigate the causes behind one of Five University of Adelaide researchers and and others to discuss and showcase new Australia’s most aggressive and least one affi liate are among eight South Australian approaches aimed at delivering the best understood cancers 2011 Tall Poppy Award winners learning outcomes for students National aquatic health receives a boost with June September the opening of the South Australian Aquatic The University is awarded a Sustainability A $2.2 million University of Adelaide dental Biosecurity Centre at Roseworthy Campus. Licence from South Australia’s Environment clinic to service Whyalla and its surrounding The Centre will be operated jointly by the Protection Authority (EPA), recognising the communities is offi cially opened, providing South Australian Research and Development genuine commitment to reducing its impact senior dental students with valuable clinical Institute (SARDI), and the University of on the environment experience and giving local residents access Adelaide Four University of Adelaide staff are to state-of-the-art dental care December recognised nationally by the Australian University of Adelaide physicist Professor Learning and Teaching Council for their Tanya Monro is named among Australia’s Professor James McWha, Vice-Chancellor outstanding contributions to student learning Young Researchers of the Year and President, is honoured for his services to the higher education sector and was made University researchers lead an Australian-fi rst The biggest contingent of medical students an Honorary Offi cer of the Order of Australia study to reduce social isolation among older in the University’s history heads to the (AO) people, identifi ed as one of the most serious Spencer Gulf for a week-long visit to explore mental and physical health risks facing the potential of a rural medical career A new research unit focusing on improving the nation the dental health of Indigenous Australians is offi cially opened Cancer treatment tailored to the individual will be the focus of the new Centre for Personalised Cancer Medicine
5 2011 | Annual Report
Student Statistics – Full year student statistics
Persons EFTSL 2011* 2010 2011* 2010 Total student enrolments 25,055 24,154 19,633 18,883 Commencing Student Enrolments 9,824 9,742 7,113 6,974 Aboriginal & TS Islander Students 184 198 132 150 International Students—onshore 6,512 6,393 5,478 5,307 International Students—offshore 691 640 314 257 By level of program Postgraduate Research 2,113 1,987 1,507 1,400 Postgraduate Coursework 4,907 4,889 2,943 2,802 Bachelor Degrees 17,435 16,574 14,762 14,157 Other 1,130 1,196 421 524 By enrolment faculty Engineering, Computer and Maths Sciences 5,004 4,726 4,005 3,771 Health Sciences 4,436 4,158 3,507 3,266 Humanities and Social Sciences 4,438 4,318 2,963 2,969 Sciences 3,311 3,131 2,615 2,404 Professions 8,539 8,272 6,300 6,125 Central Areas 425 576 243 348 By campus North Terrace (includes hospitals) 23,021 22,246 18,232 17,592 Roseworthy 521 476 318 261 Thebarton 59 57 11 10 Waite 689 624 326 269 Other Australian 1,173 1,213 423 491 Offshore 691 640 322 260 By gender Female 12,157 11,713 9,483 9,145 Male 12,898 12,441 10,150 9,739 By attendance type Full-time 19,308 18,532 17,637 16,955 Part-time 5,747 5,622 1,996 1,928
Source: Data Warehouse
Financial Performance Summary
Consolidated University 2011 2010 2011 2010 $000 $000 $000 $000 Statement of financial performance Revenue 786,441 729,090 749,454 680,956 Expenses 738,668 669,144 683,426 616,864 Operating Result 47,773 59,946 66,028 64,092 Margin 6.1% 8.2% 8.8% 9.4% Statement of financial position Net Assets 1,119,458 1,090,036 1,118,230 1,081,172 Current Ratio 1.6 1.6 1.4 1.2 Cash and Bank Term Investments 112,799 89,286 103,295 80,922
The University reported a consolidated operating result of $47.8 million for the year (2010: $60 million), which was supported by continued growth in student numbers, strong research performance and the sale of underperforming assets.
6 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Research Activity – Full year research activity Preliminary research figures based on 2011 financial statements
Research income 2011 * 2010 2009 2008 2007 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Australian Competitive Grants 91,646 79,083 72,936 69,890 60,699 Other Public Sector Research Income 41,936 39,064 42,407 41,005 28,649 Industry and Other Research Income 35,746 41,803 26,394 28,141 20,413 Cooperative Research Centres 3,010 4,763 4,144 6,027 6,011 Total University Research Income 172,339 164,713 145,880 145,063 115,771
Source: DIISR 2007-2010 Higher Education Research Data Collection Preliminary figures based on 2011 financial statements
Research Block Funding 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Research Training Scheme (RTS) 29,926 28,584 28,072 27,809 28,127 Research Infrastructure Block Grant (RIBG) 13,682 13,231 12,838 12,961 13,641 Institutional Grant Scheme (IGS) 15,744 16,232 Joint Research Engagement (JRE) 15,814 15,286 15,271 Sustainable Research Excellence (SRE) 9,234 7,136 4,551
Note: IGS was replace by JRE in 2010. Note: SRE started in 2010. Source: DIISR Research Block Grants funding announcements (www.diisr.gov.au)
Staff Statistics – As at 31 March
Persons FTE 2011 2010 2011 2010 Total staff 3359 3,159 3037 2,852 By type Academic 1539 1,405 1381 1,258 General 1820 1,754 1656 1,594 Casual n/a n/a n/a 426 Academic staff by faculty Engineering, Computer and Maths Sciences 257 239 243 223 Health Sciences 491 430 408 358 Humanities and Social Sciences 176 174 158 149 Sciences 421 367 395 348 Professions 167 166 151 151 Central areas 27 29 26 28 Academic staff by function Teaching & research 971 899 864 801 Research only 558 493 507 445 Teaching only 1 1 1 1 Other 9 12 8 11 Academic staff by gender Female 607 516 522 439 Male 932 889 858 819
Note: Full-time and fractional full-time staff statistics Casual staff figures for calendar year Source: DEEWR 2010 & 2011 Staff Data Collection
7 2011 | Annual Report
Higher Education Environment
Global Perspective In the global marketplace, many other The Australian education sector, like much of countries and universities have noted the the economy at large, is heavily dependent Education is one of Australia’s largest export Australian system’s success in attracting on Chinese growth to sustain local growth. industries and the growth of the higher international enrolments. Numerous countries While Chinese demand has remained education sector is key to sustaining this are relaxing their immigration laws, while robust throughout the GFC, continued success. Despite a volatile international Australia’s laws have tightened. Combined uncertainty surrounding European debt economic situation, Australia performs with the strength of the Australian dollar, and ongoing economic malaise in North extremely well in attracting international this may undermine Australia’s relative America as well as Europe may yet slow students to higher education, with a national competitiveness. growth, with consequences across the growth rate of 8.2% since 2008. International Australian economy. Moreover, because students now make up around 20% of the The tightened immigration policy has also had a negative impact on the signifi cant China is investing heavily in domestic higher university student population across the education, increasing the diversifi cation country. The University of Adelaide has portion of the international student market who view an Australian education as a of our markets will assume a greater increased its international cohort of students importance in the future. dramatically in recent years, with overseas route to permanent residence. However, students now comprising around 28% of its the Australian Government has developed Opportunities to compete internationally are total population. Consequently, the University strategies to ensure the long-term viability of not just confi ned to increasing international has the largest proportion of international this important industry. The Knight Review student numbers. There are complex social students of any of the South Australian of the Student Visa Program (September and environmental issues facing Australia universities (20% at the University of South 2011) made 41 recommendations, including and the region, including climate change, Australia and 13% at Flinders University). signifi cant changes designed to make regional security, pandemic disease, social tertiary study in Australia increasingly more cohesion, bio-ethics and water quality. Driven by changes in Australian immigration attractive internationally. The government Addressing these challenges will require high policy and global economic conditions, has adopted all of the recommendations, in quality research and innovative applications 2011 has seen a signifi cant contraction recognition of the important economic role of knowledge as well as improved of the education export market; however, played by education export. The two most understanding of problems and their causes. the university sector has weathered the noteworthy changes in this package are the The University is well placed to contribute in downturn much better than other segments. streamlining of visa application processes, these areas and to make a signifi cant impact Locally, the University of Adelaide enrolled and the addition of work rights to student on its local and global communities. a record number of international students, visas that, in some cases, extend three years capping a decade of sustained year-on- after graduation. The changes will be phased year growth averaging 12%. Nevertheless, in over time, but it is anticipated that they will the downturn of preparatory programs have a positive impact on applications for and English language instruction is likely to commencement as early as 2012. affect University enrolments going forward, although there are signs that this market is recovering.
8 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
The South Australian Government South Australia’s Strategic Plan seeks to ‘better align institutions of higher education with the state’s economic and social priorities’. The University has responded by focusing its research activities around areas of strength and ensuring congruence with national and state priorities. Additionally, the University has supported the state in achieving strategic goals relating to increases in international and domestic student numbers. Demographic predictions indicate that due to the ageing profi le of South Australia’s population, Year 12 enrolments will continue to decrease and the ability to maintain local student numbers will thus be critical. This may be offset in part by the increase of the school leaving age to 17, and the state government’s goal of increasing the percentage of students completing Year 12 (or its equivalent) to 90% by 2014; however, innovative measures, improved outreach, support services, and new The Australian Government level, where there is some demand, caps collaborative partnerships will be required remain in place. to improve participation of traditionally In the 2010 Annual Report, transformational under-represented groups. Nevertheless, When the Higher Education Base Funding changes were foreshadowed as a recent years have seen domestic demand Review was commissioned (reported late result of the full implementation of the for university places increase, and the 2011), there was some expectation of an Commonwealth’s Transforming Australia’s University is pursuing a number of access adjustment to the per student rate of funding. Higher Education System policies, and participation strategies, including a However, while the government has not concurrent with changes in support for targeted approach to recruit students from yet formally responded to the review, it has innovation through the Excellence in the northern suburbs of Adelaide and the indicated that additional funding is unlikely. Research for Australia (ERA) initiative. Spencer Gulf region. Late in 2011, the Student Services and The fi rst iteration and current preparation The state government’s 30-year development Amenities Fee legislation was passed, which for the second iteration of the ERA, have plan will see signifi cant population increases allows universities to charge students a fee provided the sector with a suite of valuable in the northern reaches of the city. Much of to provide services of a non-academic nature tools to appraise and promote the quality of this development will be focused in areas on campus. Since the implementation of research conducted at universities across around the University’s Roseworthy Campus. voluntary student unionism, many of these Australia. In 2011, additional funding was The establishment of the Veterinary School services have been curtailed or subsidised made available as part of this initiative and at this campus has ensured its future as from other University funds. the University will continue to grow in real a sustainable contributor to the University terms until 2013, resulting in substantial It is still unclear what impact the newly community as a whole. The regional support for the indirect cost of performing established Tertiary Education Quality and development of this campus will provide an quality research on campus. Standards Agency (TEQSA) will have on opportunity to be a key player in the area. Adjustments to learning and teaching the sector. The role of TEQSA is to improve policy have been less forthcoming. In many national consistency via accreditation, audit cases, funding associated with learning and streamlining regulatory processes. and teaching performance has been either Adopting a risk based approach, this new delayed or withdrawn. Therefore, transition to agency will have a direct impact on high an uncapped, demand-driven funding model quality institutions such as the University of and more sustainable indexation are the Adelaide. primary ongoing changes. These changes A Cabinet restructure undertaken in 2011 are substantial and result in several hundred has brought together the responsibilities of million dollars of additional funding fl owing the National Innovation Systems and tertiary into the sector. The impact of removing education sector under the newly established enrolment caps will be much more apparent Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, in states such as Victoria and Queensland Research and Tertiary Education. The where there is substantial unmet demand. potential for a single department to provide In South Australia, a modest increase a more holistic plan for joint endeavours in provision is likely, with the majority of of research and teaching should not be qualifi ed applicants already receiving offers underestimated. at undergraduate level. At the postgraduate
9 2011 | Annual Report Governance
University Strategic Plan centres as part of the University’s Building This year, the Report included performance 2013–2017 a Great Research University strategy; for indicator scorecards for each chapter to additional investment in support of research satisfy Council’s request for an indication The current version of the University fellowships; to deal with signifi cant growth- of whether the University had performed as Strategic Plan covering the years 2008–2012 related cost pressures in several faculties; to expected. Senior managers also provided was updated in 2010 to take account of maintain the University’s underlying operating executive summaries regarding their areas signifi cant policy changes effected by the performance relative to the Group of Eight of responsibility; these provided comment Australian Government. It also allowed (Go8) universities and to ensure that staff on results and performance with a particular the University to affi rm its commitment to costs are sustainable. In developing the focus on identifying causal factors. building a great research university and to budget, the University considered the budget The Report revealed that the University ensure an alignment of its goals with those of submissions and targets of each of its remains in a strong position, fi rmly within government and the community. faculties and administrative divisions. the Go8 grouping on all indicators. It It is expected that the new strategic plan demonstrated that the University has been will be fi nalised in 2012 following extensive 2011 University able to accommodate signifi cant, additional consultation with Council and the University Performance Report student-load while making steady and community, and the commencement of a sustainable improvement across a range of new Vice-Chancellor and President. In June, the Council considered the annual quality and equity indicators. The University’s University Performance Report. The Report research performance is impressive for the University Budget 2012 is designed to give Council an opportunity period covered by this report. In particular, to judge the University’s performance research income per capita is strong and Council approved the University Budget against targets set in the current 2008–2012 well in line with the University’s strategic aim for 2012 at its December meeting, and University Strategic Plan. Its structure to remain in the top three nationally in this also received the associated Capital refl ects the organisation of the Plan with its measure. The University’s solid performance Management Plan for 2012–2016. The three chapters on Research and Research detailed in the pages of this report places it 2012 budget embodies the University’s Training, Education, and Services and well to respond to changes proposed by the response to emerging challenges with the Resources. It presents the University’s current government. potential to affect its fi nancial performance. performance in the context of national, South It provides funding: to enable the continued Australian and Go8 benchmarks. development of research institutes and
10 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
In June, the University’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor James McWha, announced that he would retire in mid-2012.
Risk Management Annual Meeting of the Following the announcement of Professor University Community McWha’s retirement, the Council initiated an Council approved the University of Adelaide international recruitment process to search Internal Audit Plan 2012–2015 in December. The annual meeting of the University for a new Vice-Chancellor and President. The Plan is reviewed annually in order to community was held on 14 February. Both ensure that it focuses on areas of higher risk the Chancellor and the Vice-Chancellor Honorary Degrees to the successful operation of the University. and President addressed the gathering, The Internal Audit Plan for the year 2012 focusing on the University’s considerable At one of its April graduation ceremonies, summarises the primary functions and achievements over the past year and its the University admitted prominent South processes within the University and sets out plans for the future. As always, the meeting Australian businessman Mr Ross Adler AC the proposed internal audit coverage. It is was well-attended by members of the to the degree of Doctor of the University closely aligned with the University’s current University community. to honour his distinguished service to the enterprise risks and identifi es key risk drivers. University over many years. Mr Adler served Council also received the Operational Risk Election of on the University Council for eleven years Management Annual Report. It noted the until his retirement in December 2009. During increasing use of the University Risk Register; Deputy Chancellor that time, he also served as Chair of the the revision of the Risk Management Policy In December, Council re-elected Ms Pamela Finance Committee from the year 2000 and and the Risk Management Handbook; the Martin as Deputy Chancellor of the University as Deputy Chancellor from March 2007 to revision of the University Risk Matrix; and that for a two-year term, subject to her term on December 2009. the University Risk Management Committee Council. Ms Martin is a long-serving member In September, the former Chancellor of the had undertaken a management review of the of the Council and is employed as the, University, the Honourable John von Doussa University’s enterprise risks. Commercial Counsel, Commercial Advice, in AO QC, was awarded the degree of Doctor the Department of the Premier and Cabinet. of the University for his distinguished service Voluntary Code of Best to the institution. Mr von Doussa served as Practice for the Governance Retirement of Chancellor from July 2004 to July 2010. A graduate of the University’s Law School, he of Australian Universities Vice-Chancellor had a long and eminent legal and judicial In May 2011 the University Chancellors’ In June, the University’s Vice-Chancellor career, which included serving as President Council (UCC) adopted a Voluntary Code and President, Professor James McWha, of the Human Rights and Equal Opportunities of Best Practice for the Governance of announced that he would retire in mid- Commission from 2003 to 2008. Australian Universities. The Code is based 2012. This follows a decade of outstanding on the Australian Government’s National leadership. The University’s Chancellor, Governance Protocols and was developed the Honourable Robert Hill, paid tribute to to replace them. In August, the University Professor McWha’s success in leading the Council received a report demonstrating that University to an enviable position, recognised the University substantially complies with the internationally for academic achievement best practice guidelines. and research excellence. In particular, he commended the Vice-Chancellor and President’s inclusive leadership style which Controlled Entities had inspired high levels of morale and Council received the quarterly management collaboration within both the academic reports and annual risk assessment reports and professional staff communities and the of the University’s wholly-controlled entities student body. and also approved their budgets and business plans for 2012.
11 2011 | Annual Report
Council Membership
In 2011, the Standing Committees of Senior Management Council comprised: Council as at 31 December 2011 as at 31 December 2010
Ex-offi cio Members: Academic Board Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President > The Hon. Robert M. Hill – Chancellor Chair – Professor Christopher Findlay AM (Academic) > Professor James McWha AO – Vice- (until 1 September 2011) > Professor Fred McDougall (until 31 May 2011) Chancellor and President Acting Chair – Professor Clement Macintyre > Professor Pascale Quester (from 1 June 2011) (from 2 September 2011) > Professor Christopher Findlay AM – Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President Presiding Member and Chair of the Audit, Compliance and Risk Committee (Research) Academic Board (until 1 September 2011) Professor Michael Brooks Chair – Mr Charles Bagot > Professor Clement Macintyre – Presiding Member and Acting Chair of the Academic Convenors’ Committee Vice-President (Services and Resources) Board (from 2 September 2011) Chair – The Hon. Robert M. Hill Mr Paul Duldig
Appointed Members: Council – South Australian Research and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Operations) > Mr Charles Bagot Development Institute (SARDI) Business Professor Richard Russell AM > Ms Kate Castine Integration Advisory Committee Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) > Ms Dianne Davidson Chair – Mr Charles Bagot Professor John Taplin > Mr Ian Kowalick AM Finance Committee > Ms Pamela Martin (Deputy Chancellor) Chair – Mr Ian Kowalick AM Executive Dean, Faculty of Engineering, > Ms Loewn Steel Computer and Mathematical Sciences People and Culture Committee > Mr Stephen Young Professor Peter Dowd Chair – Ms Kate Castine Co-opted Members: Executive Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences Senior Executive Review Committee vacant Professor Justin Beilby Chair – The Hon. Robert M. Hill Elected Members Executive Dean, Faculty of Humanities and Special Degrees Committee Academic Staff : Social Sciences Chair – The Hon. Robert M. Hill Professor Nicholas Harvey > Dr Rodney Crewther (until 5 March 2011) > Associate Professor Felix Patrikeeff (from 6 Executive Dean, Faculty of the Professions The University of Adelaide Council, Council Standing Committees and March 2011) Senior Management – Council Meeting 8/11, 5 December 2011 > Professor Pascale Quester > Professor Anthony Thomas (re-elected 6 First row: Mr Gerald Buttfi eld; Ms Kate Castine, Chair, People and Culture (until 31 May 2011) Committee; Dr Susan Robinson; Ms Dianne Davidson; Mr Xu Ting; Ms March 2011) Geraldine Yam; Professor Anthony Thomas; Professor Simon Maddocks > Professor Christopher Findlay AM Second row: Ms Heather Karmel, Council Secretary; Mr Charles Bagot, General Staff : Chair, Audit, Compliance and Risk Committee; Ms Pamela Martin, Deputy (from 1 June 2011) Chancellor; The Hon Robert M. Hill, Chancellor; Professor Felix Patrikeeff; Professor John Carver; Dr John Radcliffe AM > Mr Jeremy Kwan (until 5 March 2011) Executive Dean, Faculty of Sciences Third row: Professor John Taplin, Pro Vice-Chancellor (International); Mr Ian > Mr Christakis Soteriou (until 5 March 2011) Kowalick AM, Chair, Finance Committee; Ms Loewn Steel; Professor James Professor Robert Hill McWha AO, Vice-Chancellor and President; Professor Clement Macintyre, > Mr Gerald Buttfi eld (from 6 March 2011) Acting Chair, Academic Board; Professor Bob Hill, Executive Dean, Faculty of Sciences; Professor Justin Beilby, Executive Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences; Council Secretariat > Ms Gloria Sumner (from 6 March 2011; Professor Richard Russell AM, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Operations) Fourth row: Mr Paul Duldig, Vice-President (Services and Resources); Council Secretary – Ms Heather Karmel resigned 21 October 2011) Professor Mike Brooks, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Research); Professor Nick Harvey, Executive Dean, Faculty of Humanities and Social Senior Offi cer – Mr Andrew Starcevic > Ms Geraldine Yam (from 5 November 2011) Sciences; Mr Graham Walters AM; Professor Pascale Quester, Deputy Vice- Chancellor and Vice-President (Academic); Mr John Hill; Mr Colin Dunsford; Senior Offi cer – Ms Anne Wildy Students: Mr Hugh McPharlin; Associate Professor Barry Burgan; Professor John Williams, Acting Executive Dean, Faculty of the Professions; Professor Peter (until 5 March 2011) Dowd, Executive Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Council Offi cer – Mr Mariusz Kurgan > Ms Lavinia Emmett-Grey Sciences; Mr Tony Mitchell, Chief Financial Offi cer > Mr Ting Xu (re-elected 6 March 2011) Absent: Professor Christopher Findlay AM, Chair, Academic Board; Mr David Hill; Mr Andrew Shepherd; Mr Eric Fan Yang; Mr Stephen Young > Mr Christopher Wong (until 5 March 2011) > Mr Andrew Shepherd (elected 6 March 2011) > Mr Eric Fan Yang (elected 6 March 2011)
Graduates: > Professor Simon Maddocks > Dr John Radcliffe AM > Dr Susan Robinson
12 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Top Level Organisational Structure at 31 December 2011
Development & Alumni Council Secretariat Vice-Chancellor and President Ms Robyn Brown Ms Heather Karmel Director Professor James McWha AO Council Secretary
Ms Jill Miller Executive Offi cer to the Vice-Chancellor and President
Deputy Vice-Chancellor & Vice-President Deputy Vice-Chancellor & Vice-President Vice-President (Academic) (Research) (Services and Resources) Professor Pascale Quester Professor Mike Brooks Mr Paul Duldig
Offi ce of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Financial Services and Vice-President (Academic) Executive Deans Mr Tony Mitchell Chief Financial Officer Mr Gary Martin Executive Director Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Dowd Human Resources (International) Ms Tassi Georgiadis Director Professor John Taplin Health Sciences Professor Justin Beilby
Academic Director, Singapore; Humanities and Social Sciences Infrastructure, Property & Technology Dean Postgraduate Coursework Professor Nick Harvey Ms Virginia Deegan Director Professor Ian Reid The Professions Professor Christopher Findlay AM Pro Vice-Chancellor Sciences Legal and Risk (Student Engagement) Professor Bob Hill Mrs Celine McInerney General Counsel vacant
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Pro Vice-Chancellor Marketing and Strategic Communications Education: Wilto Yerlo (Research Operations) Dr Benjamin Grindlay Director Professor Lester-Irabinna Rigney Dean Professor Richard Russell AM
Pro Vice-Chancellor Offi ce of the Vice-President (Research Strategy) (Services & Resources) vacant Mr Jonathan Pheasant Director
Adelaide Microscopy University Libraries Mr John Terlet Director Mr Ray Choate University Librarian
Adelaide Research & Innovation Pty Ltd Mr Robert Chalmers Managing Director
Community Engagement Mr Martyn Evans Director Mr Joe Bennink Manager
Adelaide Graduate Centre Professor Richard Russell AM Dean of Grad. Studies Ms Anne Witt Director
Laboratory Animal Services Mr Andrew Bartlett Manager
Research Branch Mr Simon Brennan Director
13 2011 | Annual Report
Planning and Quality
Strategic Planning
Since the release in early 2008 of the With one year remaining on the current With one year 2008–2012 University Strategic Plan: strategic plan, the University has been Building a Great Research University, both successful in achieving many of its ambitious remaining on the Global Financial Crisis and changes to goals. From this base, planning for the future Commonwealth policy have had signifi cant has commenced. Early in the process it was the current strategic implications for the higher education sector. decided that due to the imminent retirement plan, the University As part of the University of Adelaide’s of the current Vice-Chancellor, it was comprehensive process of strategic inappropriate to proceed to a full strategic has been successful in planning, the Plan was revised to take plan in advance of the appointment of a new preliminary account of the changing Vice-Chancellor. Instead, a comprehensive achieving many of its environment (a revision was approved by process of consultations and workshops has ambitious goals. Council and released in December 2009). confi rmed the University’s desire to continue This did not result in a change of direction to strive to be recognised as a great research for the University, but rather reconfi rmed university and to use that as the platform for the approach and commitment to building excellence in teaching and learning. a great research university and ensure a The senior leadership of the University is clear alignment of the goals to those of currently formulating a series of options government and the community. papers (in response to the specifi c The Plan sets out the University’s mission environment), and these will be presented to and vision, high-level goals, and strategies the University Council in early 2012. These for the core areas of business: Research papers will also be presented to the incoming and Research Training, Education, and Vice-Chancellor as a series of investment Services and Resources. Integral to the options for consideration and prioritisation. Plan is the pursuit of research excellence; The outcome of these decisions will infl uence focus, scale and support for key institutes; the next plan, but will not divert the University continued increases in student numbers, from its path of sustainable growth, and enhancements to the quality of their continuous improvement, and enhancement experience; and the effective management of its reputation and impact within the of resources, structures and processes. It international, national and local communities also establishes high-level targets that enable to which it contributes. the University to regularly review progress. These strategic priorities also formed the basis of the University’s Interim Agreement, or compact, with the Commonwealth.
14 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
15 2011 | Annual Report
Postgraduate Coursework Total postgraduate coursework load Programs Equivalent full-time student load (EFTSL) Onshore applications and offers during 2009–2011 decreased, although the total 2009 2010 2011 University postgraduate coursework load Domestic 1068 1144 1108 increased. Health Sciences was the only faculty for which total onshore applications International 1227 1438 1581 increased in this same period. Total Offshore (Singapore) 187 201 214 postgraduate coursework load decreased signifi cantly for the Faculty of Humanities and Online 6 36 Social Sciences and slightly for the Faculty Total 2481 2788 2940 of the Professions. The Faculty of Sciences and Faculty of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences experienced growth Summer and Winter School Collaborating with TAFE SA in load. In line with the University’s Strategic Plan, The University has renewed its partnership Online applications and offers have increased there has been a focused effort on increasing with TAFE SA by signing a fi ve-year Head from 2010 to 2011. As these programs are the fl exibility of course offerings to domestic, Collaboration Agreement in July 2011. This still establishing, no corresponding effect international, non-award, cross-institutional strengthened relationship has seen the can yet be seen in the University’s totals. and study abroad enrolments through number of articulation pathways from TAFE Load in these programs is comparatively the Summer and Winter School. This has SA to the University of Adelaide exceed 200, small, as these students are predominantly proven to be popular with the University’s reinforcing the University’s status as the part-time (studying one course per term). student population. Enrolments for the 2011 leading South Australian public university The University offers several other programs Summer and Winter School programs have with regard to specifi c credit transfer online, which are not separately identifi ed shown continued strong growth, with an arrangements with TAFE SA. and their load is included in the onshore overall increase in enrolments of 19% (3061 domestic and international fi gures. enrolments, were up from 2582 in 2010). Summer School enrolments increased by 12% (1816 enrolments, up from 1626 in 2010) and Winter School enrolments increase by 30% (1245 enrolments, up from 956 in 2010). In late 2011, administrative management of the Summer and Winter School was tasked to the Short Programs team within the International Offi ce.
16 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Reviews best practice, and the development of specifi c benchmarking guidelines to Review activities are an integral part of the facilitate an increase in faculty and school University’s approach to quality assurance. benchmarking initiatives. It was also agreed The following program and organisational that a second benchmarking partnership reviews were conducted in 2011: be initiated with one of the shortlisted > Bachelor of Arts universities identifi ed by the Quality Enhancement Committee for this purpose. > Doctor of Clinical Dentistry > Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Accreditation > Bachelor of Science (Natural Resources), Certain programs at the University are Bachelor of Science (Evolutionary accredited by professional organisations. Biology),and Bachelor of Science (Marine Such accreditation ensures that graduates Biology) of a program are professionally qualifi ed and competent to work in their chosen vocation. > Postgraduate programs in Economics It also serves as a quality measure for > Postgraduate programs in Architecture individual programs. > Postgraduate programs in Commerce The University’s business programs have been awarded a fi ve-year accreditation > School of Civil, Environmental and Mining from one of the most respected accrediting Engineering (including undergraduate and bodies, the Association to Advance postgraduate coursework programs in the Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) school); and Quality International, based in the United States. > School of Social Sciences. This has followed some years of signifi cant National Quality Assurance and Review reports, recommendations and internal review, evaluation and change. The Regulatory Environment implementation plans are made available on accreditation standards require, for instance, the University website after consideration by a high-quality teaching environment, a The University contributed to the public the University. commitment to continuous improvement and consultation process on the Tertiary the delivery of programs that are responsive Education Quality and Standards Agency to the needs of business. (TEQSA) legislation and Higher Education Review of Learning and Standard Framework developments, Teaching Policies In 2011, a number of other programs were including the Go8 submissions to the accredited or re-accredited. The University’s aforementioned. The themes of national The University has been undertaking a major Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery quality assurance and regulatory review of academic policies, with the aim of (MBBS) program was re-accredited until the developments that are shaping the higher rationalising, simplifying and integrating the end of 2014. The Bachelor of Engineering education environment have been discussed policies, and ensuring consistent academic (Mining) was accredited by Engineers with internal stakeholders at key committees practices across the University. In 2011, Australia until the end of 2012. It will be and particularly highlighted during the three new academic policies were approved considered for further re-accreditation University’s inaugural Festival of Learning and for implementation: in 2012 together with other engineering programs offered by the University. The Teaching. > Modifi ed Arrangements For Coursework Master of Planning and Master of Planning Assessment Policy Key developments include: (Urban Design) have received interim > the Ministerial Council for Tertiary Education > Recognition of Disciplines Policy accreditation until the end of Semester 1, and Employment (MCTEE) approving the > Reasonable Adjustments to Teaching and 2012, pending consideration of the visit fi nal aspects of the strengthened Australian Assessment for Students with a Disability conducted in 2011 by the Planning Institute Qualifi cations Framework (AQF) and the Policy. of Australia. Specialisations of the Doctor of implementation arrangements on 18 March Clinical Dentistry program were re-accredited 2011; Benchmarking until the end of 2015. > the Tertiary Education Quality and The University has a well-established Standards Agency (TEQSA) being Survey Framework benchmarking relationship with the University established on 30 July 2011 by the Tertiary of Canterbury forming the basis of the The University’s Survey Framework was Education Quality and Standards Agency University’s international benchmarking implemented in 2009 and was tasked to be Act 2011; and partnering approach. As part of the progress administered by the Survey Reference Group > TEQSA operating in a quality-assurance report to the previous Australian Universities (SRG). The SRG met quarterly during 2011 capacity in the fi rst instance before Quality Agency (AUQA) audit, the University with survey requests being approved on a beginning its regulatory functions in had previously foreshadowed that a further monthly basis. A total of 44 requests were January 2012. two to three benchmarking relationships considered of which fi ve were not approved. TEQSA will commence its regulatory would be developed with national and functions on 29 January 2012. This will international partners. During 2011, the involve registering and evaluating the Quality Enhancement Committee agreed performance of higher education providers to a broad approach to benchmarking (universities and private providers) against the which includes active initiation of informal new Higher Education Standards Framework. benchmarking opportunities and reporting
17 2011 | Annual Report Learning and Teaching
Festival of Learning and Teaching
The Strategic Plan (2008–2012) states that themselves, how the facilities enhance the ‘In a great research university, education and student experience. A genuine commitment research are not alternatives but integrated, to learning and teaching was expressed even mutually supportive and equally valued before the event started with over 1,270 activities’. The inaugural Festival of Learning people registering. Participants collaborated, and Teaching that was held in November shared information, expertise and ideas and 2011, celebrated excellence in learning and engaged in showcases and workshops on a teaching at the University of Adelaide. variety of products and projects. This event, held in Hub Central, showcased The University Teaching Award winners the facilities and services available to were recognised and a celebration of the students. Participants were able to see for 2011 teaching year marked the close of the festival. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Academic), Professor Pascale Quester, confi rmed a commitment to commending contributions to teaching and learning and announced that the University will be introducing awards for excellence in support of the student experience in 2012.
18 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Excellence in Education The Excellence in Education project was established in March 2009 as an overarching project to support the University’s primary education goal, that is, to ‘provide a distinctive learning experience of high quality for our students’. The Excellence in Education project consolidates activities from across the University which will impact positively on student satisfaction. During 2011, further progress was recorded against each of the focus areas identifi ed at the project’s inception. The Annual Progress Report submitted to the University Learning and Teaching Committee (ULTC) during the 14 September 2011 meeting, highlighted the data for Overall Satisfaction as measured by the Course Experience Questionnaire. This indicated that the University was making progress toward achieving its objective of being in the top 50% nationwide in all discipline groups within fi ve years, and that it had already reached this objective in three of the four broad discipline groups. Centre for Learning and e-Enhanced Learning and The University’s Professional Development Teaching Project primary education (CLPD) The e-Enhanced Learning and Teaching The early part of 2011 saw staff in the CLPD Project, funded as a Vice-Chancellor’s goal is to provide a implement the majority of recommendations strategic initiative, has improved the distinctive learning from the external review conducted during quality of the student experience through 2010 as part of the normal cycle of reviews the innovative use of new technologies in experience of high quality for schools and divisions. Following the teaching. In 2011, a wide variety of courses departure of Professor Geoffrey Crisp, from all faculties such as courses from for our students. Director, and the appointment of Professor Law, Marketing, Economics, Psychology, Pascale Quester as Deputy Vice-Chancellor Pathology, Nursing, History, Food Studies, and Vice-President (Academic), a strategic and Oenology were included in the program. restructuring process commenced. This In addition, the project team supported provided a good opportunity for both development of enhancements to the the CLPD and the University to refl ect on capabilities of MyUni and virtual classrooms. the role that academic development and This project concluded at the end of 2011. support centres such as CLPD play in the strategic priorities of the institution. Formal Academic Professional change management procedures resulted Development in the relocation of the majority of CLPD staff to other areas of the University with the A total of 42 University of Adelaide teaching discontinuation of the CLPD as a separate staff participated in two Graduate Certifi cate unit at the end of 2011. programs in Online Education and in Higher Education, with 14 staff graduating from Teaching Wednesdays the two programs in 2011. In addition, 58 academic staff completed the Teaching at A new initiative in 2011, Teaching University course and 73 sessional staff Wednesday sessions drew over 200 completed professional development courses participants across six sessions covering in higher education pedagogy. themes including assessment, student engagement, internationalisation and quality assurance.
19 2011 | Annual Report
Transition and The ISC Peer Mentor Program Advisory Service – was recognised for its outstanding First-year experience First impressions count, and students’ contribution by winning the Governor’s experiences during their fi rst year set the Multicultural Award for Youth - foundations for a smooth transition to university life and academic success. As Organisation. part of the Transition and Advisory Service (TAS), Transition (to Uni) Services coordinate the University’s main orientation event, The International Student Centre coordinated Mentor Program was recognised for its the UniStep extended orientation, peer 16 orientation programs to meet the outstanding contribution by winning the networking programs, and PASS (Peer needs of over 2500 students commencing Governor’s Multicultural Award for Youth– Assisted Study Sessions Program). degree programs, Pre-enrolment English, Organisation. In 2011, Orientation Week attracted an AusAID specialised preparatory programs, On arrival, airport reception and temporary estimated 5000 students to the University’s and Summer and Winter Schools. The accommodation services were popular with North Terrace Campus. More than 2000 Centre established a Welcome Centre in airport reception arranged for 977 students students attended the Vice-Chancellor and Union House for the major intakes prior including 176 University of Canterbury President, Professor James A. McWha’s to commencement of Semester 1 and exchange students in March following the welcome in Bonython Hall. The Welcome Semester 2. Orientation activities were Christchurch Earthquake, 138 accompanying Centre on Goodman Lawns, North Terrace, supported by a range of on-campus and family members and on-arrival temporary showcased University services, provided community based services including the accommodation was arranged for 221 information, central signposting and Accommodation Service, Careers, the students. guided students towards events. Targeted AUU, CLPD, Library Services, South UniStep, the University’s extended orientation information sessions, study preparation Australia Police, Department of Immigration program, provided daily academic and workshops and the tours of facilities were and Citizenship, Customs, AQIS and life skills sessions for new students during popular, with over 3000 students attending Volunteer SA. Semester 1 to support a smooth transition these sessions. BBQs, competitions, music The February and July Orientation programs for these students to the university and games entertained and nourished those were supported by 44 Peer Mentors environment. Students who entered who needed a break between activities and volunteering 3960 hours performing a range university mid-year were welcomed at a provided a welcoming environment. A group of administrative tasks, campus tours and smaller event in July 2011. of 13 experienced volunteer student-leaders coordinating the on and off-campus social supported Orientation Week events. programs. In February 2011, the ISC Peer The Peer Networking Programs (PNP) provide students with opportunities to build social connection and share information and experiences with other students during the fi rst semester of study and have been strong indicators of student successes. The popularity of structured programs like SmoothStart – the university-wide equity mentoring program, and the school-based networking programs, demonstrate the importance of a sense of belonging and social interactions as drivers of academic success. Transition Services assisted 13 schools across the fi ve faculties to host peer networking programs during Semester 1. Overall, 129 peer mentors supported approximately 1350 participating fi rst-year students. Beyond these networking events, peer mentors were involved in a range of other transition activities, thereby providing guidance and impacting on an even greater number of fi rst-year students. During 2011, the internationally accredited Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) program gave opportunities to eight academically high-performing student volunteer leaders to assist 170 fi rst-year Business and Economic School students with their studies. Students who attended these weekly sessions learned to apply refl ective study and revision techniques to lecture content.
20 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha AO with Vice-Chancellor’s Scholars, fi rst-year students Justin Bannon and Louise Thomas Photo by John Hemmings
Scholarships The Adelaide Undergraduate Scholarships, a Bachelor of Engineering (Aerospace, worth $10,300 (indexed) for up to four Mechatronic or Mechanical) program. In 2011, the Coursework Scholarships years, were awarded to all South Australian University-funded scholarships continue to Committee approved the award for the students who demonstrated outstanding target not only students who demonstrate following number of University funded and academic merit by achieving an Australian outstanding academic merit, but a Commonwealth funded equity scholarships: Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) of 99.95 substantial number of scholarships such (excluding all bonus points). In 2011, > Adelaide Access Scholarships (78) as the Adelaide Access Scholarships and 37 students were awarded Adelaide > Adelaide Start-Up Scholarships (100) the Adelaide Start-Up Scholarships also Undergraduate Scholarships. address students who are in fi nancial > Vice-Chancellor’s scholarships (2)—these The University of Adelaide Principals’ need, from rural or isolated areas, from were awarded to one male and one female Scholarships, worth $5,000 for one year, non-English speaking backgrounds and/or student, both of whom had outstanding were awarded to one student from each students who have a disability. This focus academic records. school in South Australia, Northern Territory, complements the emphasis of the Higher > Indigenous Commonwealth Broken Hill and non-metropolitan Victoria Education Participation and Partnerships Accommodation Scholarships (10) who nominated eligible students. Eligible Program (HEPPP), which seeks to increase > Indigenous Commonwealth Education students must have achieved an ATAR the participation and outcomes for students Costs Scholarships (20) of 80 or greater (after the addition of the from equity groups, and particularly those University’s Fairway Bonus if applicable) and from low socioeconomic status (SES) > Commonwealth Accommodation made a signifi cant contribution to their school backgrounds. Scholarships Indigenous Enabling or wider community. In 2011, 140 students Scholarships (11) Since 2009, many Commonwealth were awarded a University of Adelaide scholarships have been administered by > Commonwealth Education Costs Principals’ Scholarship. Centrelink, with the exception of Indigenous Scholarships Indigenous Enabling The Andy Thomas Scholarship is awarded scholarships, which universities still oversee. Scholarships (39) to academically outstanding students who Commonwealth scholarships awarded in > Indigenous Access Scholarships (52) have also made a signifi cant contribution 2009 to non-Indigenous students are in the The University of Adelaide also has three to their school, the wider community and process of being ‘grandfathered’, and it is major academic merit scholarship schemes: showed potential for leadership, creativity anticipated that most of them will have been the Adelaide Undergraduate Scholarships, and innovation in the future. This valuable utilised by the end of 2012. The number of the University of Adelaide Principals’ scholarship provides a living allowance of donor funded scholarships administered Scholarships and the Andy Thomas $6000 for up to four years with students’ by the University continues to grow. In Scholarship. contribution amounts (HECS) also paid 2011, 80 donor-scholarships with a total by the University for up to four years. of 219 recipients were administered by This scholarship is awarded each year the University. to a commencing student who enrols in
21 2011 | Annual Report
External Learning and National Learning and The University of Teaching Grants Teaching Awards Adelaide provides Australian Learning and Teaching Australian University Learning and a learning environment Council Grants Scheme 2011 Teaching Council Citations where teachers are also In 2011, two competitive Strategic Priority The Australian Learning and Teaching grants were awarded to University staff. The Council Citations are awarded to academic active researchers who grants were awarded to: Dr John Willison, and professional staff who have made Centre for Learning and Professional long-standing contributions to the quality of are among the best in Development, to evaluate the long-term student learning and improving the overall their fi elds. benefi ts of the use of the Research Skills student experience. Development framework at degree program- The following University of Adelaide level with the aim of accelerating its uptake staff received citations for Outstanding at course level and, if warranted, at degree Contributions to Student Learning in 2011: program level; Associate Professor Mark Jaksa, School of Civil, Environmental and Ms Kayoko Enomoto, Centre for Asian Mining Engineering, to develop engaging, Studies, for fostering independent learning effective and enlightening practical through sharing power in learning with experiments in geotechnical engineering. students from diverse backgrounds, using scaffolded curriculum innovations and feedback-based study action plans. Associate Professor Mounir Ghabriel, School of Medical Sciences, for decades of supporting, encouraging and inspiring medical students to learn human anatomy using multiple novel and interactive approaches. Associate Professor Paul Sendziuk, School of History and Politics, for developing and evaluating innovative learning activities and assessment tasks that engage the curiosity of students and promote critical refl ection and lifelong learning skills. Dr Craig Willis, School of Civil, Environmental and Mining Engineering, for successfully using peer review and engineering verifi cation techniques to build educational feedback into fi rst-year courses, enabling students to learn with confi dence and enthusiasm. The University has continued to achieve consistent success with these citations since their introduction.
22 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
University Teaching Awards Faculty Teaching Awards
Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Excellence Faculty of Engineering, Computer Faculty of Humanities in University Teaching and Mathematical Sciences and Social Sciences Associate Professor Mounir Ghabriel, ECMS Faculty Prize for Executive Dean’s Award for School of Medical Sciences Excellence in Teaching Excellence in Teaching Ms Bec Francis, School of Civil, Dr Benito Cao, Stephen Cole the Elder Awards for Excellence in Teaching Environmental and Mining Engineering School of History and Politics ECMS Faculty Prize for Excellence in Award for Excellence in Teaching Ms Kayoko Enomoto, Teaching (Early Career Teaching and (Individual Teacher) Centre for Asian Studies Team Teaching) Ms Akiko Tomita, Associate Professor Mounir Ghabriel, Dr Craig Willis, School of Social Sciences School of Medical Sciences School of Civil, Environmental Associate Professor Colin Kestell, and Mining Engineering Faculty of the Professions School of Mechanical Engineering Ms Bernadette Foley, School of Civil, The Executive Dean of the Professions’ Dr Ben McCann, Environmental and Mining Engineering Prize for Excellence in Teaching School of Humanities Faculty of Health Sciences Dr Paul Babie, Excellence in Higher Degree Law School by Research Supervision Executive Dean’s Prizes for Excellence in Teaching Dr Peter Burdon, Dr Susan Hosking, Law School Dr Femke Buisman-Pijlman, School of Humanities Mr Paul Leadbeter, School of Medical Sciences Law School Award for Excellence in Support Dr Rachel Gibson, of the Student Experience School of Medical Sciences Faculty of Sciences Mr Allan Carrington, Dr Ian Johnson, Executive Dean’s Award for Centre for Learning and School of Medical Sciences Excellence in Teaching Professional Development Mr Yun-Hom Yau, Dr John Conran, School of Medicine School of Earth and Environmental Sciences Associate Professor Dino Pisaniello, School of Population Health and Executive Dean’s Award for Clinical Practice Excellence in Teaching (Early Career) Dr Amy Perfors, Dr Andrew MacKinnon, School of Psychology School of Chemistry and Physics
New Academic Programs
The following programs were approved in 2011
Program name Faculty
Master of Applied Project Management (Project Systems) Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences
Bachelor of Computer Science (Advanced) Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences
Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences (Advanced) Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences
Graduate Diploma in Dental Sleep Medicine Health Sciences
Graduate Diploma in Health Economics Health Sciences
Graduate Certificate in Health Economics Health Sciences
Master of Arts (Translation and Transcultural Communication) Humanities and Social Sciences
Graduate Diploma in Translation and Transcultural Communication Humanities and Social Sciences
Bachelor of Languages Humanities and Social Sciences
Bachelor of Arts (Advanced) Humanities and Social Sciences
Master of Business Professions
Professional Certificate in Education Professions
23 2011 | Annual Report Research and Research Training During 2011, the research environment at the University of Adelaide was challenging, competitive, exciting and full of opportunities.
Continuing a long tradition, the University remains an institution of innovative minds from diverse areas, working on some of the big challenges facing the world such as: food security, the sustainable management of natural resources, the development of new energy sources, advancements in health and medical genetics research, and addressing climate change. Examples of the amazing array of research activities from 2011 include a study analysing special genetic modifi cations where researchers are using 30,000 year old bison bones to unravel the mystery about how animals adapt to rapid environmental change. Also, the achievement of one of the University’s reproductive biologists accomplishing a major technological breakthrough that improves IVF embryo implantation rates for some women by up to 40%. Additionally, acoustics researchers are investigating the causes of wind turbine noise with the aim of making them quieter and preventing wind turbine syndrome. With such talented and dedicated staff, there is every reason to be optimistic and excited about the future of research at the University of Adelaide.
24 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
At a Glance Research fi gures
> Five world-class research institutes
> Fifty-three University research centres
> Consistently ranked in the top 1% of the world’s universities
> Member of the Go8 research-intensive universities
> Awarded ~75% of total National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) funding in South Australia in 2011
> Awarded ~70% Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery project grant funding in South Australia in 2011
> Awarded three of the 26 new ARC Discovery Outstanding Researchers Awards
> Over $39 million in revenue across more than 500 commercial agreements
> Eight ARC Future Fellowships in 2011
> Number of new postgraduate research students enrolled in 2011: 543
> University of Adelaide medical student named our 105th Rhodes Scholar
> Eleven Research Tuesday events sharing research with the community
> South Australia’s Scientist of the Year for 2011, Professor Peter Langridge
> Completion of 294 postgraduate research qualifi cations in 2011
> Number of Australian Postgraduate Awards: 146
> Number of new Divisional Research Scholarships awarded: 150
25 2011 | Annual Report
Director: Professor Robert Norman Research BSc (Hons), M BChB (Hons) MD, FRANZCOG, FRCPA, FRCPath, FRCOG, CREI Institutes
The Robinson Institute www.adelaide.edu.au/robinson-institute
Institute focus Reproductive health, stem cell research and health across generations.
Key research centres
> Research Centre for Reproductive Health > Research Centre for Early Origins of Health and Disease > Centre for Stem Cell Research > Australian Research Centre for Health of Women and Babies The research of the Robinson Institute focuses on creating life and sustaining health. The Robinson Institute comprises a unique group of more than 350 researchers and clinicians. A number of the Institute’s researchers have been named among the nation’s best and their international research discoveries relate to IVF and fertility, to national guidelines for pregnancy health. Additionally, researchers at the Institute are now a step closer to repairing the brain following a stroke.
Robinson Institute 2011 highlights include:
> Professor Alastair MacLennan’s appointment as an Offi cer of the Order of Australia for his 40 years of work in women’s and children’s health and in particular, unravelling the causes of cerebral palsy. > The University of Adelaide’s paediatrics and reproductive health research areas achieve a maximum score of 5 under the Australian Government’s Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) initiative that assesses research quality within Australia’s higher education institutions. The University of Adelaide was the only university in Australia to achieve the maximum score in this fi eld of research, ranking it the highest in the nation under the ERA initiative. > The Institute was involved in the PCOS Australian Alliance to develop the world’s fi rst evidence-based guideline for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal condition that affects approximately 12% of reproductive aged women in Australia, of whom up to 70% remain undiagnosed. > Professor Sarah Robertson achieved a major breakthrough in IVF technology that is expected to help millions of women around the world who have suffered miscarriages following IVF treatment.
26 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Director: Director: Professor Tanya Monro Professor Stephen Grano BSc (Hons), PhD BEng (Metallurgical) (Hons), MSc, PhD
The Institute for Photonics Institute for Mineral and Advanced Sensing (IPAS) and Energy Resources (IMER) www.adelaide.edu.au/ipas www.adelaide.edu.au/imer
Institute focus Institute focus Optical materials and structures, lasers and nonlinear optics, remote Petroleum engineering, mining engineering, petroleum and minerals, sensing, chemical and radiation sensing, surface and synthetic geoscience and geothermal energy and energy technologies. chemistry, medical diagnostics and biological sensing. Key research centres Key research centre > Centre for Energy Technology > Centre of Expertise in Photonics > Centre for Tectonics, Resources and Exploration The Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS) fosters > South Australian Centre for Geothermal Energy Research excellence in research in materials science, chemistry, biology and physics and develops disruptive new tools for measurement. The Institute for Mineral and Energy Resources (IMER) is the principal Experimental physics research focuses on pushing the limits of what point of contact for the strategic research interests of the University of can be measured. IPAS creates the opportunity to invent and harness Adelaide in mineral and energy resources. IMER’s research priorities new tools for measurement to address many of the current exciting are linked to key global trends and the Institute is fast becoming a big questions in science. Many of the challenges we face as a society leading research and educational facility for the mining and energy can only be solved by pursuing a transdisciplinary approach that sectors in the Asia-Pacifi c region. The Institute works to maximise brings together experimental physicists, chemists, material scientists, its core strengths across three centres, as well as supporting the biologists, experimentally-driven theoretical scientists and medical development of three complementary research programs: resource researchers to create new sensing and measurement technologies. engineering, socioeconomic impact of mineral and energy resource This is the vision of IPAS. development, and environmental impact of mineral and energy resource developments. IPAS 2011 highlights include: IMER 2011 highlights include: > IPAS Director, Professor Tanya Monro was awarded the honour of South Australian, Australian of the Year for 2011. > IMER researchers were awarded a combined $7.351 million in funding through successful Australian Research Council (ARC) > Work on the new university building which will eventually house Discovery, Linkage, Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities IPAS commenced, with the Level one slab completed by (LIEF) scheme and Discovery Early Career Researcher Award December 2011. (DECRA) scheme projects in 2011. > Construction of the IPAS Silica Fibre Fabrication Facility was > Professor Gus Nathan, Director of the Centre for Energy completed, and fabrication of silica fi bres began in April. Technology, received one of the nation’s 26 Discovery Outstanding > Showcasing of the IPAS glass science at the A fi ne line Science Researcher Awards. meets Art Glass Exhibition, at the Jam Factory, 26 March–7 May > The South Australian Centre for Geothermal Energy Research 2011. received a further $A2 million in funding from the state government in June 2011.This follows the initial $1.6 million awarded in 2009 to establish the Centre. > IMER engaged with the community in research collaboration and partnerships in numerous projects. An example is the partnership between the Centre for Energy Technology and the Adelaide Airport Limited (AAL) working on three concurrent projects. The partnership was established to develop clean energy solutions and reduce the carbon footprint of AAL while contributing towards the sustainability of the broader environment.
27 2011 | Annual Report
Director: Director: Professor Roger Leigh Professor Mike Young BSc (Hons), MA, PhD BAgSc, BEc, MAgSc, GAICD
The Waite Research Institute The Environment Institute www.adelaide.edu.au/waite www.adelaide.edu.au/environment
Institute focus Institute focus Plant and crop sciences, soil science, viticulture and oenology, food Management of natural resources under changing climate and and nutrition and food chain economics. economic conditions.
Key research centres and projects Key research units
> FOODplus Research Centre (a joint venture with the Women’s and > Australian Centre for Evolutionary Biology and Biodiversity Children’s Health Research Institute) > Australian Centre for Ancient DNA > Australian Centre for Plant Functional Genomics > Water Research Centre > ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls > Marine Biology Program > The Plant Accelerator > Landscape Futures Program > Vineyard of the Future > Climate and Ecology The Waite Research Institute supports the development of strategic Launched in 2009, and now a fi rmly established and well-known projects aimed at addressing global problems, and the future entity, the Environment Institute is creating and leading large-scale competitiveness of Australia’s agricultural, wine and food industries. research initiatives which aim to deliver globally competitive solutions to environmental problems. During the past year, the Institute In 2011, four areas of focus were developed for the engaged with the community in numerous ways, being involved in Institute’s activities: a total of 34 events, including public guest speakers, conferences, > Growing the University’s research on the Waite Campus internal seminars, and collaborating with external partners to put on large-scale public events. > Developing research leadership capabilities
> Developing a vision for the future directions and opportunities on Environment Institute 2011 highlights include: the campus > Hosting the Fourth International Barcode of Life Conference in > Enhancing public understanding of Waite Campus research. partnership with the Consortium of the Barcode of Life. This week- long conference saw the University play host to 463 delegates from Waite Institute 2011 highlights include: 61 countries. > Achieving a maximum score of 5 (above world class) for all Waite- > Hosting a public talk by Professor Ross Garnaut, attended by 800 based research areas under the Australian Government’s ERA people who came to hear him present his Climate Change Review initiative that assesses research quality within Australia’s higher update. education institutions. > Assisting with the development of the sustainability program > The launch of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls led for Earth Station, WOMAD’s inaugural festival bringing together by Professor Geoff Fincher. speakers and entertainers from all over the world. > The commencement of the Vineyard of the Future project for > Co-hosting a public debate where panellists, including Senator continuous monitoring of vine performance and berry development. Penny Wong and the Lord Mayor of Adelaide, discussed leadership and climate change. > Developing cutting-edge marine and landscape programs that seek to answer some of the complex environmental issues facing the world. This work aims to complement and expand the University’s world-class research. In 2011, Environment Institute members contributed 184 academic publications.
28 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Research Centres The University now has approximately 50 approved research centres across the spectrum of its research strengths. Building on this expertise, a number of new centres were announced during the year, including The ARC Centre of Excellence ARC Centre of Excellence the Centre for Personalised Cancer Medicine, in Plant Cell Wall Biology for the History of Emotions the Australian Population and Migration The CoE in Plant Cell Walls is a collaboration The University of Adelaide is a partner Research Centre, the Centre for Coastal between the universities of Adelaide, organisation in the ARC CoE for the History Research, and the Centre for Molecular Melbourne and Queensland, in partnership of Emotions, headquartered at the University Pathology. with South Australian Government and of Western Australia. The Centre has secured The year 2011 also saw the launch of three seven international institutions. Established funding of $24.25 million over seven years. new national ARC Centres of Excellence in 2011 with $20.5 million from the Australian Research is aimed at addressing the big (CoE) in which the University is involved, and Research Council, and $11.5 million from question of how societies think, feel and the start of the University’s participation in a the partner institutions, the Centre is hosted function, in order to provide greatly enhanced fourth existing centre. These are prestigious by the University of Adelaide at the Waite understandings of how to improve emotional hubs of expertise through which high-quality Campus, and has nodes at both Melbourne health among modern Australians. In researchers maintain and develop Australia’s and Queensland universities. The Centre October, the centre saw the appointment international standing in research areas of focuses on the role of plant cell walls as a of a new team of associate investigators national priority. renewable source of fuel, in improvements in from a variety of disciplines across Australia. human health, and as superior raw materials The University of Adelaide is host to the for industry. Change Research program, which focuses specifi cally on the formations and effects of In the fi rst half of 2011, the collaboration mass emotions and emotional communities. agreement for the Centre was executed by the three collaborating organisations in Australia and seven overseas partner organisations. New staff have been actively recruited, with approximately ten new scientists to be located in Adelaide. It is also worth noting that the Centre has had some initial success in winning bilateral grants from international funding bodies accessible to partner investigators, but not normally available to Australian research scientists.
ARC Centre of Excellence ARC Centre of Excellence for Particle Physics at the Tera-Scale in Plant Energy Biology The University of Adelaide is a partner In 2011, the University of Adelaide organisation in the ARC CoE for Particle established a local node of the ARC CoE Physics at the Tera-Scale, headquartered at in Plant Energy Biology. The Centre’s the University of Melbourne. The Centre has headquarters is located at the University been awarded $25.2 million over seven years of Western Australia. The new node is led from the Australian Research Council. The by Professor Steve Tyerman, an esteemed Centre is coordinating tera-scale high-energy researcher in nutrition, salinity and water physics research across Australia, with the transport in plants, and is based at the Waite Adelaide node led by Australian Laureate Campus. Research conducted by the Centre Fellow Professor Tony Thomas. Building is contributing resources and knowledge for upon the huge media interest in the Large improving plant performance, particularly in Hadron Collider, the Centre will highlight marginal environments and in response to the benefi ts of big science. The Centre’s climate change, thereby providing the means research program includes searching for to enhance the yield and nutritional value of a evidence of extra dimensions and the origin range of agricultural products. of dark matter.
29 2011 | Annual Report
Commonwealth Funding for Research
Australian Research Council (ARC) Of the 26 new ARC Discovery Outstanding > This project is directed at quantifying the The University of Adelaide was awarded Researchers Awards (DORA) allocated level and character of wind farm noise $12.5 million in ARC Discovery Project (DP) nationally, the University attracted three, experienced by rural communities, to funding, $2.2 million in Linkage Project or 11.5%. These went to Professor Gus understand if the medical symptoms (LP) funding, and $650,000 for Linkage Nathan, Dr Adrienne Paton and Associate experienced by these communities are Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Professor Samer Akkach. Relatively, this is an caused by the emitted sound. Project led by projects. In addition to the direct ARC excellent result for the University. Professor Colin Hansen. funding, the LPs leveraged $4.3 million of Examples of the 37 new Discovery Projects > Building an Indian Ocean region; the Indian cash and in-kind contributions from partner awarded, include: Ocean region is overwhelmed by chronic organisations. It should be noted that poverty, precarious political systems, and > Islam and the ethos of science in the post- this year saw a 26% reduction in the total confl icting ethno-religious identities. Copernican period national funding allocated to the ARC DP The project will document attempts scheme (this money has been reallocated to This project is designed to contribute at constructing regional identities and the new Discovery Early Career Researcher to the global efforts of reasserting the institutions, and facilitate the process of Awards, of which the University had eight common moral and humanist values both building a secure region. Project led by successful applicants). Within this funding Muslims and westerners share in today’s Professor Tim Doyle. environment, the University saw a slight divisive world. Project led by Associate increase in both total funding and the number Professor Samer Akkach As just one example of the nine successful ARC Linkage Projects (collaborations between of awarded projects from the previous year. > Meta-modelling of ecological, evolutionary the University and external partners), funding Nationally, the University increased its total and climatic systems dynamics has been granted for Smart Bungs for wine share of the DP pool of national funding This project aims to improve forecasts monitoring. In association with Fosters Group from 3.91% to 5.26% and was the only Go8 of the response of biodiversity to future Ltd, Orlando Wyndham Group Pty Ltd, and institution to have increased its project grant climate change and thus improve on- the Yalumba Wine Company, Professor Tanya award numbers and total funding for DPs ground conservation management. Project Monro is leading a project to develop optical compared to the previous year. It was also led by Professor Barry Brook. fi bres to monitor wine production using only the fi rst time since 2008 that the University’s > Quantifying the impact of wind farm noise nano- to microlitre-scale volumes, signifi cantly success rate was better than the national on rural communities reducing wastage and improving quality. average.
National Health and Medical Examples of the 45 Research Council (NHMRC) NHMRC-funded project The University and its affi liate organisations, grants include: SA Pathology, the Royal Adelaide Hospital, > Docosahexaenoic acid for the reduction Queen Elizabeth Hospital, the Women’s of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm and Children’s Hospital, the Women’s and infants born at less than 29 weeks Children’s Health Research Institute and gestational age. Project led by Dr Carmel the Lyell McEwin Hospital, were awarded a Collins. record total of $44.8 million by the NHMRC. It is worth noting that: > Diet and exercise intervention for paternal obesity improves offspring health. Project > The University achieved the best funding in led by Dr Michelle Lane. Australia relative to size, and was the sixth most successful in absolute terms. > Does antenatal magnesium sulphate given to women at risk of preterm birth between > In funding terms, project grants increased 30 and 34 weeks’ gestation reduce the from $22.8 million last year to $33.5 million risk of death or cerebral palsy in their this year. children? Project led by Professor Caroline > Twelve University of Adelaide researchers Crowther. and affi liates received $6.3 million in total > Does periodic fasting improve insulin for Early Career and Research Fellowships; sensitivity and metabolic health in and humans? Project led by Associate > The University was awarded two new Professor Leonie Heilbronn. Centres of Research Excellence, focusing > Evaluation of new therapies to improve on nutrition. These are: ‘Food for future survival of children with relapsed acute Australians’, Human Nutrition Professor lymphoblastic leukaemia. Project led by Maria Makrides and ‘Dental health services Associate Professor Tamas Revesz. research for improved oral health’, dental health services Associate Professor David Brennan. These centres were awarded $2.5 million and $2.4 million respectively.
30 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Other Research Funding The Grains Research Development Corporation provided over $14 million for new projects in 2011–12. This includes funding for projects aimed at increasing malt extract and the export competitiveness of Australian barley (led by Dr Jason Eglinton); and for the Pulse Breeding Australia Germplasm Enhancement Program (led by Dr Jeff Paull). Dr Lisa Moran, from the University’s Robinson Institute and School of Paediatrics Research Commercialisation In addition, ARI continued its commitment and Reproductive Health, was awarded to provide commercial training and $450,000 by the National Heart Foundation This year was another very successful year development, with hundreds of researchers and SA Health, to look at the most effective for the University’s commercial development attending ARI commercial awareness ways of reducing heart disease in women business, with revenue up more than sessions, including a very successful and children. 10% from the previous year to more than session presented by BHP Billiton and the $39 million. The bulk of this income is Funding was received from the South Department of Water on how to engage generated from approximately 500 applied Australian Premier’s Science and Research better with the private and public sectors. research agreements with the private Fund to boost a number of the University’s and public sector, managed by Adelaide research capabilities in key areas. This Research & Innovation (ARI) in partnership included funding to: with researchers from all faculties. It is This year was > the Institute for Photonics and Advanced worth noting that commercial revenue has another very Sensing for optical fi bre research quadrupled since 2004 and doubled since equipment 2006, a remarkable statistic in these tough successful year for the > the Adelaide Proteomics Centre to support economic times. University’s commercial research into the fi ght against diseases ARI also made good progress on such as cancer and the development of commercialisation of technology, with a development business, therapeutics to treat the disease signifi cant increase in royalties and a number > the Australian Wine Research Institute, of new deals signed. ARI and the University with revenue up more (part of the Wine Innovation Cluster at agreed to commit further funding for ARI’s than 10% from the the Waite Campus) to enhance research Commercial Accelerator Scheme (CAS), a services to support bioscience research proof-of-concept commercial concept fund previous year to more across a range of fi elds, including enabling which has so far awarded approximately wine producers to have greater control $2.5 million to a dozen projects. One specifi c than $39 million. over wine quality and characteristics. example of a project aided by the CAS is Professor Wormald’s chitosan-based wound- In 2011, the Premier announced that the healing gel, successfully commercialised South Australian Government would be with the world’s largest medical technology providing a further $2 million to the SA company, Medtronic. Once translated to Centre for Geothermal Energy Research, market, the new gel has the potential to which is a resounding endorsement of the benefi t millions of people around the world importance of developing novel solutions to who undergo sinus surgery. Three new challenges of sustainable energy delivery. projects were approved for CAS funding in This follows the initial $1.6 million awarded December, in the fi elds of pipeline and laser by the state government in 2009 to establish technology, as well as an extension of the the Centre. chitosan technology to new applications.
31 2011 | Annual Report
Professor Andrew Lowe Photo: Michael Mullan
Research Collaborations Renewable fuel from organic waste Research Training and Members of the University regularly The University’s FOODplus Research Scholarships Centre has teamed with Peats Soil and collaborate with industry, government, The University of Adelaide has an Garden Supplies, a major manufacturer other research institutions and the general outstanding history of high-quality research and distributor of organic farm and garden community in many and varied ways. training. In 2011, the number of research- products, to promote renewable fuel. The The following section provides just a few intensive postgraduate degrees awarded project, supported by an ARC Linkage examples of such activity in 2011. was 294. Grant, is aimed at developing new methods The future for those undertaking higher New technology for new mums of producing biodiesel from various organic and food wastes, with researchers setting degrees by research at the University of Adelaide health researchers are leading an up biodiesel production equipment at one Adelaide continues to be bright. In total, 543 Australia-fi rst program designed to improve of the company’s operational sites near new students enrolled in 2011, with 373 the mental health and wellbeing of new Murray Bridge. domestic students and 170 international mothers and infants by combining nursing students. services and innovative new technology. The Reducing social isolation amongst the aged In 2011, 146 University of Adelaide program is being undertaken by a team of students were recipients of Australian clinicians and researchers, led by Professor Social isolation imposes a high cost on Postgraduate Awards. The University also Michael Sawyer, from the University of affected individuals and the community administered 150 divisional scholarships and Adelaide and the Child and Family Health at large. Professor Andrew Beer from the 65 scholarships for international research Service. Funding for the four-year project Centre for Housing, Urban and Regional students that covered tuition fees and paid will be provided by NHMRC; the South Planning is leading a team of researchers a living allowance. The successful recipients Australian Children, Youth and Women’s to evaluate intervention strategies to reduce came from a diverse range of countries Health Service; and the South Australian social isolation amongst the aged. This including Romania, Germany, Mexico, Department of Health. project is being undertaken in partnership with Anglicare SA, Benetas, Council on Thailand and Canada. Genetic tracking of forest products the Ageing Queensland, ECH, Illawarra The Adelaide Graduate Centre is constantly Retirement Trust, and Silver Chain Nursing evolving to meet the changing needs of DNA ‘fi ngerprinting’ of timber products has Association. The project is funded by an ARC students and their supervisors. The Centre grown in international recognition due to Linkage Grant. plays a vital role to ensure that candidates research led by the University of Adelaide are well administered and students are that traces individual logs or wood products Health and Medical Research supported at every stage of their research back to the forests from where they came. in South Australia training. A highlight in 2011 was the release Professor Andrew Lowe, Director of the Within the area of health and medical of the ORBIT online application module for University’s Australian Centre for Evolutionary research, the University has been actively higher degree by research admission and Biology and Biodiversity, and Dr Hugh Cross involved in pursuing further opportunities scholarship applications. The movement from the State Herbarium of South Australia, for collaboration with the new South of applications to different areas is handled have been working on this innovative Australian Health and Medical Research within the online system, reducing paperwork technique with Singapore company Double Institute (SAHMRI). This organisation is and providing a facility by which different Helix Tracking Technologies; a leader bringing together leading health and medical University areas can easily monitor the in applied genetics for forest trade and researchers in a new $200 million facility, progress of applications. conservation. integrated with the new Royal Adelaide Hospital, and which is intended to strengthen the links between research and clinical care.
32 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Investing In Research Awards and Infrastructure Achievements Following a 2010 review of Laboratory Animal Scopus Young Researcher Services (LAS), it was decided to replace of the Year Award open-top cages for the care of rodents with Professor Tanya Monro, Director of the individually ventilated cages (IVCs). This Institute for Photonics and Advanced was important from both a best-practice Sensing, won the 2011 Scopus Young perspective, as well as a way of providing Researcher of the Year Award for an improved OH&S working environment. Physical Sciences. The prize recognises Following a trial of the IVCs, which saw Australian researchers who are well known positive researcher feedback indicating internationally for their achievements signifi cantly increased research productivity and dedicated contributions to research. (with more consistent results, pregnancies, Professor Monro’s research is driving and calmer animals, etc.), it was agreed to a new wave of innovation in photonics allocate signifi cant funding for the installation to create advanced and powerful new of IVCs, cage change-stations, new cage sensing technologies. washers and a new semi-automatic watering system. This was an important investment South Australian Science in the University’s research infrastructure, Excellence Awards necessary to support ongoing and highly successful research activities in Sciences and At the SA Science Excellence Awards in Health Sciences. November, Professor Peter Langridge was Three Minute Thesis named South Australia’s 2011 Scientist In August 2011, the Wind Tunnel was of the Year. Professor Langridge, CEO of The Graduate Centre was pleased to launched at the Thebarton Research the Australian Centre for Plant Functional once again offer the Three Minute Thesis Precinct. It could not have been built without Genomics (ACPFG), won the award in competition. The event was open to higher the strong fi nancial support of the South recognition of his signifi cant contribution degree by research students who had just Australian Government through the Premier’s to improving agricultural products in South three minutes and one static slide to explain Science and Research Fund, which provided Australia over a 30-year career. A key their thesis topic and its signifi cance to an approximately $900 thousand. The Wind player in the development and delivery intelligent but non-specialist audience. Amy Tunnel is designed to support research of molecular marker technologies to the Ryan won the competition with her research activities in areas such as renewable energy, Australian wheat and barley breeding thesis presentation ‘Weighing in on whey: the defence, sports science and aerospace. programs, Professor Langridge has effects of protein on gastrointestinal function’. As the only industrial-scale wind tunnel in helped to establish the ACPFG as a South Australia, it will be of great value to a world-class research institute with a strong China Scholarships variety of companies and enterprises as it international reputation for excellence in can clearly be applied to commercial work as The China Scholarship Council (CSC) and the crop research. University of Adelaide jointly offer prestigious easily as to fundamental research. At the same event, Dr Natasha Rogers postgraduate research scholarships to Adelaide Microscopy received a number of (University of Adelaide 2011 PhD students from the People’s Republic of China new pieces of equipment, as it continues graduate) won the award for PhD to undertake a postgraduate research degree to provide researchers with access to Research Excellence—Health and Medical at the University of Adelaide. Eleven CSC the latest platform technologies. This Sciences; and Dr Stephen Warren-Smith students arrived in Adelaide in September infrastructure includes a new 193nm Excimer (ARC Super Science Fellow in the School 2011 and began their studies in a diverse Laser Ablation system and ICP-MS, which of Chemistry and Physics) won the award range of projects, including: will be confi gured for trace element and for PhD Research Excellence—Physical isotope mapping, an exciting and emerging > Maoism in India and Australia Sciences/Mathematics/Engineering. technique. Optical microscopy has also > Study of Elemental S Oxidation in soils received a boost with the installation of a Young Investigator Award > Power electronics for small-scale wind Second Harmonic Generation Multiphoton turbines Microscope, LaVision Biotec TriM Scope In late October, Ms Nadira Ruzehaji, a PhD II. This unique imaging technique adds to student in the School of Paediatrics and > A microbial approach to the production of the range of advanced fl uorescence optical Reproductive Health and the Women’s tartaric acid techniques in Adelaide Microscopy. and Children’s Health Research Institute, > Alternative media gigs roots organisation won the 2011 Young Investigator of the and HIV Intervention in western China: Year for South Australia. The award was Chengdu Gay Community Organisation. for her research into the development of a new antibody cream which promotes faster healing and less scarring in young burns victims.
33 2011 | Annual Report
South Australian of the Year Awards Channel 9 Young Achiever Award Professor John Coetzee won the Arts Rhodes Scholar and University of Adelaide Award in the South Australian of the Year graduate Rebecca Richards was named Awards, announced in November 2011. the 2011 Channel 9 Young Achiever of the Research The Nobel Laureate Professor Coetzee is Year for South Australia. In 2010, Rebecca Tuesdays SHARING GREAT RESEARCH a Professor of Literature in the discipline of made history by becoming Australia’s WITH THE COMMUNITY English and Creative Writing, and lends his fi rst indigenous Rhodes Scholar. She is name to the new research centre, the J.M. an advocate for indigenous health and Coetzee Centre for Creative Practice. attended the United Nations forum on Clinical Associate Professor in the School indigenous issues in New York. As well as of Medicine, and Director of the Royal being named Young Achiever of the Year, Adelaide Hospital’s world-class Burns Rebecca also won the Offi ce for Youth
Aboriginal Achievement Award for 2011. FREE PUBLIC LECTURE Unit, Dr John Greenwood won the South Presented by Professor Sarah Robertson Tuesday 10th May, 5.30-6.30pm Australian of the Year Health Award. Tall Poppy Awards Australian Academy of Science Five University of Adelaide researchers Research Tuesdays In December 2011, the Australian and one affi liate were among eight Academy of Science recognised two South Australian winners of the 2011 Tall Held on the second Tuesday of each month, University of Adelaide researchers for Poppy Awards for science. Among the Research Tuesdays are about sharing with their scientifi c excellence. Professor winners were: Dr Stuart Brierley, School the community the breadth and depth of Tanya Monro, Director of the Institute for of Medicine, and School of Molecular and the University of Adelaide’s great research. Photonics and Advanced Sensing, won Biomedical Science; Dr Laura Brooks, Topics are presented by leading researchers the Pawsey Medal, which recognises School of Mechanical Engineering; Dr in their fi elds, and reveal how the latest outstanding research in physics by Phillip Gregory, SA Pathology, and affi liate research at the University is making a positive scientists under the age of 40. Ms Rebecca with the School of Medicine; Dr Claire impact on local and global communities. Jessop, School of Medicine; Dr Tara West, a PhD student in the School of Earth In 2011, the University hosted ten Research Pukala, School of Chemistry and Physics; and Environmental Sciences, won research Tuesdays public lectures and one forum. The and Dr Mark Tingay, Australian School of support from the Margaret Middleton events were attended by over 1900 people Petroleum. Fund. This fund assists research into native with a satisfaction rate of over 90%. Topics Australian endangered animals for better discussed were from a range of discipline understanding the causes of their decline Academic Fellowships areas including: creative writing, animal and the means for their recovery. Australia’s leading Learned Academies and veterinary sciences, vaccinology and again recognised staff and affi liates of immunology, human health and renewable Global Energy Prize appointment the University of Adelaide in 2011. Two energy, wine economics and politics. Professor Barry Brook, Director of Climate University of Adelaide researchers were Further information regarding Research Science in the Environment Institute, elected as Fellows to the Australian Tuesdays can be found at: http://blogs. became the fi rst Australian appointed to Academy of Science. This honour adelaide.edu.au/researchtuesdays/ the international selection committee of the recognises a career that has signifi cantly $1.2 million Global Energy Prize. Known as advanced, and continues to advance, the Nobel Prize of Energy, this international the world’s scientifi c knowledge. They award is granted for outstanding scientifi c are Professor Mathai Varghese, School achievements in the fi eld of energy, which of Mathematical Sciences, for his work in have benefi ted humanity. geometric analysis involving the topology of manifolds; and Dr George Ellis Williams, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, for his work in the fi elds of sedimentology, palaeoclimatology, palaeomagnetism, meteoritics and Earth– Moon dynamics. Professor Robin Prior, Visiting Research Fellow in the School of Humanities, was elected as a Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities in recognition of his research into military history. Professor Lisa Hill of the School of History and Politics was elected to fellowship of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia. Her areas of research interest include electoral law and electoral inclusion, as well as issues in liberal democratic rights and theory.
34 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
University Research Centres (53) Engineering & Environmental Sciences Biological & Agricultural Sciences Humanities, Arts Law & Creative Mathematical, Informational & Computing Sciences Physical, Chemical & Earth Sciences Social & Behavioural Sciences Medical & Health Sciences
Special Research Centre for Subatomic Structure of Matter Adelaide Centre for Economics (ACE) Adelaide Centre for Neuroscience Research Adelaide Radar Research Centre ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Wall Biology Australian Centre for Ancient DNA (ACAD) Australian Centre for Evolutionary Biology & Biodiversity (ACEBB) Australian Centre for Plant Functional Genomics (ACPFG) Australian Centre for Visual Technologies (ACVT) Australian Institute for Social Research (AISR) Australian Population and Migration Research Centre Australian Research Centre for Health of Women & Babies (ARCH) Australian Research Centre for Population & Oral Health (ARCPOH) Centre for Biomedical Engineering (CBME) Centre of Clinical Research Excellence (CCRE) in Nutritional Physiology Centre of Clinical Research Excellence (CCRE) for Oral Health Centre for Coastal Research Centre for Defence Communications and Information Networking (CDCIN) Centre for Digestive Health & Nutrition Centre for Energy Technology (CET) Centre for Geothermal Energy Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders Centre for High Performance Integrated Technologies & Systems (CHiPTec) Centre for Housing, Urban and Regional Planning (CHURP) Centre for International Economic Studies (CIES) Centre for Labour Research Centre for Molecular Genetics of Development & Disease (CMGD) Centre for Molecular Pathology Centre for Orofacial Research & Learning (CORAL) Centre for Personalised Cancer Medicine Centre for Quantification & Management of Risk Centre for Soil Plant Interactions Centre for Stem Cell Research (CSCR) Centre for Tectonics and Resource Exploration (TRaX) Centre for Traumatic Stress Studies Centre of Expertise in Photonics (CoEP) Children’s Research Centre Data Management & Analysis Centre (DMAC) Defence Systems Innovation Centre (DSIC) Ethics Centre of South Australia Fay Gale Centre for Research on Gender FoodPlus Research Centre Freemason’s Foundation Centre for Men’s Health Indo-Pacific Governance Research Centre (IPGRC) Institute for Geometry & its Applications (IGA) International Centre for Financial Studies (ICFS) JM Coetzee Centre for Creative Practice Mosaic Fertilizer Technology Research Centre Research Centre for Reproductive Health (RCRH) Research Centre for the Early Origins of Health & Disease (EOHaD) South Australian Centre for Economic Studies (SACES) Water Research Centre Wine Economics Research Centre
35 2011 | Annual Report
Internationalisation
The internationalisation area of Additionally, the area develops strategies for international student recruitment, provides quality assurance in relation to service provision the University is led by the Pro for international students and faculty support, to ensure incorporation Vice-Chancellor International and of internationalisation activities into core business. Highlights of the University’s international activities: amongst other things, is responsible > continued growth (4.1%) in international student numbers, in a year for identifying international when there was a downturn nationally > winning the Business SA Export Award (Education and Training opportunities, facilitating strategic Category), for the second year in a row alliances and institutional links, > hosting 170 New Zealand students from the University of Canterbury for Semester 1, while their university recovered from and managing the University’s the earthquake which devastated Christchurch international agreements. > results of the 2011 International Student Barometer survey showing that Adelaide University is the Go8 university which is the most highly rated by its international students > the University’s Peer Mentor Program for international students winning the Youth Organisation Award in South Australia’s Multicultural Awards > two University of Adelaide students were recipients of South Australia’s inaugural International Student of the Year Awards > a record number of University of Adelaide students undertook an overseas study experience
36 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
The Institute for International Trade has now consolidated a strong reputation among funding bodies for the delivery of high quality trade and sustainable development training programs, not only in the Asia–Pacifi c region but also in Africa.
International at the University contributed $127 million in now consolidated a strong reputation among Student Enrolments tuition fees in 2011, plus a similar amount funding bodies for the delivery of high quality towards their living costs. International trade and sustainable development training The University achieved substantial growth education is the number one service export programs, not only in the Asia–Pacifi c region in its international student enrolments, industry in South Australia. but also in Africa. exceeding its commencing load targets, A critical factor in reversing the downward The University’s Professional and Continuing notwithstanding the increased international trend in fee-paying international students Education (PCE) through its English competition and the troubles facing in Australia was the need for major Language Centre saw sustained demand Australian international education due to improvements in the student visa system. for its range of English language programs, immigration changes and the strengthening The University welcomed the Australian professional development and English of the Australian dollar. However, as the Government’s acceptance of the teacher training services for international impact of these events deepens, the outlook recommendations of the Knight Review: students and visiting groups. In 2011, it is for a reduced international student intake the relaxation of the fi nancial assets test conducted short-term study tour programs in 2012; second semester 2011 was the fi rst for students from higher risk countries and for 24 groups made up of over 450 time in ten years the University saw a drop the liberalising of access to post-study students from Japan, China, Vietnam, the in the number of commencing international work opportunities will do much to restore United States and Korea. It had over 640 students. Australia’s international competitiveness students undertaking its Pre-enrolment In 2011, the overall international student load in attracting students from overseas. English program (PEP), which provides a increased by 4.1%, from 5564 Equivalent At the same time, there will be costs to direct-entry pathway to undergraduate and full-time student load (EFTSL) in 2010, to the University in taking on the added postgraduate programs at the University, and 5792 EFTSL at the end of 2011. International responsibilities for verifying the authenticity over 140 students from 30 different countries students comprised 29.5% of the University’s of information in student visa applications in enrolled in the General English for Academic total student load, and 27.9% of the student order to speed up their processing. Purposes (GEAP) program. PCE is a Test load on the Adelaide local campuses. In addition to enrolment of international of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Particularly pleasing was the strong growth students, the University hosted a number of testing centre and runs regular tests for (23%) in postgraduate research students. groups of international visitors for programs international students from a wide range of The total number of international students of several weeks’ duration. The Institute institutions in Adelaide. (persons rather than student load) reached for International Trade twice delivered a PCE also successfully delivered the 7207 in 2011, a 2.4% increase on the three-month trade policy and negotiation Department of Education, Employment previous year. Of these, 691 students were training program for government offi cials and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) 2011 enrolled offshore in Singapore. The top from 16 African countries, under AusAID’s Endeavour Language Teacher Fellowships source countries were (in order) China, Australian Awards for Africa short-course (ELTF) program, in collaboration with Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Vietnam, program. This training program will continue Austraining International, organising the Indonesia, Republic of Korea, USA and India, into 2012. AusAID also awarded the Institute in-country (overseas) study programs in nine with students also drawn from 91 other funding to manage the Pacifi c Islander trade countries. As a result of its success, PCE has countries. This was the fi rst time South Korea training program where trade offi cials from been retained to deliver the ELTF programs in appeared in the top ten. each of the 14 Pacifi c Island Forum countries 2012 and 2013. In 2012, the ELTF will offer The University won the 2011 Business commenced a training program in how to programs in ten countries in Arabic, Chinese, SA Export Award (Education and Training become competent trade negotiators, with French, German, Greek, Indonesian, Italian, Category). International students make one-week modules being spread over the Japanese, Spanish and Vietnamese. a substantial contribution to the South next 18 months. Along with the annual China Australian economy. International students Mayors training program, the Institute has
37 2011 | Annual Report
International Admission International Miss Yee Mun Fan, a fi nal-year engineering and Recruitment Student Experience student and University scholarship holder, won this year’s Merdeka Award for the The recruitment activities of the International The 2011 International Student Barometer top Malaysian student in their fi nal year at Offi ce were mostly undertaken in China survey found that the University of Adelaide a South Australian university. Alexander and South-East Asia in 2011. Staff visits is the most highly rated Go8 university Osti was among 15 Australians awarded for student recruitment events were by its international students on overall an Australia–China Council/Australian supplemented by the activities of dedicated satisfaction and satisfaction with arrival Chamber of Commerce nine-month graduate in-country representatives in China, services, with student support services, traineeship in Beijing. Two University of Indonesia and India. In 2011, an in-country and with lifestyle experiences. It is also the Adelaide students were recipients of South appointment was made in Malaysia for the Go8 university most highly recommended Australia’s inaugural International Student of fi rst time, and an additional person was by its international students. The level of the Year Awards, presented by the Governor appointed in Beijing to service the China international student satisfaction has shown on 14 October. Ms Nghia Nguyen Trong, an market. a progressive increase over the four years engineering student from Vietnam was the the University has participated in this survey. The University was particularly successful joint winner of the undergraduate Academic Nevertheless, the survey continues to point in continuing to rebuild the AusAID Excellence Award, while Mr Ramanathan to two areas where there is a need for further Scholarship student numbers, with expected Thurairajoo, an environmental policy student improvement: the development of friendships students in 2012 far exceeding recent from Singapore received the Community with locals, and careers development/work intakes and coming from 30 different Participation Award. experience. developing countries. The fi rst graduates The University provided interim fi nancial from the specialised Australia–Iraq AusAID With respect to the former, the Language assistance for 12 international students Scholarship program completed their and Cultural Exchange Program coordinated from Libya, who had been left stranded in Masters degrees in December 2011. by International Student Centre (ISC) ran Australia without funds for study and living a series of activities designed to connect The International Offi ce successfully costs due to the confl ict in their home international students with the University implemented a new online application country. and broader community. Events included management system delivered in conjunction The International Careers Evening was once student-led activities as well as presentations with the South Australia Tertiary Admissions again held on campus in October for more from the local business community. In total, Centre (SATAC), including the development than 140 students. International students 18 events were held with over 700 students of a successful interface with PeopleSoft. heard from the Department of Immigration participating. Another example was the and Citizenship about visa requirements Other initiatives introduced included the Multicultural Debating competition, in which as students move into the workforce. The launch of a Chinese language website for all teams comprised a mixture of international International Careers Evening is for all prospective students and their parents; and domestic students. guaranteed offers of accommodation students seeking overseas experience, The pilot Student Leadership Certifi cate in University housing (packaged with and for international students seeking work Program was introduced in 2011. The selected academic offers); and expanded experience in Australia. During the evening, ISC was a signifi cant contributor to the recognition of English language profi ciency students heard from industry representatives, curriculum development and the delivery tests to include the Pearsons PTE and from organisations including Ernst & Young, of the fi rst fi ve training modules. Students the Cambridge Certifi cate of Advanced Australian Internships and Santos. Two who volunteer over 120 hours in University- English (CAE). international students also shared their approved programs are eligible to receive experiences about gaining an internship the certifi cate. Recipients are able to provide with Microsoft and a graduate position with evidence of training and participation to KPMG respectively. International students prospective employers. The feedback from have shown strong support for a variety employers indicates that this will increase the of Careers Service programs. These have competitiveness of our graduates in graduate included: National Career Development recruitment processes. Week activities, Careers-on-the-Move The University’s Peer Mentor Program won Industry Visits, the Student Employability the Youth Organisation Award in South Skills Challenge and weekly workshops for Australia’s Multicultural Awards for 2010, résumé́ building and application advice. presented at Government House on 21 The University of Adelaide Careers Service February. The citation reads: assists students to achieve career goals and make the transition from university student to The Peer Mentor Program is an example workplace professional. of genuine selfl essness by young people seeking to help others. The program is run by current students who volunteer to help new students settle into Adelaide and university life. In the past year its impact has been astonishing, with 43 young students providing support to more than 2000 new international students in Adelaide. Even more impressive is the fact that the 43 volunteers comprised 15 Australian students and 28 others from 14 different countries – a truly multicultural organisation.
38 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Study Abroad and Student Exchanges Over 400 students participated in an international study experience. In previous years the largest number of students studying overseas participated in semester long or year-long exchange programs. However, in 2011 there was a dramatic increase in the number of students studying for shorter periods. There were 254 exchange students and over 150 participated in short-term study tours and programs. This trend is evident around Australia and works well for those students who for family, work or personal reasons are unable to undertake a semester or year of study overseas. Short programs, study tours, and summer and winter schools are an important complement to our exchange programs and will facilitate the University’s goal of signifi cantly increasing the number of students undertaking international study. The University received four grants from DEEWR’s new Study Overseas Short-Term Mobility Program, to send 42 students to Chile, China, India and Indonesia. The Faculty of the Professions also provided fi nancial support to students going abroad for short-term study experiences such as summer/winter schools. As part of an ongoing overseas studio program, 13 third- year students from the Bachelor of Design Studies travelled to Edinburgh for a three- Singapore Venture Internationalisation week design studio. The University currently offers four Bachelors, of the Curriculum The annual Exchange Fair for students six Masters, seven Graduate Diploma and was held in April, with 11 overseas partner The Centre for Learning and Professional Certifi cate programs at the Ngee Ann - institutions represented. The event was well- Development (CLPD) provided a focus Adelaide Education Centre in Singapore, with attended, with a large number of current and on internationalisation of the curriculum 691 students enrolled in 2011. The full-time former exchange students helping. as part of the staff development courses Bachelor of Commerce was launched in and workshops provided for academics The primary source of funding for May 2011. The program is offered on an and sessional teaching staff. The vision of undergraduate exchange programs has advanced standing basis for polytechnic valuing diversity was presented as a basis been through the Department of Education, diplomats; the University plans to launch for effective learning and education for Employment and Workplace Relations’ the full three-year program in 2013, with the global citizenship. In addition, the CLPD’S (DEEWR) Endeavour program. There were capability to articulate both domestic and Teaching Wednesdays program included 112 scholarships of $5000 received in international students. The latter will require a well attended seminar entitled ‘Meeting 2011. The majority of this funding was EduTrust registration, and preparation for this internationalisation and diversity challenges’. for exchanges with universities in Asia. process is currently under way. A highlight was the success of the new The School of Education delivered its fi rst exchange program with Universitas Gadjah Business to Business (B2B) program in Mada (UGM) in Indonesia. This relationship Singapore in 2011. Twenty academic staff of is fl ourishing, with seven students from each the Ngee Ann Polytechnic were sponsored institution participating in 2011. However, by their polytechnic and have enrolled in DEEWR has now changed the goals of its the Master of Education. The School of Endeavour funding for international student Education received a number of invitations to exchanges. These will no longer be focused present professional development seminars on Asia. to elite schools in Singapore, and hopes to During the year, the University signed new arrange for more B2B tie-ups with potential student-exchange agreements with quality educational institutions in Singapore. universities in Canada, China, France, Italy, Due to a delay in the Council for Private Korea, Peru, South Africa and Spain. Education approval for the Master of Clinical Science, the program will now be introduced in 2013. This will be the fi rst research degree offered by the University in Singapore.
39 2011 | Annual Report
International Alumni The Vice-Chancellor hosted several alumni gatherings in 2011 including reunions in New York City, Shanghai, Beijing, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Singapore. Other alumni events were hosted by the Director of Development and Alumni in Hong Kong and San Francisco, while alumni networks in Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and London offered a range of activities in those regions. The alumni event in Beijing was also attended by 14 of Adelaide University economics students who were completing a Study Tour at the University of International Business and Economics. During his Beijing visit, the Vice- Chancellor also hosted a lunch for the alumni of the China Mayors program offered through the University’s Institute for International Trade. In September, representatives from all seven international networks attended the 2011 Alumni Forum in Adelaide. Several of the University’s international alumni had notable successes during 2011 including Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam, PhD in Applied Mathematics 1967, who in August became the seventh President of Singapore. Also from Singapore, Mr Lim Siong Guan, BE (Mech) (Hons) 1969, was a recipient International Partnerships AC21 biennial Student World Forum, held of the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award in Thailand on the theme ‘Sustainable Rural During the year, 58 international agreements in recognition of his outstanding visionary Development’. The University participated were signed by the University, with a total leadership and extensive contributions to in the AC21 Steering Committee, and made Singapore and its civil service. of 45 overseas institutions; 19 of these signings were to renew existing agreements preparations to host the 2012 International For international students in Adelaide, with the University’s overseas partners. Forum in June 2012. Its theme is ‘Maximising Student and Industry Programs (SIP) were The new agreements entered into refl ected the Benefi ts of Internationalisation’. offered to those from Hong Kong and an increased engagement with China, International visitors to the University Indonesia, Italy, South America and South China. The West Malaysia Alumni Network included the Iraq’s Vice-Minister of Africa, and the development of double held a Careers Forum (in Kuala Lumpur) Agriculture, the Governor of Kalimantan presented via video-conferencing facilities to degrees with Germany and Indonesia. The most common types of agreements signed Timur (Indonesia), the Vice-President of the Malaysian students in Adelaide. This forum were Memorandums of Understanding Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Rector was followed up by an internship program (MOUs) for cooperation in research and/or of Stuttgart University, the vice-chancellors established by the West Malaysia Alumni teaching, student exchange agreements, of Universiti Malaysia Sabah and Universiti Network that saw 17 Malaysian students articulation agreements, and study tour Malaysia Sarawak, and the Rector of North- placed with organisations in Kuala Lumpur agreements. West University (South Africa). during their summer break. Demonstrating the value of partnerships The University held a full-day seminar on was the action the University took to assist Latin America, attended by the ambassadors its partner the University of Canterbury, of nine Latin American countries, academics following the earthquake that devastated and representatives of the mining and energy Christchurch in February. The University industries. The seminar sought to increase hosted 170 New Zealand students from the University of Canterbury to undertake their awareness of the opportunities and create fi rst-semester studies at Adelaide while their a stronger dialogue between Australia university recovered from the earthquake. (especially South Australia) and Latin America The University did not charge these students in areas such as water management, tuition fees, and made special arrangements global food security, mineral resources and to assist them as they settled in Adelaide. education. The University was thanked for these efforts by both the Australian and New Zealand prime ministers when they met with the Vice- Chancellor and three Canterbury students on Above: Australian Prime 20 June. Minister Julia Gillard and New Zealand Prime The University was an active participant in Minister John Key pictured with the University of the activities of the Academic Consortium 21 Adelaide Vice-Chancellor (AC21) which comprises leading research- and President, Professor James McWha at Federal intensive universities around the world. Parliament. The University sent three students to the Photo courtesy of AAP
40 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
International Research of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the The University Collaboration Shanxi Zhendong Group. The delegation visited the University to sign a Memorandum of Adelaide The University of Adelaide is one of of Understanding aimed at furthering Australia’s leading Go8 research-intensive research collaboration and cooperation is one of Australia’s universities and is consistently ranked as one aimed at elucidating the molecular leading Go8 research- of the top research universities in Australia. mechanisms of action of traditional Chinese As part of its commitment to world-class medicines. The delegation spent most of intensive universities research, the University encourages its their time visiting the School of Molecular and researchers to participate in a wide range of Biomedical Science as well as the School of and is consistently international research collaborations, many Business and the Faculty of Health Sciences. of which are aimed at addressing major ranked as one of the top The academic programs will cover global challenges. A few examples from postgraduate studies and staff development research universities in 2011 include: at the University of Adelaide, and the Professor Peter Langridge, from the research programs will cover joint research Australia. Australian Centre for Plant Functional and contract research. Genomics, worked with colleagues in France, In considering sustainable energy UK, USA and Mexico to develop a wheat development, new engineering challenges proposal for the G20 group of countries often arise. Early in 2011, the Centre for as part of their strategy to help ensure Energy Technology signed a statement of global food security. Professor Langridge collaboration with Korea Maritime University’s joined Dr Lucas of the French National Centre for Ocean Energy Research and Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA) to Education. One of the fi rst projects on which present the plan for an International Wheat the two institutions will work involves an Improvement Research Initiative to the G20 investigation into the effect of amplitude Agriculture Deputies in May in Paris, and in modulation on wind farm noise pollution. This August the proposal was accepted by the project is aimed at numerical simulation of G20 Agriculture Ministers. The project will wind farm noise propagation, the behaviour provide coordination and support strategy of which in different atmospheric conditions for international wheat research, and its and terrains is still unknown. In recent acceptance by the G20 Agriculture Ministers years, wind farm developers in Canada, the highlights an achievement for coordinated United States, New Zealand and the United research in this fi eld globally. Kingdom have faced increasing opposition Another example centres on improvements from neighbouring land holders about the in human health. In November, the School of location of wind farm turbines, triggered by Molecular and Biomedical Sciences hosted a noise pollution concerns. visit of a delegation from the Shanxi College
41 2011 | Annual Report
Community Engagement
Offi ce for Community Engagement
The Offi ce for Community Engagement relations activities. Other issues of priority approach to explore future community (OCE) works closely with all spheres of have related to Adelaide City Council long growth. Under the South Australian government, industry and local communities term leases for the University Boat Shed and Government’s 30-year plan for Greater to ensure that the University’s teaching Playing Fields, the sale of University rural Adelaide, it is anticipated a population and research activities have the widest properties, Lyell McEwin Health Precinct increase of 110,000 people will occur possible impact. Throughout the year, the planning, establishment of the Playford GP over that time. The Roseworthy Alliance Director for Community Engagement, Mr Super Clinic, South Australian Research and comprising the Light Regional Council, Martyn Evans met with senior government Development Institute (SARDI) negotiations local landowners, including the University and opposition members of parliament in and together with Offi ce for Strategy, of Adelaide and developers, has paved the Adelaide and Canberra in order to strengthen Planning and Recruitment staff, visiting way for a shared urban planning process the relationship between the University and South Australian regional centres to consult that will benefi t the Roseworthy community parliamentary decision-makers. with community leaders about local higher and the State of South Australia. The Alliance The Offi ce has maintained its efforts to education requirements and aspirations. also underpins the University’s commitment to increasing young people’s access and develop and enhance the University’s Through OCE’s Graduate Industry Placement participation in higher education, particularly relationships with the state and federal Program, students took the opportunity in northern Adelaide. governments, their agencies and other key to gain structured workplace experience stakeholders through targeted networking directly related to their Masters studies Preliminary approval from the Light Regional activities. Some of these activities include at the Defence Science and Technology Council for the Roseworthy Town plan offering sponsored invitations to those with a Organisation (DSTO). was given towards the end of the year - particular subject interest to the Committee capping two years of work by the Alliance OCE has continued its work to increase the for Economic Development of Australia and signalling a new beginning for the University’s presence in Adelaide’s northern (CEDA); high-profi le speaker lunches, Roseworthy area and the Campus. suburbs through regular attendance at City of invitations to Research Tuesdays, graduation Playford Partnership Networking Breakfasts, At the start of the year, University staff ceremonies, special events and personally interaction with public and private secondary supporting activities of the Don Dunstan escorted tours to communicate University schools and supporting the Northern Foundation were structurally transferred from activities and achievements. Advanced Manufacturing Industry Group, Development and Alumni to the Offi ce for Negotiations for the University to partner Concept2Creation program. Community Engagement. US education provider Kaplan, to expand The University, with an established presence Coordinated by OCE, the second Northern access to high-quality career-oriented in the northern region through its Roseworthy Enterprise Education Day (NEED) was held educational programs have been a signifi cant Campus has continued in a collaborative at the Roseworthy Campus. The day offered focus of OCE’s government and community
42 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
The Offi ce for Community Engagement again assisted the Australian Refugee Association operate a Homework Club for secondary school students in the city.
students from Adelaide’s northern and the Charles Sturt and West Torrens attending. state’s mid-north regions the chance to Some 51 volunteers (facilitators, presenters interact with young successful business and others) and 19 teachers supported the entrepreneurs. Through various activities, activities of the day. students from Year 10 and 11 were educated In 2011, OCE again assisted the Australian about the basics of running a business. Refugee Association (ARA) operate a Offi cially opened by Mr Tony Piccolo MP, Homework Club for secondary school Member for Light, the day was attended students in the city, at the University’s by 45 students from Trinity College, Xavier North Terrace Campus. Students received College, Riverton High School and St mentoring from University students and Columba College. staff, teachers, retired teachers, general OCE also coordinated the 15th Western community members and mainstream high Region Enterprise Day (WRED) in September school students (as peer mentors). This year at the University’s North Terrace Campus. saw a growth in the number of students WRED started in 1997 as a way for younger attending; some 20 regularly attending each students to learn about business enterprise session. and entrepreneurship and to strengthen For the second year, OCE assisted in school and community links between organising the locally hosted joint South the University and the western region of Australian and Federal Parliamentary Alumni Adelaide. The opening ceremony held in Networking Luncheon at the Innova21 the Napier Building was attended by upper building. It was held in recognition of the primary and secondary students, teachers, signifi cant contribution that our parliamentary principals, parents, volunteers, and a alumni have made to Australia’s political number of community leaders, including landscape over many years and to the State Member for Croydon, the Hon. encourage them to become more active Michael Atkinson MP, who offi cially opened alumni. About 30 current and former proceedings. parliamentarians attended. Teachers were also invited to participate in Throughout the year, Mr Evans has provided a Teachers’ Learning Program facilitated faculty-adviser support to the University’s by Mr Gary Hancock of the University’s Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) members. Entrepreneurship, Commercialisation and Innovation Centre (ECIC) and supported by Mr Chris McGuire from Prince Alfred College. The day was a success with 90 primary and 84 secondary students from 11 schools from the council areas of Port Adelaide Enfi eld,
43 2011 | Annual Report
Waite Historic Precinct Time’, a free school-holidays Teddy Bears’ and reproductive biology and cross ability in Picnic, concerts, morning teas, exhibitions, ornamental eucalypts. The Waite Historic Precinct comprises of the conferences and meetings. The long- The Arboretum is a valuable resource internationally renowned Waite Arboretum, standing Twilight Concert series run by the for propagating material. Staff from the the Urrbrae House Historic Precinct (which Friends of Urrbrae House in conjunction Botanic Gardens of Adelaide collected is an accredited museum), and the Waite with Vivente Music were sold out in 2011. In budwood of two pear species that are Conservation Reserve. Both the Waite addition, Sunday afternoon concerts featured critically endangered in the wild. Acorns Arboretum and Urrbrae House are listed on community groups such as the Lumina from specifi c oaks were dispatched for the the South Australian (formerly State) Heritage Vocal Ensemble and Onkaparinga Harmony development of a black truffl e industry in Register and National Estate. The Precinct Chorus. To further enhance on-campus NSW. Acorns from uncommon oaks were offers a range of facilities and activities for the activities weekly yoga classes were offered in collected and propagated at Urrbrae TAFE for public, including tours. the precinct’s Coach House while a monthly TREENET Inc (an affi liate organisation based book-club was held in Urrbrae House. Community Engagement staff at the Urrbrae at the Arboretum) and street tree trials in House Historic Precinct are responsible for Outreach activities and events supported collaboration with local governments. the delivery of community engagement and by Community Engagement staff during Death cap, highly toxic mushrooms, continue educational activities within the precinct, 2011 included work with organisations to proliferate in the Arboretum and are now while ensuring the care and conservation such as the St John’s Ambulance Circle of of a quantity beyond resources to collect and of this unique heritage site is maintained. Friends program, Mitcham Council, Urrbrae destroy. Signs are posted on every entrance to The volunteer-supported Urrbrae House Agricultural High School Old Scholars the Arboretum and media releases are issued Schools’ Program, an interactive educational Association, Mitcham Historical Society, and in conjunction with SA Health and the Botanic experience aimed at primary school the South Australian Professional Historians’ Gardens. With the presence of transient students, continued in 2011 with 700 Association. Book launches of The Premier feral deer in the reserve, the University is children attending the free weekly program. and the Pastoralist by Peter Waite’s great- collaborating in a regional approach to In addition to the work undertaken with grandson James Waite Morgan and The control, coordinated by the Mt Lofty Natural primary school children, Urrbrae House Grapevine by current and former Waite staff Resources Management Board. also provided specialised history tours for were held at Urrbrae House. The history of students from local high schools and TAFE. the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and A range of community outreach events in As part of their commitment to supporting Forestry/ Primary Industries and Regions of 2011 included 28 tours by Arboretum guides, the research and educational activities of South Australia (PIRSA) website was also workshops for the arboriculture industry the University and Waite Campus collocated offi cially launched at the Urrbrae House. hosted in the Arboretum, participation in the City of Mitcham’s public forum on organisations, Community Engagement A limited commercial program also runs at trees, Friends of the Arboretum exhibit staff facilitated numerous events during Urrbrae House involving the use of space, at a Showgrounds Expo, public talks in 2011 at Urrbrae House, including the offi cial often after-hours, for private, business, Urrbrae House by guest speakers, and the launch of the Australian Research Council community, University and Waite Campus organisation and hosting of the annual two- (ARC) Centre for Excellence in Plant Cell collocated organisation functions. The day TREENET Symposium with some 250 Walls, research leadership training days, Urrbrae House Historic Precinct is primarily a participants attending. postgraduate mentoring sessions, and museum and heritage site, so the University functions for the Waite Research Institute, ensures that events are appropriate and TREENET was also represented at the annual FOODplus Research Centre, Wine Science sympathetic to the site while giving the public conference of the International Society of Group, Plant Protection Group, Soil Science access to this unique space for special Arboriculture at Parramatta with a display Group, Australian Centre for Plant Functional occasions. In 2011, priority was given to booth featuring TREENET’s research, including Genomics, Department of Environment and events and activities for the on-campus a working model of its kerb inlet designed Natural Resources, Commonwealth Scientifi c and community groups. In addition to to redirect stormwater from roadways to and Industrial Research Organisation casual museum visitors who are able to visit benefi t street trees, educational activities and (CSIRO), Australian Wine Research Centre, three days each week, some 6150 people Avenues of Honour project. and the Group of Eight (Go8) universities. attended community, educational and private Work in the Waite Conservation Reserve An inaugural ‘Connecting with the Waite’ events at the house during 2011. was accelerated with the $112,610 grant photographic competition and exhibition for The Waite Arboretum is an experimental (over three years) from the Native Vegetation staff and students on the Waite Campus was collection and a resource for research and Council – Signifi cant Environmental Benefi ts organised by Urrbrae House staff in August. educational activities of the University. In Grants scheme. The efforts of the Reserve’s During 2011 Urrbrae House hosted its fi rst 2011, over 80 specimens were added to three casual staff were supplemented by intern under the University of Adelaide’s Arts the Arboretum including some very rare volunteers, 16 working bees held by Friends of Internship Scheme. Additionally, it supported species critically endangered in the wild, a the Waite Conservation Reserve and students. activities for international students at the selection of new cultivars and uncommon Partnership with Urrbrae TAFE Certifi cate 3 Waite, fi lm students from the University species to evaluate, and the establishment and Diploma courses in Natural Resource of South Australia, and students from the of an Australian Citrus Research Collection Management resulted in 120 student visits University’s Elder Conservatorium of Music. to provide genetic material for the research. over fi ve days to undertake seed collection, Other research undertaken in the Arboretum Urrbrae House sponsors a diverse range plant propagation, weed control and included pollination and fl oral evolution in of community and cultural activities. During revegetation. Australian natives, fi g mosaic virus, pollination the year, events held at Urrbrae House, Volunteers make a signifi cant contribution to of dioecious species by blue-banded bees, often in association with the Friends of the care, development and activities of the the effect of climate change on fl owering Urrbrae House and other community Waite Historic Precinct and during the year, and fruiting by compilation and analysis of groups, included activities during South 113 volunteers contributed more than 5000 50 years of Arboretum fl owering-pear data Australia’s month-long history festival, ‘About hours of labour.
44 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Volunteer Program The University of Adelaide Volunteer Program, under the patronage of Mrs Lindsay McWha continues to grow and provides an integral link between the University and the wider community, adding to the richness of university life by involving a diverse range of people in a variety of activities. A Volunteer Recognition event was held in May to coincide with National Volunteers Week. Mrs McWha hosted morning tea in Bonython Hall, which was attended by a large number of volunteers from all campuses of the University. The Vice- Chancellor and President, and senior staff were also in attendance. Other invited guests included representatives of the Offi ce for Volunteers and Volunteering South Australia and Northern Territory. The keynote speakers for the event were members of the Theatre Guild. Dr Ben McCann introduced three University of Adelaide Open Day PCE successfully delivered the Department students who performed two short pieces of Education, Employment and Workplace from William Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Open Day is one of the University’s major Relations (DEEWR) 2011 Endeavour Night’s Dream’. The performances were community events. Each year, it attracts Language Teacher Fellowships (ELTF) well received and the group was asked to thousands of visitors to the North Terrace program, in collaboration with Austraining perform at the State Volunteer Congress, Campus providing an opportunity to International, organising the in-country an event hosted by the Offi ce for Volunteers showcase the facilities and beautiful (overseas) study program in nine countries. to mark Internal Volunteers Day each University grounds. The major focus on December. the day is to engage prospective students PCE also welcomed 24 international study At the end of 2011, about 1549 volunteers and give them a chance to familiarise tour groups in 2011. Over 450 students from were registered, contributing approximately themselves with the campus, attend talks Japan, China, the United States, Vietnam, 124,849 volunteer hours. Not included on undergraduate programs and university Cambodia, Sri Lanka and Korea, arrived at in these statistics are over 1400 Clinical life and experience a wide range of activities, the University to study short-term programs Title holders who give varying amounts of displays, performances and exhibitions. In (ranging from 2–6 weeks) developed to their time throughout the year. Using the 2011, the estimated Open Day attendance meet specifi c educational needs in subject fi gure of $22.08 per hour recommended was 13,000 people. areas including English, Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) by Volunteering Australia, the dollar Methodology, Economics, Medicine, contribution to the University amounted to Community and Migration Law and Faculty Led. $2,756,665.90. Professional Development The Pre-enrolment English Program (PEP) In 2011, Professional and Continuing attracted over 640 students during 2011. 2011 highlights of volunteer Education’s (PCE) Year-12 Holiday Revision Students who successfully complete this program activities Program had 651 enrolments, which was a program gain a direct-entry pathway to 3.5 per cent increase from the previous year. undergraduate and postgraduate programs University Archives Group The program runs during school holidays at the University of Adelaide. General throughout the year, supporting the University English for Academic Purposes (GEAP) In its ninth year of operation, the group had recruitment efforts by raising awareness of attracted over 140 students from 30 different 59 volunteers registered in 2011 with an the University in secondary schools. PCE’s countries. average of 32 volunteers attending each Tuesday. Some projects have been ongoing Community Language Program maintained Additionally, PCE engages with the for several years with volunteers continuing a strong presence, registering a 3 per community through its highly successful with the same type of activity but with cent improvement from the previous Homestay Accommodation Program, placing different material as one volume or box is year, with 534 enrolments across eight international students with local families for a completed. Consequently, the University languages in over 27 classes. PCE’s fi rst-hand experience of everyday Australian Archives information on content is more Professional Development Programs enrolled family life. Homestay has proven to be a accessible and more informed. Digital images close to 1000 people in public courses wonderful way for international students can be sent by email to clients and the throughout 2011, and delivered over 70 and local families to expand their awareness originals now do not have to be copied or tailored training solutions to another 830 of other cultures and to develop lifelong handled. participants. Revenue for tailored training friendships. increased 49 per cent from 2010 to 2011 with courses developed for local, national and international corporate clients in both the public and private sectors.
45 2011 | Annual Report
Prizes, Awards and Commendations
The Theatre Guild
2011 Adelaide Theatre Guild Curtain Call Awards Nigel Tripodi, winner of Best Newcomer Award for his role as character Eddie Carbone in the Guild’s May production of A view from the Bridge.
Adelaide Critics Circle Awards Megan Dansie, winner of Best Individual Achievement Award (Amateur) for directing The Pillowman for the Guild in October. Other nominations for the Adelaide Critics Circle Awards were: > Emerging Artist of the Year, Nigel Tripodi for his role as character Eddie Carbone in A View from the Bridge > Emerging Artist of the Year, Robert Bell for his role as character Michael in The Pillowman > Group Award, Amateur Theatre, A View from the Bridge > Group Award, Amateur Theatre, The Pillowman. International Peer Mentor Program Radio Adelaide
2011 CBAA Award The Governor’s Multicultural Awards 2010. Best Development in Digital Media Winner in the category: for Womadelaidelive.com Youth Organisation, for the outstanding Designer, Deborah Welch contribution of an organised group of Onsite coordination, Jonathan Brown individuals each under 30. Content, Womadelaide 2011 LIVE! team The award was presented by His Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AC CSC RANR 2011 CBAA Award Finalist Governor of South Australia, and accepted Excellence in Spoken Word, News and Current Affairs by Ms Patricia Anderson (Manager ISC) Programming for The Wire at a ceremony held on 22 February 2011 Shared with 2ser and 4EB, Radio Adelaide producers Annie in the grounds of Government House, Hastwell and Catherine Zengerer North Terrace Adelaide. The ceremony was attended by: Professor James McWha , 2011 CBAA Award Finalist Vice-Chancellor and President; Mrs Lindsay Contribution to Local Music for McWha, Patron, The University of Adelaide Friday live sessions on the Range. Volunteers; Ms Patricia Anderson, Manager ISC; Mr Hedley Reberger, Coordinator ISC Producers Casey Briggs and Luke Eygenraam Peer Mentor Program; Ms Mo Li, current 2011 CSSANZ Media Award student B.Medicine & B.Surgery, Senior Peer Mentor 2010; Mr Keren (Victor) Yi, current Best media story of benefi t to patients affected by colorectal student B.Media—Honours. disease in Australian and New Zealand Breakfast with Tim Brunero Interview by Tim Brunero Justice of the Peace 2011 SACBA Bilby Award (JP) Service Best Outside Broadcast Award for Swing and Big Band Night John Leeton, located in the University’s Producer Kat McGuffi e security offi ce provides a service as a Justice of the Peace. In November 2011, due to 2011 SACBA Bilby Award becoming Acting Supervisor in security, Can’t Get out of the Car for Public Domain—Gill Hicks John was unable to provide the JP service Producer Darren Van Schaik during working hours, so he kindly worked outside normal hours to keep the service 2011 AFRICOMSA National Awards available to students. Statistics show that in Honorary Award—Radio Adelaide for Support of African 2011, John assisted 2500 people and signed Communities in Adelaide 15,500 documents (mostly for students) via this service.
46 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Sports Association The tradition of the Blues Awards Dinner was revived after a gap of 30 years. A new award, Service to University Sport was given for the fi rst time at the dinner and six people were honoured in 2011. Medallists at the Australian University Games increased from 8 in 2010 to 16 in 2011. The following areas are currently involved in the University of Adelaide Volunteer Program: > Development and Alumni > Art and Heritage Collections > University Archives Volunteer Group > Confucius Institute > Barr Smith Library Volunteer Group > International Student Centre—Peer Support Program > Radio Adelaide > University of Adelaide Theatre Guild Arts and Culture in the Hub. Art and Heritage Collections > Waite Precinct Volunteer Program through interface with students, staff and the Art and Heritage Collections > Don Dunstan Foundation broader community leads a cultural agenda Art and Heritage Collections activities for the University, ensuring that it is a vibrant > CLPD Volunteer Program are anchored in three areas: collection part of the cultural landscape of South > PCE English Language Centre management, art and cultural programs and Australia. > Western Region Enterprise Day (WRED) – special projects, including curation of works Carols on Campus Thebarton Campus of art displayed in University buildings. Work continued on University collections and the More than 1200 people fi lled Bonython Hall > Research Branch – Research Ethics and modest staff, supported by 22 volunteers and spilled out onto the Goodman Crescent Compliance Unit and two interns who contributed one FTE lawns for the second annual community > Research Institutes – Offi ce of DVC over ten months of the year, continued Carols on Campus on 20 December. & VC (R) cataloguing collections across four University Members of the community joined staff and campuses. In 2011, Art and Heritage > Freemasons Foundation Centre for students, families and friends for the free Collections presented 45 cultural events Men’s Health cultural event to celebrate the festive season featuring 102 artists, speakers, participants with an evening of traditional carols and > Student Centre JP Service and presenters reaching out to 6000 people. readings. > Roseworthy Agricultural Museum The strategy of collaboration with University schools and disciplines as well as industry The program was shown on a big screen > Roseworthy Railway Group partners paid off handsomely during the year for the enjoyment of those gathering on the lawns and streamed live to ensure that those > Earth and Environmental Sciences through innovative programming and cultural unable to be in Bonython Hall, and those Field Trips leadership. A highlight of this collaborative approach was the public lecture series, international students who had already left for their home countries, could still enjoy the Offi ce for ‘Turning Points in South Australian History’, presented in collaboration with the School celebration. Community Engagement – of History and Politics. The lecture series Carols on Campus was fi rst held in 2010 to featured prominent scholars including Bill great acclaim and the 2011 event built on Western Region Enterprise Day (WRED) Gammage, Susan Magarey, Henry Reynolds this success with wonderful music by the Special mention to the late Theo Ruckert, and Neal Blewett and received an average Elder Conservatorium Chorale, augmented WRED Chairperson. Theo’s passion and attendance of 225 people per lecture. with staff choristers and led by Associate dedication to teaching and the WRED Arts and Heritage also participated in a Professor Carl Crossin OAM, Director of the program over the past 15 years has been an range of other special events, including the Elder Conservatorium of Music. inspiration to all. He will be sadly missed. University’s Carols on Campus when it co- In the tradition of Carols from Kings College ordinated the display of the University Gifting at Cambridge University, the event featured Tree. a full University academic procession with The year marked the launch of Hub Central music from the Bonython Hall organ. This a new space for students. This new space was followed by music from the Chorale presented an exciting opportunity for Art & and Elder Conservatorium soloists and Heritage Collections to engage with students. instrumentalists, with a variety of secular Artist Peter Drew collaborated with 37 readings from staff representatives and students who posed for portraits for a bold, favourite carols for everyone to join in. paste-up display. A documentary video about It was a tremendous fi nale for the 2011 the project has been shown on digital display University calendar.
47 2011 | Annual Report
Elder Hall Radio Adelaide us all about what’s building in our city. The Elder Hall continues to be a gateway to the Radio Adelaide is a licensed community Anangu Lands Paper Tracker aims to make community. It is used for concert bookings, broadcaster, Registered Training sure that governments are following through school concerts and graduations, festival Organisation, media production enterprise on their commitments to people in the APY programs, arts events, community groups, and community media hub, and provides the Lands. This program is produced at Radio national and international conferences, University with unique cultural, educational Adelaide and heard across South Australian lectures, corporate events and more. It is a and creative outreach to national and remote communities. Streetcast and The versatile and remarkable hall that adapts to international audiences. First licensed in Scenery both bring a youthful take on arts, suit most requests. 1972, Radio Adelaide is Australia’s fi rst music, comedy, street culture and opinion. community radio station. Both represent a generation committed to It also produces several of its own concert embracing the positives of life in Adelaide series through the University’s Elder In 2011, Radio Adelaide added a digital and reviving its identity as a Mecca for Conservatorium of Music. Best known radio service to its FM licence. The station creative people. of these is the Lunchtimes at Elder Hall now produces content on digital radio, concert series held every Friday from 101.5fm and online as real time streaming, Other projects have a national reach, 1:10–2pm during semester time. Attracting downloadable audio and in a myriad of social including our daily live current affairs program local, national and international artists as media forms. The Wire, which is heard on community well as the Elder Conservatorium staff and stations around Australia and Womadelaide The content is extremely diverse, including ensembles, the series is now arguably the 2011 LIVE! —a three-day national broadcast a range of multicultural, educational, arts, most popular of its kind in the country. which brings the Womadelaide Festival’s music and information programs. Its diversity With a database that has crept past the global sounds and embracing of diversity arises from the station’s commitment to 4000 mark, audiences continue to grow beyond our borders. Both these projects, community access and education, with more particularly through subscriptions which now and an increasing percentage of Radio than 400 volunteers involved on a regular number 275 or 43% of hall capacity in both Adelaide’s broadcast output is also available basis and more than 200 new people from semesters in 2011—up 10% from 2010. online. In addition to our weekly broadcast all walks of life joining and learning each Many concerts were sold out, with more audience of around 88,000 people, close year. The volunteers range in age from 16 than18,000 tickets sold and an average to 10,000 people each month also listen to 90 years in age, encompass a range attendance of 500 per concert over 33 to interviews from our fl agship Breakfast of language and cultural groups including concerts. program online. The Womadelaide 2011 Farsi, Spanish, Japanese, Dari, Swahili, and LIVE! online coverage won the national The series continues to benefi t from a very Nepalese and form the largest volunteer community broadcasting award for Best generous anonymous donation in 2010, group within the University. Development in Digital Media. which, along with the fi nancial support A highlight of 2011 was the launch of our provided by the Doris West Bequest, enables 2011 special event coverage included a Digital Radio service in April, as part of a the Elder Conservatorium of Music to engage key partnership with the Adelaide Festival national launch of community digital radio a wonderfully diverse range of visiting artists of Ideas to record, broadcast and podcast services. The Lord Mayor, Stephen Yarwood, throughout the year and ensure the ongoing all sessions, making the Festival’s ‘ideas was the special guest at a joint broadcast success of the series. exchange’ available to a range of new with fi ve local partner stations, held at the audiences. Also, a live to air broadcast from The Elder Conservatorium of Music also Adelaide Central Market. The venue was the 2012 Reconciliation Breakfast, marking presents Evenings at Elder Hall. This chosen to represent the contribution to the anniversary of the federal government’s evening series of concerts showcases the media diversity made by the community apology to the Stolen Generations of Elder Conservatorium student choirs and broadcasting sector. The University holds Aboriginal people. Other special events ensembles and provides a vital opportunity one of only 37 available digital radio licences included coverage of the Adelaide Festival, for the students to perform in public in a for community broadcasters and this second the Fringe, the Clare Valley Film Festival, formal setting. It also gives performance licence provides a signifi cant additional asset Survival Day, National Aborigines and staff an opportunity to perform in concerts through which the University can further its Islanders Day Observance Committee of a more substantial nature. The concerts community and educational goals. (NAIDOC) Week and Womad Earth Station. attract music lovers of all genres, including Deborah Welch, Radio Adelaide’s General academic and professional staff from the Alexandra Reid, Executive Director of Arts Manager and outgoing President of the University of Adelaide, families and invited SA was the special guest at Radio Adelaide’s Community Broadcasting Association of VIP guests. There were a range of sponsors annual end of year awards. She praised the Australia, was awarded the top honour in including Barossa Valley Estate Wines, ETSA achievements of Radio Adelaide’s staff and community broadcasting, the Michael Law Utilities, through the Helpmann Academy volunteers by encouraging us to remember Award, for her outstanding contribution and the Greek Orthodox Community of that we are ‘shaping the face of our city and to the sector. This is a compliment to the South Australia in its fi nal year of a three-year our state on a regular basis and changing the continued leadership and expertise she sponsorship arrangement. The 2011 season way that people engage with media’. contributes to the University through her 12 was extended from fi ve to eight concerts with years of management at Radio Adelaide. reserved seating being offered for the fi rst time in over fi ve years. The results showed Radio Adelaide’s programming continues to a marked increase in subscriptions; almost expand, in touch and in tune with the heart of doubling and in attendances overall. Adelaide. It maintains a global outlook. Four new initiatives in 2011 illustrate its diversity. The Plan focuses on Adelaide-specifi c architecture, design, living environments and their effect. Working with the City Council and University departments, they inform
48 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Development and Alumni
Development and Alumni Highlights Annual Appeals Sponsorship In 2011, Development and Alumni continued The two annual appeals conducted by the Development and Alumni has initiated a to increase and broaden the scope and level University were again able to contribute proactive role in securing sponsorship for of engagement and communication with the signifi cantly to their projects, with generous conferences and events hosted by the local, interstate and international alumni. support from alumni and Friends of the University. The most signifi cant in 2011 was In 2012, Development and Alumni will ensure University as well as from the general public. the work done to secure over $140,000 in sponsorship support for the 4th International its program aligns closely with the University’s The Barr Smith Library Appeal raised Barcode of Life Conference. The conference Strategic Plan to maximise the high level of $89,000, which assists with the purchase hosted at the University, attracted over 450 support it receives from the Vice-Chancellor of books and electronic resources that help delegates representing 63 countries. One of and President. to maintain the library as an outstanding the fastest growing companies in the state, resource for students, staff and alumni. Zen Home Energy, also signed a three- Development The tenth Barr Smith Library Appeal was year deal as the naming-right sponsor of conducted in 2011. Over the years, the Adelaide Benefactors Circle the high profi le Zen eChallenge. Keyinvest appeal has raised over $850,000 for the continued their valuable support for the Class The Adelaide Benefactors Circle is the library. In October, the Vice-Chancellor and of 1961 Golden Jubilee 50 Year Reunion University of Adelaide’s university-wide President hosted a thank-you event in the event, and the Commonwealth Bank has donor recognition program. In April, the Library’s Reading Room for the 28 donors agreed to continue support for the activities Vice-Chancellor and President hosted a who have contributed to all ten appeals. of the Florey Foundation. The Mech Expo, successful dinner for major benefactors at Professor McWha presented the donors with which showcases fourth-year Mechanical the National Wine Centre. Those attending a special memento as a sign of appreciation. Engineering projects, attracted Origin as were from the Custodian (over $100,000), This is now expected to become an annual a major sponsor and the University was Founder ($50,000–$99,999) and Partner event, as more donors achieve a ten-year fortunate to have its outstanding alumnus, ($10,000–$49,999) levels of giving to the contribution. astronaut Dr Andy Thomas, as the guest University of Adelaide. Alicia Hurkmans, a The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship Appeal, speaker at the VIP launch. recipient of a BHP Scholarship in Chemical which supports fi nancially disadvantaged Engineering, addressed the more than students including at least one rural student Giving to Adelaide 60 attendees about the difference the each year, raised $92,000. This meant that In July a new online giving facility was scholarship had made to her academic the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship Fund launched to provide donors with the option performance at University. could support a further two recipients, to give online and donate directly to priority making a total of 11 scholarship recipients End of Year Event areas within the University that are seeking receiving support in 2011.This is an support. This new facility can be accessed at Over 500 guests attended a circus-themed outstanding result as many of the recipients, www.alumni.adelaide.edu.au/giving . annual university-wide, thank you event although academically very capable, would held in November in Bonython Hall. Vice- not have been able to attend university Chancellor McWha joined in on the theme, without scholarship support. by arriving dressed as a Ring Master. He addressed the attendees who included major benefactors, volunteers, industry partners and key suppliers to the University. The Vice- Chancellor and President’s speech focused on some of the outstanding achievements of the University in the past year, and the signifi cant contribution made to the University by guests attending the event.
49 2011 | Annual Report
Scholarships Human Rights Commissioner The Hon. Catherine Branson A total of 112 undergraduate and QC is one of fi ve alumni to receive a Distinguished postgraduate scholarships were renewed Alumni Award in 2011 or awarded for the fi rst time in 2011.This Photo by Roy van der Vegt represents over $1,500,000 provided by donors to support recipients over three years. The support by the Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology (DFEEST) of 40 scholarships for students who are in undergraduate courses leading to potential defence industry employment, signifi cantly boosted the number of scholarships available. There was evidence of growing support from the agricultural sector with new scholarships provided by Viterra in the agronomy area and also by signifi cant agribusiness leaders to initiate the Agribusiness Leaders Scholarship for Excellence. Over 400 people attended the third annual Scholarship Recognition Ceremony hosted in Bonython Hall by the Vice-Chancellor and President in September. This event has continued to grow in popularity and allows the donors to present their scholarship to the recipient and also provides the recipients and Alumni their families with an opportunity to meet and thank their scholarship donors. Alumni Relations 2011 Alumni Awards Bequest Program The year 2011 marked the fi nal year of The Honours Alumni University Medal for the fi rst phase of the University’s Alumni 2011 was awarded to Emma Langhans The Vice-Chancellor and President hosted Relations Strategic Plan 2007–2011. (First Class Honours Bachelor of Science in the annual Hughes Bequest Society Since the Plan’s inception in 2007, there High Performance Computational Physics) luncheon in 2011 for 83 staff and guests, have been signifi cant achievements in and the Postgraduate Alumni University to thank those in the community who have the advancement of the alumni program Medal was awarded to Dr Sam Cohen (PhD remembered the University in their wills. including the decentralisation of the program Mathematical and Computer Sciences). Presently there are 127 Bequestors, with 11 to faculties and schools, a broadening of new bequests confi rmed in 2011. the engagement program through the online The recipients of the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award were: As part of the program, several Friends and community Adelaide onLION, and a greater Benefactors events were held in 2011: awareness and involvement of students Dr Arthur Ray Beckwith AO (D Univ through the Student and Industry Program. 2004, RDA 1932), in recognition of his > School of Molecular and Biomedical The next phase of the Alumni Relations highly signifi cant contribution to the fi eld Science Strategic Plan 2012–2015 will further build of Oenology and to the wine industry in > Elder Conservatorium of Music on these new initiatives. Australia and internationally. > Ageing Positively Series – Structuring your The Alumni Advisory Committee, chaired by Mr Barry Grear AO (B Tech 1967), in Future seminar the Vice-Chancellor and President, met four recognition of his leadership to the Australian times during 2011 and provided feedback > Introduction to understanding your and World Engineering Profession and computer—two sessions were held at the and advice on strategic areas including his signifi cant contribution to emergency School of Education communications and marketing, and services organisations in South Australia and philanthropy. nationally. > School of Classics followed by a tour of the Museum of Classical Archaeology Emeritus Professor Colin Matthews (MD (Adel) ad eundem gradum 1970), in > Centre for Automotive Safety Research recognition of his leadership and outstanding and tour of the CASR Impact Laboratory in contribution nationally and internationally in Kent Town the fi eld of reproductive medicine. > School of Environment Population and Mr Siong Guan Lim (B E (Mech) (Hons) Geography 1969), in recognition of his outstanding > Victor Harbor Alumni morning tea with a visionary leadership and extensive presentation by Professor Tanya Monro, contributions to Singapore and its Civil Director of the Institute of Photonics and Service. Advanced Sensing. The Honourable Justice Catherine Margaret Branson QC (BA 1977, LLB 1970), in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Australian Law and Human Rights.
50 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Alumni Events Australian and South Australian Parliamentary Alumni Communications The Student and Industry Program (SIP) Alumni in Adelaide, and hosted the inaugural With over 22,200 members, the University continued to be a great success with Distinguished Alumni Dinner at the National of Adelaide’s online community, Adelaide events held in Economics, Water, Politics, Wine Centre in September. onLION continues to reconnect alumni from Psychology, Architecture, Health Sciences, The second biennial Alumni Forum, Create, around the globe with their alma mater and Agriculture, Computer Science and Biology. Connect, Collaborate, was held at the each other. With access to mentors, jobs SIP events, with a regional focus, supported University in September. Senior University and the ability to add professional profi les, students from Hong Kong and China. staff and prominent alumni presented Adelaide onLION now forms an integral part of the University’s alumni program. The Golden Jubilee 50-year reunion for sessions on research, teaching and learning, graduates of 1961 was held in October, volunteering, digital media, community The University’s bi-annual alumni magazine, with 132 graduates returning to the engagement and industry partnerships. Lumen, highlights the latest research and University from as far away as the United A Think Tank was held on day two of the educational strengths of the University States, Canada and Malaysia, as well as forum with alumni providing feedback on the and provides a forum for sharing the across Australia. The reunion included a current alumni program and suggestions on achievements of alumni with over 48,500 commemoration ceremony in Bonython Hall the future direction of alumni relations at the print subscribers, 16,154 email subscribers followed by a reunion luncheon. Mr Ken University of Adelaide. All seven international and 67,500 online readers around the Allen AM, who graduated with a Bachelor of alumni networks were represented at the world per edition. The University’s Alumni Economics (Hons), gave the Golden Jubilee forum. e-newsletter, The Roar, continues to expand address and launched the Class of 1961 Gift. Numerous events were organised by local its reach with over 20,100 subscribers receiving alumni and University news directly Over 100 alumni events were held both and international alumni networks including to their inbox each month. within Australia and overseas during 2011. the Careers Forum and Student Internship The Vice-Chancellor and President hosted Program offered by the West Malaysia Over 17,500 of the University’s alumni are international alumni gatherings in Kuala Network; the ever-popular Roseworthy making use of Perpetual Email – a free email Lumpur, Penang, Singapore, Beijing, Old Collegians Association Annual Dinner; forwarding service that allows alumni to keep Shanghai and New York City. Other alumni a successful quiz night organised by the a single University-based email address, no events were held in London, San Francisco, John Bray Law Alumni; and the Friends of matter where life takes them. Thailand, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, the University of Adelaide Library continued Singapore, Indonesia and Germany. Locally, an impressive line-up of speakers in 2011 the Vice-Chancellor and President hosted through their Author and Scholar events. an alumni event in Canberra, a lunch for
1961 Golden Jubilee 50 Year Reunion Commemoration Ceremony, Bonython Hall, October 2011 Photo by John Hemmings
51 2011 | Annual Report
Infrastructure, Property and Technology
Technology Transformation
The principal priority for Technology in 2011 with measurable reductions in the number was to consolidate the agreed program of system failures and user issues being of Information and Communications reported through to the Service Desk. Technology (ICT) investments and initiatives Independent benchmarking and feedback within the strategic framework and direction from staff and students have strongly described in the Technology Transformation endorsed the improvements in service Strategic Plan 2010-2012 and detailed in quality. the ICT Investment Plan. The established A comprehensive ICT strategic planning investment priorities for 2011 founded a process was launched in 2011. The aim was program of work targeted at reducing risk to to understand the role of technology in the the University’s critical foundation services. University over the next fi ve years and how In 2011, this included the fi rst phase of a it relates to specifi c University strategic and comprehensive data storage strategy, a operational goals. Signifi cant stakeholder signifi cant upgrade to the University’s fi nance engagement was undertaken to determine system and the initial roll-out of a new staff the strategic vision and priorities and to email system as part of a wider project that articulate the required capabilities to deliver will integrate collaboration services. on that vision. This ICT planning process The overarching ICT strategic vision is forms the technology component of a to provide capabilities that produce a broader 2012–2017 Infrastructure Strategic competitive advantage to key research Plan under a common framework and activities, enhance student and staff approach. In parallel, an in-depth review of experience, support changing models ICT for Research was undertaken to develop of teaching and learning and streamline a roadmap of initiatives that will strengthen supporting business processes. This year the ICT capabilities supporting research and has seen signifi cant improvements in the to determine appropriate support models for reliability of the University’s IT systems, research.
52 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
The University of Adelaide is currently undertaking a $400 million investment with state-of-the art facilities.
Key Technology Projects in 2011
Core Business Systems Upgrades Casual Workforce Management Building Life Impact: Current Works Following on from the successful upgrade The ongoing development of the new system The University of Adelaide is currently to Human Resources and Student for managing the University’s large casual undertaking a $400 million investment with Administration systems in 2010, the workforce, comprising almost 4000 staff and state-of-the art facilities. During the 2011 Finance System was upgraded to the manual processing of 36,000 timesheets year, $83.4 million was expended on major latest PeopleSoft version, going live in annually continued in 2011. The new system and other works with the Learning Hub (Hub August 2011. Amongst the new introduced will go live in 2012. Central) opening in September 2011 and functionality is online approval of purchase progress on the Illumin8 Project. Additionally, orders and invoices. Unifi ed planning on the next fi ve years (2013–2017) Investment Plan commenced with a detailed Unifi ed, the University’s student and staff Staff Collaboration Project review of the anticipated infrastructure needs portal continues to be enhanced as part of the University in the coming years. The Migration of staff to the new email system of the broader ICT strategy to provide an planning and procurement of a number of began in late 2011 and will be completed improved online experience. Student usage major project initiatives including Illumin8 in the fi rst quarter of 2012, including of Unifi ed as the central site to access key and an expansion of the Veterinary School at deployment of a new calendar system. The services remains high with over 15,000 Roseworthy. Additionally, work has continued new system offers a huge range of benefi ts users per day during term time. Signifi cant on the refurbishment of poorly utilised space including support for the diverse platforms new services were added in 2011 including to improve both quality and function. and mobile devices used by the University, integration of the academic timetable a high-quality web interface, dynamic email with personal calendar, access to Hub quotas and archiving. Central project room booking system and replacement of the Faculty of Professions ‘Ask the Prof FAQs’.
53 2011 | Annual Report
Nexus10 Ingkarni Wardli Builders Building Excellence Awards, South Australia The major upgrade of 10 Pulteney Street The Indigenous name, Ingkarni Wardli costing $49 million to colocate Commerce, will replace Innova21 for the building that > Excellence in a Commercial / Industrial Business, Economics and Education and is home to the Faculty of Engineering, Building over $50 million, Commendation, develop the Education building as a common Computer and Mathematical Sciences Landmark Project—2011 Master Builders teaching hub was completed for Semester from 2012. Building Excellence Awards, South 1, 2010. Australia The Kaurna name, meaning ‘place of More recent developments in the Nexus10 learning or enquiry’, recognises the special tower include the refurbishment of Level relationship the University of Adelaide 2 to provide additional teaching spaces shares with the Kaurna people, the original and computer suites by Semester 1, 2012 custodians of the land on which the and the redevelopment of levels 5 and 9 University is situated. as offi ce accommodation for the Faculty of Ingkarni Wardli will be offi cially named as a Professions for Semester 2. featured event of Reconciliation Week (27 Planning has commenced to maximise the May to 3 June) at the University of Adelaide. opportunity for further redevelopment of the The signifi cance of the Ingkarni Wardli site following the anticipated relocation of building has been recognised through the University Senior College. achievement of numerous state and national awards including: New Veterinary School > National Award for Sustainable Additional facilities recently developed and Architecture—Australian National completed for the School of Animal and Architecture Awards 2011 Veterinary Sciences include the Ambulatory > Architecture Award for Sustainable Building, Small Animals’ Building and the Architecture South Australia—2011 SA second class water facility. Future planned Architectural Awards developments include large-animal teaching facilities and an Equine Health Centre. > Public Architecture, Commendation—2011 SA Architectural Awards > Building (non- residential category), Certifi cate of Recognition—2011 Consult Australia Awards for Excellence > Excellence in Environmental & Sustainable Construction Award, Commercial—2011 Master
54 Part One | Annual Review | 2011
Hughes Plaza Learning Hub Illumin8 (incorporating the Institute for Campus Masterplanning Photonics and Advanced Sensing) In 2009, with the aim of providing the best The University has developed a suite of on-campus experience within the Australian Illumin8 will be a 6 level building including a masterplans for the North Terrace, Waite, national tertiary sector for all our students, basement with building plant and equipment Roseworthy and Thebarton campuses to the University embarked on a co-creative to be accommodated in the upper level support effective long-term planning. The journey, which included more than 9000 sited adjacent to the Barr Smith Lawns. masterplans review the current context and hours of individual student consultation, and Illumin8 will provide a 420-seat lecture key challenges facing the campuses. The resulted in Hub Central, a facility which meets theatre, accommodation for the Institute for plans identify an overarching vision for the student requirements and expectations. Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS) future and key strategic actions. along with a research fl oor and two fl oors On 12 September 2011, Hub Central opened for fl exible laboratory teaching. Consultation as a new ‘front door’ to the University and an Space Planning was undertaken with staff and students and initial point of contact and fi rst port of call for a complete reworking of current timetabling The continued growth of the University has students. The Hub is a place of welcome and processes and principles to optimise the placed further pressure on space. During belonging that clearly identifi es students with Illumin8 teaching fl oors. The project will 2011, in the context of the development the University of Adelaide. provide 10146m2 gross fl oor area (GFA) and of the Infrastructure Strategy Plan, the Located on the University of Adelaide’s is due for completion in Semester 1, 2013. University prepared a Capital Intensity and North Terrace Campus, Hub Central Needs Analysis model to establish priorities University Council approved funding to covers 10,500m2 over three levels. The for future works. maximise the redevelopment of the site. The Hub aims to enhance the student learning University funding ($64.5 million) along with Signifi cant work has been undertaken on a experience by providing informal study state and federal government commitments Health Sciences strategy and feasibility work options, where students have the fl exibility to the project has increased the overall for clinical and dental skills laboratories and to create their own study environments, with funding available for the Illumin8 project to student common rooms. the convenience of access to integrated $97 million. Implementation of a new space system supporting facilities and services including: commenced, providing an effective means of 11 student project rooms, 11 project booths, The demolition of the existing building was measuring and improving space utilisation. student lounges with moveable furniture, two completed in early 2011 and works have information service areas, a student kitchen, progressed since with the excavation of the two Skype booths and a news bench, basement, ground, fi rst and second fl oors two training rooms, computer suites, total slabs completed. The next major milestone wireless connectivity, print stations, lockers, will be the installation of the faceted facade the Maths Learning Centre, the Writing which is programmed to commence in Centre, three food outlets, a convenience March 2012 and the completion of the store and a post offi ce. superstructure in the same month. The IT project for the Hub delivered a sound IT capability that immediately improved the student experience, and created a base from which to further extend some of the more innovative and successful capabilities further across the University.
55 2011 | Annual Report
Financial Overview
Consolidated University
2011 2010 2011 2010
$000 $000 $000 $000
Summary Statement of Comprehensive Income
Operating Revenue
Received under Higher Education Support Act 262,783 250,349 262,783 250,349
Learning and Teaching 196,288 189,934 194,250 184,273
Research Grants and Fees 184,912 158,938 157,866 138,420
Research - Other 25,471 21,672 25,471 21,672
Other 116,987 108,197 109,084 86,242
Total operating revenue 786,441 729,090 749,454 680,956
Operating Expenses
Salaries, superannuation and related expenses398,238 354,259 386,007 342,828
Non salary expenses 340,430 314,885 297,419 274,036
Total operating expenses 738,668 669,144 683,426 616,864
Operating Result 47,773 59,946 66,028 64,092
Operating Margin 6.1% 8.2% 8.8% 9.4%
Summary Statement of Financial Position
Total Assets 1,445,963 1,377,496 1,436,537 1,359,549
Total Liabilities 326,505 287,460 318,307 278,377
Net Assets 1,119,458 1,090,036 1,118,230 1,081,172
Current Ratio 1.6 1.6 1.4 1.2
Cash and Bank Term Investments 112,799 89,286 103,295 80,922
The University of Adelaide Council has adopted two principal financial targets: An operating margin in the range of 3.0% to 5.0% (Operating result as a percentage of total operating revenue as shown in the Statement of Comprehensive Income). A current ratio of at least 1.0 (Ratio of current assets to current liabilities as shown in the Statement of Financial Position). The University continued to achieve these targets in 2011.
56
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Produced by the Marketing and Strategic Communications Branch April 2012 ISSN 0729 - 9885 www.adelaide.edu.au