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Previous University Council reports

To request reports for meetings held prior to this date, contact the Committee Secretary, Council Secretariat, Kim Lerch by email klerch@usc.edu.au or Tel: 07 5459 4739.

Report on Council meeting – 28 August 2023

At its meeting held on 28 August 2023, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Presentation

The Head of Government Relations, Mr Jason Mills, delivered a presentation on UniSC’s Government Relations Strategy.

2023 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2023 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Sunshine Coast Campus Master Plan

Council resolved to approve the Sunshine Coast Campus Master Plan, as set out in Document 3.1.2, subject to minor amendments.

Election of Council Members – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve amendments to the Election of Council Members – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.4.1.

Academic Board composition

Council resolved to approve amendments to the composition of the Academic Board, as set out in Document 4.4.2.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • The Australian Universities Accord
  • Moreton Bay Stage 2 Project progress and Performance Report
  • Moreton Bay Stage 3 progress
  • Thompson Institute (TI) extension update
  • Student Accommodation
  • UniSC Project Portfolio Status Report Q2 2023
  • UniSC Student Senate Report
  • Annual Report on activities of the Foundation Board
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 8 June 2023

At its meeting held on 8 June 2023, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Presentation

The Director, C~SALT, Dr Ruth Greenaway, delivered a presentation on artificial intelligence (AI), including an overview of the impacts and challenges for the sector.

2023-2027 University Consolidated Budget April Reforecast

Council resolved to approve the 2023-2027 University Consolidated Budget April Reforecast, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

UniSC Modern Slavery Statement 2022

Council approved the UniSC 2022 Modern Slavery Statement for publication by 30 June 2023, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Election of Council Members – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve amendments to the Election of Council Members – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.4.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Risk Appetite Dashboard
  • Quarterly People and Culture report
  • Student Accommodation
  • Moreton Bay Stage 2 project update and Performance Report
  • Moreton Bay Stage 3 progress update
  • Thompson Institute (TI) extension update
  • Corporate Performance Report against the Strategic Plan 2021-2024 – Q1 2023
  • UniSC Project Portfolio Status Report Q1
  • Quarterly Report on Student Wellbeing
  • Student Guild 2022 Annual Financial Report
  • Annual Report on Conferral of Awards
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Program
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 20 February 2023

At its meeting held on 20 February 2023, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Presentation: Chief Data Officer

The Chief Data Officer, Dr Omer Yezdani, delivered a presentation on the new Data and Analytics Strategy.

2022 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved that the 2022 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget be approved, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Strategic Plan 2021-2024 review – phase 2

Council resolved to approve amendments to the UniSC Strategic Plan 2021-2024, as set out in Document 3.1.2.

Strategic Asset Management Plan 2023-2027

Council approved the Strategic Asset Management Plan 2023-2027, as set out in Document 3.1.3.

UniSC 2022 Annual Financial Statements

Council resolved to approve the University’s 2022 Annual Financial Statements, as presented in Document 3.2.1.

UniSC Annual Report 2022

Council resolved to approve the UniSC Annual Report 2022, as set out in Document 3.2.2.

Conflict of Interest – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve amendments to the Conflict of Interest – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Staff Code of Conduct – Governing Policy and Anti-Discrimination and Freedom from Bullying and Harassment – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve amendments to the Staff Code of Conduct – Governing Policy and Anti-Discrimination and Freedom from Bullying and Harassment – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.2.

Address by Professor Tony Perkins, Foundation Dean of Health

The Foundation Dean of Health, Professor Tony Perkins, provided a presentation on the new combined School of Health, which was formed on 3 January 2023, bringing together two former schools – the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine and the School of Health and Behavioural Sciences.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Moreton Bay Stage 2 Project update and Performance Report
  • Moreton Bay Stage 3 progress
  • UniSC Student Senate Report
  • Thompson Institute (TI) PTSD extension update
  • Student Accommodation update
  • Report on programs accredited by Academic Board in 2022
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council Meeting - 2 December 2022

At its meeting held on 2 December 2022, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Presentation: Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) - Professor Denise Wood - Student Journey

Council received a presentation from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) - Professor Denise Wood, on the student journey. The presentation included an overview of the services and support provided to students throughout their studies at UniSC.

2023-2027 University Budget

Council noted the 2023-2027 University Budget key assumptions and scenarios, as set out in Document 3.1.1 and approved the 2023 budget.

Strategic Plan 2021-2024 and Top Level Plans review

Council approved amendments to the strategies and forward in the UniSC Strategic Plan 2021-2024, as set out in Document 3.1.2.

Enterprise Risk Management – Governing Policy

Council approved the minor amendments to the Enterprise Risk Management – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Annual Review of Delegations:  Delegations Framework – Governing Policy and Delegations Manual

Council noted that no amendments were required to the Delegations Framework – Governing Policy and Delegations Manual, as advised in Document 4.1.1.

Council noted the amendments to Schedules A, B and C of the Delegations Schedules as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Audit and Assurance Framework Governing Policy and Internal Audit Charter

Council approved the amendments to the Audit and Assurance Framework Governing Policy and associated Internal Audit Charter, as set out in Document 4.1.2.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Risk Appetite Dashboard Report
  • Quarterly People and Culture Report
  • Moreton Bay Stage 2 Project update and Performance Report
  • Moreton Bay Stage 3 progress
  • UniSC Student Senate Report
  • UniSC Project Portfolio Status Report Q3 2022
  • Thompson Institute (TI) PTSD extension update
  • 2023 Schedule of University Fees
  • IT updates
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Program report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council Meeting - 10 October 2022

At its meeting held on 10 October 2022, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

2022-2026 University Consolidated Budget August Reforecast

Council approved the 2022-2026 University Consolidated Budget August Reforecast, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Risk Appetite Statement

Council approved the amendments to the Risk Appetite Statement, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Composition of the Planning and Resources Committee

Council approved the amendments to the Composition and Terms of Reference of the Planning and Resources Committee, as set out in Document 4.2.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Risk Appetite Dashboard Report
  • Quarterly People and Culture Report
  • Planning for the 2032 Olympic Games
  • Moreton Bay Stage 2 Project update and Performance Report
  • Moreton Bay Stage 3 status
  • Campus Activation Project update
  • UniSC Student Senate Report
  • UniSC Project Portfolio Status Report Q2 2022
  • Thompson Institute (TI) PTSD extension update
  • Master Planning activities
  • Health and Safety Management system
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 11 August 2022

At its meeting held on 11 August 2022, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Presentation: Director, Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience - Thompson Institute

Council received a presentation from the Director, Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience - Thompson Institute, Professor Jim Lagopoulos, on the on the activities of the Thompson Institute. The presentation included an overview of the Thompson Institute’s integrated model, combining education, research, clinical services, and a community program.

2022 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2022 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Corporate Performance Report against the Strategic Plan 2021-2024 – Q2 2022
  • Moreton Bay Stage 2 Project update
  • UniSC Student Senate Report
  • Report on Enrolments
  • Thompson Institute (TI) PTSD extension update
  • UniSC Innovation Centre update
  • Annual UniSC Foundation Board Report
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 8 June 2022

At its meeting held on 8 June 2022, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Presentation: Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor Ross Young

Council received a presentation from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation, Professor Ross Young on the plan for research and innovation at USC.

USC Modern Slavery Statement 2021

Council approved the USC 2021 Modern Slavery Statement for publication by 30 June 2022, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

2022-2026 University Consolidated Budget April Reforecast

Council resolved to approve the 2022-2026 University Consolidated Budget April Reforecast, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Thompson Institute (TI) PTSD Centre Project and budget

Council resolved to note progress on the Thompson Institute PTSD building extension project as set out in Document 3.2.2.

Policy Framework – Governing Policy

Change of policy category:

  • Program Accreditation and Course Approval – Governing Policy
  • International Recruitment Representatives – Governing Policy

Council approved the amendments to the Policy Framework – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Council approved the reclassification of the Program Accreditation and Course Approval – Governing Policy from a Governing to an Academic Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Council approved the reclassification of the International Recruitment Representatives – Governing Policy from a Governing to an Operational Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Corporate Performance Report against the Strategic Plan 2021-2024 – Q1 2022
  • Moreton Bay Stage 2 Project update
  • Student Guild Annual Financial Report
  • Annual Report on the Conferral of Awards
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Program report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 21 April 2022

At its meeting held on 21 April 2022, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Academic Board Composition and Terms of Reference

Council approved the amendments to the Academic Board Composition and Terms of Reference, as set out in Document 5.3.1.

USC Moreton Bay Development

Council received an update on the development of the USC Moreton Bay Campus.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • USC Student Senate Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting - 21 February 2022

At its meeting held on 21 February 2022, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Presentation - Centre for Bioinnovation – Professor Abigail Elizur, Director

The Director, Centre for Bioinnovation, Professor Abigail Elizur delivered a presentation on the Centre for Bionnovation (previously known as the Genecology Research Centre). The presentation included an overview of the Centre’s vision and its four themes of applied microbiology, aquaculture biotechnology, biodiscovery, and conservation ecology and genetics.

USC 2021 Annual Financial Statements

Council resolved to approve the University’s 2021 Annual Financial Statements, as presented in Document 3.1.1

2021 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved that the 2021 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget be approved, as set out in Document 3.3.2.

Fraud and Corruption Control – Governing Policy

Council approved the amendments to the Fraud and Corruption Control – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Strategic Asset Management Plan 2022-2026

Council approved the Strategic Asset Management Plan 2022-2026, as set out in Document 4.2.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Report on programs accredited by Academic Board in 2021
  • Report on the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Program
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 2 December 2021

At its meeting held on 2 December 2021, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

2022-2026 University Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2022-2026 University Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

USC Moreton Bay Development

Council received an update on the development of the USC Moreton Bay Campus.

Risk Appetite Framework

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Risk Appetite Framework, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Audit and Assurance Framework Governing Policy and Internal Audit Charter 

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Audit and Assurance Framework Governing Policy and associated Internal Audit Charter, as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Annual Review of Delegations – Delegations Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Delegations Framework - Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.2.

Policy Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Policy Framework - Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.3.

Scholarships, Bursaries and Prizes - Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the reclassification of the Scholarships, Bursaries and Prizes – Governing Policy from a Governing to an Operational Policy, as set out in Document 4.3.1.

Election of Chancellor

Council noted that Sir Angus Houston AK AFC had been elected to the office of Chancellor by the members of USC’s Council and Council approved his term of office from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2027, as set out in Document 8.2.

Election of Deputy Chancellor

Council noted that Ms Sandra Birkensleigh had been elected to the office of Deputy Chancellor by the members of USC’s Council and Council approved her term of office from 3 December 2021 to 2 December 2025, subject to her continued membership on Council as an external member, as set out in Document 8.3.

Council membership

On 3 December 2021, USC received confirmation from the Queensland Department of Education that USC’s nominations for the six Governor in Council appointed USC Council members had been approved commencing from 9 December 2021 for a term of four years as follows:  Ms Debra Bennet, Ms Jenny Morawska, Mr Tim Rothwell Ms Melinda Bryant, Ms Bernadine Caruana and Mr Shaun McDonagh.

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Ms Sandra Birkensleigh and Mr David Foster in the Additional Member category on Council from 9 December 2021, concluding on 8 December 2025.

Council noted that the following staff and students had been elected to Council commencing from 9 December 2021:  academic staff:  Professor Cathy Yule and Dr Helen Fairweather; professional staff: Ms Jane Brimacombe; and students: Ms Emma Comer and Ms Fien Van den Steen.

ARMC and PRC appointments

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Mr Steven Jeffery to the Planning and Resources Committee for a term of three years commencing 17 January 2022.

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Ms Dianne Browne to the Audit and Risk Management Committee for a term of three years commencing 17 January 2022.

Farewell to outgoing members

The Chancellor thanked Mr Scott Williams AM for his service to the USC Council since 2012, and for his time and support as Deputy Chancellor, Chair of the Planning and Resources Committee, Chair of the Honorary Awards Committee and as a member of the Nominations Committee and Executive Committee of Council.

Members of Council shared with the Chancellor in conveying their appreciation for the valued contribution Mr Williams has made to the University throughout his tenure on Council and looked forward to his continued engagement with USC.

The Chancellor thanked other members whose terms were concluding on 8 December 2021.

  • Dr Ruth Greenaway
  • Associate Professor Mark Sayers
  • Professor Abigail Elizur
  • Nathan Wellington
  • Melissa Geltch

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Corporate Performance Report against the Strategic Plan 2021-2024
  • Compliance with UCC Voluntary Code of Best Practice for Governance of Australian Universities – Annual Review
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Program report
  • USC Student Senate Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 8 October 2021

At its meeting held on 8 October 2021, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

2021-2025 University Budget August Reforecast

That Council resolve to approve the 2021-2025 University Consolidated Budget August Reforecast, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Annual Review of Risk Documents

Council resolved to approve that minor amendments be made to the Enterprise Risk Management – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Risk Management Strategy, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Risk Appetite Statement, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Investment - Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Investment – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 3.1.5.

Business Continuity Management – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Business Continuity Management - Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Sustainability – Governing Policy amendments

Council resolved to approve that the Sustainability - Governing Policy be reclassified as an Operational Policy, and note that the amendments can be subsequently formally approved by the Vice-Chancellor and President, as set out in Document 4.4.1.

Attestation Statement on Freedom of Speech

Council resolved to approve that USC adopt the Attestation Statement on Freedom of Speech, as recommended by the University Chancellors Council, as set out in Document 3.4.2.

Major Projects Reference Group

Council noted that the Composition and Terms of Reference of the Major Projects Reference Group had recently been approved by the Planning and Resources Committee, as set out in Document 6.1.2.

Other items

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • USC Moreton Bay Developments
  • Corporate Performance Report against the Strategic Plan 2021-2024
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Program report
  • Council elections update
  • USC Student Senate Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting - 12 August 2021

2021 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2021 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

USC Moreton Bay Development

Council received an update on the development of the USC Moreton Bay Campus.

Election of Council Members – Governing Policy amendments

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Election of Council Members – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 3.4.1.

Responsible Research Conduct – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Responsible Research Conduct – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.3.1.

Honorary Awards – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Honorary Awards – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.4.1.

Other items

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • USC Student Senate Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting - 27 May 2021

At its meeting held on 27 May 2021, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Presentation: Thompson Institute – Professor Jim Lagopoulos, Director

Council received a presentation from the Director, Thompson Institute, Professor Jim Lagopoulos who provided an overview of the Thompson Institute’s unique integrated model of care and its research platforms, research themes, and services.

Strategic Plan and draft top level plans (Academic, Research, Engagement and Corporate)

Council resolved to approve the Strategic Plan 2021-2024, as set out in Document 3.1.1. Council noted the draft top level plans (Academic, Research, Engagement and Corporate.

USC Moreton Bay Development

Council received an update on the development of the campus at USC Moreton Bay.

2021-2025 University Budget April Reforecast

Council resolved to approve the 2021-2025 University Budget April Reforecast, as set out in Document 3.2.3.

Report on USC activities which support compliance with Modern Slavery legislation

Council resolved to approve the 2020 Modern Slavery Statement for publication by 30 June 2021, as set out in Document 3.3.1.

Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom – Governing Policy amendments

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 3.5.1.

Working with Vulnerable People – Governing Policy amendments

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Working with Vulnerable People – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Copyright – Governing Policy amendments

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Copyright – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.3.1.

Other items

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Annual report on the Conferral of Awards
  • USC Student Senate Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting - 12 April 2021

At its meeting held on 12 April 2021, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Other items

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Update on the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Program
  • USC Student Senate Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting - 22 February 2021

At its meeting held on 22 February 2021, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Presentation: Proposed update to the Strategic Plan 2021-2024

Council received a presentation from the Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Helen Bartlett, on the proposed update to the Strategic Plan 2021-2024, following the consultation process.

USC 2020 Annual Financial Statements

Council resolved to approve the University’s 2020 Annual Financial Statements, as presented in Document 3.2.1

Foreign Interference Policy Amendments

Amendments were proposed to support the implementation of the Guidelines to Counter Foreign Interference in the Australian University Sector. Council resolved that the amendments to the following Governing Policies be approved, as set out in Document 3.2.2:

  • Controlled Entities – Governing Policy
  • Conflict of Interest – Governing Policy
  • Management of Contracts and Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) – Governing Policy
  • Responsible Research Conduct – Governing Policy

2020 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved that the 2020 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget be approved, as set out in Document 3.3.2.

Terms of Reference PRC, ARMC and Nominations Committee

Council resolved that the amendments to the Composition and Terms of Reference of the following Council Committees be approved, as set out in Document 3.5.1:

  • Planning and Resources Committee
  • Audit and Risk Management Committee
  • Nominations Committee (to be renamed as the Nominations Committee and Executive Committee of Council)

Amendments to student policies

Council resolved that the amendments to the following Governing Policies be approved, as set out in Document 3.5.2:

  • Student Conduct – Governing Policy
  • Student Grievance Resolution – Governing Policy
  • Sexual Assault, Sexual Harassment and Respectful Relationships (Students) – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve that the following Governing Policies be rescinded, as set out in Document 3.5.2, as their content had been included in amended policies:

  • Student Academic Integrity – Governing Policy
  • Anti-Discrimination and Freedom from Bullying and Harassment (Students) – Governing Policy.

Planning and Reporting – Governing Policy

Council resolved that the proposed amendments to the Planning and Reporting – Governing Policy be approved, as set out in Document 4.2.1.

Election of Deputy Chancellor

Council received a paper noting the outcome of a call for nominations for the office of Deputy Chancellor of the University of the Sunshine Coast, as set out in Document 8.1. Council noted that Mr Scott Williams AM had been elected to the Office of Deputy Chancellor by the members of Council and Council resolved to approve his term of office until 10 December 2024, subject to his continued membership on Council as an external member.

Committee membership re-appointment

Council resolved to reappoint Mr Scott Williams AM as Chairperson of the Planning and Resources Committee commencing from 11 April 2021 for a three-year term, subject to his continued membership on Council as an external member, as set out in Document 8.2.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

    • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
    • Exercise of Authorisations
    • Report on Use of the University Seal
    • Report on programs accredited by Academic Board in 2020
    • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 3 December 2020

At its meeting held on 3 December 2020, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Presentation: Health, Safety and Wellbeing

Council received a presentation from Dr Christina Turner, Director, Human Resources, on Health, Safety and Wellbeing at USC, highlighting a review of key activities undertaken over the past twelve months, including responding to the COVID-19 environment.

2021-2025 University  Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2021-2025 University Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Audit and Assurance Framework Governing Policy and Internal Audit Charter 

Council resolved that the amendments to the Audit and Assurance Framework Governing Policy and associated Internal Audit Charter be approved, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Strategic Plan – Review session

The Vice-Chancellor and President provided Council with an introduction to the Strategic Plan review session, facilitated by the Director, Marketing and External Engagement.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Student Senate Report
  • Corporate Performance Report on the Strategic Plan 2019-2022
  • Annual Review of Delegations – Delegations Manual and Schedules
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Program update
  • Compliance with UCC Voluntary Code of Best Practice for Governance of Australian Universities
  • Diversity and Inclusion Plan
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 22 October 2020

At its meeting held on 22 October 2020, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

2020-2024 August Budget Reforecast

Council resolved to approve the 2020-2024 August Reforecast University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Annual Review of Risk Documents

Council resolved to approve that there be no amendments to the Enterprise Risk Management – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Council resolved to approve amendments to the Risk Management Strategy and the Risk Appetite Framework, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Council resolved to approve that there be no amendments to the Risk Appetite Statement, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Thompson Institute Board appointment

Council resolved to approve the appointment of a new Director and Company Secretary to the Thompson Institute Pty Ltd Board until 21 July 2023, as set out in Document 4.4.1.

Strategic Plan and Vision for USC - presentation and discussion

The Vice-Chancellor and President provided a presentation on the proposed way forward for refreshing the Strategic Plan.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Student Senate Report
  • Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting - 6 August 2020

At its meeting held on 6 August 2020, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

2020 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2020 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 3.3.1.

Responsible Research Conduct – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the proposed changes to the Responsible Research Conduct – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.3.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • USC Key Statistics and Performance Measures Report
  • Moreton Bay Project Update
  • Campus Planning & Development, Capital and Commercial and Asset Management Services Report
  • USC Operational Plan 2020-2022 Status Report
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Program update
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting - 4 June 2020

At its meeting held on 4 June 2020, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

2020 April Budget Reforecast

Council resolved to approve the 2020-2024 April Reforecast University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Business Continuity and Incident Management Framework

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Business Continuity Management – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Critical Incident Management – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • ICSC Board Reports
  • USC Key Statistics and Performance Measures Report
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Program Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 23 April 2020

At its meeting held on 21 April 2020, the following matters were received or noted by the University Council:

Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)

  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Report from student members – USC Student Senate Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting - 20 February 2020

At its meeting held on 20 February 2020, the following matters were received/considered/noted by the University Council:

Presentation: Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research (ACPIR)

Council received a presentation from Professor Steven Underhill, Director, of the recently established Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research (ACPIR). Professor Underhill gave an overview of the work of ACPIR, which contributes to Pacific Islander wellbeing and sustainability through research for development.

USC 2019 Annual Financial Statements

Council resolved to approve the University’s 2019 Annual Financial Statements, as presented in Document 3.1.1

2019 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2019 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 4.2.1.

HR Policy Amendments regarding Human Rights

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Equity and Diversity – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.4.1.

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Anti-Discrimination and Freedom from Harassment (Staff) – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.4.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
  • ICSC Board Report
  • USC Moreton Bay Precinct Program Performance Report
  • USC Operational Plan 2019-2021 Status Report
  • USC Operational Plan 2020-2022
  • USC Key Statistics and Performance Measures Report
  • Programs accredited in 2019
  • Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Pilot Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 5 December 2019

At its meeting held on 5 December 2019, the following matters were received/considered/noted by the University Council:

Presentation: Workplace Health and Safety

Council received a presentation from Dr Christina Turner, Director, Human Resources and Ms Sue Beaton, Human Resources Consultant (Health, Safety and Wellbeing) on Workplace Health and Safety.

2020-2024 University Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2020-2024 University Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Acceptable Use of ICT Resources – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Acceptable Use of ICT Resources – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.2.1.

Internationalisation – Governing Policy – rescission

Council resolved to approve the rescission of the Internationalisation – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.3.

Management of Contracts and MOUs and Policy Framework to incorporate Human Rights changes

Council resolved to approve amendments to the Management of Contracts and Memoranda of Understanding – Governing Policy and Policy Framework – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.4.

Sustainability – Governing Policy – amendments

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Sustainability – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.2.1.

ICSC Board membership

Council resolved to approve that Ms Julie-Ann Mee and Mr Mark Ferris be reappointed and Ms Jenny Morawska be appointed to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a period of three years.

Responsible Research Conduct – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Responsible Research Conduct – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.3.1.

Honorary Awards – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Honorary Awards – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.4.1.

Naming – Governing Policy – amendments

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Naming – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.5.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
  • Capital & Commercial & Asset Management Report
  • ICSC Board Report
  • Moreton Bay Project Update
  • USC Operational Plan 2019-2021 Status Report
  • Draft USC Operational Plan 2020-2022
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Pilot Report
  • Compliance with UCC Code of Best Practice for Governance of Australian Universities
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting - 25 September 2019​

At its meeting held on 25 September 2019, the following matters were received/considered/noted by the University Council:

2019 August Budget Reforecast

Council resolved to approve the 2019 April Reforecast University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

Review of Risk Management Strategy and Risk Appetite Statement

Council resolved to approve the changes to the Risk Appetite Statement, Risk Appetite Framework and Risk Management Strategy, as set out in Document 3.2.1.

Student Fees and Charges – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Student Fees and Charges – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.4.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
  • Capital & Commercial & Asset Management Report
  • ICSC Board Report
  • Moreton Bay Project Update
  • USC Operational Plan 2019-2021 Status Report
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Pilot Report
  • Sustainability and Engagement Forum Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting - 1 August 2019

At its meeting held on 1 August 2019, the following matters were received/considered/noted by the University Council:

Presentations: Forestry Research at USC and proposed Forestry Research Institute

Council received a presentation from Professor Mark Brown, Director, Forest Industries Research Centre and Professor John Herbohn, Director Tropical Forests and People Research Centre covering research undertaken by the three forest Research Centres taking place in several countries.

Strategic Plan 2019-2022 performance measure business rules and target assessment summary

Council resolved to approve the Strategic Plan 2019-2022 performance measure business rules and target assessment summary, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

June Budget Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the June Budget Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.2.

Amendments to the Composition of the Academic Board

Council resolved to approve the changes to the Composition of Academic Board, as set out in Document 3.3.1.

Planning and Reporting Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Planning and Reporting Framework – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.2.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
  • French Review into Freedom of Speech
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Overview of the inaugural Sustainability and Engagement Forum held on 29 May 2019
  • Capital & Commercial & Asset Management Report
  • Moreton Bay Project Update
  • Annual Report on Conferral of Awards
  • Report on Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Pilot Report

Report on Council meeting - 29 May 2019

At its meeting held on 29 May 2019, the following matters were received/considered/noted by the University Council:

Presentation: Professor Gary Thomas, Dean, Indigenous Education and Engagement

Council received a presentation from Professor Gary Thomas, Dean, Indigenous Education and Engagement, providing an overview of Indigenous Higher Education and Engagement at USC.

Measures/KPIs for Strategic Plan 2019-2022

Council resolved to approve the measures/KPIs to monitor performance against the Strategic Plan 2019-2022, as set out in Document 3.1.1.

2019 April Budget Reforecast

Council resolved to approve the 2019 April Reforecast University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 3.1.2.

Working with Vulnerable People - Managerial Policy / Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the reclassification of the Working with Vulnerable People Managerial Policy to Governing Policy, as set out in Document 3.2.1

Amendments to Terms of Reference of Academic Board

Council resolved to approve the changes to the Terms of Reference for Academic Board, as set out in Document 3.3.1.

Student Academic Appeals Committee – Amendments to policies:

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the following policies, as set out in Document 3.3.2:

  • Student Grievance Resolution – Governing Policy,
  • Student Academic Integrity – Governing Policy.

Program and Course Committee:  Amendments to the Program Accreditation and Course Approval – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Program Accreditation and Course Approval – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 3.3.3.

Copyright – Managerial Policy / Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Copyright – Managerial Policy, including its reclassification to Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.

Fraud and Corruption Framework including Fraud and Corruption Control – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Fraud and Corruption Control - Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.2.

Public Interest Disclosures – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Public Interest Disclosures - Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.3.

ICSC Board membership

Council resolved to approve that Dr Kirsten Baulch be reappointed to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd.

Council resolved to approve that Dr Peter Isdale be reappointed to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
  • Report on Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) 2018
  • Moreton Bay Project Update
  • Report on Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Pilot Report
  • Higher Education Sector Policy Developments Report
  • Council Retreat Outcomes Report
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 8 April 2019

At its meeting held on 8 April 2019, the University Council received/considered/noted the following non-confidential key matters:

Items

On this occasion, Council received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
  • Report on Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Pilot Report

Report on Council meeting – 20 February 2019

At its meeting held on 20 February 2019, the University Council received/considered/noted the following non-confidential key matters:

Presentation: Professor Paul Salmon, Director, Centre for Human Factors and Sociotechnical Systems.

Council received a presentation from Paul Salmon, Director, Centre for Human Factors and Sociotechnical Systems giving an overview of the Centre and its research projects and higher degree by research program.

USC 2018 Annual Financial Statements

Council resolved to approve the University’s 2018 Annual Financial Statements, as set out in Document 3.2.1, for sign off by the Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Chief Operating Officer before the QAO deadline, as advised by the Chief Financial Officer.

2018 December Financial Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the 2018 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 4.1.

Complaints about the VCP – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Complaints about the VCP (Crime and Corruption Act 2001, s 48A) – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.2.

Council Handbook and Nominations Committee Terms of Reference

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Council Handbook, as set out in Document 4.3, Attachment 1, and incorporating the amendments recommended by the Nominations Committee.

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the composition and terms of reference of the Nominations Committee, as set out in Document 4.3, Attachment 2.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
  • Report on Exercise of Authorisations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • ICSC Board Report
  • 2019 Operational Plan
  • Programs accredited in 2018 Report
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Pilot Report

Report on Council meeting – 6 December 2018

At its meeting held on 6 December 2018, the University Council received/considered/noted the following non-confidential key matters:

Presentation: Students as partners in university governance and decision making.

Council received a presentation on students as partners in university governance and decision making from Raymart Walker, New Colombo Plan Scholar, supported by five representatives of the student body; Tyson Kettlewell, SRC Co-Chair, Deborah Kelsey, SRC Co-Chair, Melanie Hulm, Incoming SRC Co-Chair and Gympie Campus representative, Samuel Chee, Student Guild President and Lawrence Ezedinma, HDR and International student.

Presentation: USC International Development

Council received a presentation on International development from Professor Robert Elliot, PVC (International and Quality) and Tami Harriot, Manager USC International Development.

Revisions to the Strategic Plan and Strategic Risks for the University

Council resolved to approve the proposed Strategic Plan 2019-2022, as set out in Document 3.1.2.

Council resolved to approve the revised Strategic Risks for University, as set out in Document 3.1.2.

Business Continuity Management – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Business Continuity Management – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.1.

Review of Internal Audit Charter

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Audit and Assurance Framework Governing Policy and associated Internal Audit Charter, as set out in Document 4.2.

Controlled Entities – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Controlled Entities – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.3.

Responsible Research Conduct – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Responsible Research Conduct – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.4.

Council resolved to approve the rescission of the current Research Misconduct – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 4.4, subject to the approval of the proposed Responsible Research Conduct – Governing Policy.

Council resolved to approve consequential amendments to the Student Academic Integrity – Governing Policy and the Student Grievance Resolution – Governing Policy, as set out in Documents 4.4.1 and 4.4.2.

Terms of Reference of Council Committees

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the composition and terms of reference of the following Council committees, as set out in Document 4.5:

  • Planning and Resources Committee
  • Audit and Risk Management Committee
  • Nominations Committee
  • Honorary Awards Committee
Amendment to Composition of Academic Board

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the composition of the Academic Board, as set out in Document 4.6.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • ICSC Board Report
  • Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Pilot
  • 2019 Schedule of Policy Reviews

Report on Council meeting – 26 September 2018

At its meeting held on 26 September 2018, the University Council received/considered/noted the following non-confidential key matters:

Presentation from DVC (Research and Innovation) and Director, Office of Research - Intellectual Property at USC

Council received a presentation from Professor Roland De Marco, DVC (Research and Innovation), Ms Michelle Searle, Director, Office of Research and Michael Finney, Commercialisation Strategy Advisor on intellectual property (IP) at USC.

Presentation from Director, Centre for Support and Advancement of Learning and Teaching (C-SALT) and Academic Director for Simulation and Visualisation - Blended Learning at USC

Council received a presentation and demonstration from Dr Ruth Greenaway, Director, C-SALT, Associate Professor Patrea Andersen, Academic Director, Simulation and Visualisation and Mr Mark Barry, Manager, Visualisation Facilities on blended learning at USC.

ICSC Board Membership

Council resolved to approve the re-appointment of Professor Roland De Marco as a Board Director of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a further three-year term commencing 24 February 2019 and concluding on 23 February 2022.

Enterprise Risk Management – Governing Policy and Risk Management Strategy

Council resolved to approve the proposed amendments to the Enterprise Risk Management – Governing Policy and the Risk Management Strategy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Intellectual Property – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the proposed amendments to the Intellectual Property – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.3.

Overview of USC Act including recent changes

Council received an overview of the USC Act including recent changes as Document 8.4.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Counci
  • ICSC Board Report

Report on Council meeting – 2 August 2018

At its meeting held on 2 August 2018, the University Council received/considered/noted the following non-confidential key matters:

Presentation from Kevin Todd, Associate Director, Conservation Design Projects – International Conservation Design Projects

Council received a presentation from Kevin Todd, Associate Director, Conservation Design Projects on International Conservation Design Projects.

Voluntary Code of Best Practice for the Governance of Australian Public Universities

Council received a verbal report from the Chancellor on the revised Voluntary Code of Best Practice for the Governance of Australian Public Universities.

2018 June Budget Outcomes Report

Council resolved that it approve the 2018 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Attachment 1.

PRC membership

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Dr Ruth Greenaway to the membership of the Planning and Resources Committee in the category of “A member of the University Executive or Senior Staff, nominated by the Vice-Chancellor and President and appointed by Council” for a two year term commencing 20 August 2018.

Council resolved to approve that Christopher Harris be re reappointed to the PRC for a further two-year term, commencing from 30 September 2018, in the membership category Four members with expertise in strategic financial management and planning.

Changes to the International Recruitment Representatives – Governing Policy

Council noted amendments to the International Recruitment Representatives – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
  • Council Review Report
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • ICSC Board Report
  • USC’s annual giving day, G-Day would be held on 16 August

Report on Council meeting – 21 May 2018

At its meeting held on 21 May 2018, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation by Director, Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience – Thompson Institute

Council received a presentation from Professor Jim Lagopoulos, Director of the Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience Thompson Institute on developments since it commenced operation two years ago.

Annual Report on activities of the Foundation Board – Presentation by Russell Ousley, Director, Development Office

Council received a report and presentation from Russel Ousley, Director of the Development Office on the development strategies and activities they undertake and the form of donations received and how they are used.

Indigenous matters

Council received a report titled Current Statistics and Trends – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students at USC, as set out in Document 4.2. The report showcases USC’s achievements.

Moreton Bay Project authorisations and update

Council resolved to authorise management to sign the USC-MBRC Development Agreement.

Thompson Institute

Council discussed a proposal to rezone the Thompson Institute site at 12 Innovation Parkway, Birtinya but was interested in being provided with additional detail prior to further consideration at a subsequent Council meeting.

2018 April Budget Reforecast

Council resolved to approve the April 2018-2022 Reforecast University Triennial Budget, as set out in Document 6.2.2.

Equity and Diversity - Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the proposed amendments to the Equity and Diversity - Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Compliance Management Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the proposed amendments to the Compliance Management Framework – Governing Policy and endorses the following supporting procedures for the approval of the Vice-Chancellor and President, as set out in Document 7.2.

  • Compliance Management Framework – Procedures
  • Compliance Management Framework Annual Compliance Review – Procedures
  • Compliance Management Framework Breach Reporting - Procedures
Governance Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the proposed amendments to the Governance Framework – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.3.

Delegations Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the proposed amendments to the Delegations Framework – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.4.

Management of Contracts and Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the proposed changes to the Management of Contracts and Memoranda of Understanding – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.5.

Election of Council Members – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the proposed amendments to the Election of Council Members – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.6.

Land, Traffic and Parking Rules – Rescission

Council resolved to approve rescission of the Land, Traffic and Parking Rules, from 1 June 2018, as set out in Document 7.7, noting that the Rules will be replaced by the new Conduct on University Premises – Managerial Policy and significant amendments to the Parking – Managerial Policy, including the Conditions of Parking.

Council Membership

Council resolved to approve that Ms Jenny Morawska be appointed to the membership of Council in the category of “Additional member appointed by Council (member of the USC Alumni)” for a four-year term commencing from 9 December 2018.

Council resolved to approve that Mr Tim Rothwell be appointed to the membership of Council in the category of “Additional member appointed by Council” for a four-year term commencing from 2 August 2018.

Planning and Resources Committee membership

Council resolved to reappoint Scott Williams to the Planning and Resources Committee for a further two year term, commencing from 26 May 2018.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Academic Plan Performance Report
  • 2017 Student Guild Financial Statements
  • Council Retreat Outcomes Report

Report on Council meeting – 9 April 2018

At its meeting held on 9 April 2018, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from Executive Dean – FoSHEE

Council received a presentation from Professor John Bartlett, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering on the highlights of 2017 and initiatives planned by the Faculty for 2018.

Presentation from Executive Dean - FABL

Council received a presentation from Professor Tim Smith, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Business and Law on the highlights of 2017 and initiatives planned by the Faculty for 2018.

2018-2022 University Budget update

Council received a paper regarding the 2018-2022 University Budget update (post MYEFO) as Document 4.4.

ARMC Membership

Council resolved to approve:

  1. that Sandra Birkensleigh move from the Audit and Risk Management Committee (ARMC) category of “Member of the professional accounting bodies or audit bodies in Australia with a professional accounting, management consultancy or audit background” to the category of “Member of Council” for the remainder of her current term until 2 August 2018;
  2. the reappointment of Sandra Birkensleigh to the ARMC for a three year term commencing from 3 August 2018 in the category of “Member of Council”.

Council resolved to approve that Phillip Strachan be appointed to the membership of the Audit and Risk Management Committee in the category of “Member of the professional accounting bodies or audit bodies in Australia with a professional accounting, management consultancy or audit background” for a three year term commencing from the second ARMC meeting in 2018 (8 May 2018).

Honorary Awards Committee Membership

Council resolved to approve that the Acting Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Robert Elliot, be appointed to the Honorary Awards Committee in the category of “A member of Executive on Council, Planning and Resources Committee or Audit and Risk Management Committee, nominated by the Vice-Chancellor and President and appointed by Council” effective immediately, and concluding upon the commencement of the appointment of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Tim Wess.

Council resolved to approve that the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Tim Wess, be appointed to the Honorary Awards Committee from the commencement of his appointment at USC, in the category of “A member of Executive on Council, Planning and Resources Committee or Audit and Risk Management Committee, nominated by the Vice-Chancellor and President and appointed by Council”, for a three year term.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Minutes of the Sustainability Management Committee

Report on Council meeting – 22 February 2018

At its meeting held on 22 February 2018, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from PVC (International and Quality)

Council received a presentation from Professor Robert Elliot, PVC (International and Quality) on International Student Recruitment: Trends, Opportunities and Risks.

Presentation from DVC (Research)

Council received a presentation from Professor Roland De Marco, DVC (Research and Innovation) on USC Research Highlights.

2017 USC Audited Financial Statements

Council resolved to approve the University’s 2017 Annual Financial Statements, as set out in Document 6.1.3, for sign off by the Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor and President and Chief Operating Officer before the QAO deadline, as advised by the CFO.

Moreton Bay update

Council received an update from the Chief Operating Officer, Dr Scott Snyder, on the Moreton Bay Campus Project.

2017 December Financial Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the 2017 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget as set out in Document 6.2.4.

2018 – 2022 University Budget

Council was briefed by the Chief Operating Officer, Dr Scott Snyder, regarding the University’s budget approach post the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO).

Change to the composition of Academic Board

Council resolved to approve amendments to the composition and terms of reference of the Academic Board to include the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement) as an ex-officio member, as set out in Document 6.3.6.

Chairperson of the Academic Board

Council resolved to approve that the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) be appointed as the Chairperson of the Academic Board for a three-year term commencing from the date of appointment of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), as set out in Document 6.3.7.

Incident Management – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Incident Management – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Delegations Framework – Governing Policy and Schedule of Delegations

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Delegations Schedule as set out in Document 7.2 and noted that the wider review of the Delegations Framework was planned for 2018.

Farewell to Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor

Council noted that 22 February 2018 would be the final Council meeting attended by the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Birgit Lohmann. The Chancellor gave a vote of thanks to Professor Lohmann, on behalf of Council, for her sterling service and valuable expertise and contributions to Council.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Capital & Commercial and Asset Management Services Report
  • Annual Report of the Executive Dean, FABL
  • Annual Report of the Executive Dean, FOSHEE
  • Minutes of the Sustainability Management Committee
  • ICSC Board Report

Report on Council meeting – 8 December 2017

At its meeting held on 8 December 2017, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Internal Control Certification by Council members

The Senior Legal Officer, Mr Swain Roberts, and the University Risk Manager, Ms Rana Williams gave a short presentation on the Internal Control Certification form, which had been distributed to Council as Document 2.1.

Elite Sports at USC

The Director of the Office of the VCP, Mr Don Maconachie, and his Elite Sports Project team: Prof Brendan Burkett (USC Director of High Performance Sport), Mrs Trudi Ashcroft, Ms Tania Stevenson and Dr Mark Sayers gave a presentation on Elite Sports at USC.

Council members’ liabilities and protections

Council resolved to approve the Guidelines on the duties and liabilities of Council members, as set out in Document 6.1.3.

Summary of USC Companies

Council resolved to permit ICSC Board Pty Ltd to apply for an exemption from the QAO Audit of Financial Statements for the 2017 Financial Period.

Internal Audit Plan 2018

Council resolved to approve the draft Internal Audit Plan, as set out in Document 6.1.5.

Update on new campus developments and other new initiatives

The Chief Operating Officer gave a report on new campus developments and other key major projects including the Moreton Bay Campus.

2018 – 2022 University Budget

Council resolved to adopt the 2018-2022 University Budget, as set out in Document 6.2.4.

Academic Performance Report

Council resolved to approve the proposed new Measures and Targets for Academic Plan Imperative 5.1 and 5.2, as set out in Document 6.2.7.

PRC Membership

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Mr Tim Rothwell to PRC for a two-year period, commencing from the second PRC meeting in 2018 (3 May).

Animal Ethics – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Animal Ethics Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Rescission of Adjunct Appointees and Visiting Fellow – Governing Policy

Council resolved to rescind the Adjunct Appointees and Visiting Fellow – Governing Policy.

Risk Management - Procedures

Council resolved to approve the proposed amendments to the Risk Management Procedures, as set out in Document 7.3.

Expenditure of Donated Funds

Council resolved to note the donation of artworks and a residual estate, valued at approximately $2,076,450, from Arija Austin, bequeathed to USC for the purposes outlined, in Document 9.1.1.

Council resolved to note the expenses incurred to date, associated with the Austin Art collection, as outlined in Document 9.1.1.

Council resolved to approve expenditure of the remaining money on construction costs associated with extension of the current USC Art Gallery.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Report on Use of the Company Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Corporate Performance Report
  • Capital & Commercial and Asset Management Services Report
  • 2018 Schedule of Policy Reviews

Report on Council meeting – 17 October 2017

At its meeting held on 17 October 2017, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Update on new campus developments and other new initiatives

The Chief Operating Officer gave a report on new campus developments and other key major projects.

2017 August Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2017 August Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 6.2.3.

Review of Audit and Assurance Governing Policy and Audit Charter

Council resolved to approve amendments to the Audit and Assurance Governing Policy and Audit Charter, as set out in Document 7.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • RUN Submission to the Independent Review into Regional, Rural and Remote Education
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Capital & Commercial and Asset Management Services Report
  • 2018 Schedule of Student Fees
  • Sustainability Management Committee Minutes

Report on Council meeting – 16 August 2017

At its meeting held on 16 August 2017, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from the PVC (Engagement) and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Business and Law (FABL)

Council received a presentation from Professor Joanne Scott, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Engagement) and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Business and Law (FABL) on the key highlights of the faculty’s work.

Presentation from the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering (FoSHEE)

Council received a presentation from Professor John Bartlett, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering (FoSHEE) on the key highlights of the faculty’s work.

Exercise of Delegations

Council resolved that Marketing and External Engagement be requested to amend the Academic Dress – Managerial Policy to reflect that Council and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor must be consulted before any changes to the Academic Dress, worn by Councillors, was approved.

Purchase of an MRI machine using donated funds

Council resolved to note the donation of $3.6 Million from Roy and Nola Thompson for the procurement of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine to be installed at USC’s Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience – Thompson Institute.

In accordance with Division 2, Section 11, 3, B of the USC Act, Council resolved to approve the University using the $3.6 Million donation received from Roy and Nola Thompson to purchase an MRI machine in accordance with the wishes of the donors.

Caboolture Business Plan

Council resolved to approve the business plan, as set out in Document 6.2.2, with a view to management proceeding with the acquisition of the Caboolture campus.

Update on new campus developments and other new initiatives

The Chief Operating Officer gave a verbal update on new campus developments and other key major projects.

2017 June Budget Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the 2017 June Budget Outcomes Report, as set out in Document 6.2.4.

Veolia Market Led Proposal for Chilled Water and Energy

Council resolved to approve Management proceeding with the Veolia Market Led Proposal for Chilled Water and Energy, as set out in the proposal (Document 6.2.5).

Creation of easements – YOUI to USC land

Council resolved to give in principle for Project Urban, on behalf of Youi, to progress the design and execution of easements to enable stormwater from the Youi site to be discharged over USC land, leading to development of a new agreement regarding the legal point of discharge.

Amendments to the Human Research Ethics – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Human Research Ethics – Governing Policy as set out in Document 7.1.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • 2016 Student Guild Financial Statements
  • Capital & Commercial and Asset Management Services Report
  • ICSC Board Report
  • 2017 USC Institutional Performance Portfolio Information Collection

Report on Council meeting – 27 June 2017

At its meeting held on 27 June 2017, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from the Director, Office of the VCP on the NDIS Project

Council received a presentation from Don Maconachie, Director of the Office of the VCP, on the National Disabilities Insurance Scheme (NDIS) highlighting key matters of interest to Council.

2017-2021 April Reforecast of the University Consolidated

Council resolved to approve the 2017-2021 April Reforecast of the University Consolidated as set out in Document 6.2.2.

Moreton Bay Update

Council resolved to authorise Management to appoint one of the final three architect candidates for the Moreton Bay development following completion of reference checking and assessment of assumptions underpinning Separable Portion C funding (as set out in Document 6.2.4 Attachment 1), noting that the University would be committed to the expenditure for Separable Portions A and B even if funding agreements with the Commonwealth did not conclude successfully.

Corporate Performance Report May 2017

Council resolved to approve a change to Key Performance Indicator 1.4 – Graduate Outcomes as set out in the covering memorandum to Document 6.2.6.

Planning and Resources Committee Membership

Council resolved to reappoint David Foster to the Planning and Resources Committee for a further two years, commencing from 6 August 2017.

Council resolved to reappoint Bernard Smith to the Planning and Resources Committee for a further two years, commencing from 6 August 2017

Academic Plan KPIs

Council resolved to approve the proposed Measures and Targets for the Academic Plan 2016-2020, as set out in Document 6.2.10, noting that further work needed to be undertaken in order for targets to be finalised across all areas and that Council’s approval would be sought for the remaining targets, in due course.

Establishment of a Nominations Committee

Council resolved to approve the establishment of the Nominations Committee, replacing the Chancellor’s Committee, as set out in Document 8.2.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Report on USC Retail
  • Capital & Commercial and Asset Management Services Report
  • Sustainability Management Committee Minutes
  • ICSC Board Report
  • Council Retreat Outcomes
  • Report to Council on the Student Guild

Report on Council meeting – 10 April 2017

At its meeting held on 10 April 2017, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Appointment of new Chairperson, ARMC

Council resolved to appoint Sandra Birkensleigh as Chairperson of the Audit and Risk Management Committee, commencing on 11 April 2017.

Appointment of new Chairperson, PRC

Council resolved to appoint Scott Williams as Chairperson of the Planning and Resources Committee, commencing on 11 April 2017.

Anti-Discrimination and Freedom from Bullying and Harassment (Students) - Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Anti-Discrimination and Freedom from Bullying and Harassment (Students) - Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.1.

Anti-Discrimination and Freedom from Bullying and Harassment (Staff) - Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Anti-Discrimination and Freedom from Bullying and Harassment (Staff) - Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.2.

Freedom from Sexual Harassment (Students) - Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Freedom from Sexual Harassment (Students) – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.3.

Appointment of new member on Council

Council resolved to appoint David Foster to Council in the category Additional Member Appointed by Council for a term of four years, commencing immediately.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • ICSC Board Report
  • Annual Report on the activities of the Foundation Board

Report on Council meeting – 21 February 2017

At its meeting held on 21 February 2017, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

New Campus Developments and other major projects

The Chief Operating Officer gave a verbal update on new campus developments and other key major projects.

USC Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2017-2019

The USC Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2017-2019 was noted, as presented by the PVC (Students) and set out in Document 4.3.1.

2016 USC Audited Financial Statements

Council resolved to approve the University’s 2016 Annual Financial Statements for sign off by the Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor and President and Chief Operating Officer before the QAO deadline, as advised by the CFO.

2016 December Budget Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the 2016 December Budget Outcomes Report, as set out in Document 6.2.2.

ICSC Membership

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Mr Mark Ferris to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a period of three years, commencing 21 February 2017 – 20 February 2020.

Complaints about the Vice-Chancellor and President (Crime and Corruption Act 2001 S 48A) Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Complaints about the Vice-Chancellor and President (Crime and Corruption Act 2001 S 48A) Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 - The provision of indemnities by Statutory Bodies

A Memorandum outlining recent changes affecting the provision of indemnities by Statutory Bodies was noted, as set out in Document 8.3.

Vote of thanks to the outgoing Chancellor

Council were informed that, after 20 years of service to the University Council, including ten years as Chancellor, today would be the final meeting attended by John Dobson. As a regional leader, well known for his dedication to the community, John first joined Council in August 1996 and shortly after commenced as Chairperson of USC’s Foundation Board. During this time on Council, he provided the necessary leadership to successive Councils, to achieve the appropriate balance of scrutiny and support for the University’s executive. John’s willingness to engage with local philanthropists has led to the University securing close to $10 Million in donations over the years (leading to the construction of a multi-level car park at Sippy Downs and the creation of the Thompson Institute).

The Deputy Chancellor proposed a vote of thanks to the outgoing Chancellor for his significant contribution to the University over the past 20 years.

Mr Dobson responded by thanking Council and the Executive for their support over the years adding that it had been an honour and a privilege to serve as the Chancellor of such a fine institution.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • 2016 ICSC Audited Financial Statements
  • Capital & Commercial and Asset Management Services Report
  • Annual Report of the Executive Dean – FABL
  • Annual Report of the Executive Dean - FoSHEE

Report on Council meeting – 6 December 2016

At its meeting held on 6 December 2016, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from the Director of the Clinical Trials Centre

Council received a presentation from the Director of the Clinical Trials Centre (CTC), Lucas Litewka on the work which was being undertaken by the Centre.

Rebranding of USC

Council resolved to approve the proposed new USC logo designs, as set out in Document 4.4.

2017-2021 University Budget (including presentation from the COO)

Council received a presentation from the Chief Operating Officer, Dr Scott Snyder.

Council resolved to adopt the 2017-2021 University Budget as set out in Document 6.2.1.

Changes to the Student Guild Constitution

Council resolved to approve the proposed changes to the Student Guild Constitution, as set out in Document 6.2.8, subject to the changes also being approved by a special resolution at a general meeting of the Student Guild under the terms of its current Constitution.

Appointment of Chairperson of Academic Board

Council resolved to reappoint Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Birgit Lohmann, as Chairperson of the Academic Board for a further three-year term, expiring on 13 February 2020.

Delegations Framework – Governing Policy and Schedule of Delegations

Council resolved to approve the changes to the Delegations Schedule, as set out in Document 7.2.

Scholarships, Bursaries and Prizes – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the changes to the Scholarships, Bursaries and Prizes – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.3.

Student Grievance Resolution – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the changes to the Student Grievances Resolution – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.4.

Student Conduct – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the changes to the Student Conduct – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.5.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Acting-Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Sustainability Management Committee Annual Report and Action Plan
  • Capital & Commercial and Asset Management Services Report
  • ICSC Board Report and 2017 Business Plan
  • Timeline for nominations for Chancellor and draft protocols for conducting ballot

Report on Council meeting – 18 October 2016

At its meeting held on 18 October 2016, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) on Attrition

Council received a presentation from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students), Prof Karen Nelson, on Attrition.

USC Development at SunCentral (new Maroochydore CBD)

Council received an update on USC's planned involvement in the new SunCentral development.

Draft Resources Planning 2016-2020

Council resolved to approve the Resources Plan 2016-2020, as set out in Document 6.2.2.

Draft Academic Plan 2016-2020

Council resolved to approve the Academic Plan 2016-2020, as set out in Document 6.2.3.

2016 August Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2016 August Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 6.2.4.

PRC Membership (ARMC and PRC crossover)

Council resolved to approve a change to the composition of the Planning and Resources Committee, as set out in Document 6.2.6.

Election of Council Members – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Election of Council Members – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Internal Audit Charter

Council resolved to approve the revised Internal Audit Charter, as set out in Document 7.2.

Enterprise Risk Management and Resilience – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the revised Enterprise Risk Management and Resilience – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.3.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Acting-Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Capital & Commercial and Asset Management Services Report
  • ICSC Board Report
  • 2017 Schedule of Student Fees
  • Notice of election of Chancellor and Council approved election protocols
  • Council membership

Report on Council meeting – 23 August 2016

At its meeting held on 23 August 2016, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from Manish Malhotra, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Technical and Management College (ATMC)

Council received a presentation from Manish Malhotra, CEO of the Australian Technical and Management College (ATMC) on the purpose and global view of ATMC, growth of ATMC degrees, relationship with USC and their student support services.

New Campus Developments and other major projects

The Chief Operating Officer gave a verbal report on new campus developments and other major projects.

ARMC Membership

Council resolved to approve the reappointment Natasha Read to the ARMC for a further three-year term, commencing from 29 August 2016, in the membership category “Member of the professional accounting bodies or audit bodies in Australia with a professional accounting, management consultancy or audit background.”

Council resolved to approve the reappointment Gary McClennan to the ARMC for a further three-year term, commencing from 29 August 2016, in the membership category “Member of the professional accounting bodies or audit bodies in Australia with a professional accounting, management consultancy or audit background.”

2016 June Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the 2016 June Outcomes Report as set out in Document 6.2.4.

PRC Membership

Council resolved to appoint Mr Chris Harris to the Planning and Resources Committee in the category Four members with expertise in strategic financial management and planning for a two-year term, commencing on 30 September 2016.

Appointment of new Chairperson, ICSC Board

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Dr Peter Isdale as a Director of the ICSC Board for a three-year term, commencing on 1 September 2016.

Conflict of Interest – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the proposed amendments to the Conflict of Interest – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Proposed 2017 Council meeting dates

Council resolved to endorse the 2017 Council meeting dates, as set out in Document 8.1.

Establishment of USC Trust

Council received an update on the establishment of a USC Trust circulated as Document 8.2.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President and Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Capital & Commercial and Asset Management Services Report
  • ICSC Board Report
  • 2015 Student Guild Financial Statements

Report on Council meeting – 28 June 2016

At its meeting held on 28 June 2016, the University Council received / considered / noted the following key matters:

Presentation from the Director, Marketing and External Engagement on the University’s Marketing Strategy

Council received a presentation from the Director, Marketing and External Engagement on the University’s Marketing Strategy.

USC Risk Appetite Statement

Council resolved to approve the USC Risk Appetite Statement, as set out in Document 6.1.2.

ARMC Membership

Council resolved to appoint Jeff Forbes to the Audit and Risk Management Committee (ARMC) for an initial term of three years in the category of “Member of the professional accounting bodies or audit bodies in Australia with a professional accounting, management consultancy or audit background” commencing from 4 August 2016.

2016-2018 April Reforecast University Triennial Budget (Consolidated)

Council resolved to approve the 2016-2018 April Reforecast University Triennial Budget (Consolidated), as set out in Document 6.2.2.

PRC Membership

Council resolved to reappoint Prof Joanne Scott to the Planning and Resources Committee for a further two-year term in the membership category “One Executive Dean or Pro Vice-Chancellor, nominated by the Vice-Chancellor and President (VCP) and appointed by Council” commencing from 29 June 2016.

Change to the composition of Academic Board

Council resolved to approve changes to the composition of the Academic Board, as set out in Document 6.3.3.

Changes to the Honorary Awards – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Honorary Awards – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Sustainability Management – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Sustainability Management – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.2.

Complaints about the VCP – Governing Policy

Council resolved to endorse the draft Complaints about the VCP – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.4, with a view to the policy being submitted to the Crime and Corruption Commission as part of the next stage of consultation.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Acting-Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Capital and Commercial, and Asset Management Services Report
  • ICSC Board Report
  • USC Strategic Risk Register
  • Foundation Board Annual Report to Council
  • 2016 TEQSA Risk Assessment
  • Outcomes of 2016 Council Retreat

Report on Council meeting – 18 April 2016

At its meeting held on 18 April 2016, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Opportunities currently being explored by the Executive

Council noted that Management was currently investigating options to secure funding for additional sporting facilities at Sippy Downs to support the University’s new focus on Sporting Excellence.

Student Academic Integrity – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Student Academic Integrity – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Council resolved to approve the rescission of the Student Academic Misconduct – Academic Policy.

Changes to the Program and Course Approval – Governing Policy

Council resolved to note changes to the Program and Course Approval – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.2.

Retirement of Council Member – David Jeffries

Council noted David Jeffries’ retirement effective from 20 April 2016. Members noted that David had served on Council from August 2006 to April 2016 and had held the position of Deputy Chancellor from February 2010 to April 2015, and Chairperson of the Planning and Resources Committee from February 2010 to December 2014. Council further noted David and his wife’s strong support of students also, having established the Jalarema Indigenous Scholarship, awarded annually to Indigenous students in recognition of high academic endeavour at USC.

A formal vote of thanks was proposed to David Jeffries for his contribution to the University over the past decade.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegation
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 23 February 2016

At its meeting held on 23 February 2016, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering

Council received a presentation from the Executive Dean of FoSHEE on the highlights of 2015 and initiatives planned by the Faculty for 2016.

Presentation from the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Business and Law

Council received a presentation from the Executive Dean of FABL on the highlights of 2015 and initiatives planned by the Faculty for 2016.

2016-2020 USC Strategic Plan: Performance Measures and Targets

Council resolved to approve the 2016-2020 USC Strategic Plan: Performance Measures and Targets, as set out in Document 4.1

New Campus Developments

The Chief Operating Officer gave a verbal report on New Campus Developments including; Fraser Coast Campus, the Thompson Institute, Southbank Campus, Moreton Bay and the ATMC partnership.

2015 USC Audited Financial Statements

Council resolved to note that the ARMC was of the view that the University’s 2015 Annual Financial Statements, as presented in Document 6.1.2, were compliant with the Australian Accounting Standards and appropriate for sign-off.

Council resolved to approve the 2015 Annual Financial Statements, as set out in Document 6.1.2

Future directions of the ICSC and membership of the ICSC Board

Council resolved to approve the reappointment of Professor Mike Hefferan to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a further three-year term commencing 24 February 2016 – 23 February 2019.

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Professor Roland De Marco to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a period of three years commencing 24 February 2016 – 23 February 2019.

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Professor Mike Clements to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a period of three years commencing 24 February 2016 – 23 February 2019.

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Mr David Foster to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a period of three years commencing 24 February 2016 – 23 February 2019.

Council resolved to approve the reappointment of Dr Kirsten Baulch to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a period of three years commencing 19 June 2016 – 18 June 2019.

Council resolved to approve the reappointment of Mr Andrew Fern to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a period of three years commencing 19 June 2016 – 18 June 2019.

PRC Membership

Council resolved to reappoint Scott Williams AM to the Planning and Resources Committee for a further two years, commencing from 26 May 2016 to 25 May 2018.

Health, Safety and Wellbeing – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Health, Safety and Wellbeing – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Compliance Management Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Compliance Management Framework – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.2.

Fraud and Corruption Control – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Fraud and Corruption Control – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.3.

Management of Contracts and MoUs – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Management of Contracts and MoUs – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.4.

Administrative Review update

The Chief Operating Officer provided Council with an update on the Review of Administration and Professional Staff.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegation
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • ICSC 2015 Audited Financial Statements
  • December 2015 Outcomes Report
  • Capital, Commercial and Asset Management Report
  • ICSC Board Report
  • Annual Report from the Executive Dean, FABL
  • Annual Report from the Executive Dean, FoSHEE
  • Annual Report from the Heads of the School of Law
  • Programs accredited in 2015
  • 2016 Key Dates and Schedule of Business

Report on Council meeting – 08 December 2015

At its meeting held on 08 December 2015, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

2016-2020 USC Strategic Plan: Performance Measures and Targets

Council received a verbal narrative from the Vice-Chancellor and President on the 2016-2020 Strategic Plan: Performance Measures and Targets, as set out in Document 4.1.

New Campus Developments

Council received a verbal report from the Chief Operating Officer on New Campus Developments including; SunCentral, Southbank, Moreton Bay and ATMC.

2016-2018 USC Triennial Budget

Council received a verbal narrative from the Chief Operating Officer on the 2016-2018 Triennial Budget Report, circulated as Document 6.2.2.

Council resolved to adopt the 2016-2018 Triennial Budget as set out in Document 6.2.2.

Management of Contracts and MoUs – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Management of Contracts and Memorandums of Understanding – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Delegations Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Delegations Framework – Governing Policy and associated Schedule of Delegations, as set out in Document 7.2.

Honorary Awards – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve changes to the Honorary Awards – Governing Policy as set out in Document 7.3.

Council resolved to recommend to the Vice-Chancellor and President that the proposed amendments to the Honorary Awards - Procedures be approved, with immediate effect, as set out in Document 7.3, at which time it became the final approval of the Vice-Chancellor and President.

Third Party Provider Program Arrangements – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the new Third Party Provider Program Arrangements – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.4.

New student members on Council – results of ballot

Council was informed that the votes of the election of student members on Council had been held and that the following two students had been appointed to Council for the term 9 December 2015 to 8 December 2017:

  • Michael Jefferies
  • Raymart Walker.

Council expressed their appreciation to the outgoing student members, Sonya Wallace and Chelsea Wallis, for the valuable contribution that each had made to Council over the past two years.

Formation of USC Trust

Council resolved to approve:

  • The establishment of a USC Trust,
  • The USC Trust’s Constitution as set out in Document 8.6,
  • The appointment of a board of directors comprising:

Directors:

  • Scott Snyder, Chief Operating Officer (Chairperson),
  • Elizabeth Cannon, Director Financial Services and Chief Financial Officer,
  • Russell Ousley, Director Development Office.

Company Secretary:

  • Russell Ousley, Director Development Office.
Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegation
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Results of the 2015 ARMC and PRC performance reviews
  • Internal Audit – Outcome of Tender
  • Corporate Performance Report – November 2015
  • Top Level Plans Report – November 2015
  • Capital, Commercial and Asset Management Report (formerly Facilities Management)
  • ICSC Board Report
  • Annual report from the Sustainability Management Committee
  • 2016 Policy Review Schedule
  • Administration Review update report
  • 2014 Institutional Performance Portfolio (and Technical Document)

Report on Council meeting – 20 October 2015

At its meeting held on 20 October 2015, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from the PVC (Students) on the Student Engagement Strategy

Council received a presentation from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) on the Student Engagement Strategy.

Strategic Plan Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) - Update

Council received an update on the development of measure and targets associated with the KPIs in the new 2016-2020 Strategic Plan.

2015 August Reforecast

Council resolved to approve the 2015 August Reforecast as set out in Document 6.2.2.

Review of ITS - update

Council received a verbal report from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and Council Secretary regarding the Review of IT Services.

Review of Student Administration - update

Council received a verbal report from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) regarding the Review of Student Administration.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegation
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Capital, Commercial and Asset Management Report (formerly Facilities Management)
  • ICSC Board Report
  • Approved 2016 Student Fees report

Report on Council meeting – 22 September 2015

At its meeting held on 22 September 2015, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from the VCP, DVC and PVC(CS)&CS on the draft 2016-2020 Strategic Plan

Council received a presentation from the Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and Council Secretary on the 2016-2020 Strategic Plan.

Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience – Thompson Institute

Council received a verbal report from the Vice-Chancellor and President on the Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience – Thompson Institute (SCMN-TI).

Partnership with ATMC

Council resolved to endorse USC’s newly established partnership with the Australian Technical Management College (ATMC).

2016-2020 USC Strategic Plan

Council resolved to approve the 2016-2020 USC Strategic Plan and indicative measures as set out in Document 5.3.

Student Guild 2014 Audited Financial Statements

Council noted the Student Guild 2014 Audited Financial Statements, as circulated in Document 6.2.3.

2015 June Budget Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the 2015 June Budget Outcomes Report, as set out in Document 6.2.4.

Information Management Framework and Copyright Policies

Council resolved to approve the revised Information Management Framework – Governing Policy, effective from 1 September 2015.

Council resolved to rescind the following associated policies, effective from 23 September 2015.

  • Records Management – Governing Policy
  • Information Privacy – Governing Policy
  • Right to Information – Governing Policy
Report of the Review of ITS

Council noted the Summary Report on outcomes of the external review of IT Services, as set out in Document 8.1.1.

Review of Student Administration

The Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) provided Council with verbal update regarding the Review of Student Administration, and Council noted Document 8.1.2 regarding the review.

2016 Council Meeting Dates

Council resolved to endorse the 2016 Meeting Schedule set out below:

  • Tuesday 23 February
  • Monday 18 April – Tuesday 19 April
  • Tuesday 28 June
  • Tuesday 23 August
  • Tuesday 18 October
  • Tuesday 6 December
Collections Act 1966 – Application for Sanction

Council resolved to endorse the University making an application for sanction (Form 5) under the Queensland Collections Act 1966 which would enable USC to launch a fundraising appeal aimed at securing funding to support the USC Detection Dogs for Conservation Program.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegation
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • USC Retail – Progress update
  • Capital, Commercial and Asset Management Report (formerly Facilities Management)
  • ICSC Board Report
  • CIS Economic Impact Assessment – USC
  • Annual Report on Awards Conferred
  • Annual Report on Programs Accredited or Discontinued

Report on Council meeting – 23 June 2015

At its meeting held on 23 June 2015, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from the Vice-Chancellor and President (VCP) on Californian Public University Systems

Council received a presentation from the VCP on his recent trip to the United States of America, including an overview of the Californian University System.

Strategic Plan Update

Council received the latest draft of USC’s Strategic Plan for 2016-2020 as set out in Document 4.1.

Amendments to the Audit & Assurance Governing Policy and Audit Charter

Council resolved to approve amendments to the Audit Charter (Appendix A to the Audit and Assurance - Governing Policy), as set out in Document 6.1.2.

ARMC Membership

Council resolved to approve the appointment of Sandra Birkensleigh to ARMC for an initial term of three years in the category of “Member of the professional accounting bodies or audit bodies in Australia with a professional accounting, management consultancy or audit background” commencing from 3 August 2015.

2015 April Budget Reforecast

Council received the 2015 April Budget Reforecast, circulated as Document 6.2.4 and presented by the PVC(CS) with key points discussed. Council resolved to approve the April 2015-2017 Reforecast University Triennial Budget as set out in Document 6.2.4.

ICSC Board Report

Council resolved to approve that Prof John Bartlett be reappointed as Director of the ICSC Board for a further year, commencing from 23 June 2015 and concluding on 22 June 2016.

PRC Membership

Council approved the appointment of Bernard Smith to PRC for an initial term of two years in the category “Four members with expertise in strategic financial management and planning”.

Council approved the appointment of David Foster to PRC for an initial term of two years in the category “Four members with expertise in strategic financial management and planning.”

Administrative Review Update

Council received an update on the Administrative Review, as detailed in Document 8.1.1, and presented by the PVC(CS) and discussed the findings of review consultations in a number of work areas.

Changes to Financial Services

Council noted the planned changes to the Financial Services Structure, as set out in Document 8.1.2.

Changes to Asset Management Services

Council noted the planned changes to the Asset Management Services Structure, as set out in Document 8.1.3.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegation
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Corporate Performance Report – May 2015
  • Report on Top Level Plans – May 2015
  • ICSC Board Report
  • Facilities Management Report
  • TEQSA USC Risk Assessment

Report on Council meeting – 27 April 2015

At its meeting held on 27 April 2015, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Annual presentations from the Faculty Executive Deans

Council received annual presentations from Prof Joanne Scott, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Business (Document 2.1) and Prof John Bartlett, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering (Document 2.2.1) on key initiatives being undertaken in 2015.

Proposed 2016 Student Guild Membership Fee

Council resolved that the membership fee for Ordinary Members of the USC Student Guild by the sum of $10.00 for the calendar year 2016.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegation
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • 2014 Annual Report on Activities of the Foundation Board

Report on Council meeting – 3 March 2015

At its meeting held on 3 March 2015, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Review of Administration

Council received a presentation from the PVC(CS)&CS on the APT Review.

Change to the composition of ARMC

Council resolved to approve amendments to the Committee’s Composition as set out in Document 6.1.2.

2014 USC Annual Financial Statements

Council resolved to note that the Audit and Risk Management Committee was of the view that the University’s 2014 Annual Financial Statements, as presented in Document 6.1.4, were compliant with the Australian Accounting Standards and appropriate for sign-off.

Council resolved to note that the University’s 2014 Annual Financial Statements were signed by the Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and Council Secretary before the deadline of 28 February 2015.

2014 December Financial Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the 2014 December Financial Outcomes Report, as set out in Document 6.2.2.

Changes to the composition of PRC

Council approved amendments to the PRC’s composition as set out in 6.2.4.

Changes to the Program Accreditation and Course Approval – Governing Policy and Terms of Reference of the Academic Board

Council resolved to approve the changes to the Program Accreditation and Course Approval – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 6.3.3 attachment 1b.

Council resolved to approve the consequential changes to the Terms of Reference of the Academic Board to align with the proposed changes to the Program Accreditation and Course Approval – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 6.3.3 attachment 3.

2015 Schedule of Business

The 2015 Schedule of Business was noted as set out in Document 8.2.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegations
  • Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Facilities management report
  • Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Board report
  • Annual report from the Executive Dean, FAB
  • Annual report from the Executive Dean, FoSHEE

Report on Council meeting – 9 December 2014

At its meeting held on 9 December 2014, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Internal Audit Business Model

Council resolved to approve the change of the internal audit resourcing model to a co-sourced model, as outlined in Document 6.1.2.

2015-2017 University Triennial Budget

Council resolved that the draft 2015-2017 University Triennial Budget (Consolidated), as presented in Document 6.2.2 be adopted.

2014 September Budget Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the 2014 September Budget Outcomes Report, as set out in Document 6.2.3.

2015 Strategic Asset Management Plan

Council resolved that the 2015 Strategic Asset Management Plan, as presented in Document 6.2.4 be approved.

PRC membership and appointment of new Chairperson

Council resolved that Mr Cowley be reappointed to PRC for a further two years commencing from 29 February 2015.

Council resolved that Mr Cowley be appointed as Chairperson PRC commencing from 10 December 2014.

Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast (ICSC) Membership

Council resolved to reappoint Julie-Anne Mee to the Board of Directors of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a further period of two years commencing 10 December 2014.

Use of the University Seal – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the proposed amendments to the Use of University Seal – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.1.

Internationalisation – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the revised Internationalisation – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.2.

Controlled Entities – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the changes to the Controlled Entities – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 7.3.

Delegations Framework – Governing Policy, Schedule and Preamble

Council resolved that the proposed changes to the Delegations Framework – Governing Policy, Delegations Schedule and Preamble be approved, as set out in Document 7.4.

Equity and Diversity – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Equity and Diversity – Governing Policy, as set out in document 7.5, effective from 23 December 2014.

Council resolved to rescind the Equity – Governing Policy, effective from 23 December 2014.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • Reports on admissions data
  • University Australia’s submission to Senate Committee Inquiry into Higher Education and Research Reform Amendment Bill 2014 – September 2014
  • Report on Exercise of Delegation
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • Facilities management report
  • Status of Gympie and Southbank Institute of Technology report
  • Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Board report
  • Establishment of USC Retail
  • 2015 Policy Review Schedule

Report on Council meeting - 21 October 2014

At its meeting held on 21 October 2014, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from AARNet

Council received a presentation from the CEO of AARNet on Australia’s Academic and Research Network, Mr Chris Hancock.

August Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2014 August Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget as set out in Document 6.2.2.

Changes to Program Accreditation and Course Approval process

Council resolved to approve all recommendations from the Program Accreditation and Course Approval Working Group of the Academic Board, regarding changes to the processes for Program Accreditation and Course Approval, as set out in Document 6.3.3.

Changes to the Composition and Terms of Reference of the Academic Board

Council resolved to approve changes to the composition and Terms of Reference of the Academic Board, as set out in Document 6.3.4.

Honorary Awards Committee Membership

Council resolved that Mark Sayers be appointed to the Honorary Awards Committee, in the category of “member of Council”, commencing from 22 October 2014.

Council Membership

Council resolved that Natasha Read be reappointed to Council for a further four-year term, in the category of “Additional member appointed by Council”, commencing from 9 December 2014.

Other items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • Report on Exercise of Delegation
  • Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes and reports of standing committees of Council
  • A report of the highlights of 2013 Institutional Performance Portfolio
  • Staff satisfaction survey results
  • Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency 2014 Risk Assessment
  • Buranga Centre Report, Indigenous Advisory Committee

Report on Council meeting – 26 August 2014

At its meeting held on 26 August 2014, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research)

Council received a presentation from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) on furthering USC’s research objectives, including the establishment of niche research areas. A paper highlighting other key points of interest was noted as set out in Document 2.1.

Presentation from Pro-Vice Chancellor (Corporate Services)

Council received a presentation from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) / Council Secretary on his initial observations since commencing in the role in July and the key priority areas he would be addressing in his first 12 months at USC.

Federal Budget / Higher Education Reforms – implications for USC

The Vice-Chancellor and President provided Council with a verbal update on the implications of the Federal Budget for USC. A confidential paper that set out Universities Australia’s (UA) official position regarding the proposed Higher Education Reforms was noted as set out in Document 4.1.

Results of the 2013-2014 ARMC Self-Assessment

The results of the 2013-2014 ARMC Annual Self-Assessment were noted, as set out in Document 6.1.2.

2014 June Outcomes report of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2014 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget as set out in Document 6.2.2.

Student Guild 2013 Annual Financial Statements

The 2013 Student Guild Audited Annual Financial Statements was noted as set out in Document 6.2.3.

Receipt of property and Cash donation

Council resolved to note the gift of property and approve the planned expenditure of the cash donation of $200,000 in association with 64 Poinciana Avenue, Tewantin, as set out in Document 6.2.4.

2013 Annual Report on Sustainability Management

The inaugural Annual Report on Sustainability Management was noted as set out in Document 6.2.6.

Proposed 2015 Council Meeting Dates

The proposed 2015 Council meeting dates were noted, as set out below:

  • 5.00pm   Tuesday 3 March
  • 9.00am   Monday 27 April (as part of the 2015 Retreat)
  • 5.00pm   Tuesday 23 June
  • TBA        Tuesday 25 August (held at Southbank Campus)
  • 5.00pm   Tuesday 20 October
  • 5.00pm   Tuesday 8 December
2013 Institutional Performance Portfolio

The 2013 Institutional Performance Portfolio Report was noted as set out in Document 8.1.

Revised Student Guild Constitution update

A written update on progress towards the approval of proposed changes to the Student Guild Constitution was noted, as set out in Document 8.3.

Regular items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council

Report on Council Meeting - 24 June 2014

At its meeting held on 24 June 2014, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Presentation from Pro-Vice Chancellor (Students)

The Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students), Prof Karen Nelson, provided a presentation on Attrition at USC, as set out in Document 2.1.

Federal Budget – implications for USC

A paper outlining the implications for USC of the recent Federal Budget announcement had been circulated as Document 4.1. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor provided a verbal report on the matter.

Revised Schedule of Delegations and Preamble

Council reviewed and approved the changes to the Schedule of Delegations and Preamble as set out in Document 6.1.2.

2014 Corporate Performance Report

The May 2014 Corporate Performance Report was noted as set out in Document 6.2.2.

2014 Report on Top Level Plans

The May 2014 Report on Top Level Plans was noted as set out in Document 6.2.3.

PRC membership

Council resolved to reappoint Professor Joanne Scott to the Planning and Resources Committee for a further two year term, commencing on 19 June, 2014.

ICSC matters

Council resolved to reappoint for a further period of two years Professor John Bartlett and Dr Kirsten Baulch commencing 19 June 2014 and Mr Andrew Fern commencing 1 July 2014.

Council noted the Report of the 15 May 2014 meeting of the ICSC Board, as set out in Document 6.2.5.

April 2014-2016 Reforecast University Triennial Budget

Council resolved to adopt the April 2014-2016 Reforecast University Triennial Budget.

Annual report on programs accredited, reaccredited or discontinued

The 2013 Annual Report on programs accredited, reaccredited or discontinued was noted, as set out in Document 6.3.3.

Annual report on awards conferred

The 2013-2014 Report on Awards Conferred was noted as set out in Document 6.3.4.

Animal Ethics – Governing Policy and Associated Procedures

Council resolved to approve:

  • The new Animal Ethics – Governing Policy effective from 10 July 2014
  • The rescission of the existing Care and Use of Animals in Teaching and Research Statement and the Criteria for Review by Animal Ethics Committee effective from 10 July 2014

Council resolved to endorse the proposed new Animal Ethics – Procedures for recommendation to the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) for approval, as set out in Document 7.1, effective from 17 July 2014.

Honorary Awards – Governing Policy and Procedures

Council resolved to approve amendments to the Honorary Awards – Governing Policy and Procedures, as set out in Document 7.2.

Council resolved to endorse proposed changes to the Honorary Awards – Procedures, with a view to the Vice-Chancellor and President approving them.

New Bullying Policy and changes to the Discrimination and Harassment Policy

Council noted that the Vice-Chancellor and President had recently approved a new Preventing and Responding to Workplace Bullying – Managerial Policy. Changes to the Anti-Discrimination and Freedom from Harassment - Governing Policy (formerly Discrimination and Harassment – Governing Policy) had also been approved.

Outcomes of the 2014 Council Retreat

Council was informed that the Outcomes of the 2014 Council Retreat Summary document was still being finalised and would be emailed to members as soon as it was available. A copy of the results of the post-retreat evaluation had been circulated as Document 8.1.

Revised Student Guild Constitution – update

An update on the revised Student Guild Constitution was noted, as set out in Document 8.2.

Regular items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council

Report on Council Meeting - 7 April 2014

At its meeting held on 7 April 2014, the University Council received/considered/noted the following key matters:

Preparing for Tougher Financial Times – Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services)

Council received a presentation from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services), Mr Bernard Lillis, on “Preparing for Tougher Financial Times” which provided an overview of the actions undertaken to ensure that USC’s Corporate Services model facilitated the following priorities identified by Council at the 2013 Retreat:

  • efficient and effective business processes and systems
  • effective financial management (including innovative cost-cutting approaches such as resource-sharing, outsourcing)
  • sound investments
  • new sources of income.
Planning Framework - Diagrams

Diagrams showing the interrelationship between the Operational Plan Status Reports and other planning documents were noted, as set out in Document 5.2.2.

USC - Blended Learning Strategy

The USC Blended Learning Strategy, which had been approved by Academic Board at its meeting on 1 April 2014, was noted as set out in Document 5.3.2.

August meeting to be held at Gympie

Members noted that, due to a clash with Examination Week, the Council meeting at Gympie would now be held on 26 August 2014 and not 24 June 2014 as had previously been agreed.

Student Guild Membership Fees

Council resolved that the membership fee for Ordinary Members of the USC Student Guild be the sum of $10.00 for the calendar year 2015.

Student Guild and Student Services and Amenities Fee

Council resolved to endorse the process by which the allocations to the Student Guild, from the SSAF had been derived, as set out in Document 7.3.

Annual report on activities of the Foundation Board

The Annual Report on activities of the Foundation Board was noted, as set out in Document 7.4.

Regular items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council.

Report on Council Meeting - 4 March 2014

At its meeting held on 4 March 2014, the University Council considered the following key matters:

Student load and income model

Council received a presentation from the Director, Statistical Analysis and Information Unit, Ms Kerry Martin and Business Systems Analyst, ITS, Ben Poole, on the Student Load and income Model.

Audited 2013 Financial Statements

The 2013 USC Audited Financial Statements were noted, as set out in Document 5.1.2.

ARMC membership – reappointment of Cathy Blunt

Council resolved to reappoint Ms Cathy Blunt to the Audit and Risk Management Committee for a further three years, commencing from 30 March 2014.

Governing Risk in Higher Education: Managing and Regulating the Risk University

An article by Roger King, entitled Governing Risk in Higher Education: Managing and Regulating the Risk University was received by Council for information, as set out in Document 5.1.4.

2013 December Financial Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the 2013 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget, as presented in Document 5.2.2.

Construction of a multi-level car park

The Procurement Management Plan and Principal’s Project Requirements for the construction of a multi-level car park at the Sippy Downs Campus were noted as set out in Document 5.2.3.

Workforce Planning

The inaugural Report on Workforce Planning was noted, as set out in Document 5.2.5.

Naming – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the new Naming – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 6.1.

Council membership – Prof Robert Elliot

Council resolved to endorse Prof Robert Elliot serving a term on Council of greater than 12 years.

2014 Council Retreat – Draft program

The draft program for the 2014 Council Retreat was noted, as set out in Document 7.2.

2013 End of Term Evaluation of Council

Council noted that a presentation on the 2013 End of Term Evaluation of Council would be delivered by consultant, Helen Darch at the Council Retreat.

Revised Student Guild Constitution

Council resolved to give in principle support to proposed amendments to the University of the Sunshine Coast Student Guild Constitution, as set out in Document 7.4subject to the Board of the Guild resolving to conduct a referendum, in accordance with the current Constitution, and provided that no further changes were proposed. If further changes were proposed to the Constitution, as an outcome of the referendum, the Guild would be required to seek Council’s approval of the amendments.

2014 Council Schedule of Business

The 2014 Council Schedule of Business was noted, as set out in Document 7.5.

Regular items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council.

Report on Council meeting - 3 December 2013

At its meeting held on 3 December 2013, the University Council considered the following key matters:

Presentations from the Executive Deans

Council received presentations from the Executive Deans on highlights of 2013 and future directions for their Faculty.

USC’s 20-year Anniversary Project

The Vice-Chancellor and President provided Council with an overview of the 20-year Anniversary Project.

2014-2016 University Triennial Budget

Council resolved to adopt the 2014-2016 University Triennial Budget.

2013 October Outcomes of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2013 October Outcomes of the University Consolidated Budget, as set out in Document 5.2.3.

Strategic Asset Management Plan 2014-2018

Council resolved to approve the Strategic Asset Management Plan 2014-2018.

ICSC Board membership

Council considered and approved a proposal for the reappointment of two current members of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Board.

Report on the External Review of the Academic Board

The Report on the outcomes of the external review of the Academic Board was noted.

2014 Policy Review Schedule

The 2014 Policy Review Schedule was noted.

New Quality and Standards Framework and proposed rescission of Quality – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the new Quality and Standards Framework, as set out in Document 6.2 – Attachment 1, effective from 2 January 2014.

Council resolved to approve rescission of the existing Quality – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 6.2 – Attachment 2, effective from 2 January 2014.

Student Complaints and Appeals – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the Student Complaints and Appeals – Governing Policy, as set out in Document 6.3.

Vacation Powers of Council

Council resolved to authorise the issuing of Vacation Powers to the Chancellor, Chairperson, Planning and Resources Committee and the Vice-Chancellor and President, commencing from 4 December 2013 and concluding on the 4 March 2014.

Thank you and farewell to departing members of Council

The Chairperson informed Council that the following members’ terms were due to finish on 8 December:

  • Paul Lunn (after 6 years on Council)
  • Manuel Barth (after 2 years on Council)
  • Lynette Maguire (after 2 years on Council)
  • Donna Weeks (after 4 years on Council)
  • Bruce Williams (after 4 years on Council).

The unique contributions to Council of each member were acknowledged and the Chairperson proposed a Vote of Thanks, before wishing the departing members all the best for the future.

Induction of new members

Council noted that an induction for new members of Council, covering a number of important topics, would be held in late January 2014.

Regular items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council.

Report on Council meeting – 22 October 2013

At its meeting held on 22 October 2013, the University Council considered the following key matters:

Presentation on MOOCs and the University’s Blended Learning Strategy

Council received a presentation from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor on Massive Online Open Courses and the University’s Blended Learning Strategy.

USC’s 2014-2016 Compact Agreement

The 2014-2016 Mission-based Compact between the Commonwealth of Australia and the University of the Sunshine Coast was noted.

 2013 August Reforecast of the University’s Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the 2013 August Reforecast of the University’s Consolidated Budget.

Corporate Performance Report – September 2013

The September 2013 Corporate Performance Report was noted.

Report on Top Level Plans – September 2013

The September 2013 Report on Top Level Plans was noted.

Results of the 2012/2013 PRC Self-Assessment Exercise

The Report on the results of the 2012/13 PRC Self-Assessment Exercise was noted.

Changes to the school structure and new PVC (Students) position

Council resolved to endorse the splitting into two of the School of Science, Education and Engineering to create a:

  • School of Education
  • School of Science and Engineering,

 commencing from the 2014 Academic Year.

Council resolved to endorse the creation of a School of Law, commencing from the 2014 Academic Year.

Establishment of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) position

Council resolved to endorse the creation of the new position Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) commencing from the 2014 Academic Year.

Research Misconduct – Governing Policy and Procedures

Council resolved to approve the Research Misconduct – Governing Policy (formerly titled the Research Misconduct Statement – Governing Policy), effective from 7 November 2013.

Governance Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the revised Governance Framework – Governing Policy (formerly titled the University Governance Framework- Governing Policy).

Policy Framework – Governing Policy and Procedures

Council resolved to approve the revised Policy Framework – Governing Policy (formerly titled the Policy and Related Procedures – Governing Policy).

Regular items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council.

Report on Council meeting – 20 August 2013

At its meeting held on 20 August 2013, the University Council considered the following key matters:

Reappointment of the DVC as Chairperson of Academic Board

Council resolved that the appointment of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Birgit Lohmann, as Chairperson of the Academic Board be renewed for a three-year term, expiring on 13 February 2017.

Results of the 2012 ARMC Self-Assessment

The results of the 2012 Audit and Risk Management Committee (ARMC) Self-Assessment exercise were noted.

Compliance Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the revised Compliance Framework – Governing Policy.

Fraud and Corruption Control – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the revised Fraud and Corruption Control – Governing Policy.

Enterprise Risk Management and Resilience – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the new Enterprise Risk Management and Resilience - Governing Policy and to rescind the Risk Management Framework – Governing Policy.

ARMC Membership

Council resolved that Natasha Read and Gary McClennan be reappointed to the ARMC for a further three-year term, commencing from 29 August 2013.

2013 June Budget Outcomes Report

Council resolved to approve the 2013 June Budget Outcomes Report.

Participation in the Land for Wildlife Scheme

Council resolved to endorse the University joining the Department of Environment and Primary Industries Land for Wildlife Scheme.

2012 Student Guild Audited Financial Statements

The 2012 audited Student Guild Financial Statements were noted.

2014 Council Meeting Dates

Council resolved to endorse the proposed 2014 Council meeting dates, as set out below:

  • 5pm Tuesday 4 March
  • 5pm (TBC) Tuesday 22 April
  • 5pm Tuesday 17 June
  • 5pm Tuesday 26 August
  • 5pm Tuesday 21 October
  • 5pm Tuesday 9 December.
Regular Items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • A presentation from the Vice-Chancellor and President on key matters of interest to Council
  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council.

Report on Council meeting - 18 June 2013

Key matters

At its meeting held on 18 June 2013, the University Council considered the following key matters:

Amendments to the Health, Safety and Wellbeing policy

Council resolved to approve proposed amendments to the Health, Safety and Wellbeing – Governing Policy.

Draft Audit and Assurance Framework – Governing Policy and Audit Charter

Council resolved to approve the Audit and Assurance Framework – Governing Policy and Internal Audit Charter.

2013 April Reforecast University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved to approve the April 2013-2015 Reforecast University Triennial Budget.

Planning and Reporting Framework – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the draft Planning and Reporting Framework – Governing Policy.

Amendments to the Investment – Governing Policy

Council resolved to approve the amendments to the Investment – Governing Policy.

Accreditation of new Law programs

Council resolved to approve the internal accreditation of the new programs AR390 Bachelor of Laws and AR391 Bachelor of Laws (Graduate Entry), effective from Semester 1, 2014.

Accreditation of new Master of Engineering (Transport Technologies) program

Council resolved to approve the internal accreditation of the new program SC751 Master of Engineering (Transport Technologies) (MEngTransportTech), effective from Semester 1, 2014.

Other matters noted/considered

At the same meeting, the University Council considered or noted the following matters:

2013 TEQSA Risk Assessment Report

Council received a presentation from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Quality), at agenda item 2.1, on the 2013 TEQSA Risk Assessment Report.

2013 Corporate Performance Report

The May 2013 Corporate Performance Report was noted.

Top Level Plans Performance Report

The May 2013 Report on Top Level Plans was noted.

USC Operational Plan 2013-2015 - Status Report as at 31 March

The USC Operational Plan 2013-2015 - Status Report (as at 31 March) was noted.

ICSC Board matters

The Report on key matters of interest to Council from the 9 May 2013 ICSC Board meeting was noted.

USC’s in kind contribution to EIF (Engineering Hub) Project

Council resolved to formally acknowledge the University’s contribution of land, valued at $700,000, to the EIF Project, with a view to the allocation of the land to the project being formally reported as a milestone to the Federal funding body, DIIRSTE.

2012 Annual Report on program approvals and discontinuations

The Annual report on program approval and discontinuations was noted.

Annual Report on awards conferred

The Annual Report on awards Conferred was noted.

Retirement of Mr Peter Sullivan, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and CFO

The Chairperson informed members that this would be the last meeting attended by the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and CFO, Mr Peter Sullivan, who was retiring from his post in mid-July 2013 after six years in the role. The Chancellor thanked Mr Sullivan for the many improvements he had made, including in the quality of financial and corporate performance reporting. The Chairperson of PRC acknowledged the rigour and structure that Mr Sullivan had introduced around Finances. Mr Sullivan was thanked for his significant contribution to policy development and the enhancement of the Planning Framework at USC. Councillors joined the Chairperson in wishing Peter well for his retirement. Mr Sullivan responded by thanking Council for their comments and acknowledging the strength and support of those who had worked around him over the last six years, which had assisted him to succeed in the role and made his time at USC a positive experience.

Regular items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council.

Report on Council meeting – 22 April 2013

Key matters

At its meeting held on 22 April 2013, the University Council discussed the following key matters:

1. Planning and Resources Committee’s involvement in the review of the Annual Financial Statements

Council resolved that the Planning and Resources Committee cease participating in the two special joint meetings held with the ARMC in February each year to review the draft Annual Financial Statements and, instead, note a copy of the draft Statements at its February meeting and a copy of the signed Statements at its May meeting.

2. 2012 Self-Review of the Academic Board

A report on the outcomes of the 2012 Self Review of the Academic Board was discussed, as set out in Document 5.4.2.

3. USC’s Adjusted Attrition Rates

A report on USC’s Adjusted Attrition Rates was discussed, as set out in Document 5.4.3.

4. Draft 2014-2016 Mission-Based Compact

The draft 2014-2016 Mission-Based Compact was discussed, as Document 6.1.

5. 2014 Student Guild Membership Fees

Council resolved to approve that the membership fee for the Student Guild be the sum of $10.00 for the calendar year 2014, for Ordinary Members.

6. Paperless Council meetings and use of iPads

Council resolved to request the Senior Committees Office to arrange for all members to have access to an iPad and training, if needed, with a view to Council transitioning to paperless meetings over the next three meeting cycles.

7. Joint proposal from Queensland universities to amend the universities’ legislation

Council resolved to participate in a joint proposal to the Minister for Education, Employment and Training that the governing legislation for Queensland universities be modified to provide that further sub-delegation of powers, delegated by Council, be permitted.

8. Other matters noted/considered

At the same meeting, the University Council considered or noted the following matters:

9. Advice regarding compensation for easement

Council noted that since its last meeting, the University had approved a proposal from Energex to acquire a section of University land along Claymore Road for future transmission lines, as set out in Document 6.2.

10. Regular items

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council

Report on Council meeting – 26 February 2013

At its meeting held on 26 February, the University Council considered or noted the following key matters:

1. 2012 Audited Financial Statements

Council received the 2012 Audited Financial Statements, noting that the Audit and Risk Management Committee was of the view that the University’s 2012 Annual Financial Statements were compliant with the Australian Accounting Standards and appropriate for sign-off by the University.

2. 2012 December Financial Outcomes Report

Council noted the 2012 December Financial Outcomes Report.

3. Membership of the Planning and Resources Committee

Council approved the reappointment of an existing member of the Planning and Resources Committee for a further two years, commencing from 1 March 2013.

4. Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast (ICSC) Board membership

Council approved the reappointment of an existing ICSC Board Director until 6 December 2014.

5. ICSC Quarterly Profit and Loss Budget Analysis

The ICSC Quarterly Profit and Loss Statement for the period January 2012- December 2012 was noted.

6. 2013 ICSC Budget

The 2013 ICSC Budget was noted.

7. ICSC 2012 Audited Financial Statements

The ICSC 2012 Audited Financial Statements were noted.

8. Changes to the composition of the Academic Board

Council approved changes to the composition of the Academic Board, to reflect new area titles.

9. Changes to the Terms of Reference of the Chancellor’s Committee

Council approved changes to the Terms of Reference of the Chancellor’s Committee.

10. Other matters

On this occasion, Council also received or noted the following:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council
  • A presentation on the Engagement portfolio from Prof Mike Hefferan - Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement), Mr Mark Paddenburg - CEO Innovation Centre and Mr Russell Ousley - Director, Development Office.

Report on Council meeting - 11 December 2012

At its meeting held on 11 December 2012, the University Council made the following decisions:

1. 2012 October Budget Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget

That the 2012 October Budget Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget be noted.

2. Strategic Asset Management Plan 2013-2017

That the Strategic Asset Management Plan 2013-2017 be approved.

3. Draft 2013-2015 University Triennial Budget

That the draft 2013-2015 University Triennial Budget be approved.

4. 2013-2015 ICSC Strategic Business Plan

That the 2013-2015 ICSC Strategic Business Plan be noted.

5. 2013-2015 Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast (ICSC) Budget

That the 2013-2015 ICSC Budget be noted.

6. Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast (IC) Board Statement of Governance Principles

That the IC Board Statement of Governance Principles be noted.

7. Code of Conduct for Research – Governing Policy

That the Code of Conduct for Research – Governing Policy, which was to be replaced by the new Research – Academic Policy, be rescinded with immediate effect.

8. Constitution of the University of the Sunshine Coast Foundation Board

That the Constitution of the University of the Sunshine Coast Foundation Board, which was to be replaced by the new Terms of Reference of Foundation Board, be rescinded with immediate effect.

9. Terms of Reference of standing committees of Council

Council resolved that the Terms of Reference of each standing committee of Council be amended to provide that the Chancellor, in consultation with the Vice-Chancellor and President, may co-opt up to two additional members, with full rights, for a specified period to facilitate succession planning and access to specific expertise.

10. Other matters

On this occasion, Council received or noted:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council.

Report on Council meeting - 23 October 2012

At its meeting held on 23 October 2012, the University Council made the following decisions:

1. 2012 August Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget

Council resolved that the 2012 August Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget be approved.

2. Corporate Performance Report

Council resolved that the September 2012 Corporate Performance Report be noted.

3. Introduction of Law Programs

Council resolved to give in-principle support to the Introduction of Law programs at USC and requested the Faculty to develop a full proposal and business case, with a view to these being submitted to Council for approval.

4. Other matters

On this occasion, Council received or noted:

  • A presentation from Prof John Bartlett, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering (FoSHEE), on key issues and priorities for the Faculty in 2012 and 2013
  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal
  • Minutes of standing committees of Council.

Report on Council Meeting – 21 August 2012

At its meeting held on 21 August 2012, the University Council made the following decisions:

1. Membership of Planning and Resources Committee

Council resolved that Mr John Gallagher be reappointed as a member of the Planning and Resources Committee for a further three years, commencing from 21 August 2012, subject to Mr Gallagher agreeing to the three-year term.

2. 2012-2013 Student Appeals Committee Membership Pool

That the 2012-2013 Student Appeals Committee Membership Pool be approved, as set out in Document 6.1 – Attachment 1.

3. Student Guild

The President of the Student Guild, Ms Megan Ogle, provided an overview of the work being undertaken and priorities of the Student Guild in 2012 and the 2011 Audited Financial Statements of the Student Guild were noted by Council.

4. Introduction of paid parking at USC

The Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and Chief Financial Officer provided a verbal report on the proposed introduction of paid parking at USC. Council received a presentation on the University’s Strategy for the introduction of paid parking at USC, from the Deputy-Director and Planning Manager, Facilities Management, Ms Iona Beauly. Council resolved to endorse the University proceeding to investigate models for paid parking at USC, with a view to a final proposal being submitted to Council for approval in time for paid parking to be introduced from the beginning of 2013.

5. Other matters

On this occasion, Council received or noted:

  • a presentation from Prof Joanne Scott, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Business (FAB), on key issues and priorities for the Faculty in 2012
  • a summary of the outcomes of the 2011 Audit and Risk Management Committee Self-evaluation
  • 2012 June Budget Outcomes Report
    The appointment of former USC Deputy-Chancellor, Mr Tim Fairfax, as the Chancellor of QUT.
  • regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
  • a report on exercise of delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • minutes of standing committees of Council

Report on Council Meeting – 19 June 2012

At its meeting held on 19 June 2012, the University Council made the following decisions or discussed the following matters.

1. Skills, Academic and Research Centre

Council received a presentation from Mr Mark Wilde and Mr Kevin Hegarty on the proposed Skills, Academic Research Centre (SARC), to be located at the new Sunshine Coast University Hospital.

2. 2013 Council Meeting Schedule

Council resolved that the schedule of Council meetings for 2013 be as follows:

Tuesday, 26 February 2013
Tuesday, 23 April 2013
Tuesday, 18 June 2013
Tuesday, 20 August 2013
Tuesday, 22 October 2013
Tuesday, 3 December 2013.

3. 2012-2014 April Reforecast university Triennial Budget (Consolidated)

Council resolved to approve the 2012-2014 April Reforecast University Triennial Budget (Consolidated).

4. 2012 Corporate Performance Report

The May 2012 Corporate Performance Report was noted.

5. Composition of the Planning and Resources Committee

Council approved minor changes to the composition of the Planning and Resources Committee.

6. Membership of the Planning and Resources Committee

Council resolved that the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Business, Prof Joanne Scott, be appointed as a member of the Planning and Resources Committee for a period of two years, commencing from 19 June 2012.

7. Report on 2012 Staffing Profile

The Report on 2012 Staffing Profile was noted.

8. Investment Policy – Governing Policy

Council resolved that amendments to Section 9.4 Portfolio Investment Parameters and Credit Requirements of the University’s Investment - Governing Policy, be approved, with immediate effect.

9. 2012 ICSC Budget Reforecast and Quarterly Financial Report

The 2012 ICSC Budget Reforecast and Quarterly Financial Report were noted.

10. ICSC Board membership

Council resolved to appoint two new Directors to the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd Board for a period of two years, commencing from 19 June 2012.

11. Report on Programs Accredited and Discontinued in 2011

Council noted a report on Programs Accredited and Discontinued in 2011.

12. Annual Report on Conferral of Awards

The Annual Report on Conferral of Awards by Academic Board between April 2011 and April 2012 was noted.

13. USC Statement on Blended Learning

The recently approved USC Statement on Blended Learning was noted.

14. Changes to the Composition of Academic Board

Council resolved to approve changes to the composition of the Academic Board, with immediate effect.

15. Other matters

On this occasion, Council received or noted:

- Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President, Deputy Vice Chancellor and CEO Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast

- A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President

- A Report on Use of the University Seal

- Minutes of standing committees of Council.

Report on Council Meeting – 24 April 2012

At its meeting held on 24 April 2012, the University Council made the following decisions or discussed the following matters.

1. Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA)

Following the cancellation of the scheduled Cycle 2 Audit of USC by the Australian Universities Quality Agency (AUQA), the University is now required to apply for reregistration through TEQSA in 2012. At the April meeting, Council received a presentation from Prof Robert Elliot - Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Quality) on preparations for the University applying for reregistration.

2. Membership of Foundation Board

Council resolved to reappoint an existing member of the Foundation Board for a further three years, commencing from 31 March 2012.

3. Foundation Annual Report to Council

The Foundation Annual Report to Council was noted.

4. Response to the Report of the Review of University Foundation

The Response to the Report of the Review of the University Foundation and Implementation Plan were noted.

5. Changes to the Honorary Awards Procedures

Council noted the revised Honorary Awards Procedures, which had recently been approved. The changes were designed to assist the panel in assessing the merit of nominations for Honorary Awards by clarifying what would constitute the “achievement of excellence”.

6. Student Guild Membership Fees

Council resolved that the membership fee for the Student Guild be the sum of $5.00 for the calendar year 2013, for Ordinary Members.

7. Changes to the Student Guild Constitution

Council resolved to give in principle support to the proposed amendments to the University of the Sunshine Coast Student Guild Constitution. The President of the Student Guild would arrange for a referendum to be held, with a view to the changes being supported by the majority of members of the Student Guild.

8. Student Guild Report to Council

The Annual Report from the Student Guild was noted. Council congratulated Ms Lynette Maguire on her many achievements and the excellent leadership she had provided to the Student Guild since being appointed as President. The significant contribution made by Manuel Barth to the USC Chapter of the Golden Key International Honour Society was also acknowledged.

9. Council Governance Workshop

The Notes of the Council Governance Workshop, held on 15 March 2012, were noted.

10. Council Members’ Skills Matrix

The 2012 Council Members’ Skills Matrix was noted. The Matrix has been updated to assist in succession planning and sets out the skills and experience of current members.

11. Other matters


On this occasion, Council received or noted:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • A Report on Exercise of Delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on Use of the University Seal

Report on Council meeting – 28 February 2012

At its meeting held on 28 February 2012, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

1. Appointment of Council Secretary

Council resolved to endorse the appointment of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and CFO as Council Secretary and to transfer the role Senior Committees Officer to the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and CFO, with the position reporting directly to the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and CFO, with immediate effect.

Note: Merryn Falk has been appointed as the Senior Committees Officer.

2. Planning and Resources Committee matters

Revised Campus Master Plan
Council resolved that the 2012 Campus Master Plan be adopted for a period not exceeding five years.

3. Financial matters
3.1 Annual Financial Statements

Council noted that the Audit and Risk Management Committee was of the view that the 2011 Annual Financial Statements, as presented at the joint meeting with the Planning and Resources Committee, were compliant with the Australian Accounting Standards and appropriate for sign-off, and that the Financial Statements had been signed by the Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and Chief Financial Officer on or before 28 February 2012.

3.2 2011 December Budget Outcomes Report

Council resolved that the 2011 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget be noted.

3.3 Response to the Report of the Review of Financial Services

Council resolved that the Financial Review Report and the Report on the Financial Services Responses and Implementation Plan be noted.

4. Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast (ICSC) Board matters
4.1 ICSC 2011 Annual Financial Statements

Council resolved that the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd 2011 Annual Financial Statements be noted.

4.2 Revised ICSC Pty Ltd Strategic Business Plan 2012-2014

Council resolved that the 2012-2014 Strategic Business Plan be noted.

4.3 2012 ICSC Budget Forecast

Council resolved that the 2012 ICSC Budget Forecast be noted.

4.4 Membership of the ICSC Pty Ltd Board of Directors

4.4.1 Appointment of new director
Council resolved to appoint a new Director to the Board of Directors of Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for a period of two years commencing from 28 February 2012.

4.4.2 Reappointment of existing directors
Council resolved to reappoint two existing Directors on the ICSC Pty Ltd Board for a further two years commencing from 18 February 2012 and to reappoint an existing Director for a further two years commencing from 1 July 2012.

4.5 2011 External Review of the ICSC
Council resolved that the Final Report on the Implementation of Recommendations of the Review of the ICSC be noted.

4.6 Changes to the ICSC Board Statement of Governing Principles
Council resolved that the changes to the ICSC Board’s Statement of Governance Principles be noted.

5. Academic Board matters

Changes to the Academic Board’s Composition and Terms of Reference
Council resolved that the changes proposed to the Academic Board’s Composition and Terms of Reference to support the implementation of the new academic structure be approved.

6. University Foundation matters
6.1 Membership of Foundation Board

Council resolved to three new members to the Foundation Board for a three-year term, commencing from 28 February 2012.

7. Governance matters
7.1 Council Governance Workshop

Council noted the program and reference material for the Council Governance Workshop scheduled for Thursday 15 March 2012.

7.2 Council and committee memberships

The 2012 membership of Council and its standing committees were noted.

8. Other matters

On this occasion, Council received or noted:

  • Regular reports from the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice Chancellor
  • A Report on the exercise of delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President
  • A Report on the use of the University Seal

Report on Council meeting – 6 December 2011

At its meeting held on 6 December 2011, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

The meeting was preceded by a presentation on the implications for USC of the new Work Health and Safety Legislation.

Membership of Council and its Committees

1) Council resolved that the term of office of the re-elected Chancellor, John Dobson OAM, be for five years from 1 April 2012 - 31 March 2017.

2) Council resolved that Mr David Jeffries be reappointed as Chairperson of the Planning and Resources Committee for the two year term from 9 December 2011 to 8 December 2013.

3) Council resolved that Mr Paul Lunn be reappointed to membership of the Planning and Resources Committee in the membership category – Three members with expertise in strategic financial management and planning, at least one of whom must be a member of Council, for the two year term from 9 December 2011 to 8 December 2013.

4) Council resolved that observers be permitted at Council meetings on an ongoing basis.

Financial matters

1) Council noted the 2011 October Budget Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget.

2) Council approved the Strategic Asset Management Plan 2012-2016.

3) The 2012-2014 University Triennial Budget was adopted.

4) The November 2011 Corporate Performance Report on the 2005-2011 Strategic Plan and the December 2011 Corporate Performance Report on the 2011-2015 Strategic Plan were noted.

5) The ICSC Pty Ltd Budget Forecast 2012 and ICSC Pty Ltd Financial Reports as at September 2011 were noted.

Policy matters

1) Changes required to the Code of Conduct – Governing Policy to comply with recent amendments to the Public Sector Ethics Act (PSEA) 1994 were approved.

2) The new Public Interest Disclosures – Governing Policy was approved.

Academic Board matters

1) Council noted that the Centre for Healthy Activities, Sport and Exercise (CHASE) had been disestablished as a Research Centre but would continue to exist under the portfolio of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement).

2) Council noted that Academic Board had approved the discontinuation of the Master, Graduate Diploma and Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning.

Foundation Board matters

1) Council noted the Report of the Review of the University Foundation.

Honorary award

1) Council approved the awarding of the title Emeritus Professor to Dr Andrew Hede, with the timing of the offer and of the award to be determined by the Vice-Chancellor and President.

Other matters

On this occasion, Council noted:

  • Regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • The proposed University of the Sunshine Coast Enterprise Agreement 2010-2013
  • The ICSC Pty Ltd Statement of Governance Principles
  • A report on the exercise of delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President as required by University policy
  • A Report on professorial and associate professorial staff
  • A Report on the use of the University Seal
  • The Report of the Returning Officer for the Election of Student Members of Council.

The Acting Chancellor proposed a Vote of Thanks to the Senior Committees Officer, Ms Margaret Henson who was retiring at the end of 2011. Ms Henson had been one of the original staff members when the University commenced operation 17 years ago. Council acknowledged Ms Henson’s dedicated support and wished her well in her retirement.

Ms Merryn Falk has been seconded to the position of Senior Committees Officer until the end of March 2012.

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Report on Council Meeting – 25 October 2011

At its meeting held on 25 October 2011, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Governance matters

1) Council noted that a Voluntary Code of Best Practice for the Governance of Australian Universities had recently been approved by the Ministerial Council for Tertiary Education and Employment. It was considered that Council was compliant with the Voluntary Code.

2) It was noted that a member had resigned since the previous meeting, and that this created a second vacancy in the membership category Four additional members appointed by Council. Consideration will be given to filling the vacancies for the balance of the current term.

3) It was agreed that a workshop for Council members will be held in the first half of 2012, and that the workshop will include matters relating to the Council’s mid-term self-assessment.

External matters

Council formally ratified the decision that the University of the Sunshine Coast become a member of the Regional Universities Network.

Financial matters

1) Council approved the 2011-2013 August Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget.

2) The Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd CEO’s report to the ICSC Board and financial report for the year to the end of July was noted.

Planning matters

Proposed performance measures and detailed targets for the University of the Sunshine Coast Strategic Plan and each of the four Top Level Plans were approved.

Policy matters

1) Council noted that amendments to the Investment Governing Policy had been approved by flying minute since the previous meeting.

2) A new International Recruitment Representatives Governing Policy was approved.

3) Council’s approval of the Corporate Website Governing Policy was rescinded, as it has been superseded by the new USC Marketing and Communications Managerial Policy.

Academic Board matters

The Terms of Reference of the Academic Board were amended to include the Board’s role in relation to the University’s Strategic and Top Level Plans and to remove reference to the development of schemes for internal research grants.

Student matters

1) It was noted that the Higher Education Legislation Amendment (Student Services and Amenities) had been passed by the Senate. This would allow universities to charge an annual Student Services and Amenities Fee. Council resolved that approval be given for the University to charge an annual Student Services and Amenities Fee of up to $263 per student (indexed) from Semester 1, 2012.

2) Council made a determination in relation to a former student’s misuse of fraudulent documents to gain entry to the University.

Other matters

On this occasion, Council

1) noted the following reports:

  • the Response to the Report of the Review of the Innovation Centre
  • a booklet entitled “2011: A celebration of Learning and Teaching”, which celebrated the University’s recent learning and teaching achievements
  • regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • a report on the exercise of delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President as required by University policy

2) received minutes of meetings of the Planning and Resources Committee, the Academic Board, and the Foundation Board.

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Report on Council Meeting – 16 August 2011

At its meeting held on 16 August 2011, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Governance Matters

1) Minor amendments to the composition and terms of reference of the Planning and Resources Committee of Council were approved.

2) A survey instrument for the Council’s mid-term self-assessment was approved.

Membership matters

Council approved a reappointment to the Foundation Board.

Academic restructure

Council considered a recommendation concerning the academic structure of the University, and resolved to approve the following academic structure comprising two Faculties, each consisting of three Schools, effective from 1 January 2012:

Faculty of Science, Health, Education & Engineering
School of Health and Sport Sciences
School of Nursing and Midwifery (new school)
School of Science, Education and Engineering

Faculty of Arts and Business
School of Business
School of Communication
School of Social Sciences

Financial matters

A June 2011 outcomes report of the University consolidated Budget was discussed and noted.

Planning matters

1) A report against outstanding items from the University’s previous Strategic Plan was noted.

2) The University Council discussed, and supported, the plans of the Sunshine Coast Regional Council to construct a pedestrian walkway on the University’s boundary on Claymore Road, Sippy Downs.

Student matters

1) Council noted the Student Guild Audited Financial Statements for 2010.

2) Council was advised of the efforts being made to re-establish the Student Guild on campus.

Other matters

On this occasion, Council

1) received briefings on

  • the Sippy Downs Smart Community Concept Plan Report
  • the outcomes of the Staff Opinion Survey 2011
  • a recent review of senior staff remuneration

2) noted the following reports:

  • a report from the Chancellor on philanthropy in universities in the USA
  • a summary of the Auditor-General of Queensland Results of the 2010 University Audit, which provided information on benchmarking against other Queensland universities on relevant matters
  • regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • a report on the exercise of delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President as required by University policy
  • a report from a member on the Sixth Annual University Governance and Regulations Forum

3) received minutes of meetings of the Audit and Risk Management Committee, the Planning and Resources Committee, the Academic Board, and the Foundation Board.
END

Report on Council Meeting – 14 June 2011

At its meeting held on 14 June 2011, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Governance matters

1) The University Council undertakes a self-assessment every two years. In accordance with its approved process, Council established a working group to consider and recommend to Council on the form of a mid-term self-assessment.

2) The term of office of the Chancellor will conclude at the end of March 2012. Council has approved the timing of the process for its election of a chancellor for the next term.

Membership matters

Council approved a reappointment to the Audit and Risk Management Committee.

Financial matters

1) It was noted that the University’s application for $5.45 million from Collaborative Research Network funds had been successful.

2) Council approved the 2011 April Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget.

3) Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd reports, including a financial report for the quarter ended 31 March 2011 were noted.

Planning matters

1) Council has approved four top level plans, which relate to the strategic priorities that underpin the University’s Strategic Plan. They are

  • the top level plan 2011-2015 to enable access to the USC Experience
  • the top level plan 2011-2015 to deliver high quality teaching, learning and graduate outcomes
  • the top level plan 2011-2015 to build research productivity and output significantly, and
  • the top level plan 2011-2015 to develop USC for a sustainable future.

Following approval of the top level plans, the previous Functional Plans that related to Finance and Infrastructure, Information and Communication Technology, Internationalisation, Learning and Teaching, Regional Engagement, Research and Research Training, Staff, and Student Support were rescinded.

Preparation for 2012 Quality Audit – proposed Audit Themes

Council approved a proposal that the themes to be recommended to AUQA for the University’s Cycle 2 Quality Audit be:

  • Research and Research Training, and
  • Improving Student Retention.
Academic restructure

Following discussion of the proposed restructure of the academic elements of the University, Council gave in-principle approval for a move to a two-faculty academic structure. Further recommendations concerning the faculties that will require Council approval are to be referred to Council later in the year.

Council also approved the creation of the positions of Executive Dean.

Academic Board matters

1) The Academic Board has recently considered the appropriate categorisation of certain Policies within the University’s current policy framework. At its 14 June 2011 meeting, Council noted those former Institutional Operating Policies that had been recategorised as Academic Policies. In addition, Council approved:

  • the recategorisation of seven Governing Policies as Academic Policies
  • the recategorisation of two Governing and Institutional Operating Policies as Governing Policies, and
  • the categorisation of one uncategorised Policy as Academic Policy.

2) The term of office of the current elected members of the Academic Board has been extended to the first Academic Board meeting of 2012, when the new academic structure will be in place, and elections for faculty staff members of the Board have been delayed accordingly.

3) Council noted a report on all academic awards conferred by the Academic Board from April 2010 up to and including April 2011.

Student matters

1) The Student Grievances and Appeals Governing Policy requires that there be an annual call for expressions of interest in the Appeals Committee Membership Pool, with positions effective from 1 July each year. Council then approves a pool of nominees to serve on committees considering student appeals relating to matters such as exclusions, academic misconduct, and general misconduct matters. The Membership Pool includes members of the University Council, members of the academic and general staff, and students.

Accordingly, Council has approved the Student Appeals Committee Membership Pool for the year commencing 1 July 2011.

2) Council was advised of efforts that were being made to re-establish the Student Guild on campus. Council was supportive of these efforts, and approved a USC Student Guild membership fee of $2 for Semester 2, 2011.

Honorary award

Council approved a recommendation of the Honorary Awards Committee concerning an award of Honorary Senior Fellow.

Other matters

On this occasion, Council

1) approved a schedule of Council meetings for 2012

2) noted the following reports:

  • the Report on the recent Review of the Innovation Centre
  • regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • a report on the exercise of the delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President to approve amendments to policy

3) received minutes of meetings of the Audit & Risk Management Committee, the Planning & Resources Committee, the Academic Board, and the Foundation Board.
END

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Report on Council Meeting – 12 April 2011

At its meeting held on 12 April 2011, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Membership matters

1) Council approved a recommendation for the appointment of additional members of the Foundation Board.

2) Council considered recommendations of the Foundation Board for changes to the composition of the Board, and determined that

  • the Constitution of the University Foundation was to be varied pending the outcomes of a review of the Foundation to be undertaken in mid-2011
  • the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement) would replace the Vice-Chancellor and President on the Foundation Board
  • the quorum for meetings of the Foundation Board would be three (3) members.

3) Council approved an appointment to the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd Board of Directors.

Financial matters

Council noted that the 2010 University of the Sunshine Coast Annual Financial Statements had been finalised and signed off before the 28 February 2011 deadline.

Council also noted:

  • the 2010 December Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget, and
  • the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd 2010 Annual Financial Statements.
Academic matters

Council approved proposed amendments to the composition of the Academic Board which included the membership ex officio of the new Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research), and noted a report on programs accredited or approved for discontinuation by the Academic Board in 2010.

Honorary awards

1) Council formally noted that a decision to confer the award of Honorary Doctor of the University to two recipients at a Graduation Ceremony to be held on 20 April 2011 had been passed by means of a flying minute since the previous Council meeting.

2) Council also approved nominations for University of the Sunshine Coast Honorary Awards for conferral at future Graduation Ceremonies. The Vice-Chancellor and President will determine the specific Ceremonies at which each of these awards will be conferred.

Other matters

On this occasion, Council

1) noted the establishment of the USC Study Support Bursary fund

2) noted progress relating to applications for funding from various sources

3) noted and discussed the Student Guild audited Financial Statements for 2009

4) noted and discussed considerations being given to possible changes to academic structures within the University

5) noted the following reports:

  • regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • a report on the exercise of the delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President to approve amendments to policy
  • the 2010 annual report on the activities of the University Foundation
  • the final version of the University of the Sunshine Coast 2010 Annual Report
  • an oral report from the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) about his role and major issues within his portfolio.

6) On this occasion Council received minutes of meetings of the Audit & Risk Management Committee, the Planning & Resources Committee, the Academic Board, and the Foundation Board.
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Report on Council Meeting – 22 February 2011

At its meeting held on 22 February 2011, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Council membership

Four new members attended their first Council meeting on this occasion:

  • Professor Birgit Lohmann, Chairperson of the Academic Board
  • Mr Bruce Cowley, an additional member appointed by Council
  • Ms Holli Mills and Mr Carl Olive, student members appointed by Council to fill casual vacancies. Under the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998, these students are now deemed to be elected members.
Committee membership

Council appointed members to fill vacancies on the Audit & Risk Management Committee, the Honorary Awards Committee and the Planning & Resources Committee.

Policy matters

1) Council approved proposed amendments to University delegations to allow the Vice-Chancellor and President to approve changes to financial delegations up to and including $500,000 expenditure within budget, and the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) & Chief Financial Officer to approve changes to financial delegations up to and including $100,000 expenditure within budget.

2) Council approved proposed amendments to the following Policies:

  • Doctoral Degrees – Governing Policy; and
  • Research Masters Degrees – Governing Policy, which is now titled Research Master Degrees – Governing Policy.
Planning matters

A report on performance against the 2005-2011 University Strategic Plan at February 2011 was noted. It was noted further that, in future, Council would receive not only reports on performance against the Key Performance Indicators in the new Strategic Plan 2011-2015, but also reports on relevant KPIs from the previous Plan where up to date information had not previously been available, until these items were complete.

Financial matters

Council discussed the draft 2010 University of the Sunshine Coast Annual Financial Statements, and noted that the final version would be considered by the Audit & Risk Management Committee in two days’ time prior to sign-off.

Academic matters

Council approved proposed amendments to two Policies recommended by the Academic Board, as detailed above in Policy matters.

Other matters

1) Council approved nominations for University of the Sunshine Coast Honorary Awards.

2) Council noted the following reports:

  • regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President Designate and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor
  • a report on established staff positions
  • an oral report on fundraising matters
  • a report on the exercise of the delegation to the Vice-Chancellor and President to approve managerial policy

3) On this occasion Council received minutes of meetings of the Audit & Risk Management Committee and the Academic Board.
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Report on Council Meeting – 7 December 2010

At its meeting held on 7 December 2010, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Attendance at Council meetings

Council resolved to invite members of the Vice-Chancellor’s Executive who are not already members of the University Council to attend Council meetings as observers during the discussion of non-confidential matters only on a trial basis in 2011. The arrangement will be reviewed at the end of 2011.

Council and Committee membership

1) The departure from the University of Professor Rod Simpson will create a casual vacancy in the Council membership category Two members of the University’s full-time and part-time academic staff. Professor Simpson was an elected member of Council.

Section 20A(2) of the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998 provides that, when a casual vacancy arises in the office of an elected member where a ballot was held, Council must appoint to the office the one person, if any, who was a candidate for the office in the ballot; and was not elected; and received the highest number of votes of all the candidates who were not elected; and is eligible, under the Act, to be a member; and is willing to be, and available to perform the functions of, a member.

In accordance with the Act, Council appointed Professor Robert Elliot as a member to fill the casual vacancy from 1 January 2011 for the balance of the current term to 8 December 2013.

2) Council has invited a person external to the University to accept appointment to fill one of the two vacancies in the Council membership category Four additional members appointed by Council for the balance of the current term to 8 December 2013.

3) Council extended the appointment of the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor as Chairperson of the Academic Board to 11 February 2011, and formally appointed Professor Birgit Lohmann as Chairperson of the Board, effective from the date she takes up the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor to 13 February 2014.

Policy matters

1) A USC Delegations – Governing Policy has been approved.

The Schedule of Delegations required to be maintained under the USC Delegations – Governing Policy is available to staff in the Schedules section of the Financial Services organisation of the Portal.

As a consequence of the introduction of the new Policy and the Schedule of Delegations, Council approval of the Financial Delegations Policy and the Human Resources Delegations Policy was rescinded.

2) A proposed Human Research Ethics – Governing Policy was approved.

As a consequence of the approval of this Policy, Council’s approval of the policy statement Criteria for Review by the Human Research Ethics Committee was rescinded.

Planning matters

1) Following a major review of the University’s Strategic Plan during the second half of the year, Council approved a revised Strategic Plan for the period 2011-2015. The Strategic Plan 2011-2015 will be available on the corporate website at the beginning of 2011.

Plans to support the Strategic Plan are to be developed in the first half of 2011.

2) A draft Strategic Asset Management Plan 2011-2015, which makes provision for IT assets as well as physical assets, was approved.

The SAMP is available to staff in the Financial Services organisation of the Portal.

3) A report on performance against the University Strategic Plan at November 2010 was noted.

Financial matters

1) A Budget Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget as at October 2010 was formally noted.

2) Council adopted the 2011-2013 University Triennial Budget.

3) Reports concerning the University’s controlled entity, Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd, were noted.

Council also approved changes to the membership of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd Board of Directors.

Capital works matters

1) Council formally approved the construction on University land of a Childcare Centre under arrangements agreed with the AEIOU Foundation.

2) Council approved the construction of a proposed four-storey building to provide office and general teaching space.

Academic matters

1) Proposed changes to the reporting lines of the University’s Animal Ethics Committee and Human Research Ethics Committee were approved. These Committees now report to the Academic Board.

Other matters

1) Council noted the following reports:

a. regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President Designate and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor
b. a report on professorial and associate professorial staff and their research areas
c. a report on the exercise of the delegation to the Academic Board to approve academic policy

2) Council received an oral report from the Chairperson of the Audit and Risk Management Committee on the recent meeting of the Committee, the minutes of which were to be provided to Council at the earliest opportunity.

3) On this occasion Council received minutes of recent meetings of the Academic Board and the Planning and Resources Committee, and of a meeting of members of the Foundation Board.
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Report on Council Meeting – 19 October 2010

This meeting of the University Council was held at the Mooloolaba Campus of the Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE. Afterwards the Council members had an opportunity to meet members of the Sunshine Coast TAFE Council over dinner.

At the meeting the Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Committee membership

Council reappointed two members of the Audit and Risk Management Committee for a further three-year term.

  1. It was noted that two members of the Planning and Resources Committee had been reappointed for a further two-year term by means of a flying minute.
Attendance at Council meetings

Council had an initial discussion about the possibility of allowing certain members of staff to attend Council meetings as observers. This matter will be considered further at the next meeting.

Planning matter

A report on performance against the University Strategic Plan at September 2010 was noted.

Financial matters
  1. The 2010 August Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget, as recommended by the Planning and Resources Committee, was approved.
  2. The Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd August 2010 Financial Report was noted.
University Foundation matters
  1. Council approved an amendment to the University Foundation Constitution to ensure consistency with the staffing structure. Section 3.2 of the Constitution was amended to read “The Vice-Chancellor may appoint a person or persons who will be responsible for the day to day organisation of fund raising activities, including liaison with Board members.”
  2. Council noted details of Phase 2 of the Aquatic Complex, which will be implemented incrementally as and when donor funds become available for the purpose. Council will be advised of the Foundation’s fundraising priorities early next year.
Academic matters
  1. Council accredited a new program, the Graduate Certificate in Business Research. In doing so, Council took account of the Academic Board’s endorsement of the program, and of the views of the Planning and Resources Committee in relation to the Business Case for the program.
  2. Proposed amendments to the terms of reference of the Academic Board were approved. The amendments involved:
    1. the inclusion of a reference to the delegation of authority to the Academic Board to confer awards of the University, other than Honorary Awards;
    2. removing the term of reference that read “To approve the admission of students to awards offered by the University”; and
    3. removing the term of reference that read “To perform the functions required under relevant University Rules” following Council’s decision that all University Rules relating to academic matters be replaced with policies.
Other matters
  1. Council noted the following reports:
    1. regular reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President Designate and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor
    2. an update on the Sunshine Coast University Hospital
    3. a report on the exercise of delegations to the Vice-Chancellor and President and to the Academic Board.
  2. Council received oral reports from members who had recently attended the National Conference on University Governance in Melbourne; a report on the Australia and New Zealand Universities Internal Auditors Group Conference hosted by the University; and a report on the 2010 Australian International Education Conference held in Sydney.
  3. On this occasion Council received minutes of recent meetings of the Academic Board, the Planning and Resources Committee, and the Foundation Board.

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Report on Council Meeting – 17 August 2010

At its meeting held on 17 August 2010, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Review of the University’s Strategic Plan

Council was given a briefing on the process for the current review of the University’s Strategic Plan and planning framework. This will involve broad consultation across the institution, and Council members are to take part in one of a number of consultative sessions as part of the exercise.

It is expected that a revised Strategic Plan will be developed for approval by Council before the end of 2010.

Construction of a Childcare Centre on Campus

In-principle approval was given for the construction on University land of a 75 place childcare centre with some places dedicated for children with autism under contractual arrangements to be made with the AEIOU Foundation, a non-profit organisation that assists autistic children. The Commonwealth Government has provided funding for the construction of the building, and the State Government is to provide funding to assist with operational expenses.

Detailed arrangements relating to the Childcare Centre will shortly be prepared for Council approval.

Policy item
  1. The Honorary Awards Governing Policy was amended to include provision for the rescission of Honorary Awards.
Planning matter
  1. A report on performance against the University Strategic Plan at July 2010 was noted.
Financial matters
  1. The 2010 June Outcomes Report of the University Consolidated Budget was discussed and noted.
  2. Council updated its provisions for the reimbursement of expenses incurred by members of Council and certain Committees whilst on Council or Committee business.
Academic matters
  1. Council delegated authority to the Academic Board to approve the conferral of academic awards as a means of improving efficiency. Authority to approve Honorary Awards of the University remains with Council.
  2. The following new programs were accredited for offer from Semester 1, 2011:
    Master of Regional and Urban Planning (MRegUrbPlan)
    Master of Counselling (MCouns)
    Master of Counselling Practice (MCounsPrac)
    Master of Social Work (Qualifying) (MSocWk(Q))
    Graduate Certificate in Futures Studies (GCFuturesStud).
  3. In each case Council took advice from the Academic Board in relation to the academic aspects of the program, and from the Planning and Resources Committee in relation to the financial aspects of the program.
  4. The award of Doctor of Philosophy was conferred upon Paul Rumble for the thesis In Search of the Middle School Teacher: What differentiates the middle school teacher from primary and secondary school teachers.
Other matters
  1. Recommendations concerning honorary awards for presentation in 2011 were approved.
  2. Council received reports on the exercise of delegations to the Vice-Chancellor and President and to the Academic Board, and on preparations for the University’s next Quality Audit. Reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor were noted.
  3. Council noted the Human Research Ethics Committee’s Annual Report for 2009.
  4. On this occasion Council received minutes of recent meetings of the Academic Board, the Audit and Risk Management Committee, the Planning and Resources Committee, and the Foundation Board.
  5. The Vice-Chancellor and President Designate outlined changes to the University’s organisational structure, such as including the Deans and all Pro Vice-Chancellors in the Executive group.

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Report on Council Meeting – 27 May and 15 June 2010

On 27 May 2010, a special meeting of the University Council was held to consider the recommendation of the Selection Committee established to undertake the recruitment process for the University’s next Vice-Chancellor and President following the announcement of Professor Paul Thomas AM that he would not be seeking a renewal of his contract at the end of 2010.

The Council resolved that Professor Greg Hill be appointed to the position of Vice-Chancellor and President from 1 January 2011.

Professor Hill is currently the Vice-Chancellor and President Designate following Professor Thomas’s departure on leave from the University from 11 June 2010.

At its meeting held on 15 June 2010, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

University campuses

Council supports the notion of developments that would involve the University of the Sunshine Coast becoming a multi-campus institution, and has authorised the Vice-Chancellor and President Designate to enter into relevant discussions and negotiations that may result in such an outcome.

Membership of Council and its Committees

Council has noted that there are vacancies to be filled on the governing body and on at least one of its Committees. The filling of these positions has been deferred pending discussion of the overall membership requirements of Council and its Committees.

Other Committee matters
  1. A student Appeals Committee Membership Pool, from which members of student Appeals Committees will be drawn, was approved. The Membership Pool will be renewed on an annual basis.
  2. An amendment was made to the composition of the Audit and Risk Management Committee to allow for members’ initial term of office to be extended for further terms, subject to the composition and skill requirements of the Committee.
  3. The Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Robert Elliot, has been appointed as Chairperson of the Academic Board for the period from 14 June 2010 to 31 December 2010.
Creation of new staff position

The creation of the new position of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) has been approved, and will become effective from 1 January 2011.

Policy item

A revised Policies and Related Procedures Governing Policy has been approved. Authority has been delegated to the Academic Board to approve academic policy and any amendments to such policy, and to the Vice-Chancellor and President to approve managerial policy and any amendments to such policy.

Planning matters
  1. An amendment to Key Performance Indicator 5.1 of the University Strategic Plan 2005-2011 was approved.
  2. It was noted that a major review of the University Strategic Plan is to be undertaken in the second half of 2010.
  3. A report on performance against the University Strategic Plan at May 2010 was noted.
  4. A revised Internationalisation Plan for 2010-2014 (a functional plan within the University’s planning framework), as recommended by both the Planning and Resources Committee and the Academic Board, was approved.
Financial matters
  1. The 2010 April Reforecast of the University Consolidated Budget, as recommended by the Planning and Resources Committee, was approved.
  2. Reports concerning the University’s controlled entity, Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd, were discussed and noted.
Academic Board matters
  1. Council approved amendments to streamline the composition of the Academic Board, to take effect from 1 January 2011.
  2. The award of Doctor of Philosophy was conferred upon Khaled ALAFI for the thesis Factors associated with customers’ satisfaction in, and financial performance of, financial institutions: a case study of Islamic and conventional banks in Jordan.
  3. The award of Doctor of Philosophy was conferred upon Wendy SPINKS for the thesis Baby boomers and beyond: customer evaluation of health and well-being services.
Other matters
  1. Recommendations of the Honorary Awards Committee concerning honorary awards for presentation at the University’s October 2010 and April 2011 Graduation Ceremonies were approved.
  2. The schedule of Council meetings for 2011 was approved.
  3. Council received a report on the exercise of delegations to the Vice-Chancellor and President, and reports from the Vice-Chancellor and President, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, the Animal Ethics Committee and the Honorary Awards Committee.
  4. On this occasion Council received minutes of recent meetings of the Academic Board, the Audit and Risk Management Committee, the Planning and Resources Committee, and the Foundation Board.

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Report on Council Meeting – 20 April 2010

At its meeting held on 20 April 2010, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Membership of Committees

Council appointed members to fill vacancies on the Chancellor’s Committee, the Honorary Awards Committee and the Foundation Board.

Council Retreat

An off-campus Council Retreat was held on 12 and 13 March 2010 as an induction activity for members of Council and its committees. In a feedback discussion, Council members commented that the Retreat was a success; it was generally considered to be useful for both members of Council and for members of Council’s committees who were not members of the governing body.

2009 Annual Report

Council noted the final version of the University’s 2009 Annual Report, and the related Highlights Brochure.

Policy items

1) A proposed amendment to the Records Management – Governing and Institutional Operating Policy was approved.

2) Council’s approval of the Statement on the Responsibilities of Supervisors and Candidates for Undergraduate Honours Degrees has been rescinded as the substance of this Statement has been incorporated within University Policy.

3) A Management of Contracts and Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) – Governing and Institutional Operating Policy has been approved.

Financial matters

Council noted:

  1. the 2009 December Outcomes Report of the University Operating and Capital Budgets
  2. the Annual Financial Statements of Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd
  3. a report on performance against the University Strategic Plan at February 2010, and
  4. a report on the exercise of certain delegations to the Vice-Chancellor and President.
Additional matter

It was noted that this was the last meeting of the University Council to be attended by the University’s inaugural Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Paul Thomas AM. The Chancellor spoke about the extraordinary contribution Professor Thomas has made in leading the establishment and development of the University over the last sixteen years. Council members thanked Professor Thomas for all he has done for the University, and for the privilege of working with him.

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Report on Council Meeting – 23 February 2010

At its meeting held on 23 February 2010, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Election and term of office of Deputy Chancellor

Council has elected Mr David Jeffries as Deputy Chancellor for the period from 15 February 2010 to 8 December 2013.

Membership of Council

Council appointed Ms Natasha Read, a graduate of the University, as a member of Council in the membership category Four additional members appointed by Council, at least one of whom must be a graduate of the University for the period to 8 December 2013.

Council will be considering at forthcoming meetings the appointment of two more additional members for the current term.

Membership Pool for Student Appeals Committees

The Student Grievances and Appeals Governing Policy makes provision for the Vice-Chancellor and President to call for annual expressions of interest in an Appeals Committee Membership Pool, effective from 1 July each year. Council will approve a pool of nominees who may be asked to serve on a committee considering an appeal in relation to exclusion, academic misconduct, general misconduct or a student grievance. The membership pool will facilitate the appointment of members to the various kinds of appeals committees and ensure that conflicts of interest are avoided.

The Vice-Chancellor will shortly be seeking expressions of interest in the Appeals Committee Membership Pool from a number of relevant areas within the University for the period from 1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011.

Council induction

A one and a half day induction activity for Council members and non-Council members of Council’s Committees will take place off-campus in March 2010.

2009 Annual Report

Council was given the opportunity to comment on and make corrections to the University’s Annual Report for 2009.

University Strategic Plan

The University’s Strategic Plan was to have undergone a major review in 2010. However, as a new Vice-Chancellor is expected to take office from the beginning of 2011, Council has extended the current Strategic Plan by one year to the end of 2011, with a major review to be undertaken in 2011.

A number of proposed minor amendments to the Strategic Plan were approved.

Upgrade of Sippy Downs Drive

The University Council has nominated its preferred option for an upgrade of Sippy Downs Drive, which will involve resumption by the Regional Council of a 3 metre strip of land on the University’s boundary with Sippy Downs Drive.

Policy items

1) Council rescinded its resolution approving the basis on which the University awards graduate certificates and graduate diplomas, as this information is now included within recently approved policy.

2) A Bachelor Honours Degree – Governing Policy has been approved as a replacement for the Rules Governing Undergraduate Honours Degrees. Council’s approval of the Rules has been rescinded.

3) A new Intellectual Property – Governing Policy has been approved.

4) Council had previously approved the suspension of certain sections of the Program Review and Course Evaluation Policy and the Evaluation and Improvement of Teaching Policy to
24 February 2010. The suspension of those sections, which relate to student feedback on courses and student feedback on teaching, has been extended to 30 September 2010 pending the revision of the policies.

Both Policies were classified by Council as institutional operating policies under the University’s policy framework, which will enable future amendment or discontinuation of the Policies to be approved by the Academic Board in future.

Conferral of Awards

Council approved the conferral of awards in the case of six higher degree by research candidates. These awards will be conferred at the Graduation Ceremony to be held on 9 April 2010.

To enable as many students as possible to graduate at the Graduation Ceremony on 9 April 2010, Council has delegated authority to the Vice-Chancellor to confer awards in the case of students who are admitted to their awards after the 23 February 2010 Council meeting and before the 2010 Graduation Ceremony.

Other matters

1) Council received a report on staff numbers compared with the numbers at this time last year. END

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Report on Council Meeting –  27 January 2010

A special meeting of Council was held on 27 January 2010 for consideration of matters requiring attention prior to the next regular meeting. This was the first meeting of the current Council term that commenced on 9 December 2009.

As there were a number of new members on Council, the following matters were raised:

  • the conduct of Council business, and
  • Council induction and a proposed retreat to be held in March 2010

Decisions were made in relation to the following matters.

Membership of Council

Mr Phillip Harding was reappointed as a member of Council in the membership category Four additional members for the period to 8 December 2013.

There are still vacancies to be filled in the membership category Four additional members. Under the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1988 the Council must make these appointments. Nominations for appointment will be considered by Council at its next meeting and, if necessary, at the following meeting.

Membership of Committees of Council
Audit and Risk Management Committee

Council member Ms Julie-Anne Mee was reappointed as Chairperson of the Audit and Risk Management Committee for the period to 30 July 2011.

Planning and Resources Committee

The composition of the Planning and Resources Committee was amended to change the requirements relating to the Chairperson. The requirement that the Chancellor chair this Committee was removed, and the Chairperson will now be an external member of Council appointed by Council.

Council members Mr David Jeffries and Mr Paul Lunn were reappointed to membership of the Planning and Resources Committee in the membership category Three members with expertise in strategic financial management and planning, at least one of whom must be a member of Council, for the period to 8 December 2011.

Mr Jeffries was also appointed as Chairperson of the Committee for the period to 8 December 2011.

Foundation Board

Following the conclusion of the term of office of Mr Tim Fairfax AM as a member of Council, Deputy Chancellor and Chairperson of the Foundation Board, Council appointed the Chancellor, John Dobson OAM as Chairperson of the Board for the period to 31 March 2012.

At least one additional appointment to the Foundation Board will be made by Council as soon as possible.

Process for the election of a Deputy Chancellor

The University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998 requires Council to elect one of its members as Deputy Chancellor whenever there is a vacancy in the office. The office is currently vacant, and accordingly Council has approved the timetable for the forthcoming election process. The outcome of the election will be confirmed at the next regular meeting of Council, and the term of office of the new Deputy Chancellor will be determined at that time.

Honorary Award nomination

Council approved a recommendation for an Honorary Award to be conferred at the 2010 Graduation Ceremony. As required by the Honorary Awards Governing Policy, the details concerning this honorary award must remain confidential for the time being. The timing of disclosure is determined by the
Vice-Chancellor.

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Report on Council Meeting – 8 December 2009

At its meeting held on 8 December 2009, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Student Guild

Council received an update on matters concerning the Student Guild, and on arrangements being made for student societies.

Membership of Council

Council was advised of the outcome of recent elections for staff and student membership of Council for the term commencing on 9 December 2009, and of the appointment of six members by the Governor in Council.

Council received a report from the returning officer on the staff and student elections to Council.

The Council will appoint four additional members early in 2010 to complete the membership for the new term.

Policy items

1) Council approved amendments to the University Health and Safety Policy, including the classification of the Policy as a governing policy within the University’s policy framework.

2) Council approved amendments to the Smoking Policy, including the classification of the Policy as an institutional operating policy within the University’s policy framework. Authority has been delegated to the Vice-Chancellor to approve in future all matters concerning the amendment, replacement, or discontinuation of the Policy.

3) Council approved a revised IT Security Policy, which has been renamed Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Security – Institutional Operating Policy, and delegated authority to the Vice-Chancellor to approve in future all matters concerning the amendment, replacement, or discontinuation of the Policy

4) A minor amendment to the Quality – Governing and Institutional Operating Policy was approved.

5) Amendment of the Workplace Rehabilitation Policy has been approved. This policy has been classified as an institutional operating policy within the University’s policy framework and authority has been delegated to the Vice-Chancellor to approve in future all matters concerning the amendment, replacement, or discontinuation of the Policy.

6) Council’s approval of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Admission Policy has been rescinded, as the substance of the policy has been incorporated into new academic policies.

Academic Policy items

1) Council approved a new Student Academic Integrity – Governing Policy, which will become effective from 5 January 2010.

As a consequence, Council’s approval by resolution C05/116 of the Student Academic Integrity and Plagiarism Policy was rescinded.

2) A new Coursework Programs and Awards – Governing Policy has been approved, effective from 5 January 2010. It was noted that this Policy makes reference to Double Degrees, and that the term “Combined Degree” will no longer be used after that date.

3) A new Learning and Teaching – Governing Policy has been approved, effective from 5 January 2010.

4) A new Doctoral Degrees – Governing Policy has been approved, effective from 5 January 2010. This Policy will replace the Rules for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy and the Rules for the Degree of Doctor of Creative Arts, and accordingly Council’s approval of those Rules has been rescinded, effective from 5 January 2010.

5) A new Research Masters Degrees – Governing Policy has been approved, effective from 5 January 2010. This Policy will replace the Rules for the Degrees of Master of Arts, Master of Business by Research, Master of Climate Change Adaptation by Research, Master of Education, Master of Environmental Change Management by Research, Master of Information Technology, Master of Integrated Coastal Zone Management by Research, Master of Regional Planning by Research, Master of Science, Master of Social Work, Master of Sports Nutrition by research and Master of Wetlands Management by Research, and the Rules for the Degree of Master of Creative Arts, and accordingly Council’s approval of those Rules has been rescinded, effective from 5 January 2010.

6) Council’s approval of the remaining Academic Rules (sections 3, 4, 5 and 6 of the Assessment Rules) were rescinded, effective from 5 January 2010, as these Rules had been replaced by the new Grades and Grade Point Average (GPA) – Institutional Operating Policy that was approved by the Academic Board on 20 November 2009.

Student-related Policy items

1) Amendments to the Student Grievances and Appeals – Governing Policy were approved. The amendments related mainly to a change in the way student appeal committees are to be constituted, and the formation of an Appeals Committee Membership Pool.

Authority was delegated to the Vice-Chancellor to appoint members of any student appeal committee that may be required to meet prior to the establishment of an Appeals Committee Membership Pool in 2010.

2) Revision of the Student Conduct and Discipline Policy has been approved. The main change to this Policy was the removal of references to academic misconduct, which will now be dealt with under other policies. The Policy was also designated as a governing policy within the University’s policy framework.

Planning matters

Council noted the November 2009 Corporate Performance Report, which provided information on performance against key performance indicators in the University Strategic Plan.

Financial matters

1) The 2009 October Outcomes Report of the University Operating and Capital Budgets was formally noted. This document is available for perusal in the Financial Services organisation of the Portal.

2) A draft Strategic Asset Management Plan 2010-2014 was approved. This document is also available for perusal in the Financial Services organisation of the Portal.

3) The 2010-2012 University Triennial Budget was approved. The Budget is available for perusal in the Financial Services organisation of the Portal.

4) Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd financial reports as at 31 October 2009 were noted, together with an ICSC Pty Ltd 2010 Budget and Business Plan and Statement of Governance Principles.

Other Academic matters

1) Council conferred awards upon three postgraduate research students.

Ethics Committee matters

1) Council approved revised terms of reference for the University’s Animal Ethics Committee.

Council also noted a Report on the 2009 Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation Review of the University’s compliance with the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 and the Australian Code of Practice for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes.

Other matters

1) Council received a report on professorial and associate professorial staff.

2) Council approved appointments/reappointments to the Board of Directors of Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd for the two-year term concluding on 8 December 2011.

Matters concerning the Vice-Chancellor and President

Council was advised that the Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Paul Thomas AM, will not be seeking renewal of his contract of employment at the University when his contract expires at the end of 2010. Council acknowledged the extraordinary contribution to the University made by its foundation Vice-Chancellor, and resolved to place on record its sincere gratitude to Professor Thomas for his unstinting efforts on the University’s behalf since 1994.

Council considered and determined relevant matters relating to the recruitment and selection of a person to be appointed to the position of Vice-Chancellor and President from 1 January 2011.

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Report on Council Meeting – 13 October 2009

At its meeting held on 13 October 2009, the University Council made the following decisions, or discussed the following matters.

Outcome of flying minute

Council was formally advised that the following resolution had been passed by means of a flying minute since the previous meeting:

1. That Council approve the replacement of all University Rules relating to academic matters with policies that are consistent with the University’s policy framework.

2. (i) That Council’s approval of the Academic Rules, with the exception of sections 3, 4, 5 and 6 of the Assessment Rules, be rescinded, effective from 14 September 2009.

(ii) That the Academic Rules be replaced with Institutional Operating Policies that will be approved by the Academic Board.

(iii) That authority be delegated to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor to determine the University’s academic calendar.

(iv) That Council retain the authority to rescind the conferral of an award.

Meeting with Student Guild

The Chancellor reported on a meeting that he and another member of Council, together with the Chief Financial Officer, had had with four representatives of the Student Guild.

During the meeting the Student Guild representatives were advised of two issues in particular that were of concern to the University Council, and they were asked to provide a response, which will be discussed at a further meeting.

Council end of term self-assessment

Council discussed a report on the responses to the end of term self-assessment survey of members prepared by a working group established for the purpose. It was noted that the report emphasised the importance of induction for members at the start of a term and for members who join Council part way through a term. It was agreed that members of Council’s committees who are not also members of Council would be involved in relevant induction activities.

Re-titling of the position of Chief Financial Officer

Council approved the retitling of the position of Chief Financial Officer to Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and Chief Financial Officer. This position now has major responsibilities for Planning, and Information Technology Services, as well as for financial matters.

Policy items

1) Council’s approval of the Policy for the Giving and Receipt of Gifts and Benefits in relation to Officers and Employees of the University has been rescinded, and the Policy is to be replaced with two new institutional operating policies to be approved by the Vice-Chancellor under the current policy framework.

Once approved, the two new policies (a Giving and Receipt of Gifts and Benefits – Institutional Operating Policy, and a Donation Acceptance – Institutional Operating Policy) will be placed on the University website for reference.

2) Council rescinded its approval of the Environment Policy and, to replace it, approved a new Sustainability – Governing Policy.

3) The Policy for the Establishment and Operation of Controlled Entities has been amended and renamed Establishment and Operation of Controlled Entities – Governing Policy.

Planning matters

Council noted the September 2009 Corporate Performance Report, which provided information on performance against key performance indicators in the University Strategic Plan.

Financial matters

1) An August 2009 Reforecast of the University’s Operating and Capital Budgets was approved.

2) Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd Financial Reports for the year to 31 July 2009 were formally noted.

3) Council was provided with information about applications to the Education Investment Fund (EIF) An announcement in relation to the Stage 1 submissions that will go forward to Stage 2 of the application process is expected in November 2009. Announcements about successful applications are expected early in 2010.

Academic matters

1) Following the Academic Board’s decision to discontinue the Master of Information Technology degree effective from the end of Semester 2, 2009, Council approved an amendment to the Rules for Masters Degrees by Research to remove all references to that degree, also effective from the end of Semester 2, 2009.

2) Following the Academic Board’s decision to discontinue the Doctor of Business Administration from the end of Semester 2, 2011, Council resolved to rescind its approval of the Rules for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration, effective from the end of Semester 2, 2011.

3) An amendment to the Academic Board terms of reference to ensure consistency with relevant policy was approved. Item 11 of the Board’s terms of reference now reads: “To determine the acceptance of scholarships, bursaries and prizes above the value of $15,000 per award.”

The Academic Board’s terms of reference are available in full in the Academic Board section of the Quality organisation of the Portal.

4) Council conferred awards upon four postgraduate research students.

Other matters

1) Council noted a report on emerging themes in AUQA Cycle Audit Reports.

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Report on University Council Meeting – 18 August 2009

Council Committee matters

1) The composition and terms of reference of the Audit and Risk Management Committee were amended to ensure alignment with revised Treasury Guidelines for Audit Committees and to ensure compliance with changes to relevant legislation.

2) Four members of the Foundation Board were reappointed for a further three-year term of office.

Council end of term self-assessment

Council approved the process for its end of term self-assessment, which will involve a survey of members and the use of a questionnaire. Responses to the questionnaire will be considered at the next meeting.

Policy items

1) Council approved amendments to the University Governance Framework – Governing Policy.

2) Amendments to the Election of Council Members Policy/draft Statute were approved.

3) Council’s approval of the Freedom of Information Policy has been rescinded as this policy has been replaced by the Right to Information – Institutional Operating Policy.

4) Replacement of rules with policies

Council discussed a proposal for the replacement of the University’s existing Rules relating to academic matters with policies that are consistent with the University’s policy framework. Due to the receipt of legal advice only shortly before the meeting, it was determined that this matter would be dealt with by flying minute.

Related matters, including proposed rescission of parts of the existing Academic Rules, the classification within the policy framework of four policies recommended as the first set of replacements for existing Academic Rules, and proposed delegations of authority, would also be dealt with by flying minute.

The outcome of the flying minute will be reported to Council at its next meeting.

Planning matters

1) Council noted the July 2009 Corporate Performance Report, which provided information on performance against key performance indicators in the University Strategic Plan.

2) Council discussed matters concerning developments in the vicinity of the University, particularly the proposed technology park and Sippy Downs Township.

Financial matters

An outcomes report on the University’s Operating and Capital Budgets as at the end of June 2009 was formally noted.

Academic matters

1) The degree of Master of Regional Planning by Research was accredited for immediate commencement.

Consequential amendments to the relevant Masters Degree Rules to include the new degree were also approved. The Masters Degree Rules may be accessed on the corporate website at http://www.usc.edu.au/Students/Handbook/RulesPolicies/Academic/.

2) The award of Master of Education was conferred upon Henriette Duke for the thesis An investigation of how early childhood teachers manage changes to their teaching practice in the context of their exposure to appropriate professional development training programs.

Other matters

1) Council approved a revised Internal Audit Charter.

2) Recommendations of the Honorary Awards Committee concerning honorary awards for 2010 were approved.

3) It is a requirement of the Student Guild’s Constitution that a copy of the Guild’s audited financial reports be provided to Council by 30 June each year. Council noted and discussed the 2008 Audited Financial Reports of the University of the Sunshine Coast Student Guild.

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Report on University Council Meeting – 16 June 2009

At its meeting held on 16 June 2009, Council made decisions in relation to, or discussed, the following matters.

Council membership and Committee matters

1) Council noted that the casual vacancy in the membership category One member of the University’s full-time and part-time general staff has been filled and that Ms Louise Ryan has been elected to Council for the balance of the current term to 8 December 2009.

2) Council noted with regret the recent death of former member Mr Keith Cunnington.

3) The members were advised that Dr Keith Steele had resigned from Council. It was noted that two Governor in Council positions were now vacant, and that these would not be filled for the balance of the current term to 8 December 2009. The full complement of six Governor in Council appointments were expected to be made prior to the forthcoming term due to commence on 9 December 2009.

4) Council extended the term of the Chairperson of the Foundation Board to the end of the current Council term.

5) A casual vacancy on the Honorary Awards Committee was filled for the period to the end of the current Council term.

6) Appointments to the Student Appeals Committees were made for the period to the end of the current Council term.

7) Amendments were made to the composition and terms of reference of the Planning and Resources Committee of Council.

Council end of term self-assessment

Council undertakes two self-assessment exercises during its four-year term. A working group was established to consider and recommend to Council at its next meeting on the form of an end of term self-assessment.

Timing of Council Retreat

It was agreed that a Council Retreat should be held in late April or early May 2010 to discuss strategic planning issues and any other relevant matters.

Reconciliation Action Plan

A University Reconciliation Action Plan has been approved.

Policy items

1) Council approved revisions to the following Policies:

  • Catering Policy
  • Hire of University Facilities Policy
  • Liquor Use Policy

These Policies were classified as institutional operating policies under the current policy framework, and authority has been delegated to the Vice-Chancellor and President to approve all matters relating to them in future.

2) A proposal for revisions to the Policy for Students with a Disability was approved. This Policy was classified as an institutional operating policy under the current policy framework and authority has been delegated to the Vice-Chancellor and President to approve all future matters relating to it.

3) Revisions to the Performance Planning and Review (PPR) Policy were approved. This Policy was classified as an institutional operating policy under the current policy framework and authority has been delegated to the Vice-Chancellor and President to approve all future matters relating to it.

4) Council’s approval of the Library Resources and Intellectual Freedom Policy has been rescinded, as the Policy has become obsolete following approval of the Library Collection Development – Institutional Operating Policy.

Planning matters

Council noted the May 2009 Corporate Performance Report, which provided information on performance against key performance indicators in the University Strategic Plan.

Financial matters

1) Council approved the 2009 April Reforecast of the University Operating and Capital Budgets as presented. The document is available for perusal in the Financial Services organisation of the Portal.

2) Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd Reports for the quarter ended 31 March 2009 were formally noted.

University annual reports

Council has determined that in future the formal University of the Sunshine Coast annual report will be a digitally-printed document designed to fulfil governance and statutory requirements only for a small circulation. The annual report will be available via the University’s corporate website. In addition to this, a high quality annual highlights brochure detailing the University’s progress in a reader-friendly way will be produced for broad community circulation.

Academic matters

Council rescinded resolution C05/118 relating to Procedures for the Determination of Award Abbreviations. In future, procedures relating to abbreviations for University qualifications will be approved by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

Authority was delegated to the Vice-Chancellor and President to approve changes to any official abbreviation for a University qualification that was approved as part of Council’s accreditation of a program or higher degree by research.

Other matters

1) Amendment was made to the University of the Sunshine Coast Foundation Constitution to clarify the process for appointing Foundation Patrons. The role of University of the Sunshine Coast Foundation Patrons was approved.

2) The schedule of Council meetings for 2010 was approved. In 2010 Council meetings will be held on 23 February; 20 April; 15 June; 17 August; 19 October; and 7 December.

3) On this occasion Council received reports or minutes from the Vice-Chancellor and President, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, the Academic Board, the Planning and Resources Committee, and the Foundation Board.

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