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Report of the Council of the University of the Sunshine Coast

For the period 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2012

26 February 2013

The Honourable John-Paul Langbroek MP

Minister for Education, Training and Employment PO Box 15033

CITY EAST QLD 4002

In accordance with the provisions of the Financial AccountabilityAct 2009 and the Financial and Performance ManagementStandard 2009, and the detailed requirements set out in the  Annual Report Requirements for Queensland Government Agencies(May 2012), I have the honour to present to you, on behalf of the Council of the University of the Sunshine Coast, the Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2012.

John M Dobson OAM

Chancellor

Acknowledgment of country

The University of the Sunshine Coast acknowledges the Gubbi Gubbi people as the traditional owners and custodians of the land on which the campus stands, and recognises the strength, resilience and capacity of Aboriginal people in this land.

The University has a Reconciliation Action Plan (2012-2014) to guide its relationships, opportunities and progress reporting with regard to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Communication objectives

This annual report meets the reporting requirements of the Queensland Minister for Education, Training and Employment.

The University of the Sunshine Coast’s 2012 annual report provides a record of the University’s performance in 2012, its plans for the future, and audited financial statements. All achievements for 2012 are documented against  the goals and corresponding key performance indicators of the University’s Strategic Plan (2011–2015).

Potential readers of the annual report include federal, state and local government representatives and officers, the University community (including staff and students), business and media, potential benefactors, international visitors and members of the public.

Copies of the 2012 annual report are available from the Office of Marketing and Communications, University of the Sunshine Coast, by telephoning

+61 7 5459 4558 or faxing +61 7 5430 1187. The report is also available online at www.usc.edu.au/reports.

The University of the Sunshine Coast is committed to providing accessible services to people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. If you have difficulty understanding the annual report, contact the Office of Marketing and Communications on

+61 7 5459 4558 to arrange an interpreter to effectively communicate the report to you.

University of the Sunshine Coast 90 Sippy Downs Drive

SIPPY DOWNS QLD 4556 AUSTRALIA

Tel: +61 7 5430 1234

Fax: +61 7 5430 1111

Email: information@usc.edu.au Web: www.usc.edu.au

© University of the Sunshine Coast 2013 ISSN 1837-7521

Published by University of the Sunshine Coast February 2013.

Information contained in this publication was correct at the time of publishing. For the most up-to-date information about the University, visit www.usc.edu.au. All amounts are in Australian dollars. University of the Sunshine Coast is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. CRICOS Provider Number: 01595D.

Standing

On opening in 1996, the University of the Sunshine Coast became the first greenfield university to be established in Australia since 1975. The University serves the Sunshine Coast and impacts strongly on the economic and cultural development of the region.

In its first 15 years as a new public university for the Sunshine Coast region, USC has demonstrated its viability in terms of student demand, enrolment growth, teaching and research outcomes, campus development, financial position, regional contribution and reputation.

The early period of USC’s second 15 years will be characterised by naturally reinforcing themes. Deregulation of student enrolments, including a student-centred, demand-driven funding system from 2012 and targets  for higher education participation and low-SES students, will impact on the University’s profile and teaching. Learning and teaching at USC will build on its existing reputation and become an exemplar of access and success in the Australian higher education sector. Opportunity will be provided over a broader region, and students and the wider community  will have educational, cultural and economic possibilities well beyond current provision.

Research outcomes and outputs will increase in both quantity and quality. Existing areas of research concentration will be strengthened through collaboration with the best researchers in these fields in Australia and internationally.

Strategic partnerships will be expanded with related government agencies, industry and business. In addition, there will be substantially more applied research conducted with, and for the benefit of, the wider community.

Rapid growth of the University and the region it serves presents a major challenge for USC’s institutional capacity and capability. Professional development of staff at all levels will be a priority, the University’s systems will undergo major reinvestments, and core infrastructure will be expanded. Above all, development of strategic partnerships at regional, national and international levels will advance USC’s footprint, profile and performance.

Vision

The University of the Sunshine Coast is regionally relevant and recognised, nationally and internationally, for excellence in teaching, research and engagement.

Values

In pursuing its vision and conducting daily operations, the University is committed  to:

• creating and disseminating knowledge through innovative and effective teaching and research
• fostering freedom of inquiry and expression
• the process of lifelong learning
• engaging in and responding to the region’s intellectual, cultural and economic challenges
• adopting consultative processes and ethical behaviours in all activities
• engendering respect throughout the University community
• fairness, openness, honesty, trust and effective communication
• developing the University and supporting the region as a sustainability exemplar
• advancing human rights within a tolerant and inclusive community, in which respect for Indigenous peoples is fundamental

Highlights

• On-campus student enrolments increased by five percent in 2012, with undergraduate enrolments increasing by six percent. Research higher degree students increased by more than 25 percent with the highest number of enrolments recorded to date.
• The University’s application for funding under the regional priorities round of the Education Investment Fund was successful. USC received

$30 million towards a $37.2 million project to fund a major building for the Sippy Downs campus. The new building will be a state-of-the-art facility for engineering education that features a visualisation theatre and related immersive learning infrastructure.

• Campus infrastructure expansion continued, with the commencement  of new buildings at Sippy Downs and on the Wide Bay Institute of TAFE campus at Gympie.This was part of the $32 million Collaborative Futures Project (USC-SCIT-WBIT) funded by the Australian Government through

the Education Investment Fund as part of the Structural Adjustment Fund; USC investment; and Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE co-investment.

• The University expanded its footprint into Brisbane and Gympie. USC  will offer degree programs at the Southbank Institute of Technology from Semester 1, 2013. In Gympie, USC commenced construction of the

$5.6 million teaching facility; appointed the new manager; and advanced planning for program delivery in 2013.

• For the fourth consecutive year, the Good Universities Guide confirmed USC as the only public university in Queensland to obtain five stars for the quality of staff teaching. USC was also awarded five stars for gender balance, overall graduate satisfaction and Indigenous participation.
• The Commonwealth Office for Learning and Teaching awarded six citations to USC staff: Dr Justin Debuse, Associate Professor Peter Dunn, Dr Mark Sayers, Associate Professor Meredith Lawley, Johanna Einfalt and Janet Turley (jointly), and the University’s International Projects Group.
• Overall satisfaction among international students remained strong in 2012, with 88.6 percent of international students indicating satisfaction with their overall experience at USC in the i-graduate International Student Barometer.
• The University conferred an award on its 10,000th graduate during 2012, and now has more than 11,000 alumni.
• 2012 saw the appointment of the University’s inaugural law professors, Emeritus Professor Neil Rees and Professor Anne Rees. The University expects to enrol its first law students in 2014.
• Mark Paddenburg was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast (ICSC). ICSC has directly supported the start-up and growth of more than 87 businesses, created more than 350 jobs and helped to raise $24 million in investment for client companies.
• In December the University announced three research centres and three research clusters to underpin growth in existing and emerging areas of research concentration in sustainability, genecology, forest industries, health and digital technologies.
• The University’s significant growth in research activity was rewarded in the 2012 Excellence in Research for Australia evaluation. USC’s performance in the key research focus area of applied genetics in the fields of forestry and aquaculture were rated as above world standard.
• Research grant income rose in 2012 to $7.2million (figure unaudited). This is a substantial increase over previous years and demonstrates USC’s research strategy is delivering outcomes.
• The University submitted its Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) re-registration as an Australian University in September and TEQSA Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) in October.

Key five-year figures

1. Number of students is at Census 1, each year.
2. Student load includes inbound exchange students. EFTSL = Equivalent Full Time Student Load. 2012 is based on forecast data as at Census 2, 2012.
3. Disability and Indigenous percentages are as a proportion of domestic students only.
4. First in family percentages are as a proportion of undergraduate students only.
5. Academic (Vice-Chancellor; Deputy Vice-Chancellor; Teaching and Research (Level A-E) staff).
6. Non-academic (Administrative, Professional and Technical (APT) Level 1–10 staff; APT staff above award).
7. Figures include research income reported to the Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education (DIISRTE) through the Higher Education Research Data Collection (HERDC),   as well as research funding received from DIISRTE.
8. HERDC figure for the year is not finalised, and is unaudited.
9. Weighted calculation reported to DIISRTE in the HERDC.

Vice-Chancellor and President’s review

2012 was very much about positioning USC for the future, both at the campus level, and more broadly, within the sector.

The revised academic structure—the consolidation of three faculties into two—took effect from January, and with it saw the appointment of two new executive deans, Professor Joanne Scott (Faculty of Arts and Business) and Professor John Bartlett (Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering). The new structure positions the University well for future growth and an enhanced national profile.

The new Strategic Plan, introduced in 2011, sets us the large, yet attainable, goal of growing our student population to 12,000 (8,000 EFTSL) by 2015. This remains a substantial increase on the 2012 full year student population of around 9,800. Compact discussions indicate the Commonwealth is keen to see Australia’s youngest public university reach this critical mass.

To achieve that goal, the University is expanding its footprint from the immediate Sunshine Coast to service the coastal region from north of Brisbane to Bundaberg. USC expanded further into Brisbane in 2012, reaching an agreement with Southbank Institute of Technology, which will see our academics delivering USC classes on the SBIT campus (using SBIT facilities) from Semester 1, 2013.

In order to continue to provide the high standard of learning and teaching for which our University is nationally recognised, we embarked on our largest construction project in USC’s history. Two new facilities, one on campus and one co-located on the Wide Bay Institute of TAFE campus at Gympie, will provide modern, well-equipped learning environments for USC’s students. The $32 million project is funded in part by the Australian Government through the Education Investment Fund as part of the Structural Adjustment Fund.

Through 2012 an extended feasibility study was conducted to investigate the provision of paid parking on campus. The preferred paid parking model is to be implemented in early 2013. Other proposed campus developments are detailed in the Campus Master Plan, the revised version of which was approved in 2012.

Research continues to build momentum, with the University’s profile strengthening through 2012. Following the success of 2011, we secured further ARC and NHMRC grants, and built on our roles in the Collaborative Research Networks initiative, the Australian Seafood CRC and CRC for Forestry.

We celebrated our 10,000th graduate in April. Every year, I am impressed by our student and graduate achievements, from University medallists to sporting achievers to success in business and the professions.

The University’s strong national ratings for teaching quality and graduate satisfaction, and our strong performance in national awards for university teaching, reflect the dedication of our teaching staff and the personal attention they afford our students.

I thank all staff for their outstanding efforts in 2012.

Institutional forward planning 2013

• Implement the USC Engineering Futures Project (EIF Regional Priorities Round), with construction of the $37.2 million Engineering Learning Hub complete for mid-2015.
• Maintain engagement with the planning process for the Sunshine Coast University Hospital and the Skills, Academic and Research Centre.
• Maintain momentum around student retention, student satisfaction and social inclusion agendas.
• Continue to aggressively grow the research profile and use the 2012 ERA outcomes to guide further investment and strategic interventions.
• Further develop the annual, high-level planning retreats introduced in 2012 (Council, Executive, Senior Staff).
• Focus on new program development as a major driver of growth in student load.
• Accelerate development of blended learning in association with completion of the Sippy Downs Learning Hub and USC Gympie.
• Following the SAF and EIF successes, redefine USC’s future infrastructure requirements and strategies to meet same.

Professor Greg Hill

Vice-Chancellor and President

Financial review        

The University’s financial position continued to strengthen this year as a result of increased student load, reductions in expenditure and increased research and consultancy efforts. Results for the year included an operating surplus of $24.82 million (2011: $8.36 million), with an operating margin of 15.6 percent (2011: 6.9 percent).

Income and expenditure

Total income for the year was $159.11 million—an increase of $31.78 million (25.5 percent) on the previous year. The increase was driven primarily by continued growth in Commonwealth-funded student places, receipt of $12.09 million in capital funding and receipt of increased investment income. Funds derived from government sources totalled $131.09 million or 82.3 percent of revenue (includes advance payments in relation to HECS-HELP and capital funding but excludes up-front student fees), an increase of $31.43 million (31.7 percent) on the previous year’s funding.

Expenses for the year totalled $134.29 million—an increase of $15.72 million (13.2 percent) expended in the previous year. This increase can be attributed to an increase in employee benefits due to the four percent Certified Agreement wage increase in March 2012, increase in provisioning for long service and annual leave due to an ageing of the workforce and increased partnership and scholarship payments from contracted research grants.

Expenditure on consultancies

Asset growth

At year’s end, the University’s net assets totalled $214.71 million—$25.21 million (13.4 percent) more than in the previous year. This reflected the accumulation of cash reserves for future years’ capital expenditure and associated strategic initiatives. In addition, the reduction of long-term borrowings through regular premium payments and the early pay out (approximately $1.9 million) of a loan with the Queensland Government.

Budget vs Actual 2012 — Actual 2012 vs Actual 2011

Organisation  

Basis of authority

The institution was established under the Sunshine Coast University College Act 1994 and took its first students in 1996. Full university powers were granted under the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998. The University acknowledges that on 3 April 2012, Education, Training and Employment Minister John-Paul Langbroek was sworn in to the Legislative Assembly of Queensland.

Functions and powers

The University’s functions are to:

• provide education at university standard;
• provide facilities for, and encourage, study and research;
• encourage the advancement and development of knowledge, and its application to government, industry, commerce and the community;
• provide courses of study or instruction, at levels of achievement the Council considers appropriate, to meet the needs of the community;
• confer higher education awards;
• disseminate knowledge and promote scholarship;
• provide facilities and resources for the wellbeing of the University’s staff, students and other persons undertaking courses at the University;
• exploit commercially, for the University’s benefit, a facility or resource of the University, including, for example, study, research or knowledge, or  the practical application of study, research or knowledge, belonging to the University, whether alone or with someone else; and
• perform other functions given to the University under the Act or another Act.

The University’s powers are:

Under the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998 the University has all the powers of an individual. It may, for example:

1. Enter into contracts;

a)  acquire, hold, dispose of, and deal with property;

b) appoint agents and attorneys;

c) engage consultants;

d) fix charges, and other terms, for services and other facilities it supplies; and

e) do anything else necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.

1. Without limiting subsection (1), the University has the powers given to it under its Act or another Act.
2. The University may exercise its powers inside and outside Queensland.
3. Without limiting subsection (3), the University may exercise its powers outside Australia.

Strategic framework

The Strategic Plan is the University’s highest-level planning document, along with the Campus Master Plan. The role of the strategic plan is to articulate the broad goals and aims of the University over the next five years. Specific strategies complementing the Strategic Plan are set out in four top level plans, which apply University-wide and drive resource allocations through the budget process. Supporting strategies guide the University’s involvement in international activities and regional engagement. Operational Plans for individual cost centres support initiatives outlined in both the strategic and top level plans. All plans are reviewed and updated during the budget and planning process in September each year.

The summary of key performance targets for the University is:

Annual review of operations

As a review of its operations each year, the University of the Sunshine Coast measures its progress according to the goals and key performance indicators for four areas, as outlined by the Strategic Plan (2011–2015):

1. Enable access to the USC experience
2. Deliver high quality teaching, learning and graduate outcomes
3. Build research productivity and output significantly
4. Develop USC for a sustainable future

Baseline data has been reported for all performance measures, and assessment of performance has been made where the latest data is available.

The summary of key performance targets for the University is:

Target: the target set as per the Strategic Plan

[Actual]: the final, full-year figure

(Forecast): the expected estimate, based on statistical / financial modelling

STRATEGIC PRIORITYONE — REVIEW — Enable access to the USC experience

2012 saw growth in...

Students

An intake of 3,198 new students pushed the University’s student population to 8,139 (including 697 international students) by Semester 1 census. The intake was a slight increase on Semester 1, 2011 and translated to an overall increase of 4.8 percent in student numbers, despite a tightening of OP requirements. The mid-year intake of 1,476 students was strong (similar to Semester 2, 2011).

With the student growth experienced this year, and the QTAC application figures for 2013, it is expected the University will come close to meeting its target of 12,000 students (8,000 EFTSL) by 2015. As at 17 December, the number of QTAC first preferences for study at USC in 2013 had increased by eight percent over the previous year, compared to a Queensland institutional average of two percent growth.

National and local identities received honorary awards at the 2012 Graduation ceremonies: Honorary Doctorates of the University were awarded to Dr Willi Toisuta, Dr Janice Fullerton AO, Dr Mark Loane AM and Professor Ian Lowe AO. Emeritus Professorships were awarded to Dr Pam Dyer, Dr Andrew Hede and Dr Rod Simpson, while Honorary Senior Fellowships of the University were awarded to Darrin Edwards, Hayden Kenny OAM, Rabbi John  D Cooper and Annette Sym. Refer also to page 31.

Programs

The Bachelor of Nursing Science was the most popular program at USC, with more than 230 new students enrolled at Semester 1 Census. Total enrolments (new and continuing) in the program accounted for 7.5 percent of the total student body. The Bachelor of Business was also one of the University’s most popular programs, with more than 170 students commencing the program in Semester 1.

The top 10 undergraduate programs (based on all enrolments) in 2012 were:

1. Bachelor of Nursing Science
2. Bachelor of Business
3. Bachelor of Primary Education
4. Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology)
5. Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science
6. Bachelor of Paramedic Science
7. Bachelor of Arts
8. Bachelor of Biomedical Science
9. Bachelor of Occupational Therapy
10. Bachelor of Social Work

Campus

The University’s continued priority throughout the year was planning how to manage future student growth through the provision of campus infrastructure and buildings. There were major achievements in this area in 2012, with a number of projects commenced and completed. Refer to page 20 for details.

Reputation

The University’s 2011 branding campaign was judged the Queensland winner of the Marketing Communications (Business to Consumer) category at the Australian Marketing Institute’s 2012 Awards for Marketing Excellence. The 2012 brand campaign won a bronze Brisbane Advertising and Design Club award in the TV and cinema over 30 second category, for the male version of the University’s mid-year television advertisement.

Reach

Extending USC’s reach into non-traditional catchment regions was a priority in 2012. Attendance at recruitment events was strong—Open Day attracted more than 4,250 visitors, including many from  areas including Gympie, Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, South Burnett, Darling Downs, Caboolture, Brisbane  and the Gold Coast, as well as New South Wales, Victoria and the UK. The Sunshine Coast University Showcase, which involves all Queensland universities visiting high schools in the region and is organised

by USC, took in 29 schools and reached 3,500 Year 12 students. Student Services continued its successful community education courses off-campus in a number of locations, providing six-week study skills sessions for adults considering returning to formal education.

USC’s widening participation goals are long-term and aim to improve social inclusion by developing or supporting initiatives that build aspiration, increase pathways for future students, and support current students. This is achieved through collaborative activities with schools, TAFE, other universities, and community organisations by:

• developing educational resources with schools
  • raising parent awareness of further education opportunities
  • providing professional development activities for teachers
  • offering career planning and guidance for adult learners
  • building confidence and expectations of personal attainment
  • demystifying higher education and offering tertiary taster activities

Key strategies: Recruit and support a diverse student population | Provide a high quality student experience | Develop a vibrant and healthy University community and identity | Engage with the regional community through educational, cultural, creative, economic and recreational activities | Extend learning opportunities throughout the region

2012 saw engagement with...

Business and industry

Sunshine Coast Futures—the Innovation Centre hosted the annual conference in November, exploring the theme ‘Sustainable villages’. The conference, sponsored by Sunshine Coast Council, examined the challenges and opportunities created by the interconnected urban centres that form the Sunshine Coast.

Community

Sunshine Coast World Environment Day Festival— the annual festival was attended by thousands

of people, fostering environmental awareness  and an understanding of local, regional and global imperatives in sustainability. The festival, organised and hosted by USC, the Sunshine Coast Environment Council and Sunshine Coast Council, won the Biggest Activity Mobilisation category in

the United Nations Environment Programme World Environment Day Challenge 2012.

The University was the platinum sponsor of TEDxGympie, the first TEDx event to be organised in the Sunshine Coast region. The event was designed to stimulate dialogue between communities, organisations and individuals and featured presentations by four USC staff.

Youth

Voices on the Coast Festival—the week-long event began with a youth literature festival at USC, bringing 4,500 children aged 10 to 17 onto campus to meet and learn from top international and Australian authors, illustrators and poets. The festival is a long-term partnership between Immanuel Lutheran College and USC.

Schools

Headstart—185 Year 11 and 12 students from the 37 schools across the Sunshine Coast and surrounding region participated in the Headstart program in 2012. Headstart gives senior school students the opportunity to study at university and get ahead on their degree studies before completing school.

In other school activities, more than 1,300 Year 9 and 10 students from 26 Sunshine Coast schools attended Experience USC Day to explore career opportunities. With a choice of 30 workshops, the day was designed to give students an insight into industries, jobs and how they can achieve their goals.

Almost 300 Year 10 business students attended USC’s Business Enterprise Day to hear the real world stories from a variety of Sunshine Coast business people. AIME (Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience) Sunshine Coast started  at USC in 2012, with more than 60 USC students providing one-on-one mentoring for Indigenous Year 9 and 10 students between Sunshine Beach and Beerwah.

Future students

Recruitment efforts in 2012 included 305 visits   to more than 89 schools, 13 career markets, three university roadshows and an information day for guidance officers and career advisers. Thirty-three information events held on campus saw student and staff ambassadors talking to an estimated 7,400 people about their study options at USC.

2012 saw support for...

Sustainability

Ride to Work Day—held for the second time at USC, around 100 people took part riding, walking, catching public transport or carpooling to work  to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase

healthy activity. Sunshine Coast Council supported the event again in 2012. While the uptake of  public transport and environmentally friendly campus travel improved during the year (refer also to page 20), existing overflow car parking areas were upgraded to cater for increasing demand, and preparations were made to introduce paid parking in 2013.

Reconciliation

Indigenous Education Symposium—the sixth annual event involved industry, professional and community members, with guest speakers

addressing a range of topics designed to facilitate understanding between Indigenous Australians and the broader community. The University also marked National Reconciliation Week with the signing of its new Reconciliation Action Plan.

Equality

International Women’s Day—more than 100 staff and students celebrated on campus with a

breakfast. Coinciding with International Women’s Day was the announcement that USC was, for the eighth consecutive year, an employer of choice  for women—one of 12 Queensland organisations to receive the EOWA tick. The University also launched its Ally Network, in support of sexual and gender diversity on campus and within the community.

Art and culture

University Art Gallery—an impressive number of visitors came throughout the year—almost 13,000 people, an increase on last year’s figure of 11,500. Exhibitions featured works by contemporary Australian artists, USC students and travelling artistic showcases. The University also hosted

its first Harmony Day in March, acknowledging the positive impacts of cultural diversity on the campus community.

Olympic swimmer Tessa Wallace was  crowned USC’s 2012 Sportsperson of the Year. Wallace won the Australian 200m breaststroke championship in Adelaide in March, and competed in the semi-final of the same

event at the London Olympics. The Bachelor of Communication student was one of four students to earn Full Blue awards at the annual USC Sports Awards Ceremony, along with international kayaker Stacey Higgins and outrigger canoeists Mitchell Olds and Jenaya Davis.

Sport

Sunshine Coast Sports Hall of Fame—iconic surf lifesaving siblings Zane Holmes, Kirsty Holmes and Denby Stokes, and Denby’s husband Brad Stokes, were inducted into the hall of fame for 2012, in recognition of their outstanding individual careers. Located at USC’s Health and Sport Centre, the hall of fame has recognised local high-achieving sports people since 1991.

2012 saw students benefit from...

Increased financial support:

• More than 900 undergraduate students at USC received financial support from scholarships, bursaries and prizes worth more than $1.59 million. Approximately 800 students received support valued at around $1.48 million in 2011.
• 56 talented first-year students received scholarships ranging in value from $3,500 to
• $12,000 (totalling approximately $371,000) at the Undergraduate Scholarships Presentation Ceremony in February.
• Approximately $1.46 million of the support was provided to students from low-SES or equity backgrounds:
  • $549,492 of this support was provided in the form of Equity Scholarships and Bursaries funded through Commonwealth’s Higher Education Participation and Partnership Program.
  • $125,850 was provided for Study Support Bursaries to assist students in financial need to balance their studies and part-time work.
  • $77,900 was provided to support Education students undertaking Rural and Remote fieldwork placements through the generosity of the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation.
• Representatives of 36 local and national companies presented 51 academic prizes, scholarships and bursaries worth around $45,100 at the annual Faculty of Arts and Business Awards and Prizes ceremony.

Extended practical learning opportunities:

• More than 1,700 students took placements with businesses and community organisations. Refer also to page 13.
• The GO (Global Opportunities) Program, where USC students study overseas as part of their degree, saw more than 100 students take part  in semester-long and short-term study trips. Refer also to page 14.

Starfish Program aims to improve the university experience

Launched in September 2012, the Starfish Program was established to provide USC staff, alumni and community supporters  a means to offer anonymous financial assistance to students who would otherwise need to work to support themselves through university. Participation in the program increased 250 percent by late October.

Starfish supporters directly fund the USC Study Support Bursary. The bursary supports equity groups from low socio-economic backgrounds with demonstrated financial need, with preference given to students who need employment to support their studies; encourages recipients to apply more time to their studies, with less focus on paid employment; and serves to increase retention and encourage academic achievement of students from low socio- economic backgrounds.

The Good Universities Guide 2013: Teaching Quality

For the fourth consecutive year, USC stood  out as the only public university in Queensland to gain five stars for teaching quality in the 2013 Good Universities Guide. The University also earned multiple five-star ratings for its educational experience, including overall graduate satisfaction, graduate satisfaction with generic skills, gender balance, Indigenous participation and electronic support.

Enhanced campus facilities and activities:

• The University addressed the introduction of  the Federal Government’s Student Services and Amenities Fee. Monies raised from the fee directly benefited students by improving student access  to a range of campus services, such as sport and recreation activities, employment and career advice, financial advice, food services, counselling services, legal services, health services and housing services.
• The University introduced an online credit transfer calculator in November, allowing students to self-assess when preparing credit applications. The tool provides a single reference point for credit assessment and removes the need for individual agreements with VET providers. The calculator allows the University to deliver a more systematic and methodical approach to student pathways  and ensures equity and transparency around granting credit.
• The Blackboard Mobile smartphone application was launched in September, giving students mobile access to course materials. Almost 3,000 users accessed the application in the first six weeks after its launch.
• USC expanded its social media presence for students on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (in addition to its existing channel on YouTube).
• Social media is now being used by a variety of departments/initiatives, including USC International, UniSafe, the GO Program and student  ambassadors.
• The Access and Wellbeing Expo (incorporating Ride to Work Day) raised awareness of disability, wellbeing and mental health issues through a series of fun activities and informative workshops.
• The University held its inaugural Diversity Week celebration, demonstrating support for culture, equity and inclusion.
• USC hosted some of the region’s top young musicians as part of the University’s Chill-out Tuesday series. The weekly performances were organised by Student Life and Learning.
• USC representatives recorded the University’s best ever result at the Australian University Games in Adelaide. The team won three gold (400m,  400m hurdles, 4x400m relay), two silver (200m, 4x100m relay) and four bronze (1600m medley relay, 100m, mixed touch and mixed fours beach volleyball). USC had not previously won gold at the national event.
• An increase in donations boosted the value of the University’s art collection to more than $2.2 million. The first official valuation of the collection since 2006 was undertaken in 2012.

Greater student representation and consultation:

• The USC Student Guild increased its presence on campus in 2012. Funds from the Student Services and Amenities Fee provided assistance for all students, administered by the Guild.
• Phil Davison, previously a Complaints Manager for the Commonwealth Human Rights Commission and the Anti-discrimination Commission of Queensland, was appointed as the new USC Student Ombudsman.
• To support and retain new and continuing students, Student Administration conducted the ‘Ask Us Anything’ event, held early in Semesters 1 and 2. The three-week event, a part of USC’s Student Retention Action Plan 2011-2013, provided study information and advice, and promoted the support and services available to students in order to reduce the likelihood of students withdrawing from study.

More travel and transport options:

• The free express bus service introduced in 2011 between Noosa and the Sippy Downs campus was extended in 2012 to include a southern route, from North Lakes (via Caboolture) and a second northern route, from Gympie (via Cooroy).
• The U-Pass subsidised public transport initiative trialled in 2011 was continued into 2012. The partnership between USC, Sunshine Coast Council and Translink provided 2,000 first-year students with $65 of bus travel in Semester 1.
• The University conducted an extended feasibility study around the introduction of paid parking at its Sippy Downs campus, with the preferred paid parking model to be introduced in 2013. Refer also to page 20.

Forward planning for 2013

• Support and actively encourage the design and delivery of high quality pedagogy, curriculum and assessment, using emerging technologies in flexible and blended delivery approaches.
• Increase the provision of support and development activities to improve the engagement and success of students through the implementation and facilitation of the Student Engagement Program (StEP).
• Expand the access of students to USC through the continued development of productive partnerships with regional schools, the delivery of TPP in regional locations and the growth of programs at Gympie and South Bank.
• Enhance the internationalisation of programs through alignment with credible national and international partner institutions.

STRATEGIC PRIORITY ONE — PERFORMANCE — Enable access to the USC experience

KPI 1.1: 12,000 students by 2015

Comment

Targets have been set annually for all fee types from 2012 to position the University for its target of 8,000 EFTSL by 2015. These will be rolling targets and progress will be assessed following each official reforecast (April and September each year). The September reforecast has indicated an increase in load for 2012 and revised estimates for 2015 of 7,805 EFTSL indicate that the University will be close to achieving this target.

The current estimate for 2012 is 6,601 EFTSL, an increase of 77 EFTSL over the April reforecast. The mid-year intake was slightly above 2011 with the majority of this increase from higher than estimated retention of students from Semester 1 to 2. In addition, there were slight increases in international and postgraduate domestic load compared to the April reforecast.

University EFTSL by fee type, 2008 to 2015

Estimates and targets based on Census 1 and 2, 2012 data.

1. ²: 2012 figures based on forecast data.

2. Includes Enabling, TPP, Undergraduate and Postgraduate CGS EFTSL.

3. Includes international on campus, online and remaining off campus transnational (TNE) EFTSL following the University’s phased withdrawal from these programs.

4. Includes Postgraduate, HDR, Headstart and Visiting domestic fee paying EFTSL.

KPI 1.2: SES participation         

Comment

Prior to 2009, assessment of socio-economic status (SES) was based on the postcode of the student’s permanent home residence. Concerns regarding the postcode methodology as an accurate indicator of SES have been ongoing. In 2010, an interim indicator of students from low socio-economic backgrounds was developed, combining data based on the existing ABS SEIFA classification methodology refined to the Census Collection District, as well as data on recipients of selected Centrelink benefits. The interim indicator provides a composite measure that includes area-based and individual components to better reflect the multi-dimensional nature of SES. The interim indicator is used for allocating funding for the participation component of the HEPPP. The interim SES indicator is also used to measure universities’ performance against compact agreement targets for low SES domestic undergraduate enrolments.

Based on the interim indicator, USC’s participation rate for students from low socio-economic backgrounds improved from 18.0% in 2010 to 19.1% in 2011. This is above the national rate of 14.6% and is above USC’s compact agreement target of 18.1% for 2011.

Participation rates (%) for low SES students

5. Domestic students with permanent home residence in Australia only.

6. The DIISRTE interim measure of the Low SES Participation rate is based on the number of domestic undergraduate students with home addresses within the Low SES Census Collection Districts (CCD) and the number of students who are receiving selected Centrelink Student Income Support payments.

7. Based on the number of domestic undergraduate students with home addresses within the Low SES Census Collection Districts (CCD). n/a—Data not yet available.

STRATEGIC PRIORITY THREE — REVIEW — Deliver high quality teaching, learning and graduate outcomes

Key strategies

• Embed academic excellence in all teaching and learning activities
• Support diverse learning and teaching styles to maximise student participation and success
• Offer innovative programs, in particular via partnerships
• Produce graduates with knowledge, skills and attributes to succeed in a world characterised by rapid change

For the fourth consecutive year, USC was recognised at a national level for its quality of learning and teaching:

• USC was the only public university in Queensland to earn five stars for teaching quality in the 2013 Good Universities Guide.
• USC won six Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning, from the Commonwealth Office for Learning and Teaching (OLT).

Introduction of Law

USC will offer a range of law degrees from 2014, having made appointments in 2012 for the University’s inaugural Professor of Law (refer to page 21). The University’s law curriculum will be developed through 2013, in consultation with the University community and local members of the profession, with the first students expected to be enrolled in 2014.

New Drama major

The Faculty of Arts and Business announced in November that it will introduce a major in drama in

Semester 1, 2013. The 8-subject major will produce multi-skilled graduates with a focus on performance-making and performance, theatre direction, event management and drama workshop  facilitation.

Faculty of Arts and Business

School of Business

School of Communication

School of Social Sciences

Professor Joanne Scott, previously Head, School of Social Sciences at USC, was appointed Executive Dean of the restructured Faculty of Arts and Business (refer to page 21), commencing in January 2012.

Undergraduate students 3,216

Postgraduate students 240

Research students 78

Male:female students 36:64

Award programs 99

Achievements in 2012

Dr Justin Debuse and Associate Professor Meredith Lawley received OLT citations for outstanding contributions to student learning, for implementing best-practice pedagogical innovation and sustained excellence in research supervision, respectively.

Professor Joanne Scott and Lecturer in Politics Bronwyn Stevens, along with third co-author Professor Patrick Weller of Griffith University, received a Mander Jones Award for their book detailing the history of Australia’s Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Property academics Pam Wardner and Dr Lucy Cradduck won four major awards at the Pacific Rim Real Estate Society Conference, making USC the most successful university at the event, which drew participants from 15 countries.

Professor Andrew Vann, a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration alumnus, was appointed Vice-Chancellor of Charles Sturt University in Bathurst.

Arts graduate Cassie Janetzki secured a highly sought-after graduate assistantship at the University of Mississippi, which includes a $60,000 stipend to cover her postgraduate studies.

Bachelor of Communication graduate Emma Jane Clark was appointed CEO of Womensport Queensland, two years after completing her degree. She completed an internship with the non-profit organisation, which led to an initial offer of employment.

One new program was approved for offer in 2013:

• Master of International Business

Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering

School of Health and Sport Sciences

School of Nursing and Midwifery

School of Science, Education and Engineering

Professor John Bartlett, previously Dean (Elect), School of Science, University of Western Sydney, was appointed Executive Dean of the restructured Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering (refer to page 21), commencing in February 2012.

Undergraduate students 3,349

Postgraduate students 371

Research students 99

Male:female students 32:68

Award programs 68

Achievements in 2012

Associate Professor Peter Dunn and Dr Mark Sayers received OLT citations for outstanding contributions to student learning, for building confidence and enthusiasm among statistics students and for continued excellence in teaching biomechanics, respectively.

Nursing Science student Pauline Lambert was the sole Queensland winner in the 2013 Emerging Nurse Leaders program, and one of only five nationally. The program identifies students with the capacity to inspire their peers towards change.

Three Education students—Prue Jones, Hannah Ward and Renee Laing—took part in the NASA Space Camp in Alabama, participating in space science exercises, including simulated orbit and lunar facility repairs.

Honours student Liam Owen, majoring in Environment and Water, won the Michael Woodhouse Memorial Award for his final-year research project. This is the most prestigious student award offered by Engineers Australia in Queensland for water engineering.

The first cohort of civil engineering students received their degrees at the April Graduation ceremony. Six of the seven students had commenced full-time work in the field prior to officially graduating. In addition, the first cohort of mechanical engineering students commenced their studies at USC in 2012.

Senior Lecturer in Environmental Microbiology Dr Ipek Kurtboke was appointed editor-in-chief of the International Journal of Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, an online resource of peer-reviewed original papers.

Education lecturer Sharon Hogan was a joint winner of the 2012 Australian Teacher Education Association’s Early Career Award.

Associate Professor in Education Michael Nagel chaired the first Australian Biennial Conference on the Brain and Learning in Brisbane in July.

About 340 occupational therapists and OT academics took part in the wholly online OT

24-hour Virtual Exchange (OT24Vx), hosted for the first time by USC in November.

One new program was approved for offer in 2013:

• Bachelor of Nursing Science / Bachelor of Midwifery

Students in other programs

Cross-institutional enrolments 6

International Inbound Exchange 42

Integrated Learning Engineering 38

Study Abroad 158

Tertiary Preparation Pathway 940 (full year)

Visiting (Headstart/Non Award) 132

Figures as at Census 1.

Learning and teaching week

USC held its third Learning and Teaching Week in 2012. The five-day event was themed ‘Connecting the puzzle pieces’ and explored increasing connections across courses, curriculum, and with the wider community, and curriculum renewal and graduate attributes.

Keynote topics included connecting curriculum design with community engagement to aid authentic learning in Indigenous studies; building global partnerships to achieve leadership in nursing education in eastern Indonesia; the value of clinical placements to nutrition studies; and ways to improve assessments such as online multiple choice tests.

Funding learning and teaching excellence

USC’s Learning and Teaching Grant Scheme received a significant funding boost in 2012, providing increased opportunities for staff to explore, develop and advance innovations in learning and teaching to enhance the student-learning experience.

The revised funding model, developed to align  with the national Office for Learning and Teaching grants programs, was implemented in November, offering up to $10,000 for exploratory grants (funding proof-of-concept, evidence-based learning and teaching projects which test and evaluate an original idea) and up to $20,000 for enhancement grants (funding projects which have previously undergone proof-of-concept, aim to promote and support strategic change and have potential to leverage to external-grant success).

The University offered $150,000 to support up to three Commissioned Learning and Teaching Grants Program (CLTGP) grants (maximum value $50,000 each) for staff to undertake projects to achieve significant transformation of learning and teaching at the institutional level.

Of the six applications submitted, two proposals with strong synergy across faculties were combined as a whole of university project and funded by the CLTGP. The project, entitled ‘Engagement and Capacity Building: Enhancing first year retention through building staff communication and leadership capability’ (grant value $98,000) aims to explore, implement and evaluate a variety of coordinated engagement strategies to provide a cohesive approach to improving student retention.

Learning by doing

An integral part of the University’s approach to learning and teaching is work integrated

learning—providing as much practical experience as possible to prepare students for success in their chosen career.

• A group of nursing science students spent four weeks undertaking voluntary work in Tanzania, in hospitals and health centres to gain an insight into working in an under- developed nation.
• Final-year regional and urban planning students worked with the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce, Sunshine Coast Council, Caloundra Community Centre and Caloundra Holiday parks to identify methods of revitalising Caloundra’s CBD.
• As part of her business degree, Lorin Willson developed a marketing plan to drive a local small business into the Chinese marketplace.
• An internship with KPMG as part of her accounting degree helped Sarah O’Keeffe secure full-time employment in the company’s Private Enterprise division.
• Honours student Mick Dan spent six months researching climate change in the Galapagos Islands to help save its declining sea lion population.
• Business students travelled to Fiji to complete three tourism-focused projects for the remote Nataliera Village, on the east coast of Viti Levu, Fiji’s main island. The students developed snorkelling trails, assessed the health of Moon Reef, and launched the area’s first Moon Reef Ocean Festival.
• Science students Emma Menzies and Sam Rouse travelled to Ecuador to undertake climate change research as part of an international team investigating the impacts of climate change in environments at elevations greater than 3,500 metres.
• A research paper by property student Janet O’Hara was featured as the cover story of the March edition of the Australian and New Zealand Property Journal, published by the Australian Property Institute.
• Journalism student Emily Ditchburn and Master of International Business student Waldemar Schneider coordinated a fundraising effort for the Smart Tuna Hook, to raise money to fund independent testing of the environmentally friendly fish hook.
• Students took up placements at Kruger National Park in South Africa, working in the Skukuza Rest Camp and Letaba Elephant Hall.

Funding for clinical placements

The University secured a grant of almost $515,000 from Health Workforce Australia (HWA) to fund additional clinical placements for students studying nursing, midwifery and allied health programs. The funding will be used to employ several senior staff to lead processes of curriculum change and professional development associated with blended learning and simulation- based learning.

USC was granted a further $155,000 from HWA to support the establishment of USC’s Uni Clinic on campus—a combined paediatric occupational therapy and midwife outreach clinic. The clinic will support existing clinical training growth, create new clinical training places, improve the quality of clinical training, and provide new services to the community.

Academic support

Enrolments in the Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP) remained consistent in 2012, although lower than the previous peak of 1,005 in 2011 (full-year enrolments). More than 940 students enrolled at USC in the pathway in the 2012 calendar year. TPP classes were also taught at Caboolture, Gympie, Noosa and Nambour.

The Tertiary Enabling Program (TEP) continued  to deliver academic support to students needing to brush up on study skills in areas such as mathematics, physics and biology. Around 340 students enrolled in TEP in 2012, compared to around 430 in 2011 (full-year enrolments).

eLEAP

The three-year eLearning and Flexible Delivery Advancement Project (eLEAP) concluded in 2012. The project aimed to enhance students’ learning experiences by enabling staff to augment face-to-face learning through the effective integration of educational technologies and flexible delivery strategies. The project was integral to the formation of USC’s 2012 blended-learning statement and the comprehensive blended- learning resources made available to staff and students.

Chancellor's medals

A young teacher living with cerebral palsy and a mother of two with a perfect GPA received Chancellor’s medals at graduation ceremonies in 2012. Education graduate Patrick Walden, 23, and nursing science graduate Christine Pointon, 42, received the highest award available to graduating students, recognising excellence in academic performance, University governance, community service and student welfare.

Internationalisation

International student profile

International students 697

Undergraduate and postgraduate coursework 457

Higher degree by research 31

Study Abroad 158

Exchange 42

Other pathways 9

Figures as at Census 1.

International enrolments declined in 2012, reflecting the strong Australian dollar and a tightening of USC’s entry requirements in some programs. Numbers from Germany and the  USA declined noticeably, however enrolments from Scandinavian countries grew. The School of Business accounted for almost one third of international student enrolments.

The top source countries in 2012 were:

1. USA
2. Germany
3. Canada
4. France
5. Norway

The International Student Barometer, administered in April 2012, reported a very strong overall student satisfaction in three of the four broad experience categories, being arrival, living and support. USC had the highest rate of overall student satisfaction for living experience among all Australian institutions (86.4 percent), and the second-highest rate of overall student satisfaction for support and arrival experience (92.3 percent and 89.4 percent respectively). USC’s total response figure in 2012 was 316, representing a response rate of 46 percent from a population

of 705 international students, including Study Abroad, Exchange and Academic English students (off-shore students were excluded). The overall Australian ISB response rate was 23 percent. USC was ranked third out of 33 Australian universities for overall satisfaction, with 88.6 percent of the students satisfied with the overall experience, compared to 84.4 percent in 2011.

AusAID funding builds international relationships

The University extended its operations into Uganda and Mongolia for the first time after its International Projects Group secured $1,073,765 in AusAID grant funding, under the Australian Leadership Awards Fellowships program. Four

of USC’s five applications were successful in the funding round.

The funding allowed USC to broaden its scope after working for the previous four years in developing nations in the Asia-Pacific region.

The projects funded were:

• Advancing policy and planning for eLearning in Ugandan teacher training, $252,296;
• Building e-health capacity for community nursing in eastern Indonesia, $289,925;
• Developing integrated approaches to sustainable management of coastal destinations in Lombok, $218,926; and
• Building leadership and management capacity of university centres in Mongolia, $312,618.

GO Program

Sixty-one students undertook semester long study in 14 countries in 2012, plus an additional 43 undertook short-term learning in five countries, as part of USC’s Global Opportunities (GO) Program.

The University secured $345,000 in semester-long funding, and $88,000 for short-term study from the Commonwealth Government’s Endeavour program, which was distributed as scholarships to GO Program participants. The most popular countries for semester-long study were the USA, Germany and Japan.

The GO Program, which traditionally focuses on students studying a semester or two at overseas partner universities, was expanded in 2011 to include work placement opportunities (WPL).

In 2012, $88,000 in funding from the Commonwealth Government’s Mobility program facilitated individual and group study tours and placements in Indonesia, South Africa, Fiji, Ecuador, Cambodia and the USA.

Alumni

The University welcomed more than 1,400 new graduates into its alumni cohort in 2012, with two ceremonies in April and a third in October. In April, Nursing Science graduate Megan Ailey became USC’s 10,000th graduate. At a ceremony in September, three high-achieving graduates received the 2012 Outstanding Alumni of the Year Awards:

• Dr Laura Bray, BSc 2007, for her research into the viability of silk-based materials in ocular tissue reconstruction.
• Suzie Burford, BA (IntStud) 2005, BA (Hons) 2006, for her leadership and dedication to international community  development.
• Tristan Kurz, BBus 2004, for his continued business and philanthropic leadership.

Indonesian MOU

The Secretary General of the Indonesian Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Diah Anggraeni, visited the University in April to sign a Memorandum of Mutual Understanding to commit the Ministry, USC and its partner, Willi Toisuta and Associates, to work together to upgrade MoHA’s key training centres and develop a master plan for training Indonesia’s 2.6 million village government administrators.

Forward planning for 2013

• Support staff to explicitly address academic standards, especially those identified in the AQF, in all USC curriculum documents and requisite teaching, learning and assessment  activities.
• Support staff to engage with pedagogical approaches to teaching and assessing Graduate Attributes.
• Provide professional development and encourage engagement with e-learning, blended learning and simulation-based learning.
• Provide support for academic staff in developing sustainable learning designs for multi-site teaching using technologies and pedagogies of blended learning.
• Increase the opportunity for fieldwork and WIL activities in programs to enhance student engagement with the community and the research-teaching nexus.
• Engage with students, staff and the community to promote the Graduate Attributes and Standards Project, highlighting educational and employability outcomes.

STRATEGIC PRIORITY TWO — PERFORMANCE — Deliver high quality teaching, learning and graduate outcomes

KPI 2.1: Student satisfaction                                                                 

Comment

The Australian Graduate Survey (AGS) captures a measure of graduate satisfaction through responses to the Overall Satisfaction Index (OSI).

The OSI is a mandatory single item scale included in the Course Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) component of the AGS. It seeks response to the statement “Overall, I was satisfied with the quality of this program”. The University reports on the performance for this scale as the percent of all respondents that ‘agree’ with the survey item (ie Agree or Strongly Agree).

The results in the table below detail the level of overall satisfaction reported by USC undergraduates in comparison to the aggregated level of undergraduate overall satisfaction for Table A providers. The University performed strongly in the Overall Satisfaction Index from 2009 to 2011, being above the average in each of these years.

Data collected on the 2010 AGS indicated a sharp spike in graduate satisfaction. At the national level a similar increase was also evident. A change to the response category labelling on the 2010 AGS was believed to have impacted positively on graduate responses to CEQ items. Prior to the  2010 AGS only the end points of the five-point Likert scale were labelled (Strongly Disagree and Strongly Agree). In the 2010 AGS, labelling of all response categories was introduced, as advised by the AGS coordinating body Graduate Careers Australia (GCA), to mitigate instances of graduates mistakenly reversing their CEQ responses. GCA advised that “the change to the instrument has seen a positive upward shift in CEQ responses and brings about with it the establishment of a new CEQ time series”. GCA further commented that “the sector should note that this is across the board and not restricted to individual institutions”.

Course Experience Questionnaire Overall Satisfaction Index, Percentage Agreement,8,9 relative to the national 10 ranking

AGS Survey Year (11, 12)

KPI 2.2: Graduate outcomes                                                                 

Comment

The graduate outcomes measure represents a combination of the number of graduates in their preferred mode of employment plus the number of graduates in further full-time study as reported through responses to the Australian Graduate Survey (AGS). Results are reported for undergraduates.

The proportion of USC respondents in their preferred mode of employment or further full-time study over the period 2009 to 2011 has been lower than the comparable national figure. The results of the 2011 AGS show both an improvement over 2009 and 2010 and a decrease in the differential between USC and the national figure. This result indicates movement in the right direction in relation to the target for this measure.

USC and national 10 Graduate Outcome results, 2009–2012

AGS Survey Year (11, 12)

8. Combination of percentage of responses that Agree or Strongly Agree with the Overall Satisfaction Index: “Overall, I was satisfied with the quality of this program.”

9. Undergraduate level students only.

10. Table A providers only.

11. Data reflects responses/outcomes by students who completed their qualification in the year prior to the AGS survey year, ie data for the 2011 AGS reflects responses/outcomes by students who completed their qualifications in 2010.

12. 2012 national data not available until April 2013.

13. USC value amended from figure published in 2011 Annual Report (77%). n/a—Data not yet available.

STRATEGIC PRIORITY THREE — REVIEW — Build research productivity and output significantly

Key strategies:

• Strengthen research capability
• Develop research groups in disciplinary and cross-disciplinary areas
• Focus research on regionally relevant and strategic areas
• Leverage research outputs to enable productive partnerships

The research efforts of academics and students are broad and varied, with sustainability, aquaculture and forestry the core research foci at USC.

In 2012 research grant income was $7.2million (figure unaudited). This is a substantial increase over previous years and demonstrates USC’s research strategy is delivering outcomes.

The total number of Higher Degree by Research enrolments for 2012 was 137 EFTSL. This was a 19 percent increase on 2011, and above the target of 130 EFTSL. As USC’s research activities strengthen, particularly in the areas of sustainability and genecology, this number is expected to rise. Health science remains the strongest research specialisation in terms of HDR enrolments.

Expanding research capacity

A call for Expressions of Interest for Research Centres and Clusters was made in July, with  several EoIs proceeding to full applications. After assessment by external reviewers in conjunction with an internal committee comprising the Faculty Executive Deans, the Manager of the Office of Research and the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research),

the following centres and clusters were announced in December:

Tier 1 Research Centres

• Sustainability Research Centre led by Professor Tim Smith (existing)
• GeneCology Research Centre led by Professor Abigail Elizur and Professor Helen Wallace (existing)

Tier 2 Research Centre

• Forest Industries Research Centre led by Professor Mark Brown (new)

Research Clusters

• Inflammatory Processes in Health and Disease Research Cluster led by Associate Professor Shelley Walton (new)
• Engage Research Cluster led by Associate Professor Christian Jones (new)
• Research Cluster for Applied Health, Innovation and Translation led by Professor Marion Gray (new)

Excellence in Research Australia rankings

The 2012 Excellence in Research Australia (ERA) evaluation outcomes ranked USC’s performance in the disciplines of agricultural and veterinary sciences and biological sciences above (4/5) and at (3/5) world standard respectively. This reflected the University’s increased research capacity in forestry and aquaculture and marked a substantial improvement over the ERA 2010 rankings.

The University rated near the international benchmark in four other disciplines: chemical sciences; commerce, management, tourism and services; business and management; and studies in creative arts and writing.

About 50 percent of the total volume of new staff publications submitted by the University did not contribute to the ERA 2012 rankings due to restrictions around the staff census date.

ARC success

A key component of raising the University’s research profile is success with the Australian Research Council (ARC). USC received two ARC Discovery grants, worth more than $820,000, in the 2013 funding round announced in November:

• Dr Scott Cummins: awarded his second ARC Discovery Project (DP) grant in two years in partnership with his research collaborator at the University of Queensland to study the chemical signalling of sea sponges. The $454,000 grant will fund Dr Cummins’ research into the evolutionary origin and essential roles of peptide communication in humans and other animals.

• Dr Tomer Ventura: awarded a $371,800 ARC Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) for his study characterising the genes that control the masculinisation process in crustaceans, discovering new targets for sex reversal and sterility induction. The findings will have implications for aquaculture and the development of tools for invasive/pest crustacean control.

In other ARC achievements:

• Dr Terry Lucke (pictured below) won a $150,000 ARC Linkage Project grant for his work in designing a permeable paving bed with an underlying reservoir. The pavement structure promotes water harvesting to aid urban tree growth during times of drought. The partner organisations for Dr Lucke’s research are the Sunshine Coast Council and the University of South Australia.
• The University recruited Associate Professor Paul Salmon from Monash University, who brought with him Discovery and Linkage grants and an NHMRC Training Fellowship, in the area of accident research.

Significant grants

• Professor John Lowe: a member of a partnership awarded $2,454,998 under  the NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence scheme for its five-year study of antibiotic resistance in acute respiratory infections.
• Dr David McMillan: a member of a team awarded a $944,798 NHMRC Project Grant to trial a method of effectively securing intravenous devices in hospitals.
• Professor Abigail Elizur and Associate Professor Wayne Knibb: Australian Centre  for International Agricultural Research grant valued at $146,000 on a project entitled ‘Controlling Giant Grouper maturation, spawning and juvenile production in Vietnam, the Philippines and Australia’.
• Dr Renfu Shao, Professor Abigail Elizur, Dr Scott Cummins, Dr Tomer Ventura and Mr Daniel Powell: Australia-China Science Research Fund grant valued at $45,000 for a project entitled ‘Collaboration with the Beijing Genomics Institute to strengthen genomics research capacity’.
• Dr Tim Smith (Queensland DAFF Adjunct Researcher) and Associate Professor Neil Tindale:  Department  of  Agriculture,  Fisheries and Forestry—Filling the Research Gap Program  Project  grant  valued  at  $339,300 on a project entitled ‘Soil Carbon benefits through  Reforestation  in  Sub-tropical  and Tropical  Australia’.
• Professor Mark Brown: establishment of  the Australian Forestry Operations Research Alliance (AFORA) valued at $324,000, incorporating 18 partners across all states of Australia.
• Associate Professor Neil Powell: Climate Change Adaptation and Water Governance international scheme grant valued at $450,000 on a project entitled ‘Reconciling food security, renewable energy and the provision of multiple ecosystem services’.

USC Research Futures Project

The University was awarded $5.45 million in 2011 under the Commonwealth Government’s Collaborative Research Networks (CRN) program. In 2012, in conjunction with Griffith University and University of Tasmania, 17 CRN Research Fellows took up positions, and were awarded seed funding and start-up grants. Fifteen projects, valued at up to $20,000 were awarded to the research fellows.

Dr Terry Lucke embarked on permeable pavements research.

Memberships of national research committees

• Professor John Lowe was appointed to the Editorial Board for Tobacco Control and Public Health in Eastern Europe e-journal. Professor Lowe will become Editor in Chief  of the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, and continued to serve on the NHMRC Assigners Academy (reappointed for 2013).
• Professors Helen Wallace and Professor Abigail Elizur served on the Australian Research Council–Research  Evaluation Committees as part of ERA 2012.
• Professor Roland De Marco served on the Materials, Structures and Dynamics Specialist Committee of the Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering (reappointed for 2013), as well as the Queensland Consortium Committee of the Australian Synchrotron.

Queensland  Smithsonian Fellowship Program

The Queensland Smithsonian Fellowship Program provides Queenslanders the opportunity to undertake research at the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex. Dr Alison Shapcott was one of four Queenslanders  to secure a fellowship. She will study DNA barcoding laboratory and analysis methodologies at the National Museum of Natural History, at the Smithsonian.

Fullbright Senior Specialists

The University attracted two of the eight US academics who visited Australia as part of the prestigious Australian-American Fullbright Commission. Lematta Professor of Forest Engineering Dr Loren Kellogg from Oregon State University and Professor of Geography Stephen Walsh, Director of the University of North Carolina’s Centre for Galapagos Studies in Ecuador, arrived at USC in February for five and three week visits respectively. The professors delivered seminars, workshops and lectures both at USC and at universities in Brisbane.

Key research activities

Swimming Australia further extended its strategic partnership with the University, funding Professor Brendan Burkett’s High Performance Paralympic Research Centre (Inclusion Project). The $831,178 project includes funding for students, researchers and an engagement component, and aims  to understand the current opportunities and barriers for participation in swimming.

Eighteen forestry stakeholders across Australia contributed to a $324,000 alliance with the University to investigate new methods of improving the industry’s economic and environmental sustainability.

The year-long USC Australian Forest Operations Research Alliance, which started in July, recognised the importance of building on the momentum of research in forest operations. The Alliance Director is Professor of Forestry Operations Mark Brown, who joined USC in 2012 from the University of Melbourne.

USC will co-lead a three-year international research project on climate change adaptation and water governance after the joint proposal won a grant of one million Euros, of which USC will receive around A$450,000. This was USC’s first joint proposal with the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), a non-profit, independent research and policy institute, with which the University signed a memorandum of understanding. Associate Professor Powell, formerly of the SEI, joined USC as a Collaborative Research Networks (CRN) Professorial Fellow in Sustainability and will coordinate the grant project alongside USC’s Professor Tim Smith and Senior Lecturer Dr Dana Thomsen.

Associate Professor David Lee was awarded an Australia-China Science Research Fund grant valued at $28,010 for a project entitled ‘Collaboration with the China Eucalypt Research Centre on disease resistance screening to protect trees from eucalyptus rust and other pathogens’.

Professor Steven Underhill was awarded an Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research grant valued at $17,500 on a project entitled ‘Assessing next steps in developing a commercial fruit sector in Tonga’.

The impacts of insect borers on the local region’s hardwood plantations and the importance of  two locally grown gum tree species to the global forestry industry were outlined by Associate Professor David Lee and Dr Helen Nahrung at the biannual Australian Forest Growers Conference at Gympie in October. Associate Professor Lee and Professor of Forestry Operations Mark Brown also presented at the inaugural Gympie First Forum in August.

Lecturer in Entrepreneurship Dr Retha de Villiers Scheepers examined the decision-making logic used by successful female entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs (individuals who implement initiatives within organisations). Her research found that women complemented rational planning with a less structured, more relational process known as effectuation.

Dr Mark McKean was the recipient of the Australian Institute of Fitness Research Fellowship which will allow the investigation of three key pillars of fitness research including movement quality and function, lifelong health and wellbeing and exercise prescription and industry practices.

In a project called ‘Knowing You, Knowing Me’, Professor of Psychology Mary Katsikitis, Associate Professor of Interactive Digital Media Christian Jones, and PhD student Melody Muscat sought  to determine whether boosting mother-daughter communication can reduce the risk-taking behaviours of adolescent girls, and to promote healthier relationships using education and shared experiences.

PhD student Vaughan Nicholson commenced a study into the impact the group fitness class BodyPump has on the health of bones and muscles in adults aged 55 to 75. He also examined whether the coordination and balance of people aged over 55 can be improved by completing balancing exercises in video games. Both studies were supported by the Australian Fitness Network.

Lecturer in Science and Engineering Dr Adrian McCallum was deployed by the Australian Government’s Antarctic research arm, the Antarctic Division, to assess the viability of an existing manufactured gravel road from Casey Station to the nearby wharf.

Research by sports biomechanist Dr Mark Sayers identified a specific pelvic twisting movement used by top punt kickers that puts them at greater risk of injuries such as osteitis pubis. His research is continuing, exploring means of preconditioning the body to minimise the injury risk.

Psychology Honours student Jennifer Bowers commenced a study to investigate how parents influence their children’s activity levels. The research will examine factors affecting a child’s involvement in exercise, sport and other recreational activities, in children aged 5 to 12.

A $120,000 Queensland Government grant provided funding for Senior Lecturer in Molecular Engineering Joanne Macdonald to work towards developing a single-use disposable diagnostic test for a range of viruses including Hendra virus.

Senior Lecturer in Regional and Urban Planning Dr Claudia Baldwin worked in conjunction with researchers from the University of Mataram in Indonesia to examine Lombok’s decision-making process for water distribution. The research was funded in part by Irrigation Australia.

PhD student Karina Hamilton commenced a study of the medicinal properties of a resinous substance made by Australian stingless bees, to identify the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and wound healing properties of the substance, called propolis. She will receive $75,830 in funding over three years from the Australian Government’s National Health and Medical Research Council.

Lecturer in Psychology Dr Prudence Millear conducted research into women’s menopausal experiences while employed, and how the symptoms can be best managed. She also conducted a study into the relocation trends of sea- and tree-changers on the Sunshine Coast, to determine why people choose to move to the region and either stay or move on, and whether social support plays a role in that decision.

Psychology Honours student Phoenix Lawless’ study entitled ‘The Effect of Auditory Subliminal Stimulation and Personality on Learning in Adults’ investigated whether the brain is receptive to information that the ears are not fully tuned into.

University Research Week

The annual University research conference, themed around ‘Communicate, Connect, Collaborate’, attracted academics, higher degree by research students and external guests. Almost 50 presentations showcased USC research efforts, with topics ranging from local seafood and weather to Antarctic expeditions and reality television formats.

Research Week also featured presentations from more than a dozen USC Research Fellows, appointed under the CRN program; via ARC funding; and through strategic investments by USC.

Jane Shamrock’s presentation on researching  the lives of East Timorese people with disabilitie won the Three Minute Thesis competition.

Forward planning for 2013

• Continue to increase substantially the research productivity of USC staff and students as reflected by publications and research income.
• Continue work on the Collaborative Research Network project.
• Develop a policy framework for the conduct of Joint Doctoral Programs with domestic and overseas universities and implement several executed agreements with other universities.
• Develop formal linkages with external partners to fuel the development of USC’s research capacity.
• Facilitate the development of USC’s new Research Centres and Research Clusters.
• Continue the building of research capabilities in health to coincide with the opening of the Skills, Academic Research Centre at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital.
• Identify and nurture the development of two or three new research strengths within the University.

STRATEGIC PRIORITY THREE — PERFORMANCE — Build research productivity and output significantly

KPI 3.1: Research grants income        

Comment

Competitive grant income projected for 2011 was not achieved which has impacted on the overall target. This is due to reporting requirements which reported income in 2010 of $150,000 which had to be distributed and thereby reduced the 2011 reportable income. In addition, extended negotiations on another major grant and milestones which were amended have resulted in anticipated income for 2011 now received in 2012.

Total HERDC reportable research income ($) by category by year

14. Figures are unaudited. Updated figures will be made available at www.usc.edu.au/reports

15. Income received from the Seafood Cooperative Research Centre (Seafood CRC) in which the University of the Sunshine Coast was defined within the Commonwealth Agreement as a Participant. n/a—Data not yet available.

KPI 3.2: Weighted publications  

Comment 

Although the target was not reached and a slight decrease in total weighted publications is reported for 2011 it is pleasing to note the journal article points remain on track. There were a large number of publications provided for this collection (101 actual publications) which are not  HERDC reportable for 2011 as there is no USC by-line. This is generally an indication of publications produced by staff new to USC. It is anticipated this will translate to increased reportable outputs for USC in the coming years. The annual weighted publications targets can be viewed in the Target Summary on page 5.

Research publications (weighted) by category and by year

16. 2012 data not available from HERDC until July 2013.

KPI 3.3: Higher degree by research  

Comment (Part A)

Final 2011 load data indicated a small shortfall of approximately 4 EFTSL (3.5%) on 2011 targets. Current estimates for 2012 (based on Census 1, 2012 and Census 2, 2012) indicate that enrolments are on track to exceed target load by 6%. An ongoing focus on HDR students, in particular in relation to the Collaborative Research Network, USC Fellows and other funded grants, is anticipated to see increases in enrolments in the future.

Higher Degree by Research (HDR) enrolments by EFTSL by faculty 2008-2012

Comment (Part B)

The shift towards enrolments in selected areas of research strength is ongoing. Load in strength areas at 47.3% in 2011 was slightly ahead of the target of 45%. 2012 proportion increased to 48.1%. As the revised Research Centres Policy is implemented fully in the coming years targets are likely to be achieved.

Proportion of Higher Degree by Research (HDR) EFTSL in selected areas of research strength

17. Estimates based on Census 1 and 2, 2011 data. n/a—Data not yet available.

* Updated figures will be made available at www.usc.edu.au/reports

STRATEGIC PRIORITY FOUR — REVIEW — Develop USC for a sustainable future

Key strategies:

• Develop and enable staff to manage change and contribute to achievement of the strategic plan
• Invest in and continuously improve information management systems, business processes and workforce planning
• Advance the University through key strategic partnerships
• Maximise opportunities to develop well designed, technology rich, sustainable University sites

Funding secured for engineering hub

The University secured a $30 million Education Investment Fund (EIF) Regional Priorities Round grant from the Commonwealth Government to fund the construction of the Engineering Learning Hub at the Sippy Downs campus. USC  will contribute a further $7.2 million to the project.

The four-storey, 6,500 square metre facility will be linked to the University of Southern Queensland, with visualisation theatres built at both universities to enable collaboration in producing 3D scenarios in civil and mechanical engineering and in developing teaching materials. The facility will also feature learning and teaching spaces, a 120-seat interactive lecture theatre, and a stand-alone Engineering Structures Learning Lab, which will be used to demonstrate physical properties of a range of materials and structures.

Revenue

The University started the year in a strong  financial position, carrying an operating surplus of $8.76 million from 2011. A 25.5 percent increase in income was achieved to just over $159 million, due mainly to international student fees and capital funding from the Commonwealth.

While the increase in enrolments in 2012 equated to an increase in income, it also necessitated significant capital expenditure (or allocations of future expenditure) to accommodate pipeline growth.

Infrastructure and development

Having been officially opened in April by the Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency Ms Penelope Wensley AC, teaching commenced in the new $4.75 million science building. The multi-storey building features three learning spaces, designed to encourage interaction and engagement.

Also, the University commenced construction of two new buildings in 2012, one on campus at Sippy Downs, and the second co-located with the Wide Bay Institute of TAFE at Gympie:

• Construction commenced in October on  USC Gympie. The two-floor facility will include a 75-seat lecture theatre, skills development laboratory, tutorial rooms and study areas, staff offices and interactive learning technology to connect to the University’s main Sippy Downs campus. The $5.6 million project is jointly  funded by the Australian Government through the Education Investment Fund as part of the Structural Adjustment Fund, USC and SCIT, and is expected to be completed in May 2013.
• Construction commenced in November on the $24 million Sippy Downs Learning Hub. The three-level building will include lecture theatres and tutorial rooms, study areas, staff offices, a simulation suite and office space for student support and service delivery. The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government through the Education Investment Fund as part of the Structural Adjustment Fund, USC and SCIT, and is expected to be completed by November 2013, with teaching to commence in Semester 1, 2014.

Transport and parking

The University undertook a major scoping project to assess the feasibility of introducing paid parking on campus in 2013, in an effort to better manage growth-associated pressures on existing facilities and the campus environment. Staff and students were invited to give feedback during  the consultation process. The project will include improving existing parking facilities and planning for the construction of multi-level car parks.

Considerable efforts have been made in recent years to relieve pressure on existing parking facilities, raising the profile of alternative transport options including public transport, car-pooling, cycling or walking:

• Improved and subsidised public transport services, in conjunction with Sunshine Coast Council and Translink.
• Introduction of free express shuttle services from North Lakes/Caboolture, Gympie/Cooroy and Noosa/Coolum.
• Provision of the $55,000 Bike Hub, with secure bicycle parking and shower/change facilities.
• Introduction of T2 parking zones for exclusive use by car-pooling vehicles.

Over 18 months to November 2012 more than $811,000 was spent on establishing new, and improving existing, parking areas. To meet demand, the University will need to add 300 additional parking spaces each year, which requires the construction of multi-level parking facilities at a cost of around $17,000 per parking space ($9 million in total for the first facility).

As a result, the University intends to introduce a paid, annual parking permit model in 2013, to generate an income stream to support the required infrastructure development, and avoid redirecting operating funds away from the organisation’s core activities of teaching, research and engagement.

USC recognised for development excellence

The University was named as a joint winner of the Wildcard Award at the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Queensland’s Boral Awards for Excellence. The award recognised USC’s significant contribution to the urban development industry and the community; its commitment to best-practice urban design and sustainable development; and its encouragement of creative and artistic flair in campus development.

Additionally, USC had its EnviroDevelopment status reaffirmed by the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA). USC is the only institution in Australia to hold accreditation to this standard.

Expansion to South Bank

The University expanded its footprint into Brisbane, through an agreement with Southbank Institute of Technology (SBIT) that will see USC academics teaching at South Bank, using SBIT facilities, from Semester 1, 2013. USC will initially offer select courses from bachelor degrees in Commerce (Accounting), Justice and Legal Studies, and Business (Tourism, Leisure and Event Management). The programs will be available to all students, with articulating SBIT students receiving full credit for their diploma-level qualification.

Academic restructure

The retirement of Deans in two of the University’s three faculties, whose tenures ended in 2011, along with the commencement of a new Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) presented the University the opportunity to review its academic structure with minimal disruption to operations.

Having examined the three faculty structure in the context of the new Strategic Plan (2011–2015), and with respect to future growth plans, areas of strength, areas for improvement and the potential requirements for additional resources and leadership, the University elected to move to a two faculty model.

From 1 January 2012, the three faculties (Arts and Social Sciences; Business; and Science, Health and Education) were consolidated into the Faculty >of Arts and Business and the Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering. The faculties were further divided into three schools, as follows:

• Faculty of Arts and Business
  • School of Business
  • School of Communication
  • School of Social Sciences
• Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
  • School of Health and Sport Sciences
  • School of Nursing and Midwifery
  • School of Science, Education and Engineering

In 2012 a complete review of services, workflows and business processes was undertaken to ensure the balance between services provided centrally and those located within faculties and schools is appropriate. The exercise included process mapping of existing services and the opportunity to re-engineer existing processes to gain efficiencies.

Staff development

Staff had access to a variety of professional development activities during the year, such as:

• Cross-cultural awareness workshops
• EO (equal opportunity) Online training
• Change management seminars
• Information privacy sessions
• Middle management forums
• Academic development workshops in lecturing and teaching
• Research workshops in partnerships, publications and grants
• Learning and Teaching Week (refer to page 13)
• University Research Conference (refer to page 18)

Senior Academic Advisor Tilly Hinton was the inaugural recipient of an academic secondment to the national Office for Learning and Teaching. Her secondment project was ‘Influence factor: understanding outcomes from Australian learning and teaching grants’, focusing on understanding and enhancing the influence of funded projects. The secondment strategically positions the University to continue its engagement with learning and teaching at the national level.

Senior staff appointments

Faculty of Arts and Business

• Professor Joanne Scott was appointed Executive Dean, Faculty of Arts and Business, taking up the role from 1 January 2012. Previously, Professor Scott was Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and Professor of History at the University of the Sunshine Coast. She was Chairperson of the University’s Learning and Teaching Management Committee from 2007-2010.
• Professor Mary Katsikitis—Associate Dean (International and Engagement)
• Dr Maria Raciti—Associate Dean (Learning and Teaching)
• Associate Professor Christian Jones—Associate Dean (Research)
• Dr Rod McCulloch—Head of School, School of Communication
• The University made appointments for its inaugural Professors of Law, selecting Emeritus Professor Neil Rees and Professor Anne Rees to take up the roles. Emeritus Professor Neil Rees  was the foundation Dean of Law at the University of Newcastle and was most recently Chairperson of the Victorian Law Reform Commission for five years. Professor Anne Rees was Head of Deakin University’s School of Law for five years until March this year and full-time Commissioner of  the Australian Law Reform Commission from 2001 to 2004.

Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering

• Professor John Bartlett was appointed Executive Dean, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, taking up the role from 6 February 2012. Professor Bartlett was previously Dean (Elect), School of Science at the University of Western Sydney. Professor Bartlett has held senior positions with the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation and has established significant worldwide research and industry collaborations.
• Professor Brendan Burkett—Associate Dean (International and Engagement)
• Dr Jennifer Rowe—Associate Dean (Learning and Teaching)
• Professor Helen Wallace—Associate Dean (Research)

Financial Services

• Elizabeth  Cannon—Director

Development Office

• Russell Ousley—Director

Centre for Support and Advancement of Learning and Teaching

• Kylie  Readman—Director

Innovation Centre

• Mark Paddenburg—Chief Executive Officer

Staff successes

The University received six Commonwealth Office of Learning and Teaching Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning in 2012.

The successful nominees were:

• Dr Justin Debuse: For applying technological expertise to research, develop and implement best-practice pedagogical innovation that directly improves learning and teaching.
• Associate Professor Peter Dunn: For bringing statistics to life for students from diverse disciplinary backgrounds, using real data, engaging activities and rapport to build confidence, enthusiasm and success.
• Dr Mark Sayers: For 23 years of excellence in teaching biomechanics from a foundation of outstanding communication skills and authentic problem-based learning that inspires and motivates students.
• Associate Professor Meredith Lawley: For sustained excellence in research supervision of a diverse range of doctoral students, motivating and inspiring through a supportive guide approach to developing independent researchers.
• Johanna Einfalt and Janet Turley: For designing and driving a sustained assessment support model built on collaborative partnerships, paving the way for student growth in skills, independence and peer-to-peer  learning.
• The International Projects Group (IPG): For stimulating systemic educational reform in Indonesian Papua through a unique, outcome- driven teacher education program for students within an Australian university. IPG members include Professor Emeritus Merv Hyde, Suzanne Burford, Dr Bill Allen, Professor Noel Meyers, Jacqueline McConnell, Rama Brierty, Ann Robertson, John Hunt, Dr Michael Carey, Henny Soepriyanti and Dr Untung Waluyo.

A number of staff received recognition for their work at the graduation ceremonies during the year:

• Professor Emeritus Merv Hyde AM— Vice-Chancellor’s Medal for Research
• Dr Mark Sayers, Marjorie Blowers— Vice-Chancellor’s Medal for Service
• Dr Lisa Chandler—Vice-Chancellor’s Medal for Learning and Teaching
• Karen Shelley—Vice-Chancellor’s Medal for Learning and Teaching (Sessional)

The recipients of the Vice-Chancellor and President’s Awards for Excellence (formerly Vice-Chancellor’s Medal) for 2012 were announced  at a ceremony held on 12 December 2012, to be presented at Graduation ceremonies in 2013.

USC continued its involvement in the planning of the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. Construction commenced in 2012 on both the private and public hospital components of the project. The University is part of a partnership with the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service and providers of tertiary education, skills training and research responsible for developing the Skills, Academic and Research Centre planned for the Kawana site. The centre is expected to open in 2016.

Internal name changes

In response to review recommendations and sectoral change, several departments within the University were renamed in 2012:

• Centre for Support and Advancement of Learning and Teaching (C-SALT) (previously Office of Learning and Teaching): The name differentiates the centre from the Australian Government Office for Learning and Teaching and more accurately reflects the remit of the centre and its role in the University.
• Student Life and Learning (previously Student Services): The name more accurately represents the area’s responsibility of providing professional services that enable students to achieve their academic and personal goals,  and delivering activities to develop a vibrant campus life.
• Development Office (previously University Foundation): Renamed to better align with the broader sectoral naming convention.

Regional Universities Network

As a member of RUN, the University’s activities for the year included:

• Engagement with government regarding the role and impact of regional universities.
• Signing of the RUN Regional Accord whereby RUN universities have committed to enhancing their capacity and sustainability through greater collaboration as a network of like- minded universities.
• The Vice-Chancellor and President participated in ABC’s Future Forum Program The Clever Country ‘Can universities meet the challenges facing regional Australia?’ with all RUN Vice-Chancellors.

Forward planning for 2013

• Further develop USC’s sites to enable cutting edge pedagogical  approaches.
• Promote awareness and acknowledgement of environmentally sustainable practices and strategies.
• Develop and implement workforce planning processes which ensure capabilities are developed and aligned to USC’s vision.
• Develop a blended learning strategy, roadmap and governance structure to identify future directions for USC.
• Implement integrated data warehouse and business intelligence solution to enhance analytical abilities and streamline output.

STRATEGIC PRIORITY FOUR — PERFORMANCE — Develop USC for a sustainable future

KPI 4.1: Employment costs as a percentage of total revenue

Comment

The YTD 31 December 2012 employment costs as a percentage of total revenue (adjusted) result was 60.6 percent.

Employment costs includes associated fringe benefits tax and provisions for leave entitlements (long services leave and recreation leave) relevant to the general operations of the University (excludes employment costs associated with grants and agreements).

Total revenue (adjusted) reflects operating revenue relevant to the general operations of the University. It excludes revenue received in relation to capital grant funding, donations and research agreements. In previous years, ordinary revenue was used as a comparison to Queensland and

Australian universities. DIISRTE doesn’t publish the information required for comparison to the adjusted revenue. As such, no comparison to other universities presented.

Employment costs as a percentage of revenue (adjusted) for USC

Actual                                                                                                               Forecast 18

18. Forecast values as per 2012-2014 August reforecast.

19. Actual values YTD 31 December 2012.

KPI 4.2: Operating margin   

Comment

The Operating Margin (Operating Profit as a proportion of total revenue (adjusted)) of 7.33 percent as at 31 December 2012 exceeds the August reforecast of 4.77 percent.

Total revenue (adjusted) reflects operating revenue relevant to the general operations of the University. It excludes revenue received in relation to capital grant funding, donations and research agreements.

Operating margin for USC

Actual                                                                                                                     Forecast 20

20. Forecast values as per 2012–2014 August reforecast.

21. Actual values YTD 31 December 2012.

KPI 4.3: Capital improvements

Comment

As part of the planning framework the University identifies the strategic asset requirements of the University, details of which are published in the Strategic Asset Management Plan (SAMP). Each year a portion of the University’s operating funds are allocated to the SAMP along with any external funding and available cash reserves to complete the SAMP project listing.

It is noted that not all projects are completed within the year of allocation, therefore the key performance indicator for the current and future years is based on the latest budget forecast (2012 August).

This KPI’s target over the 2012-2014 period is reflective of the University’s commitment to investing in information technology resources for learning, teaching and research. In addition, the commitments to continual building and infrastructure construction are as a result of continual growth in student load and research capacity.

Proportion of operating funds invested in capital-related projects
                                                Actual                                                                Forecast 22

22. Forecast value as per 2012-2014 August reforecast.

Governance   

University leadership (principal officers)

Vice-Chancellor and President

University CEO, responsible to University Council for strategic development, organisational leadership and day-to-day operations of the University.

Professor Greg Hill

CertTeach, BA(Hons), PhD Qld.

Commenced as Vice-Chancellor and President, University of the Sunshine Coast in 2011 following a   term of office as Vice-Chancellor and President Designate from June 2010. Previously Deputy Vice- Chancellor, University of the Sunshine Coast 2005-2010. Lead Vice-Chancellor, Universities Australia Indigenous Higher Education; Foundation Member, Regional Universities Network; Board Member, Education Australia Limited; Board Member, IDP Education Pty Limited; Chair, Department of Innovation,

Industry, Science, Research and Tertiary Education OLT Academic Secondment Program Reference Group; Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre Ltd; and Fellow, Queensland Academy of Arts and Sciences. Charles Darwin University - Foundation Professor of Tropical Environmental Science 1995-2004; Dean 1997-2004. Program Leader, Tropical Savannas CRC; Director, Centre for Tropical Wetlands Management; Chair, Northern Territory Board of Studies; Member, Kakadu National Park Research Advisory Committee; Member, AVCC Indigenous Advisory Committee. University of Queensland 1979-1994 - Reader in Geographical Sciences; Director, ARC Key Centre in Land Information Studies. Research interests in remote sensing, wildlife ecology, resource management, environmental planning and education. National recognition for research, teaching innovation and technology transfer to developing countries.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor

Chair of Academic Board, overseeing the academic functions (learning and teaching) of the University, withresponsibility for related support areas such as the Centre for Support and Advancement of Learning andTeaching, Information Services, Student Administration and Student Life and Learning

Professor Birgit Lohmann

BSc (Hons) Adel., PhD Flin.

Appointed to the University in 2010, taking up the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor from February 2011. Chair of Academic Board, Promotions Committee and Equity Advisory Committee, member of University Council, Executive, Honorary Awards Committee, Senior Staff Forum, Internationalisation Advisory Committee, and

Co-Chair, Student Liaison Committee. Previously Head of the School of Science and Director of the Centre for Quantum Dynamics at Griffith University and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Learning and Quality) at the University of Adelaide. Current Chair of the Regional Universities Network Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic Group, member of the Executive of the Universities Australia Deputy Vice-Chancellor/Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Group, member of the Office for Learning and Teaching Grants Standing Committee. Research interests in atomic and molecular physics.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research)

Oversees, manages and advises the University’s research activity, aligning research effort with the University’sgoals and advancing the research profile of the University

Professor Roland De Marco

BSc, MSc RMIT, PhD La Trobe, MRACI

Appointed to the University in 2010, taking up the newly-created Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) role from January 2011. Member of Academic Board and Chairperson of the Research Management Committee and  the Research Degrees Committee. Previously Professor of Chemistry, along with Chemistry Department Head 2001–2007, Dean of Research in Science and Engineering 2007–2009 and Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor

(Research) 2010 at Curtin University. Recipient of the 2008 RACI Lloyd Smythe Medal for excellence in research in Analytical Chemistry.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Quality)

Oversees, manages and advises on internationalisation, quality improvement, and marketingand communication

Professor Robert Elliot

BA(Hons) NSW, MA La Trobe, DipEd Melb., PhD Qld.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Quality) and Professor of Philosophy. A founding staff member of the University. Member of University Council and Chairperson of the Internationalisation Advisory Committee and Learning and Teaching Committee. A member of Academic Board and the Student Disciplinary and Student Grievance Appeals Committees. Former foundation Dean of Arts and subsequently Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, from 1995-2005.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and Chief Financial Officer

Oversees the University’s planning, budgeting, infrastructure, human resources, financial and informationtechnology services and implements internal controls and risk management systems

Peter Sullivan

BBus BCAE, FCPA

Appointed to the University in December 2007. Attends meetings of University Council, Planning and Resources Committee, and Audit and Risk Management Committee. Previously Executive Director, Finance and Resource Planning, Queensland University of Technology. Experience in the higher education sector includes the integration of planning, budgeting, performance management and risk management frameworks in support of strategic planning and strategic financial management.

University leadership (principal officers)

Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement)

Oversees the University’s links with its primary stakeholders and its regional community in achieving theteaching and learning and research priorities of the University

Professor Mike Hefferan

BA Qld., GradDipMgmt C.Qld., MAppSci, PhD Qld.UT.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement) and Professor of Property and Development. Appointed to the University in 2008. Member of Academic Board, Executive and Foundation Board, and Chair of Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd. Immediate past President of the Australian Property Institute (Queensland Division), Chair of the API’s National Education Board and board member of Regional Development Australia (Sunshine Coast) and  the Sunshine Coast Business Council. Registered Urban and Rural Valuer, Fellow of the Australian Institute of

Company Directors, Urban Development Institute of Australia, Australian Property Institute and Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Executive Dean, Faculty of Arts and Business

Oversees the Faculty of Arts and Business, comprising the School of Business, School of Communication, Schoolof Social Sciences, the Sustainability Research Centre and the Engage Research Cluster

Professor Joanne Scott

BA(Hons) Qld., GradCertEd Qld.UT, GradCertCulturalHtge Deakin, PhD Qld.

One of the longest-serving members of the University. Became the inaugural Head of the School of Social Sciences (2006-2010), and chaired USC’s Learning and Teaching Committee (2007-2010). She commenced her current role as Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Business in January 2012. Member of Academic Board, Senior Executive, Planning and Resources Committee, Senior Staff Forum, and Equity Advisory Committee. Research interests include Australian and oral history.

Executive Dean, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering

Oversees the Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, comprising the School of Science, Educationand Engineering, School of Health and Sports Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, GeneCology Research Centre and several research clusters

Professor John Bartlett

BSc (Hons) Newcastle., PhD Newcastle.

Appointed to the University in 2011, taking up the position of Executive Dean, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering in February 2012. Member of Academic Board, Executive, Innovation Centre and Industry Advisory Group, Senior Staff Forum and Equity Advisory Committee. Previously Head of the School of Natural Sciences and Dean-Elect of the School of Science at the University of Western Sydney and Acting Head, Institute of Materials Engineering and Science at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation. Research interests include materials chemistry and nanotechnology.

University Council (governing body)

Under the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998, the University is governed by an 18-member Council representing University and community interests.

Council has the power to manage and control University affairs, property and finances, and appoint University staff. Where allowed under the Act, Council may delegate its powers to an appropriately qualified member of Council or member of the University’s staff; or to an appropriately qualified committee that includes one or more members of Council.

The Council met six times in 2012.

Council leadership

Chancellor

Leads Council and presides at Council meetings

John M Dobson OAM

Elected Chancellor in 2007 for an inaugural term from 1 April 2007 to 31 March 2012. Re-elected in 2011 for a term from 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2017. Member of the University Council since 1997. Parish Priest of Caloundra Parish since 1982, Dean of the North Coast Deanery within the Catholic Church since 1992.

Contributions to the community include founding privately-funded residential care facilities for the aged and for people with intellectual disabilities; co-founding a retirement village, and a comprehensive college (in partnership with the United Church); and developing support groups for prisoners and their families.

Deputy Chancellor

Acts as Chancellor in the absence of the Chancellor or when the office of Chancellor is vacant

David Jeffries

BCom Qld., FCA, FAICD, FFin

Elected Deputy Chancellor in 2010 for an inaugural term from 15 February 2010 to 8 December 2013. Member  of the University Council since August 2006. Member of the Foundation Board in 2008 and 2009. Elected Chair, Planning and Resources Committee in 2010, member of the committee since 2006. Fellow, Institute of Chartered

Accountants in Australia, Australian Institute of Company Directors and Financial Services Institute of Australasia. Business contributions include numerous positions as company director/adviser, and as senior executive in the financial services sector: Deputy Chief Executive of Bank of Queensland Limited, Chief Executive Officer of First Australian Building Society, State Chairman of The Institute of Chartered Accountants, Australian representative on the Financial and Management Accounting Committee of the International Federation of Accountants.

Council membership

The Council comprises three official members, six members appointed by the Governor in Council, five elected members and four additional members appointed by the Council. 2012 was the third year of the sixth University Council. The term of office of the majority of members is four years. The term of office for student members is two years.

The Council membership for 2012 was as follows:

Council Secretary

Peter Sullivan, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and Chief Financial Officer.

Council decisions in 2012

In 2012, Council:

• Approved appointments to Council in accordance with the University ofthe Sunshine Coast Act 1998
• Approved appointments and reappointments to committees of Council
• Noted Corporate Performance Reports against the Key Performance Indicators in the University’s Strategic Plan (2011-2015)
• Noted a report on 2012 performance against the University’s top level plans (2011-2015)
• Adopted the 2012 Campus Master Plan for a five year period
• Approved the Strategic Asset Management Plan (2013-2017)
• Noted the final report on the implementation of recommendations of the 2011 External Review of the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
• Endorsed the appointment of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and CFO as Council Secretary and the transfer of the role Senior Committees Officer to the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and CFO
• Approved changes to the Academic Board’s composition and membership
• Approved changes to the composition of the Planning and Resources Committee
• Approved the 2012-2013 Student Appeals Committee Membership Pool
• Endorsed the University investigating possible paid parking models for introduction in 2013
• Approved the signing of lease documents to secure USC’s conditional interest in the proposed Skills, Academic and Research Centre at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital
• Gave in-principle support to the introduction of Law programs at USC from 2014
• Endorsed Central Queensland University preparing a draft submission to the Minister in relation to changes to the Queensland University Acts, with a view to the draft submission being considered by Council before determining USC’s position in relation to the Queensland University Acts being amended to include provision for councils to remunerate members and other changes to the composition of councils
• Resolved that two members of Council, who were not members of the Chancellor’s Committee, be permitted to participate in the annual review of the Vice-Chancellor and President’s performance
• Gave in-principle support to the University entering into an arrangement with Southbank Institute of Technology, which would see USC delivering degree programs at the South Bank campus
• Noted December 2011 and June and October 2012 Budget Outcomes  Reports
• Approved the 2012 April and August reforecasts of the University’s Consolidated Budget
• Approved the University Triennial Budget (2013-2015)
• Approved the 2013 Student Guild membership fee for Ordinary Members
• Noted the Student Guild audited Financial Statements for 2011
• Gave in-principle support to amendments to the Student Guild Constitution
• Noted the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd (ICSC) 2011 Annual Financials
• Noted the ICSC’s Strategic Business Plan (2013-2015)
• Noted ICSC quarterly financial reports
• Noted the ICSC Board’s Statement of Governance Principles
• Noted the ICSC’s Budget Forecast for 2013
• Approved appointments to the ICSC Board of Directors
• Approved nominations for Honorary Awards of the University
• Approved the reappointment of John Dobson OAM as Chairperson of Foundation Board for a further three-year term
• Rescinded the Constitution of the University of the Sunshine Coast Foundation Board
• Approved changes to the Terms of Reference of all standing committees of Council

New policies

• No new Governing policies were approved by Council in 2012

Amended policies

Council approved amendments to the following existing Governing policy:

• Investment—Governing Policy

Rescinded policies

Council rescinded its approval of the following Governing policy:

• Code of Conduct for Research—Governing Policy

University committees

Academic Board

The University’s Academic Board was established under the University of theSunshine Coast Act 1998 as the University’s senior academic body. In 2012 its members included:

• Deputy Vice-Chancellor [Chairperson]
• Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research)
• Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Quality)
• Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement)
• Faculty Executive Deans
• Faculty Associate Deans (Learning and Teaching)
• Faculty Associate Deans (Research)
• Chairpersons of Academic Board committees
• Heads of Schools
• Three elected academic staff members from each faculty
• One undergraduate and one postgraduate student
• External representatives for secondary schools and TAFE
• Director, Student Administration
• Director, Student Life and Learning
• Director, Centre for Support and Advancement of Learning and Teaching

The role of Academic Board is to:

• advise Council on teaching, scholarship and research matters concerning the University
• formulate proposals for academic policies of the University
• monitor the academic activities of the University’s faculties
• promote and encourage scholarship and research at the University

The terms of reference of Academic Board in 2012 were as follows:

1. To advise Council on general education directions, policies and practices on teaching, research, ethics and scholarship, and facilitate development and innovation in these areas.
2. To approve and amend academic policy, on delegated authority of Council.
3. To recommend to Council on the University’s areas of study and research priorities.
4. To contribute to the development, monitoring and reviewing of relevant goals and objectives in the University’s Strategic Plan and relevant top- level plans and to advise Council, accordingly.
5. To monitor the academic activities of the University’s faculties.
6. To approve schemes for internal research grants.
7. To recommend to Council proposals that imply the entry by the University into a discipline not currently taught in the University and proposals relating to the offering of programs in existing disciplines but at a higher level.
8. To determine the accreditation of new programs in disciplines currently taught in the University.
9. To determine the outcomes of proposals to make major changes to existing programs and courses.
10. To determine the outcomes of proposals to discontinue courses and programs.
11. To confer awards on the delegated authority of Council (this authority may be delegated to the Chairperson Academic Board).
12. To monitor the work of the University Animal Ethics Committee and the University Human Research Ethics Committee, via the Research Management Committee, and advise Council on ethics related matters as required.
13. To determine the acceptance of scholarships, bursaries and prizes above the value of $15,000 per award.
14. To establish committees to advise the Board on relevant aspects of the Board’s functions.

Academic Board decisions in 2012

Strategic and academic quality assurance developments in 2012 included:

• Resolved that recommendations contained in the Report of the 2009 Evaluative Review of the Academic Board had been addressed
• Endorsed the re-naming of the Coast Research Database to the USC Research Bank
• Recommended to Council in-principle support for the University to progress to the development and consideration of a full proposal for undergraduate and graduate entry law programs
• Approved the Statement of Resources for Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Candidates
• Approved the USC Statement on Blended Learning
• Approved responses to reviews of the following programs and pathways:
  • Accounting and Financial Planning Programs
  • Sport and Exercise Programs
  • Tertiary Preparation Pathway
  • Counselling, Human Services and Social Work Programs
  • Journalism Programs

Policy developments in 2012 included:

• Approved the revised University Research Fellowships Scheme — Academic  Policy
• Approved the new Research Centres — Academic Policy and rescinded the Research Centre and Groups — Academic Policy
• Approved changes to the Doctoral Degrees — Academic Policy and the Research Masters Degrees — Academic Policy
• Approved amendments to the Academic Progress and Exclusion — Academic Policy
• Approved amendments to the Student Evaluation of Teaching and Courses — Academic Policy
• Approved amendments to the Bachelor Honours — Academic Policy
• Approved changes to the Student Academic Misconduct — Academic Policy
• Approved the new Research — Academic Policy and recommended to Council that the Code of Conduct for Research — Governing Policy be rescinded.

Academic Board accredited the following programs in 2012:

• Reinstatement of previously discontinued programs:
  • BU342 Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)
  • BU331 Bachelor of Business (International Business)
  • BU341 Bachelor of Business (Management)
  • BU351 Bachelor of Business (Marketing)
  • BU362 Bachelor of Business (Tourism, Leisure and Event Management)
  • BU356 Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting)
  • BU357 Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Planning)
• SC723 Master of Midwifery
• SC521 Graduate Certificate in Midwifery
• BU783 Master of International Business

Academic Board approved the discontinuation of the following programs:

• SC804 Master of Environmental Change Management by Research
• SC802 Master of Integrated Coastal Zone Management by Research
• SC803 Master of Wetlands Management by Research
• BU323 Bachelor of Software Engineering
• SC721 Master of Midwifery (96 unit — one year program)
• ED602 Graduate Diploma in Education (Preparatory to Year Three)
• ED603 Graduate Diploma in Education (Primary)
• SC521 Graduate Certificate in Midwifery
• AR514 Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing
• AR522 Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing for Youth
• AR614 Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing
• SC511 Graduate Certificate in Health Promotion

Additionally, in 2012 Academic Board approved the following:

• Annual Summary Report on Student Academic Misconduct for 2011
• Changes to the composition and terms of reference of its standing committees
• Introduction of 53 new courses
• Discontinuation of 108 courses
• Substantial changes to programs
• Conferral of individual student awards

Audit and Risk Management Committee

The Audit and Risk Management Committee (ARMC) has five major areas of responsibility:

1. Monitoring internal control and risk management
2. Monitoring of internal audit activities
3. Monitoring of external audit activities
4. Oversight and appraisal of financial reporting
5. Oversight of any fraud or ethics issues

Membership consists of a minimum of four and a maximum of six persons, and includes the Chancellor ex officio and at least one other member of Council. At least one ARMC member must be a member of the professional accounting or audit bodies in Australia and have a professional accounting, management consultancy or audit background. At least one member should possess expertise within the education sector. Membership is approved by Council. The initial term of office of members is a period not exceeding three years, and may be extended for further terms subject to the composition and skill requirements of the Committee.

The ARMC’s activities in 2012 were in accordance with its terms of reference and had due regard to Queensland Treasury’s Audit Committee Guidelines. Four regular meetings and one special meeting of the ARMC were held in 2012. The Committee assessed reports on risk management, work health  and safety, internal and external audit matters, insurance, the University’s compliance with relevant legislation and the University’s 2011 Annual Financial Statements. The ARMC also conducted its annual self-evaluation.

The outcomes of the Committee’s discussions and advice to Council were provided to Council via the minutes of its meetings.

Planning and Resources Committee

The role of the Planning and Resources Committee (PRC) is to recommend the strategic directions of the University to Council, in the context of development of the University’s plans and their resourcing strategies. The Committee also provides advice to Council on issues arising from these plans. The key areas of concern to the Committee are planning and strategy, financial resources, asset management (including information technology) and human resources.

Members of the PRC include the Chancellor, the Deputy Chancellor (who currently chairs the Committee), the Vice-Chancellor and President, the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Business, and three external members with specific expertise in strategic financial management and planning. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Services) and Chief Financial Officer, and the Director, Facilities Management attend meetings of the Committee and have participating, but not voting, rights.

Five regular meetings and one special meeting of the PRC were held in 2012. Discussion focused on financial matters, budget reports, reports from the University’s controlled entity (Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd), planning matters, including reports on outcomes for the key performance indicators in the University’s previous and current strategic and top level plans, and funding and progress of capital projects.

The outcomes of the Committee’s discussions and advice to Council were provided to Council via the minutes of its meetings. Recommendations to Council related to:

• Reforecasts of the University Consolidated Budget
• Appointments to the ICSC Pty Ltd Board of Directors
• The Strategic Asset Management Plan (2013–2017)
• The University’s Triennial Budget (2013–2015)
• Changes to the composition of the Planning and Resources Committee
• Changes to the Investment—Governing policy
• The appointment of a new member and the reappointment of an existing member of the Committee
• The 2012 Top Level Plan Performance Report and Corporate Performance Reports
• The introduction of Law programs at USC

The Committee also endorsed the University signing the Skills, Academic and Research Centre Lease Agreements to secure USC’s conditional interest in the joint venture at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital.

The Chancellor chairs the five-member Honorary Awards Committee, which seeks, considers and recommends to Council nominations for honorary awards, in accordance with the University’s Honorary Awards—Governing Policy. In addition to the Chancellor, the Committee’s membership currently comprises the Vice-Chancellor and President, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and two University Council members. The Committee met formally on two occasions in 2012 to consider honorary awards.

The following honorary awards were presented in 2012:

• One Honorary Doctorate of the University, to –
  • Dr Willi Toisuta for his work in education, which has focused on building research and human resources throughout the developing world
  • Two Honorary Senior Fellowships of the University, to –
    • Darrin Edwards for his excellent leadership as Principal of the James Nash High School and his role in setting up Middle School Excellence Programs which have dramatically enhanced the Cooloola region’s access and exposure to post-secondary learning options and have provided an important link between USC and the schools in the Cooloola Shire
    • Hayden Kenny for his dedication to surf lifesaving and surf rescue on the Sunshine Coast and his contribution to the launch of the Sunshine Coast Helicopter Rescue Service Limited in 1979, which was the first community-based service of its kind in South East Queensland

  • Three Emeritus Professorships of the University, to:

    • Dr Andrew Hede for his distinguished service and contributions to the University of the Sunshine Coast over fifteen years
    • Professor Rod Simpson for his contributions to education, academic leadership, and sustained and distinguished service
    • Professor Pam Dyer for her contributions to education, academic leadership, and sustained and distinguished service

Foundation Board

The Foundation Board provides advice in relation to the operations of the University Foundation, which is the University’s fundraising and alumni relations arm. Foundation Board members include the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement), two University Council members, and representatives of the Sunshine Coast community.

The Foundation Board met formally on four occasions in 2012. The following matters were considered at these meetings:

• Membership of the Board and the possible appointment of persons to the Board
• Fundraising priorities and fundraising matters generally
• Annual Foundation Board report to Council
• Establishment of the Development Office (formerly University Foundation)
• Recruitment and appointment of a new Director, Development Office
• Establishment of a Bequests program
• Establishment of the staff giving “Starfish” program
• Establishment of the Wednesday Club
• Professional development opportunities for members of the Board
• Matters concerning Alumni Relations
• Review of the USC Foundation Board Constitution
• The response to the Report of the Review of the University Foundation
• New terms of reference of the Foundation Board
• Subgroup reports on fundraising activities
• Financial reports
• Renewal of the terms of existing members
• Opportunities for collaboration with the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
• Fundraising for a second Art Gallery space at USC
• Reports on progress towards achievement of Foundation performance targets

A workshop for Foundation Board members was held during the year facilitated by an external consultant. The recommendations of the formal evaluative review of the University Foundation, undertaken in 2011, continued to be implemented throughout 2012. From 2013, the Foundation Board will function as an Advisory Committee to the Vice-Chancellor and President and will cease to be a committee of Council.

Monitoring quality

The University conducts internal audits within the relevant terms of reference and has due regard to Queensland Treasury’s Audit Committee Guidelines. The University monitors overall quality through a system of reports against performance indicators and planned targets, and scheduled regular reviews and internal audits of performance. The latter often include input from external sources.

The Council, committees and senior managers monitor quality, performance, standards and outcomes via performance reports and data, particularly in relation to the University’s finances, Strategic Plan and thematic top-level plans such as those supporting access to the USC experience; delivery of high quality teaching, learning and graduate outcomes; building research productivity and output; and preparing USC for a sustainable future.

Improvement plans are developed in response to review and audit findings  and regular reports on progress in achieving those plans are provided to senior University staff and such bodies as the University Executive, Academic Board and Council committees.

In response to the report on the University’s first quality audit by the Australian Universities Quality Agency (AUQA), released in 2007, an Action Plan to address matters identified in the report was developed. Monitoring of implementation of the planned actions, with associated updates of progress reports in achieving the plan, continued throughout 2008 to 2011.

For much of 2012 the University undertook preparations for re-registration as an Australian university by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency. The re-registration application and supporting evidence to demonstrate the University’s compliance with the national Higher Education Standards was submitted in September 2012.

In 2012, a scheduled major evaluative review of the University’s Office of Learning and Teaching was held. Major ad hoc reviews were also held in relation to the University’s timetabling system and core courses.

Formal reviews of the following programs were also undertaken in 2012:

• Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Business (Marketing Communication)
  • Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Health (Human Services and Health Promotion)
  • Bachelor of Communication
  • Bachelor of Counselling
  • Bachelor of Human Services
  • Bachelor of Journalism
  • Bachelor of Social Work
  • Graduate Certificate in Communication
  • Graduate Diploma in Communication
  • Graduate Certificate in Journalism
  • Graduate Diploma in Journalism
  • Master of Communication
  • Master of Counselling
  • Master of Counselling Practice
  • Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

The quality system is published online at www.usc.edu.au/quality

Benchmarking

During 2012, the University participated in a range of professional and academic benchmarking activities as part of continuous quality improvement processes. The University’s inventory of benchmarking activities was updated, including recording the use made of benchmarking activities for planning and identifying improvement actions and setting improvement targets.

Controlled entities

Council approved a Policy for the Establishment and Operation of Controlled Entities in December 2006.

Innovation Centre

The University established the Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd (ICSC) on 26 October 2000, under the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998 Part 2(6). The company commenced trading in January 2002. The Chief Executive Officer of Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast Pty Ltd reports to the Board through the Chairman, the University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement).

The company’s mission is to support the start-up and growth of knowledge- based businesses and to promote beneficial interaction between these businesses and the University of the Sunshine Coast.

ICSC operates a major 3,500m2 office facility on the edge of campus. This includes an award-winning business incubator, aimed at start-up companies, and a business accelerator, providing next-stage growth space for companies graduating from the incubator and space for professional service firms.

The business incubator and accelerator are the first two phases in the development of the Business and Technology Precinct at Sippy Downs, which has the long-term potential to provide employment for 8,000-plus knowledge workers.

Mark Paddenburg commenced as CEO in January 2012 and under his leadership, ICSC occupancy level grew from 62 percent to 88 percent in 2012. The ICSC team is also investigating new methods to engage with the Sunshine Coast entrepreneurial ecosystem, including the development of a teleworking space and active student incubator.

At the end of 2012, the Innovation Centre was home to 28 resident companies, five professional service firms, two associate clients (virtual tenants), the Sustainability Research Centre and a number of other USC business-related activities.

To date, the Innovation Centre has supported the start-up and growth of more than 95 businesses, principally in the digital, clean-tech and creative industry sectors. The Innovation Centre’s extensive program of business development and education events has attracted more than 7,000 delegates since 2002.

The ICSC also hosted Tasmania’s former Premier David Bartlett for an enlightening Digital Futures presentation to clients, students and staff with more than 150 attendees.

The ICSC is working closely with USC, Sunshine Coast Council and Regional Development Australia to collaboratively implement the Digital Futures Strategy.

ICSC has also signed a new partnership with the Sunshine Coast Council on  the development of a Creative Industries Business Incubation Lab, as part of the Council’s Smart Arts+ program. This lab will provide six Sunshine Coast creative businesses with access to ICSC facilities and services throughout 2013.

The Innovation Centre’s UniConnect program also delivered valuable connections between businesses in the ICSC and USC. The ICSC has engaged with more than 530 USC students to date, with the following engagements occurring in 2012:

• 35 students engaged in full-time or part-time work
• 28 students undertook work experience and internships
• 130 student resume applications were received
• 85 students attended ICSC events
• 280 students attended lectures by ICSC staff and clients
• 1 student assisted in building their business

The ICSC and USC have benefited from the enhanced Entrepreneur-in- Residence role which commenced from December 2012. The position is shared between ICSC and USC (3 days/week and 2 days/week respectively).

The Innovation Centre celebrated its tenth anniversary in May, with a major event featuring keynote presentations, panel sessions, a business pitch competition with $28,000 in prizes, networking dinner and an expo for clients. More than 300 guests attended the events, including Speaker and Sunshine Coast MP, The Hon Fiona Simpson and the Minister for Science, IT, Innovation and the Arts, The Hon Ros Bates MP.

The Innovation Centre maintains an online presence at www.innovationcentre.com.au

Statutory obligations and compliance

Best practice for governance

The University complies with the Voluntary Code of Best Practice for the Governance of Australian Universities, as implemented by the industry body, Universities Australia.

The University also takes into consideration the Queensland Government objectives for the community.

Information privacy

In compliance with Queensland’s Information Privacy Act 2009, the University has an Information Privacy Policy. A privacy statement is provided on the University’s website and appropriate privacy statements are included on all University forms. The Information Privacy Policy is available at www.usc.edu.au/privacypolicy

Right to Information

In compliance with Queensland’s Right to Information Act 2009, the University has a Right to Information Policy. In compliance with the legislation, the University has a Publication Scheme on its website, setting out the classes of information publicly available. The Publication Scheme is available at www.usc.edu.au/rti

No formal Right to Information requests were received in 2012.

Whistleblowers

With the repeal of the Whistleblowers Protection Act 1994 and the introduction of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010 (PID Act) on 1 January 2011, the way in which public interest disclosures are to be publically reported has changed. From 1 January 2011 agencies are no longer required to report public interest disclosures in annual reports.

Under section 61 of the PID Act, the Public Service Commission (PSC) is now responsible for the oversight of public interest disclosures and preparing an annual report on the operation of the PID Act. From 1 January 2011 agencies are required to report information about public interest disclosures to the PSC. The PSC will prepare an annual report on the operations of the PID Act and  the information provided by agencies. The annual report will be made publicly available after the end of each financial year.

Workforce planning, attraction and retention

As at 31 March 2012, the Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staffing was 792, inclusive of casual staff. This was a four percent increase on 2011, with the growth consistent with the University’s Workforce Planning process.

The 2011* staff retention rate was 87 percent. The 2011* separation rate was 13 percent, an increase from 2010.

The University maintains a number of key policies and procedures related to workforce development and management, including the Workforce Planning Guidelines.

Workplace health and safety

In 2011 *, USC average time lost to injury was zero days per workers’ compensation incident, with a total of four claims accepted by WorkCover Queensland during the year.

Workplace health, safety and wellbeing was addressed as a priority during 2012. A Human Resources Consultant (Health, Safety and Wellbeing) commenced and concurrently the existing University Safety Officer was relocated to Human Resources from Facilities Management. Development commenced on a Health, Safety and Wellbeing Management Plan, along with a new governance structure. Staff resilience workshops were designed and delivered and a series of wellness focus groups were conducted to inform future wellness initiatives.

* Due to DIISRTE reporting deadlines, 2011 figures are the most recent available.

Equity and work-life balance initiatives

Education and awareness of equal opportunity in the workplace was maintained during 2012 with four training sessions conducted by the Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland and staff access to an online equal opportunity training package. The University was awarded its eighth consecutive Employer of Choice for Women citation.

Work-Life balance workshops were also conducted to support staff in the development of skills that will create healthy work-life balance and address workload perceptions.

The University allows for 26 weeks paid maternity leave to be paid on a 50 percent basis over the 52 week parental leave period. The University also provides flexible work arrangements and job sharing options for staff returning from parental leave. A child care facility is available on campus for staff and students.

Performance management framework

The University has a Performance Management Policy and Performance Planning and Review (PPR) Policy and Procedures, with both ongoing and fixed term staff participating in an annual Performance Planning and Review process. The University continued to develop performance management schemes with the Staff Recognition and Rewards Guidelines introduced in May 2012, which include a number of options to recognise and reward staff for exceptional performance.

Leadership and management development

The University’s 2012 leadership program included development opportunities for executive, senior staff, middle managers and supervisors, including both an Executive Retreat and a Senior Staff Retreat. Middle managers and senior staff participated in two workshops about holding Challenging Conversations and Coaching Conversations. In addition, a bundled suite of seven programs called Supervisor Essentials was offered in 2012 covering fundamental knowledge and skills that enable supervisors and team leaders to be successful and effective in their roles.

Enterprise agreement

The University of the Sunshine Coast Enterprise Agreement 2010–2013 was approved by Fair Work Australia on 23 March 2012 and was fully implemented in the first half of 2012. The nominal expiry date of the new Agreement is 30 June 2013.

Carers (Recognition) Act 2008

The University of the Sunshine Coast supports the Queensland Carers Charter as detailed in the Carers (Recognition) Act 2008, through flexible work practices and remote access facilities for staff and students.

The University ensures staff and students are provided with relevant information and support as required. At the time of a staff member’s commencement USC provides information with regard to carer’s leave and flexible working options to assist in their caring responsibilities. This information is available on the USC Portal for staff to access.

Staff are provided with the opportunity to comment on any proposed changes to policy relating to carer’s leave or flexible working options. This includes conducting focus groups with affected staff members whose views are then taken into consideration in the formulation of those policies.

Due to the flexible working options available at USC, staff who identify as carers are able to meet both their work and caring responsibilities in an open and transparent way.

The University also has a Disability Action Plan to assist in providing equal access to quality education for the whole community; to improve the teaching and learning environment for students and staff; and to raise awareness

of disability issues and responsibilities as a foundation for good practice in equitable service provision.

There is a range of disability support services and facilities available to staff and students, with all activities guided by the Disability Discrimination Act. Support is tailored to the personal needs of staff and students, delivered by a qualified Disability Services Officer. Examples of support services include physical access, better hearing, and parking.

Ethical standards

In compliance with the Public Sector Ethics Act 1994, the University’s Staff Code of Conduct—Governing Policy (the Code) defines acceptable conduct for staff of the University. The Code is shaped around four key ethical principles that are intended to guide ethical decision making and behaviour. The ethical principles are:

• integrity and impartiality
• promoting the public good
• commitment to the system of government
• accountability and transparency

Sessions on the Code were conducted at the Executive and Senior Staff Retreats, during the Challenging Conversations and Coaching Conversations workshops and in the Supervisor Essentials program. Additionally, the University established a Staff Code of Conduct webpage to provide further education for staff, providing a basis for discussion at work area meetings on the meaning of the Code. Hardcopy materials were supplied to all work areas to support these training sessions.

Corporate information systems and records management

The continuing development of the University’s corporate information systems included the following activities in 2012:

• Student Information: the system was further developed to deliver Student Services Amenity Fee requirements, self-service improvements, to assess any associated audit risk and to improve configuration of the Student Financials.
• Human Resources/Payroll: application functionality was further developed, in particular the ability to request and approve leave online and modifications to accrued leave. In addition, general maintenance updates were applied.
• Academic restructure: necessary development changes were applied to Student, HR and Payroll Systems and interfaces to other corporate information systems to reflect changes to the academic faculty structure.
• Finance: a major version upgrade (v11.8) was implemented.
• Learning Management/Portal: major new functionality was implemented including mobile device connectivity, together with a new collaboration application to replace legacy collaboration technologies. ePortfolio solutions were also investigated for implementation in future years.
• Timetabling upgrade: the timetabling environment was upgraded with system and process changes being introduced to improve service delivery.
• Student Feedback System: the new system was fully implemented following the pilot in 2011, with full rollout across all academic sessions in 2012.
• Policy management: further developments were made to the Records Management System to support University policy. These developments focused on improvements to the policy repository; policy framework and management and policy development and lifecycle.
• Corporate website: implementation of a new corporate website content management system was undertaken and will be completed in early 2013. This will also support the delivery of Policy documents through the Records Management System.
• Library management: a major review of the Library System was undertaken, with Discovery Layer Services to be evaluated in 2013 and potentially a full system replacement planned for 2014.
• Windows 7/Office 2010: a new desktop application environment was developed and delivered to staff and student systems throughout 2012.
• Information management: Information Services and IT Services together with other University stakeholders continued to develop an Information Management Strategy that addresses the information lifecycle. Together with the development of an Enterprise Architecture, this has created a detailed roadmap for the planned rollout of information solutions over the coming years.
• Staff email: a new staff email system was released in March 2012, with post implementation support and training extending across the remainder of the year.
• Collaborative Futures Project: requirements were gathered with solutions to be implemented for ICT infrastructure, audio visual, video conferencing, a simulation laboratory, a wet laboratory and a skills laboratory. Similar work is being undertaken in support of USC’s South Bank operations.
• Recording of grades: an Interim Results Module was developed to streamline and automate the capture, moderation and submission of grades between the Learning Management System and the Student Information System.
• Credit matrix system: a cloud-based solution was identified and implemented to support credit transfer information for potential students.
• Research Data Management: using ANDS funding, a University strategy was progressed with Information Services and Office of Research for managing research data.
• Donor Management: the integration between the Raiser’s Edge and Student Information System was enhanced with alumni contact details.
• Mobility strategy: a strategy for mobile device management was progressed and will be used to assist with the planned rollout and support for greater diversity of mobile solutions.
• Solutions were chosen for the future rollout of an eCommerce/Online Receipting System, a Customer Relationship Management System and an IT Service Management System. These will be delivered across 2013.

Other significant solutions delivered within the University include:

• Card access and control: major upgrade in 2012
• Student printing: major upgrade in 2012
• Telephone PABX
• Research repository (USC Research Bank)
• Research  management
• Capital asset maintenance
• Leisure management
• Wireless services for the Sustainability Research Centre
• Digital signage at multiple locations across campus
• Chancellor Park teaching spaces

Under the Public Records Act 2002, the University archives full and accurate records of its activities. The University operates a decentralised corporate records management model, with faculties and cost centres responsible for the management of their records. A central Records Management Services unit provides University-wide support and advice. Records Liaison Officers have been appointed in each faculty/cost centre to manage their respective records. Internal audits are conducted on a rolling schedule to ensure appropriate records management and staff training is undertaken on a regular basis.

Work continued through 2012 on the development of a University-wide Information Management Strategy, to better manage information creation, use and distribution, enabling the advancement of the University’s strategic priorities. Once completed, the Strategy will enable effective planning and decision making; performance management; information creation and collaboration; information discovery, access and distribution; information quality and integrity assurances; regulatory compliance and communication within the University and between the University and its external stakeholders.

Financial statements

Overseas travel expenditure

For the year ended 31 December 2012

2012 Overseas travel expenditure

Glossary

• ABS SEIFA: Australian Bureau of Statistics Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas
• AGS: Australian Graduate Survey
• ALTC: Australian Learning and Teaching Council
• APT: Administrative, Professional and Technical (Staff)
• ARC: Australian Research Council
• ARMC: Audit and Risk Management Committee
• AUQA: Australian Universities Quality Agency
• CCD: Census Collection District
• CEQ: Course Experience Questionnaire
• CGS: Commonwealth Grant Scheme
• CLTGP: Commissioned Learning and Teaching Grants Program
• CRICOS: Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
• CRN: Collaborative Research Networks
• DEEWR: Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (previously the Department of Education, Science and Training)
• DIISRTE: Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education
• EFTSL: Equivalent Full-Time Student Load
• FTE: Full-time equivalent (Staff)
• HDR: Higher Degree by Research (Student)
• HEPPP: Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program
• HERDC:  Higher Education Research Data Collection
• ICSC: Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast
• ICT: Information and Communication Technology
• NHMRD: National Health and Medical Research Council
• OLT: Office of Learning and Teaching (Commonwealth Government)
• PPR: Performance, Planning and Review (Staff)
• PSC: Public Service Commission
• QETI: Queensland Education and Training International
• QTAC: Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre
• RAISE: Regional Access, Inclusion and Success in Education
• SBIT: Southbank Institute of Technology
• SES: Socio-economic status
• SSAF: Student Services and Amenities Fee
• TEP: Tertiary Enabling Pathway
• TEQSA: Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency
• TPP: Tertiary Preparation Pathway
• USC: University of the Sunshine Coast
• WIL: Work Integrated Learning

The University of the Sunshine Coast began as the Sunshine Coast University College. Founded in 1994, the first students started at the Sippy Downs campus in 1996. In 1998 the new institution was granted full university status, and became the University of the Sunshine Coast on 1 January 1999.

The 100-hectare Sippy Downs campus lies around 90km north of Brisbane on land that was once a cane farm. Other teaching and research facilities include Dilli Village on Fraser Island, USC Gympie and the Noosa Study Centre.

In 2012, USC had a total operating revenue of more than $159 million and employed 792 staff (full-time equivalent).

USC has the highest rating for teaching quality, generic skills, and graduate satisfaction of any public university in Queensland*. At Census 1 2012, more than 8,100 students (including about 780 postgraduates and 700 international students) were enrolled in more than 150 academic programs in two faculties: Arts and Business; and Science, Health, Education and Engineering. The University conferred around 1,400 degrees, bringing alumni numbers to more than 11,200.

* The ratings of five stars for teaching quality and generic skills, and five stars for graduate satisfaction were awarded to USC by the Good Universities Guide 2013 using information obtained from Graduate Careers Australia’s Course Experience Questionnaire, the Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education, and the University.

The University of the Sunshine Coast was the first greenfield university to be established in Australia since 1975.

Founded in 1994, USC took its first 500 students at the Sippy Downs campus  in 1996. Enrolments grew to more than 8,100 in 2012, with a growth target of 12,000 students by 2015.

The 100-hectare campus lies 90km north of Brisbane on land that was once a cane farm. The University has won many architectural awards and is part of a wildlife reserve.

Maroochydore DC Qld 4558 australia

tel: 07 5430 1234

fax: 07 5430 1111

web: www.usc.edu.au

Cricos provider number: 01595d