University Secretary's Department Council

Council Meeting No 8/08

 

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A meeting of the Council was held in the Council Chamber, 1st Floor, Old Quadrangle on Monday 8 December 2008 at 4.00pm.

The Chancellor (Mr I Renard) (in the Chair)
The Deputy Chancellor (Hon A Chernov)
The Deputy Chancellor (Ms R Storelli)
The Vice-Chancellor (Professor G Davis)
The President of Academic Board (Professor P Pattison)
Ms E Alexander, Ms S Beattie, Professor G Bowes, Mr M Coyle, Professor P Dawkins, Dr M Doig,
Ms H Hayman, Judge I Lawson, Ms L Landy, Mr R Johanson, Associate Professor M Joshi,

Ms E Ritchie,  Ms M Sloss and the Hon. D White

Others Attending

Council Fellow (Professor A Li)
The President of Convocation (Ms L Boston)
The President of GSA and Council Member-Elect from GSA (Ms Tammi Jonas)
The President-Elect of GSA (Mr P Coats)
The President-Elect of UMSU (Ms C Drakeford)
The Council Member-Elect from UMSU (Ms O Bishop)

The Provost (Professor P McPhee)
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Relations) (Professor F Larkins)
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) (Professor P Rathjen)
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global Relations) (Professor W Bebbington)
The Deputy President of Academic Board (Professor G Stevens)
The Senior Vice-Principal (Mr I Marshman)
The Vice-Principal and Head of University Services (Ms E Baré)
The Vice-Principal and Chief Financial Officer (Mr D Percival)
The Vice-Principal and General Counsel (Mr C Penman)
The Vice-Principal (Property and Campus Services) (Mr C White)

The University Secretary (Ms J White)
The Deputy University Secretary (Mr J Green)
The Manager, Corporate Affairs (Ms C Buckridge)
Mr D Speagle (Office of the Vice-Chancellor)
Ms E Fazio (Office of the Vice-Chancellor)

The Director (Information Technology) (Mr S Kathir)
The University Architect (Mr D Jackson)

Deans in attendance:

Dean of Faculty of Music (Professor C Falk)
Dean of Economics and Commerce (Professor M Abernethy)

BUSINESS

  1. Formal Matters

1.1 Apologies and Leave of Absence Requests [Item A.01]

    Council noted that leave of absence had been granted for this meeting to Mr Briggs and Dr Mansour.

1.2 Welcome

    The Chancellor welcomed the Council Fellow, Professor Arthur Li, the University Architect, Mr Daryl Jackson, the two Presidents-Elect for GSA (see item 9.6 below) and UMSU respectively, and the Council Member-Elect for UMSU. 

  1. Returning Officer’s Report [Item A.02]

The University Secretary reported on the results of the recent ballots as follows:

2.1 The Hon Alex Chernov was declared elected as Chancellor of the University, for the remainder of the term of office of the retiring Chancellor; his term commences on 10 January 2009 and ends on 31 December 2010.

2.2 Ms Rosa Storelli was declared elected as Deputy Chancellor of the University, for a two year term commencing on 1 January 2009.

  1. Minutes of Previous Meetings and Follow Up Action Sheet [Item A.1(a) and A.1(b)]

    3.1 The Minutes of Council Meeting 7/08 held on 20 October 2008, copies of which had been distributed, were confirmed.

    3.2 The Action Sheet from Meeting No. 7/08 was noted.  Council noted that the India Engagement Strategy would be for report by the new Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Relations) to the July meeting.

  1. Declarations of Interest [Item A.2(a)]

The Chancellor called for any declarations of interest for items on the agenda for the current meeting.  No declarations were received.

  1. Starring of Additional Items [Item A.2(b)]

Additional items B.2(8), B.4(2), B.4(9),C.1(b)(3), and C.5(4) were starred for discussion.  Item B.2(30) was unstarred.

  1. Motion to Adopt or Receive “Unstarred Items of Business” [Item A.2(c)]

In accordance with established procedure, it was formally agreed that the items of business that were not to be specifically discussed should be adopted where containing recommendations or received where containing reports.

  1. Listing of Key Issues and Documents for Discussion [Item A.4]

7.1 Master Plan

The Deputy Chancellor, Hon Alex Chernov, Chair of Buildings and Estates Committee, introduced the final draft of a Campus Master Plan for the University, which contained the framework for the progressive development and implementation of the Master Plan over time.  Council noted that this is the most comprehensive Master Plan ever produced for the University.

The Deputy Chancellor invited Mr Daryl Jackson to address Council on key features of the plan.  Mr Jackson advised that the concept behind the plan was “The University in the City”, noting that the campus now occupied a substantial area reaching southwards towards the inner city.  Council noted that the Colleges were out of scope for this Plan as they have their own governance frameworks to guide their future planning.

Mr Jackson drew Council’s attention to various plans set out in the report including the Master Plan Vision which was based on a series of design principles and an assessment of heritage value of buildings and the retention of open space. Council noted that the plan placed great significance on preserving heritage buildings that will remain a key part of the University’s educational history and built heritage.  It identified other buildings that will be scheduled for removal over time and how they might be replaced. Mr Jackson also highlighted the way in which the spatial distribution of buildings based on discipline-based clusters would reflect the educational principles of the Melbourne Model.  It was also noted that the developments proposed in the Master Plan would be implemented pursuant to the more detailed Implementation Plan (to be updated periodically) as envisaged by the Master Plan.

Deputy Chancellor Chernov moved acceptance of the Plan by Council and it was approved unanimously.

On the recommendation of Deputy Chancellor Chernov, it was agreed that Council record its thanks and appreciation to the Master Plan Working Party for the production of a comprehensive Master Plan, in particular Mr Daryl Jackson, the Vice-Principal (Property & Campus Services) Mr Chris White, his General Manager, Mr Michael Tracey and the landscape adviser, Mr Graeme Bentley.

7.2 University Plan

Introducing the University Plan for 2009, the Vice-Chancellor noted that it had been drafted in the context of an uncertain outlook, given that the Bradley review recommendations were anticipated to have a considerable impact on the Higher Education sector and that the international economic situation was so uncertain.  Preparations will begin in 2009 for the introduction of a refined Growing Esteem strategy for the years 2010-2014 once the Federal Government’s response to the review recommendations is known.

Council noted that the Plan contained the Melbourne Vision and a new administrative philosophy underpinning goals and priority actions for each of the three strands of the triple helix as well as the overarching enablers.

Professor Davis explained that during the consultation process, it emerged that some of the targets contained in the Plan were controversial but it was important to note that they represented collective goals for the institution as a whole. In relation to the use of quality of teaching scores as a measure of student satisfaction it was acknowledged that such measures may not be perfect but were regarded as reasonable approximations on which general conclusions could be based.  Council noted that they had been in use for some fifteen years and had proved over time to be a valid basis on which to achieve measurable improvements in the quality of teaching.

In response to a question about surveying the views of academic staff, the Vice-Chancellor advised that such a project was likely to be very resource intensive but that a pilot survey of academic staff was envisaged to commence in 2009.

In relation to the Knowledge Transfer section, it was agreed that academic staff undertaking public lectures should receive active encouragement to undertake media training.

Council noted that some targets, such as PhD completions, could be influenced by the availability of childcare and the Vice-Chancellor agreed to amend the document to include this as a general aspiration.

Ensuring Accountability

Council noted that the Accountability Structure is a coordinated program of corporate strategic planning that is designed to ensure the University meets its strategic goals and manages its various accountabilities. The program embraces the concept of Subsidiarity and Responsible Division Management (RDM).

Council endorsed the University of Melbourne Plan 2009 (subject to inclusion of the amendments agreed at the meeting) and its supporting document “Ensuring Accountability”.

  1. Chancellor’s Report [Item B.1]

    8.1 Proposal to amend the Melbourne University Act 1958

    Council noted that the Victorian Government has responded to submissions provided by Victorian Universities earlier in the year with a draft “Statement of Intent: Higher Education Legislation Review”.

    Council approved the Chancellor’s proposal to establish an ad hoc Committee of Council chaired by the Chancellor, to discuss and approve the University’s response to the Victorian Government’s paper concerning amendments to the Melbourne University Act 1958. It resolved that the membership of that Committee comprise the Chancellor, the two Deputy Chancellors, the Vice-Chancellor, the Chair of Legislation and Trusts Committee, Dr M Doig, the Provost, the President of the Academic Board, the Senior Vice-Principal, the President of the Committee of Convocation and such other members of Council as the Chancellor may nominate.  It further agreed that the membership should include both a staff and a student member of Council.

    8.2 Reappointment of Chairperson of VCA Advisory Board

    On the recommendation of the Chancellor and the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with Regulation 5.5R1 – The Faculty of the Victorian College of the Arts, Council approved the re-appointment of Ms Lynne Landy and Mr Trevor Green as members of the VCA Advisory Board for a second term until 31 December 2011 (section 5.3); and re-appointed Ms Lynne Landy as Chair of the Board until 31 December 2009 (section 5.2(4)).

    8.3 Acting Vice-Chancellor

    Council noted that the Vice-Chancellor will shortly be commencing his annual leave on 22 December 2008, returning on Tuesday 27 January 2009.  During that period the Provost, Professor Peter McPhee, will be the Acting Vice-Chancellor.

    8.4 Installation of the 20th Chancellor

    The Chancellor reported that arrangements have been made for the next Chancellor to be installed at a ceremony which will take place in the presence of the University Visitor, the Governor of Victoria, at Melba Hall on Tuesday 10 February 2009 commencing at 3.00pm.

    8.5 Australian Synchrotron Visit

    The Chancellor reported on the visit of Council members and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) to the Australian Synchrotron at 800 Blackburn Road, Clayton on 28 October 2008 hosted by the Director, Professor Robert Lamb who holds a chair in Physics at the University of Melbourne.

  2. Vice-Chancellor’s Report [Item B.2]

Council received and noted the Vice-Chancellor’s Report.

9.1 University Plan

This matter was dealt with under Item 7.2 above.

9.2 Integration of the Faculty of Economics and Commerce and the Melbourne Business School

The Vice-Chancellor reported that high level discussions between the University and the Melbourne Business School over the past three months had resulted in an “in principle” agreement for integration of the MBS and the Faculty of Economics and Commerce into a new Faculty of Business and Economics.  He advised that the strategic rationale for this development included the need for:

  • a long term and sustainable business model that reduces overlap in graduate programs;
  • a single University voice in the market place;
  • a clear pathway within the University for high calibre students to proceed to graduate study; and
  • a strengthening of the University of Melbourne and Melbourne Business School brands.

Council noted that the integration would result in the largest concentration of law and business education in the country, located around the University Square precinct.

Under the proposal, the Melbourne Business School would retain its identity as the Graduate School within the broader Faculty and undergraduate programs would be offered through a new undergraduate School of Economics and Commerce.  A third School was envisaged to offer executive education programs, which could include some or all of the activities of Melbourne Consulting and Custom Programs, in addition to the MBS’ Mt Eliza programs.

The Dean of the Faculty, Professor M Abernethy was invited to address Council on the matter and she advised that she was in strong support, provided that the standing of the Bachelor of Commerce program was not compromised. She referred also to the ongoing discussions concerning financial and transitional arrangements between the two parties.

Council was informed that there was likely to be an adjustment to the valuation of the Melbourne Business School’s investment portfolio which could result in a negative impact on the University balance sheet of between $25million and $35million.  This matter was under discussion at Finance Committee.

Council noted that all contractual obligations to staff would be met and all staff would be employed by the University, apart from those in Executive Education, who would be employed by a subsidiary company.  It noted that the proposal had been endorsed by the MBS Board on 4 December 2008 in broad terms and that the Faculty Board would also be consulted.

Council then resolved:

  1. To establish a Due Diligence Committee with the following composition:
    1. The Chancellor, Mr Ian Renard (in the chair) – from 10 January 2009 this will be the new Chancellor, the Hon. Alex Chernov
    2. Professor Peter Dawkins
    3. The Hon. David White
    4. Professor Geoff Stevens
    5. Ms Elizabeth Alexander
    6. Mr Robert Johanson
    7. A student member of Council
  2. That the Due Diligence Committee will:
    1. oversee the proposed integration
    2. authorize signature of the Heads of Agreement on behalf of Council
    3. oversee drafting of a Coordination and Management Agreement (CMA)
    4. facilitate the submission of the final CMA  to Council prior to the commencement date.

Council noted that a draft CMA will be presented at the Council Planning Conference in February and that, once approved, an integration committee would work over the following twelve months to ensure the principles of the CMA are achieved in practice.

9.3 ANAM

Council received a tabled paper including a memorandum of understanding between the University and the Commonwealth, a Notice of General Meeting for Australian National Academy of Music Ltd, and details of transition arrangements.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that it was necessary to revise the constitution of the company in order to provide more flexibility in implementing a newly constituted “ANAM” and to place the new Advisory Board on a proper constitutional footing.

The Vice-Chancellor reviewed recent media coverage surrounding Minister Garrett’s initial decision to cease funding the Australian National Academy of Music on the grounds that it was not fulfilling its objectives.  He noted that ANAM was originally established as a subsidiary with its own independent management and with budget being reported through the University Finance Committee. Professor Davis advised that the Minister had agreed to provide $500,000 in transition funding in addition to the annual grant of $2.5 million in 2009, with further funding to the end of 2010-2011 to be provided through annual agreements.

Council noted that the Vice-Chancellor was being advised in this matter by Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global Relations), Professor Warren Bebbington, a former Dean of the Faculty of Music.

Council resolved:

  1. To approve the Members of Australian National Academy of Music Ltd resolving to amend its Memorandum and Articles of Association in accordance with the special resolution to that effect contained in the Notice of General Meeting of the Members of Australian National Academy of Music Ltd dated 5 December 2008;
  2. To delegate to the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Melbourne its authority to agree to such alterations to the Proposed Amendments as the Vice-Chancellor in his discretion considers are necessary and appropriate prior to the vote of the members of Australian National Academy of Music Ltd, with any such alterations to be reported by the Vice-Chancellor to the Council at its next meeting.

9.4 School of Music Business Plan
[This item was brought forward from the Provost’s Report]

Council received the Business Plan, noting that it provided an overview of progress to date and the remaining tasks towards planning for the new School of Music.  The Provost complimented staff from both Faculties and the Music Implementation Steering Committee for their commitment to the work involved in planning for the future and for bringing forward a detailed plan to Council.

Professor McPhee noted that the plan reflects the course outline for the New Generation 2 Bachelor of Music developed by the Curriculum Working Group and that it identifies opportunities for the new School in a number of areas, including international student recruitment. No allowance has been made at this stage for the impact of the Bradley Review or the entry of ANAM into the School.  Council noted that the existing annual subsidy from the University to the Faculty of the VCA would be phased out by 1 January 2012.

Council noted that a further analysis on the financial viability of the new Faculty of the VCA and Music would be provided in March 2009.

9.5 Amenities and Services Fee

Council noted that with effect from 1 July 2009 (or possibly later), universities will be permitted to collect an amenities and services fee to provide funding for essential services to all students.  The fee will be capped at $250 per student per year and it will be possible to defer it through a HECS-style income contingent loan.

The Provost advised that the funding would be collected and expended by universities according to clear criteria established by the government, in consultation with the sector, but the use of funds for political activities had already been ruled out. He commented that it was still unclear as to whether any funding can flow to student organisations for any purpose at all and, if this was the case, and universities are responsible for all student support, then student organisations will continue to be vulnerable.

Council noted student concerns about this matter and endorsed the principle that student participation through student organisations was an essential element of campus life that should be supported.

9.6 Advancement Fundraising Appeals Stewardship

Council approved the retention of the $1,000 entry level threshold for donors to become members of the Chancellor’s Circle.

9.7 University Fundraising Activities

Council approved the following fundraising Appeals; The University Rugby Appeal and the Graham Treloar Fellowship Appeal.

9.8 VC’s Key Performance Indicators Report for 2008

Council endorsed Appendix L of the Vice-Chancellor’s report, containing a commentary on achievements against plan in 2008 and agreed to give it further consideration at the Council Planning Conference, when an update on the 2008 University Plan outcomes will be available.

9.9 Professor Frank Larkins Retirement

The Vice-Chancellor paid tribute to Professor Frank Larkins, who was retiring on 31 December, after eighteen years of extraordinary service to the Council and the University.  Council noted that Professor Larkins has been one of the University’s most outstanding scientists and a respected senior leader since he was appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) in 1990.  He served concurrently as Dean of the Faculty of Science in 1998-99 and as Dean of the Faculty of Land and Food Resources in 2005.  In January 2006, Professor Larkins was appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International), becoming Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Relations) in mid 2008, with the restructure of the portfolio.

9.10 Asialink Collaboration

Council approved the entry by Asialink into a Collaboration Agreement with the Asia Society AustralAsia Centre consistent with the principles set out in the appendix attached to the report.

9.11 Reorganisation of the Faculty of Veterinary Science

Council approved the proposal from the Faculty of Veterinary Science to abolish the current two-department structure and replace it with a single department faculty, with effect from 1 January 2009.  The School of Veterinary Science, established under Regulation 6.1R7, will be renamed the Melbourne School of Veterinary Science and the Veterinary Clinic and Hospital will continue as a semi-autonomous body reporting to Finance Committee.

9.12 Establishment of a Faculty Centre for Youth Mental Health

Council approved the establishment of a Faculty Centre for Youth Mental Health within the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences with effect from 1 January 2009.

9.13 Disestablishment of the Centre for R & D Leadership

Council approved the disestablishment of the Centre for R & D Leadership in the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences.

9.14 Establishment of the Centre for Accounting and Industry Partnerships

Council approved the establishment of a Research Centre in the Department of Accounting and Business Information Systems in Economics and Commerce with effect from January 2009.

9.15 Melbourne University Publishing Limited

Council approved the appointment of Mr Alan Kohler as chair of the Board of Directors of Melbourne University Publishing Limited with effect from 20 December 2008.

9.16 University of Melbourne Postgraduate Association – Name Change

Council noted that the Vice-Chancellor had on its behalf endorsed the change of name of the University of Melbourne Postgraduate Association to the University of Melbourne Graduate Student Association (GSA).

9.17 Neurosciences Victoria Ltd Constitutional Amendments

Council noted that the Vice-Chancellor had on its behalf approved the proposed amendments to the Neurosciences Victoria Ltd’s constitution.

  1. Provost’s Report [Item B.3]

Council received and noted the Provost’s Report to Council.

10.1 Appointment of new Dean of the Faculty of the VCA and Music

Council approved the appointment of Professor Sharman Pretty as Dean of the new Faculty of the VCA and Music,  with effect from April 2009.

Professor Pretty is founding Dean of the National Institute of Creative Arts and Industries (NICAI), a Faculty of the University of Auckland, and a national centre of innovation in contemporary creative arts and industries research, education and practice.

10.2 Appointment of new Dean of the Faculty of Science

Council approved the appointment of Professor Robert Saint as Dean of the Faculty of Science, with effect from April 2009.

A pioneer and research leader in molecular genetics and cell and developmental biology in Australia, Professor Saint is Director of the ARC Special Research Centre for the Molecular Genetics of Development and Head of Molecular Genetics and Evolution within the Research School of Biological Sciences (RSBS) at the Australian National University.

10.3 Report on the First Year of the Melbourne Model

Council received and noted an in-depth report from the Provost on the achievements and challenges of 2008, during which the Melbourne Student Services Model and new Student Centres have been rolled out in support of the new curriculum.  The Melbourne Model has received broad endorsement and evidence is emerging that it is already helping to address equity and access issues. Professor McPhee pointed to some of the challenges presented in areas such as the design of breadth subjects and cross-disciplinary teaching, as well as responding to the popularity of languages and music among students commencing the new degrees. The implementation of the student service model in some areas and the design of some of the learning and teaching spaces needed further attention in 2009.

  1. Provost’s Supplementary Report [Item B.3(b)]

Council received and noted the Provost’s Supplementary Report to Council.

11.1 Investigation of Affordable Housing Options for Students: Progress Report

Council noted a progress report submitted by the Vice-Principal (Property and Campus Services) on the investigation of affordable housing options for students, as requested at Meeting 7/08.   In speaking to the report, Mr Chris White advised Council that he had formed a working group to provide expert input into an exploration of the options for affordable housing and it had already been in consultation with relevant bodies. 

Mr White referred to the current occupation of Faraday Street by the Student Housing Action Collective(SHAC) and advised that the University was offering to stand guarantor for University of Melbourne students who agreed to move to approved alternative accommodation, for which it would also pay the bond.  

After further discussion Council, having noted:

  1. advice from the Provost and the Vice-Principal (Property and Campus Services) of the actions being taken in consultation with student representatives to increase access to affordable student accommodation within a reasonable vicinity of the University;
  2. advice that the University has, since 28 November 2008, been in breach of its undertakings to the Melbourne City Council to ensure the Faraday premises are vacated and is now failing to meet its statutory obligations;  and
  3. action taken by the Vice-Principal (Property and Campus Services) to seek through negotiation a voluntary vacation of premises;

resolved to support the actions being taken by University management to arrange for the a University-owned property in Faraday Street premises to be vacated without further delay.

  1. Senior Vice-Principal’s Report [Item B.4]

Council received and noted the Senior Vice-Principal’s Report to Council.

12.1 Energy Efficiency Opportunities Program – Public Report 2007/2008

Council reviewed the report, noting that it identified opportunities for savings through the implementation of further energy efficiency projects.

12.2 Student System Project

The Senior Vice-Principal informed Council that the Student System Project was not going as well as had been planned and would have to be a major focus of attention in 2009.  In the meantime the Merlin system was being maintained and continued to provide a reasonable service, but the need for a new system was still evident.  Council agreed that the membership of the Due Diligence Committee, formed in 2006, would be refreshed at the Council Planning Conference in February.

12.3 Trusts Administration

Council noted that two significant matters had arisen in the trusts portfolio.

  1. The draft regulation for the Altajir Lectureship in Middle East and Islamic Studies had again been withdrawn due to ongoing uncertainties about the terms of the trust and the scope of the University’s obligations.  Further advice would be provided in early 2009 once issues requiring clarification are resolved.
  2. Council recalled that the Herman Trust had been the subject of a Council resolution in July 2008 which approved the manner in which allocations of income were to be made from the fund.  Although these had been fulfilled in part, it appeared that a significant portion of the income for 2007 had been directed to general educational purposes in 2008.  Accordingly, the Senior Vice-Principal had taken executive action to reverse the transfer in 2008 of some $615,000 which would be made available to the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences for cancer research.

Council noted the action taken and that further investigation had been commissioned in relation to other “general purpose funds”.  It further noted that after completion of that investigation and consultation with the Chair of Legislation and Trusts Committee, a report will be made to Council in 2009.

  1. Finance Committee [Item C.1]

Council received and noted a report from the Extraordinary Meeting of Finance Committee Meeting held on 31 October 2008 and Meeting 6/2008, held on 10 November 2008.

13.1 Medley Hall Redevelopment – Funding Proposal

Council resolved to endorse the setting aside of up to a maximum of $2million of University Reserve Funds to meet any short fall in the fundraising of the $2million required to enable this project to proceed.

13.2 Melbourne Theatre Company – funding of Sturt Street Redevelopment

Council resolved to endorse the balances in the MTC Capital Campaign account being used to repay the cash flow.

13.3 Melbourne Theatre Company – Write off of Accumulated Deficits

Subject to transfer of title for the new theatre site to the University from the State Government, Council resolved to endorse the allocation of $3,533,591 from University Reserve Funds to enable the write-off of the MTC accumulated deficits.

13.4 Amendments to Constitution of Neurosciences Victoria Limited

Council noted that the Vice-Chancellor had approved, on its behalf, the amendments to the Neurosciences Victoria Limited’s constitution as a matter of urgency.

  1. Finance Committee [Item C.1(b)]

Council received and noted a report from the Special Meeting of Finance Committee Meeting held on 27 November 2008.

14.1 2009-2011 Triennium Budget

Council resolved to adopt the 2009 Budget, noting that revised budget estimates for 2010 – 2011 be resubmitted in February 2009 including cost saving targets.

14.2 U21 Global

Council approved the allocation of $2million from University Reserves to meet three tranches over the next six months, subject to a decision from the U21 Global Due Diligence Group that the University should further invest into the Joint Venture.  Further the cash injection is to be made on the basis that the University will arrange for its exit over the next 12 months.

14.3 Business and Economics Education at the University

Council noted an erratum in the report which should state “The Chair agreed with the initial concept, noting that the University should not be disadvantaged under the proposed arrangements.”

  1. Finance Committee [Item C.1(c)]

Council received and noted a report from the Special Meeting of Finance Committee Meeting held on 5 December 2008.

15.1 Bio21 Australia Limited Constitution Change

Council approved the proposed amendments to the Bio21 Australia Limited’s constitution.

15.2 Victorian Metropolitan Alliance Ltd Constitution Change

Council approved the proposed amendments to the constitution of the Victorian Metropolitan Alliance Ltd, subject to the Vice-Chancellor obtaining further information clarifying paragraph 17.4 of the constitution.

15.3 Budget Reports for Subsidiary Companies

The Chair of Finance Committee drew Council’s attention to the Melbourne Business School issue regarding the downward valuation of their investments, which could affect the University’s bottom line by up to $35 million.  The Vice-Principal and Chief Financial Officer is seeking advice on the previous accounting treatment of these investments.

  1. Academic Board [Item C.2]

Council received and noted the report of Meetings 9/2008 and 10/2008 of the Academic Board held on 16 October 2008 and 20 November 2008, respectively. 

16.1 Proposals for New Courses

Council approved the following new program:

16.2 Discontinuation of Courses

Council approved the discontinuation of the following courses: 

16.3 Student Award - Amendments

Council approved the amendments to the following student award:

16.4 New Student Awards

Council approved the following student awards:

16.5 Selection Entry requirements

Council approved the amendments to the entry requirements as follows:

Master of Education (Teaching Content through English)

  1. The Selection Committee will evaluate the applicant’s ability to pursue the course successfully using the following criteria –
    • an appropriate undergraduate degree and an appropriate fourth-year level education qualification, or equivalent, with at least one year of relevant professional experience in the areas of Mathematics, Science, or Technology at secondary level; or
    • an appropriate four-year education degree, or equivalent, with at least one year of relevant professional experience in the areas of Mathematics, Science, or Technology at secondary level.
  2. The Selection Committee may conduct interviews and tests and may call for referee reports and employer references to elucidate any of the matters referred to above.

Bachelor of Arts Extension

  1. The Selection Committee will evaluate the applicant’s ability to pursue the course successfully using the following criteria –
    • self identification as a person of Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage and acceptance as such by an Indigenous community; this process will be validated by the CIE; and
    • completion of VCE or interstate equivalent; or eligibility under the non-school-leaver program.
  2. The Selection Committee may conduct interviews and tests and may call for referee reports and employer references to elucidate any of the matters referred to above.

U21 Diploma in Global Relations

  1. The Selection Committee will evaluate the applicant’s ability to pursue successfully the course using the following criteria –
    • enrolment at the University of Melbourne or at one of the participating U21 universities; and
    • a weighted point average, of at least H2B (70%) or equivalent across at least 100 points of undergraduate study at the University of Melbourne or at one of the participating U21 universities.
  2. The Selection Committee may conduct interviews and tests and may call for referee reports and employer references to elucidate any of the matters referred to above.
  1. Academic Board – Urgent Matter [B.2(b)] [Tabled]

17.1 Honorary Degree

17.1.1 Award of Honorary Degrees of Doctor of Engineering

Council approved the award of an honorary degree of Doctor of Engineering to the individual whose citation was tabled at the meeting.

  1. Buildings and Estates Committee [Item C.4]

Council received and noted a report of meeting 5/2008 of the Buildings and Estates Committee held on 20 November 2008.

18.1 Master Plan

This matter was dealt with under Item 7.1 above.

  1. Council Nominations and Govenance Committee [C.5]

Council received a report of meeting 4/2008 of the Council Nominations and Governance Committee held on 17 November 2008.

19.1 Review of Internal Legislation (TRMMM project)

This matter was deferred for consideration at the Council Planning Conference in February 2009.

19.2 Review of University Trusts and Endowment Framework

This matter was deferred for consideration at the Council Planning Conference in February 2009.

19.3 Council Appointed Positions

Council endorsed the reappointment of Ms Eda Ritchie and Mr David White to Council for a further three year term from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2011.

19.4 Frederick Mendelsohn Professor of Neuroscience

Council approved that the Director of the Florey Neuroscience Institutes be appointed as the “Frederick Mendelsohn Professor of Neuroscience” from time to time as the need arises, subject to legal advice being obtained from the Vice-Principal & General Counsel on appropriate amendments to Statute 9.14 and Regulation 7.1R2 as regards the status of the named chair.

  1. Remuneration and Employment Conditions Committee [C.7(b)]

Council received and noted a report of Meeting 7/2008 of the Remuneration and Employment Conditions Committee held on 26 November 2008.

  1. Legislation and Trusts Committee [Item C.8]

Council received and noted the report of Meeting 5/08 of the Legislation and Trusts Committee held on 24 November 2008.

21.1 Statute for Submission to Council

Council approved the amendment of the following Statute, as detailed in Appendix A of the Report:

(1) Amendment of Statute 3.2 recommended by the University Secretary To update the advertising requirements in relation to the Graduate Roll (78/08)

21.1 Regulations under Statute for submission to Council

Council approved the revocation or amendment of the following Regulations as contained in Appendix B to the report:

(1)

 Amendment of Regulation 3.3.R1 recommended by the University Secretary To update the advertising requirements in relation to elections to the Committee of Convocation (79/08)
(2) Amendment of Regulation 6.1.R7 recommended by the University Secretary on the advice of the dean of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences To move the department of Social Work from the faculty of Arts to the faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences (93/08)
(3) Revoking and remaking of Regulation 6.1.R10 recommended by the University Secretary on the advice of the Vice-Principal (Commercialisation) To delete the school of Melbourne University Private and create the school of Melbourne Consulting and Custom Programs (94/08)

21.2 Trust Regulations for Submission to Council

Council approved the amendment, revocation or re-making of the following Trust Regulations:

 (1)

 Amendment of Regulation R6.146 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of the faculty of Science To govern the Bryan Scholarships (81/08)

(2)

 Amendment of Regulation R6.72 (13) recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of Melbourne Graduate School of Education To govern the Hugh Childers Memorial Prize (82/08)

(3)

 Amendment of Regulation R6.49 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of the faculty of Science To govern The James Cuming Memorial Scholarships (92/08)

(4)

 Amendment of Regulation R6.60 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of the faculty of Science To govern The Daniel Curdie Scholarship (83/08)

(5)

 Amendment of Regulation R6.83 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of the faculty of Science To govern the Dawson Bursary (90/08)

(6)

 Amendment of Regulation R6.6 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of the faculty of Science To govern The Howitt Natural History Scholarships (91/08)

(7)

 Amendment of Regulation R6.72 (219) recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of the faculty of Science To govern The Klemperer-Ducker Scholarship (84/08)

(8)

 Amendment of Regulation R6.14 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of the faculty of Science To govern the MacBain Research Scholarship in Biology (89/08)

(9)

 Amendment of Regulation R7.98 recommended by the Trusts Lawyer on the advice of the Legislation and Trusts Committee To update the terms of The Macgeorge Bequest (85/08)

(10)

 Amendment of Regulation R7.235 recommended by the Trusts Lawyer on the advice of The Russell and Mab Grimwade Miegunyah Fund Committee To govern the terms of The Russell and Mab Grimwade Miegunyah Fund (80/08)

(11)

 Amendment of Regulation R7.162 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of Melbourne Graduate School of Education To govern the School of Early Childhood Studies Fund (86/08)

(12)

 Amendment of Regulation R6.109 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of the faculty of Science To govern the John Tyndall Scholarship (87/08)

(13)

 Amendment of Regulation R6.72 (242) recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of the faculty of Science To govern The Women in Physics Award (88/08)

(14)

 Making of a regulation recommended by the Trusts Lawyer on the advice of the faculty of Veterinary Science To govern The Rural Veterinary Students Scholarships (95/08)

21.4 Withdrawn Item

Council noted that the following item were withdrawn:

(1)

 Making of a regulation recommended by the Vice-Principal and General Counsel on the advice of the Faculty of Arts to govern The Altajir Lectureship in Middle East and Islamic Studies

21.5 Report from Chairperson

As this was her last meeting on Council, Ms Melanie Sloss acknowledged the significant contribution made by the Vice-Principal and General Counsel and the Trusts Group to the work of the Committee and she also thanked all members of the Committee as well as staff of the University Secretary’s Department for their professional support over the past three years. 

The Chancellor proposed a vote of thanks to Ms Sloss for her outstanding contribution to the work of the Legislation and Trusts Committee in the short period that she had been a member of Council, during which the standard of legislation had improved significantly. This was passed with acclaim.

  1. Committee of Convocation [Item C.9]

Council received the report of Meetings 8/2008 and 9/2008 of the Committee of Convocation held on 15 October and 19 November, respectively.

22.1 Commemoration of Traditional Owners

    Council resolved to refer the proposal to the Provost, who was invited to consult with appropriate parties, including Mr Paul Briggs, and bring forward a considered response to the next meeting.

  1. Melbourne Theatre Company Board of Management [Item D.1(a)]

Council received the report of Meeting 8/08 of the Melbourne Theatre Company Board of Management held on 17 October 2008.

  1. Melbourne Theatre Company Board of Management [Item D.1(b)]

Council received the report of Meeting 9/08 of the Melbourne Theatre Company Board of Management held on 21 November 2008.

  1. Summary of Reports of Matters Dealt with by the Vice-Chancellor on behalf of Council [Items D2]

    25.1 Appointments Report (Non-Confidential) [D2(a)]

    25.1.1 Appointment to Leo Cussen Institute Board

      2. Council noted the Vice-Chancellor had approved on behalf of Council the appointment of Dr Linda Haller as one of the University’s appointees to the Board of the Leo Cussen Institute commencing in April 2008.

    25.1.2 Nominations to the Consultative Council on Obstetric and Paediatric Mortality and Morbidity

      Council noted the Vice-Chancellor had approved on behalf of Council the nominations of Professor Michael Permezel (Obstetrics) and Professor Paul Monagle (Paediatrics) as the two University representatives on the Consultative Council on Obstetric and Paediatric Mortality and Morbidity.

25.2 Approval of Changes to Regulations under Authority of Statute [D.2(b)]

Council noted that under the authority given to the Vice-Chancellor by the University Statutes, he had made amendments to Regulations as follows:

6.1.R7        Attachment A: Centres and Institutes for Research and Research Training

25.3 Sealed Documents and Other Matters Report (Confidential) [D.2(c)]

    Council received the summary of reports of sealed documents and other matters approved on behalf of Council by the Vice-Chancellor, as set out in Item D2(c).

  1. Other Business

    26.1 Farewell to Retiring Council Members

    The Chancellor noted that this was the last meeting which would be attended by Professor Pip Pattison, President of the Academic Board, who had now completed six years service in that role or as Deputy President.  During this time, she had been a pleasure to work with and had fulfilled her role in a highly effective manner, especially in relation to the integration of the Faculty of the VCA.

    It was also the last meeting for Ms Sally Beattie, elected by the graduate students, who the Chancellor remarked had made an excellent contribution to Council.  Similarly, Ms Hannah Hayman, who was retiring as student representative on Council, was complimented by the Chancellor on the careful insights she had brought to Council discussions and the suggestions she had made.  Council wished them both well in their future studies and careers.

    26.2 Honorary Doctorate of Laws (honoris causa)

    Deputy Chancellor Chernov announced with much pleasure that a special meeting of Council had resolved to accept the Academic Board’s recommendation to award an Honorary Doctor of Laws to the Chancellor, Mr Ian Renard, in recognition of his fifteen years of service to the University.  Council acknowledged this award with acclamation.  A copy of the citation is appended as an attachment to these Minutes.

    Mr Renard thanked Council for their support during his term as Deputy Chancellor and then Chancellor, and noted how greatly he had enjoyed working with members of Council and the senior executive, Deans and many other members of staff of the University.  He noted that he would have an opportunity to say more on these matters at the dinner to be held at the conclusion of the meeting.

The meeting closed at 7.25pm.

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