Policies and procedures - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

This policy is intended to provide a broad framework and set of principles used to identify students who are not achieving a satisfactory level of academic progress, and who require support to take steps to address any difficulties they are facing.

The University monitors the academic progress of students to assist them in the successful completion of programs and recognises that it is important to identify and advise those students whose performance is placing them ‘at risk’ of making unsatisfactory academic progress so that both the student and the University can work together to identify the support required.

This policy is intended to provide a broad framework, set of principles and minimal requirements for determining admission to coursework programs of the University.

This policy is intended to enunciate principles concerning, and set a framework for, assessment of students’ learning within courses and coursework programs, including Bachelor Honours programs.

This Policy outlines the selection criteria and basis for the Award of a University Commendation for Academic Excellence.

This Policy outlines the selection criteria and basis for the Award of a University Commendation for Academic Excellence (Postgraduate Coursework Study).

This Policy outlines the selection criteria and basis for the Award of a Faculty Commendation for Academic Excellence.

This policy outlines the basis for the awarding of University and Faculty Medals which recognise and formally acknowledge those graduates who have demonstrated the highest academic levels of achievement in their undergraduate studies.

The Bachelor Honours degree qualifies individuals who apply a body of knowledge in a specific context to undertake professional work and serves as a pathway for research and further learning.

This policy is intended to provide a framework for the structure and requirements of undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs and related awards offered by the University.

This policy is intended to provide a broad framework, set of principles and minimal requirements for determining, granting and transferring credit for previous or concurrent formal studies undertaken by an intending or enrolled student of the University towards completion of a coursework award program of the University.

The University of the Sunshine Coast has a legal and moral responsibility to ensure that staff, students and visitors are not subjected to behaviours, practices or processes that may constitute discrimination or harassment. Relevant legislation includes the Queensland Anti-Discrimination Act 1991, the Queensland Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995, Commonwealth Age Discrimination Act 2004, Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992, and Commonwealth Racial Discrimination Act 1975.

This policy is intended to provide a broad framework, set of principles and minimal requirements for determining enrolment in coursework programs of the University.

The University of the Sunshine Coast Equity Policy provides a statement of commitment to the principles of equity in employment (staff) and education (students), freedom from discrimination on the basis of attributes unrelated to the purpose of the University and from harassment of all forms.

This policy sets out to: (a) provide a uniform grading scale and notations for the evaluation and assessment of all coursework courses throughout the University of the Sunshine Coast; and (b) articulate the purposes for which the Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated at USC and the principles to be employed in determining a GPA.

This policy is intended to provide a broad framework and set of principles associated with students satisfying the requirements of the program in which they are enrolled and graduating with the award pertinent to the program.

This policy identifies the principles informing, and key elements contributing to, excellent learning and teaching at the University.

This policy establishes the roles and responsibilities of University staff in applying for, managing and completing grants projects funded under the internal Learning and Teaching Grants Scheme.

This policy prescribes the structure and requirements of postgraduate coursework programs, including Master degrees, Graduate Diplomas and Postgraduate Diplomas, Graduate Certificates and Postgraduate Certificates. The policy does not relate to higher degrees by research.

This policy provides the broad framework for: accreditation of programs that lead to a qualification awarded by the University of the Sunshine Coast; approval of courses, majors and minors to be offered in such programs; approval of changes to or discontinuation of such programs, courses, majors and minors; and the associated responsibilities.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure regular review of academic programs as required under the Program Accreditation and Course Approval - Governing Policy and in keeping with the University’s quality assurance and improvement processes.

This policy provides a framework for promoting and maintaining standards of academic integrity expected of students in undertaking learning or research and activities related to assessment of that learning or research.

This policy is intended to promote an understanding of student academic misconduct and provide a framework for identifying and addressing such misconduct in relation to learning and assessment.

This Policy articulates the expectation that interaction amongst the University community is based on social justice principles of freedom, respect, equality and consideration. It promotes ethical thinking about diverse perspectives, and supports active and confident student participation in the life of the University.

This policy commits the University to the collection, monitoring and use of evidence-based data that is used primarily for the purpose of enhancing the quality of teaching and courses and ultimately aims to improve staff development in the scholarship of teaching and to improve student learning.

This policy is intended to provide a framework for addressing and resolving students’ grievances.

This document contains advice, guidelines and procedures for addressing student grievances consistent with the principles and requirements in the Student Grievance and Appeals – Governing Policy. That policy should be read before any action is taken under these guidelines and procedures.

This document contains advice, guidelines and procedures for addressing student grievances consistent with the principles and requirements in the “Student Grievance and Appeals – Governing Policy”. That policy should be read before any action is taken under these guidelines and procedures.

This policy provides guidance to students seeking a review of any matter which has not been resolved by the University’s established student complaints and grievances policies and processes.

This policy is intended to support students who are members of the Defence Reserves and as such the University has adopted special provisions to ensure that Student Reservists are not disadvantaged academically or financially as a consequence of participation in Defence Reserves activities. This policy details the process for the special consideration to be granted to Student Reservists with regard to attendance, availability of study materials, assessment requirements and refund of fees.

This policy provides an operational framework to enable a coordinated approach for the implementation of surveys of the University’s students across the University.

This Policy, required for ESOS compliance, addresses Standard 7 of the revised National Code 2007: Transfer between Registered Providers.

This policy prescribes the structure and requirements of the Bachelor degree, double degrees, associate degrees and Study Components. The policy also defines the award of ‘Merit Honours’ on the basis of study within the Bachelor degree.

This policy describes the University’s approach to work integrated learning, outlines rights and obligations, and describes roles and responsibilities.

This policy is intended to achieve coordinated and consistent timetabling practices at the University of the Sunshine Coast which will facilitate the timely production of class timetables that are equitable, take into account the needs of both students and academic staff and maximise the efficient use of University space and resources.

This policy is intended to enunciate the requirements relating to all major and minor capital works projects at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

This policy defines the purposes and conditions of the University’s provision of Catering services.

This policy outlines the conditions under which children are permitted to be on University of the Sunshine Coast premises.

This policy is intended to provide a framework for the response to, and management of, Critical Incidents that pertain to the University and members of the University community. Business Continuity Management, Critical Incident Management, and IT Disaster Recovery form part of the University's risk management framework.

These rules shall apply within the boundaries of the University premises, and to every part of the University premises and to every person who is at any time on the University premises

This policy articulates the University’s commitment to prevent the inappropriate and unlawful use of liquor and its harm to individuals, property and the standing of the University in the community. Through this policy, the University actively encourages a responsible attitude toward the use of liquor within the University community.

The University has a duty to provide, as far as is reasonable, a safe and comfortable environment for employees and students and a safe environment for wildlife on campus. This policy aims to minimise the harmful effects of passive smoking and its related discomfort to others and to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.

This policy is intended to facilitate coordinated and consistent room booking practices at University of the Sunshine Coast.

The following policy sets out the requirements for usage of University owned, leased or rented vehicles.

This policy has been created so that the University's clients, as users of information technology resources, have an understanding of the University's commitment as well as their own responsibilities, duties, and obligations.

The University is required to have on record a variety of factual information about students both for internal use in connection with its academic programs and for the compilation of statistical reports to meet the requirements of external bodies

The purpose of this Policy is to outline responsibilities regarding the use of third party copyright material for teaching, learning, research, or administrative purposes.

This policy defines client access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) resources at the University, the periods of eligibility for this access and the types of resources that are to be accessible by each client.

This policy outlines a framework that promotes consistency and improved control of ICT projects, thereby reducing risks and increasing project successes.

The University is committed to the management of risks associated with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) assets and the reduction of ICT security incidents. This policy outlines the framework that reflects this commitment and addresses security issues related to the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information housed in ICT systems.

The following policy is intended to provide a framework for the development of a quality Library collection that meets the information needs of a dynamic community. The policy will ensure that the quality of the collection is maintained through consistency in selection and de-selection processes and a process of continuous evaluation.

This policy is intended to set a broad framework for records management by and within the University and to enunciate principles for consistency in, and minimal requirements for, the development, approval, implementation, monitoring and review of records management practices within the University to ensure compliance and best practice. The policy should be read in conjunction with the Right to Information - Governing Policy, the Public Records Act (Queensland) 2002 and the relevant Queensland Information Standards.

Social Media Guidelines

The intention of this policy is to encourage an environment of informed and responsible behaviour that supports the University’s established culture of openness, trust and integrity whilst facilitating effective software asset management.

The purpose of this policy is to govern the acceptance of gifts and to provide guidance to donors and their professional advisors in making gifts to the University of the Sunshine Coast. Donors may be individuals, foundations, associations, businesses or corporations.

This Policy makes provision for the conferral of honorary awards, which affords a special opportunity for the University of the Sunshine Coast to recognise persons of outstanding achievement.

The purpose of this policy is to establish the framework and guidelines within University of the Sunshine Coast for the creation of productive sponsorship alliances with corporations, foundations, individuals and other non-government organisations.

This policy sets out the University's guidelines for granting the honour of naming. The University welcomes the opportunity to name buildings, rooms, endowed chairs, and other initiatives to honour the distinguished contributions of individuals to Australia, to Queensland, to the Sunshine Coast, and to the University.

This policy is designed to provide a framework for financial control with respect to under-expenditure and over-expenditure of budget funds.

This policy is intended to assist the University to respond effectively to incidents that may interrupt the ongoing operations of individual Cost Centres or the University as a whole. Business Continuity Management, Critical Incident Management, and IT Disaster Recovery form part of the University's Risk Management Framework.

These procedures are established to put into effect the Scholarships, Bursaries and Prizes - Governing Policy. A number of areas within the University have a role to play in relation to the establishment and management of undergraduate scholarships, bursaries and prizes including Student Administration, the Foundation Office and Faculties.

This policy is intended to guide and direct University financial management practices.

Implementing effective fraud and corruption controls is part of good governance and management practice. Such controls seek to minimise the risk, not only of financial loss, but also of damage to an organisation's reputation and that of its staff.

The primary purpose of internal audit is to add value to the University’s operations by providing an independent appraisal and advisory function for University Council, Audit and Risk Management Committee and senior management thereby assisting the University in achieving its mission. This is achieved by examining and evaluating the adequacy, effectiveness and efficiency of risk management, systems of internal control and the quality of management in an independent and professional manner.

The following policy is intended to outline the University’s investment policy and guidelines regarding the investment of surplus funds, with the objective to maximise earnings within approved risk guidelines and to ensure the security of funds. For the purpose of this policy investments are defined as arrangements that are undertaken or acquired with the expectation of achieving a financial return through interest, profit or capital growth. The policy applies to the investment of all surplus funds held by the University and undertaken in accordance with the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 (SBFA Act).

This policy sets out the types of scholarships, bursaries, prizes and other support for students funded by the University and/or from external sources other than the State and Commonwealth Governments that may be established by the University, the minimum level of support for each type, and responsibilities concerning the establishment and acceptance of these awards.

This policy provides a framework to enable University staff to consider the giving and receiving of gifts and benefits in the course of their official duties.

This policy provides a framework to enable University staff to consider the giving and receiving of gifts and benefits in the course of their official duties.

These procedures must be read in association with the Student Fees and Charges Policy and they apply except where the University has entered into a contractual arrangement outlining separate fee and refund arrangements, subject to those arrangements being consistent with any Commonwealth or State government requirements.

The Council of the University of the Sunshine Coast recognises the five fundamental ethical principles set out in the University's Code of Conduct. This Councillors' Interests Policy forms part of the broader application of two of those principles, namely Respect for the Law and System of University Governance and Integrity.

This policy is intended to set out the process for the conduct of elections for membership of Council referred to in Section 15(2) of the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998.

This policy establishes a controlled entities governance framework that is consistent with the University’s strategic goals, governance and risk management practices, to assist Council to discharge its responsibilities effectively in relation to controlled entities.

This policy articulates the role and functions of International Recruitment Representatives and the framework for their appointment and management.

The policy is intended to enunciate the broad framework and principles for internationalisation of the University of the Sunshine Coast.

This policy addresses the administration of University agreements, such as Contracts and Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). The University is committed to ensuring that agreements are entered into by appropriately delegated officers following due consideration of risks, benefits, other relevant requirements and accountabilities, and alignment with the University’s strategic aims. This policy deals with both legally binding Contracts and Deeds, and with Memoranda of Understanding which are formal or strategic agreements but do not bind the University in a strict legal sense.

These procedures are provided to assist in the management of University agreements such as contracts of Memoranda of Agreement (MOUs) and address the following areas: Risk management Use of standard University agreements Legal advice on agreements Role and responsibilities of the Agreement Manager • Authority to sign agreements on behalf the University • Records management • Agreement management

This policy identifies the responsibility for approval and submission of Notifications of Material Changes from the University of the Sunshine Coast to the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) pursuant to the TEQSA Act 2011.

These procedures specify the processes to be followed in developing, approving, recording and submitting documentation of Notifications of Material Changes from the University of the Sunshine Coast to the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) pursuant to the TEQSA Act 2011.

This policy is intended to set a broad framework for development of policy and related procedures within the University and to enunciate principles for consistency in the development, approval, implementation, monitoring and review of policies and related procedures. The policy should be read in conjunction with the Quality - Governing Policy.

This policy assists staff and other people to understand their obligations in reporting unlawful behaviour, negligence or misconduct in public sector organisations, or about danger to public health or the environment and outlines the legislative provisions and procedures in place to protect people who make public interest disclosures (PIDs) under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010 (Act).

This policy is intended to enunciate the principles, core features and requirements for quality assurance and improvement at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

In accordance with the University’s Risk Management Policy, these procedures describe the University’s standard process for risk management, including: Risk identification Risk rating Risk controls Risk monitoring and reporting A standard approach to risk management allows risks to be correctly prioritised across all of the University’s operations, which in turns means that effective controls can be put in place to ensure the University is able to manage its operations effectively now and into the future. The procedure applies to all activities undertaken in the course of university business, whether on the university campuses or other locations.

The Council and Management of the University are committed to the implementation and maintenance of a formal risk management system, including the integration of risk management throughout all levels of the University as fundamental to achieving the University’s strategic and operational objectives. This policy outlines the framework that reflects that commitment. The University’s Risk Management Framework is based on the Australia/New Zealand Risk Management Standard AS/NZS 4360:2007 and uses Business Continuity Management, Critical Incident Management and IT Disaster Recovery as crucial components of risk mitigation.

This policy provides a framework for sustainable and responsible practices, activities and operations at the University of the Sunshine Coast. It has been developed around three key areas: environmental management economic sustainability, and social wellbeing

This policy is intended to outline the underlying principles and key features of the corporate governance framework of the University of the Sunshine Coast.

This policy is intended to enunciate the core requirements for University planning including development, approval, implementation, monitoring and review of University plans. The policy should be read in conjunction with the Quality – Governing Policy.

The following policy is intended to detail the requirements and responsibilities of holding a University delegation necessary in the administration and governance of the University of the Sunshine Coast Delegations of authority are intended to achieve the following objectives: - to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of the University’s administrative processes - to ensure that the appropriate officers have been provided with the level of authority necessary to discharge their responsibilities, and • to ensure internal controls are effective

As a body corporate established by the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998, the University has a Seal as an identifier of its status as a body corporate. The Seal is used to authenticate documents in the University’s name and is most commonly affixed to testamurs and other award certificates, but is also affixed to deeds, and occasionally to other contracts and agreements. Affixing the Seal to a document indicates that the document is formal, or in the case of a deed, creates legally binding relations. This Policy determines the custody of the University Seal, the documents to which the Seal is to be affixed, the signatories to the Seal, and the recording of the use of the Seal.

Position Classification Standards (PCS’s) are generic statements used to describe the broad categories of responsibilities attached to academic staff members at different levels employed in universities throughout Australia.

The purpose of this policy is to provide a framework for the productive involvement of Adjunct Appointees and Visiting Fellows in the academic life of the University.

All Administrative, Professional and Technical positions will be classified on, and in accordance with, the Administrative, Professional and Technical Position Descriptor Guidelines, with the exception of senior positions, and within the salary schedules set out in Schedule 1 of the University of the Sunshine Coast Certified Agreement.

The University of the Sunshine Coast has a legal and moral responsibility to ensure that staff, students and visitors are not subjected to behaviours, practices or processes that may constitute discrimination or harassment. Relevant legislation includes the Queensland Anti-Discrimination Act 1991, the Queensland Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995, Commonwealth Age Discrimination Act 2004, Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992, and Commonwealth Racial Discrimination Act 1975.

University of the Sunshine Coast Enterprise Agreement (2010 - 2013)

The University of the Sunshine Coast Equity Policy provides a statement of commitment to the principles of equity in employment (staff) and education (students), freedom from discrimination on the basis of attributes unrelated to the purpose of the University and from harassment of all forms.

The flexible hours arrangement provides staff and the University flexibility to achieve a better balance between the personal lives and working times of staff, while giving priority to the University’s operational needs and the maintenance of acceptable workflows.

Job evaluation is the process by which the worth of a job is evaluated by comparing the content of a position description with the Administrative, Professional and Technical Position Descriptors Guidelines. Reclassification occurs when a position description is revised to reflect significant changes and the evaluation of the position description determines that the position should be classified at a level other than that at which it is currently classified.

University of the Sunshine Coast Leave Guidelines

This policy is intended to define the purposes and characteristics of Performance Planning and Review (PPR) at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

The purpose of this policy is to affirm the University’s commitment to probation as a means of ensuring new staff settle in their positions and become productive and engaged staff members from the commencement of their employment with the University.

This policy is intended to define the purposes, characteristics and conditions of the University’s Professional Development Program (PDP).

University of the Sunshine Coast's Salary Packaging Guidelines

Guidelines for Secondment or temporary transfer of a staff member to another position within the University, at the same or a higher classification, on a full-time or fractional basis, and for a period of not normally more than twelve months.

The purpose of this policy is to detail the remuneration and benefits accessible to senior staff within the University. The policy seeks to ensure the consistent and equitable remuneration and benefits for senior staff. It also seeks to ensure that all senior staff have a clear understanding of the benefits available to them.

The University’s Code of Conduct provides guidance on acceptable standards of behaviour for staff at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC). The Code of Conduct reaffirms the University’s commitment to the ethical principles detailed in the Queensland Public Sector Ethics Act 1994, by making clear that all staff are required to abide by this code, behaving professionally and with respect and consideration for others. The Code of Conduct is shaped around four key ethics principles that are intended to guide ethical decision making and behaviour.

Guidelines for Staff Recognition and Reward

This document contains advice, guidelines and procedures for addressing student grievances consistent with the principles and requirements in the Student Grievance and Appeals – Governing Policy. That policy should be read before any action is taken under these guidelines and procedures.

This document contains advice, guidelines and procedures for addressing student grievances consistent with the principles and requirements in the “Student Grievance and Appeals – Governing Policy”. That policy should be read before any action is taken under these guidelines and procedures.

This policy is intended to support the development of a better skilled and flexible workforce and to encourage the development of individual staff. Financial assistance and leave to attend classes and examinations may be granted to eligible staff members enrolled in an approved program. This policy sets out the assistance available to staff members to improve their education and the conditions under which financial and other assistance can be granted.

The purpose of this policy is to set the conditions under which the Vice-Chancellor and President recognises and rewards exceptional staff performance and achievements through the Awards for Excellence.

The following policy articulates the University’s commitment to preventing injury and illness by providing a safe and healthy working environment and providing opportunities for staff to participate in workplace rehabilitation to facilitate a timely and safe return to normal duties.

This statement gives guiding principles for the use of animals in teaching and research

This policy prescribes the structure, requirements and administration of Doctoral degree programs of the University of the Sunshine Coast.

This policy establishes the roles and responsibilities of University staff in applying for external research grants, and for managing and completing externally funded research projects.

These procedures describe the implementation of the two key policies governing higher degrees by research in the University, namely, the Doctoral Degrees - Academic Policy and the Research Master Degrees - Academic Policy.

The University of the Sunshine Coast is committed to assisting its researchers to undertake their research in an ethical manner, and the purpose of this policy is to promote the highest ethical standards in the University’s human research. In particular the policy aims to assist researchers to consider their ethical responsibilities with regards to the design and conduct of their research, and to clearly articulate the responsibilities of those involved in the ethical review and related protocols. The policy provides the basis and authority on which the University of the Sunshine Coast Human Research Ethics Guidelines and Human Research Ethics Procedures are produced and maintained.

This policy is intended to address the ownership and management of intellectual property arising in connection with the conduct of USC’s activities and does not address the compliant use of third party copyright content as this is addressed in the USC Copyright - Managerial Policy

This Policy outlines the roles, responsibilities and accountabilities of researchers in the conduct of their research activities and the University’s role and expectations in supporting those activities. This policy should be read in conjunction with the 2007 Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, relevant national and state legislation, University policies and procedures.

These procedures set out the responsibilities for the management of Authorship in compliance with the 2007 Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research and the implementation of the Research – Academic Policy.

This policy is intended to provide the framework for the establishment, operation, reporting, review, and disestablishment of Research Centres. Research Centres enable the University to: foster research strengths; facilitate the strategic utilisation of infrastructure and resources; build research capacity; attract private and public sector funding; market research capabilities through cohesive formally recognised branding; enrich Higher Degree Research (HDR) training; strengthen the research / teaching nexus; and provide a stimulating and supportive research environment for Early Career Researchers.

These procedures set out the responsibilities for the management of Research Data and Materials in compliance with the 2007 Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research and the implementation of the Research – Academic Policy.

Research Graduate Attributes

This policy prescribes the structure, requirements and administration of research Master degree programs of the University of the Sunshine Coast.

This policy aims to enhance the research capabilities of existing and emerging areas of research strength within the University through the recruitment, retention and development of high quality researchers through early career and senior research fellow appointments.