Council Meeting No 6/09
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A meeting of the Council was held in the Council Chamber, level 1, Old Quadrangle on Monday 25 May 2009 at 4.00pm.
Present
Members
The Chancellor (Hon A Chernov) (in the Chair)
The Deputy Chancellor (Ms R Storelli)
The Vice-Chancellor (Professor G Davis)
The President of Academic Board (Professor G Stevens)
Ms E Alexander, Ms O Bishop, Mr M Coyle, Justice S Crennan, Dr M Doig,
Judge I Lawson, Mr R Johanson, Associate Professor M Joshi, Dr V Mansour, Mr M Myer,
Ms E Ritchie, Mr T Peake, Mr N Turnbull and the Hon D White
Others Attending
The Provost (Professor P McPhee)
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Relations) (Professor J Dewar)
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) (Professor P Rathjen)
The Deputy President of Convocation (Dr L Simpson)
The President of UMSU (Ms C Drakeford)
The Vice-Principal and Head of University Services (Ms E Baré)
The Vice-Principal and Academic Registrar (Ms Gillian Luck)
The Acting Vice-Principal and Chief Financial Officer (Mr A Tait)
The Vice-Principal and General Counsel (Mr C Penman)
The Vice-Principal (Major Projects) (Ms Lin Martin)
The University Secretary (Ms J White)
The Deputy University Secretary (Mr J Green)
The Manager, Corporate Affairs (Ms C Buckridge)
Dr J Constable (Office of the Vice-Chancellor)
Ms E Fazio (Office of the Vice-Chancellor)
Ms H Cooney (Office of the Vice-Chancellor) (for Item A3 only)
Business
- FORMAL MATTERS
1.1 Apologies and Leave of Absence Requests [Item A.01]
Apologies were received from Professor Bowes, Justice Crennan and Ms Jonas for this meeting.
Council noted Professor Dawkins’ leave of absence for this meeting and Ms Boston’s apology.
Council approved the leave of absence for Hon. David White for the 22 June Council meeting.
The Chancellor welcomed Dr Laurie Simpson, Deputy President of Convocation, who attended in place of Ms Boston.
- Minutes of Previous Meetings and Follow Up Action Sheet[Item A.1(a) and A.1(b)]
2.1 The Minutes of Council Meeting 5/2009 held on 27 April 2009, including an attachment from the Vice-Chancellor advising of the retirement of the Provost, were confirmed.
2.2 The Action Sheet from Meeting No. 5/2009 was received. Council noted that a special Council meeting may need to be called in order to consider a report from the Council Due Diligence Committee on the proposed merger of the Faculty of Economics and Commerce and the Melbourne Business School. Council also noted that the Committee established on 16 March to review the strategic position of Melbourne University Publishing would report to Council at its June meeting.
- Declarations of Interest [Item A.2(a)]
The Chancellor called for any declarations of interest for items on the agenda for the current meeting. Mr Martin Myer advised that he had resigned from the Board of the Florey Neurosciences Institutes on 21 May 2009.
- Starring of Additional Items[Item A.2(b)]
Additional items B.2.(2), (4), (11) and B.4.(3) were starred for discussion.
- Motion to Adopt or Receive “Unstarred Items of Business”[Item A.2(c)]
It was agreed that the unstarred items of business be adopted where containing recommendations and received where containing reports.
- The Provost: Minute of Appreciation
The Chancellor advised Council that this was to be the last meeting attended by the Provost before his forthcoming retirement. In recognition of this event, the Chancellor moved the following motion from the chair:
“That Council notes the impending retirement of the Provost, Professor Peter McPhee, and places on record its thanks to him for his various contributions to the University over many years; in particular, for his wise and energetic advice to Council at its meetings and his work as the University’s first Provost, including as Chair of the Curriculum Commission in implementing the Melbourne Model.”
The motion was passed unanimously with acclaim.
- Future of the Council Portal
The University Secretary advised that it was proposed to discontinue use of the Council Portal hosted externally in Canada. It has served Council well but it is expensive to maintain and a suitable alternative has been developed in-house by members of the University Secretary’s Department and the Information Systems team. Known as “Meeting Information Manager (MIM)”, the site will operate in a similar manner to the portal and will offer an equivalent standard of secure access by Council members to all Council papers.
Council endorsed a brief demonstration of MIM and noted that the University Secretary would shortly provide advice to members on access and use of the new system.
- Key Issues and Documents for Discussion[Item A.3]
- Growing Esteem Strategy (Minute 10.1 below refers)
The Vice-Chancellor introduced a revised draft of “Refining our Strategy: A discussion paper that invites involvement and response”, which had been amended to incorporate feedback from Council members and from the mid-year Deans and Heads Conference held on 7 May. Professor Davis referred also to a tabled paper that contained written comments from Professor Peter Dawkins.
Introducing the paper, the Vice-Chancellor explained that it was timely to review the original strategy espoused in “Growing Esteem”, not only in terms of the changed external environment but also to assess how much progress had been made and where changes or improvements were necessary in order to achieve the original vision. He emphasised that this was an evolutionary process rather than instituting a new strategy.
Professor Davis highlighted a number of complex and challenging issues that were addressed in the discussion document, some of which appear to be antithetical to each other. For example, the paper aims to examine in some detail what we mean by our aspiration to be “public-spirited” and our aim to be a truly international University and the commercial decisions necessary to secure a sound financial footing. Another matter under discussion is the size of the University and what the implications would be if our strategy was to have fewer students rather than continued growth.
Other questions posed for discussion included:
- How well do we measure research, especially considering the variety of disciplines whose outputs bear no comparison to each other?
- How can the University improve its research outcomes so that it can truly be compared with leading Universities internationally?
- To what extent can the curriculum be improved in order to meet its strategic goals for learning and teaching in the graduate area?
- How will new Government equity targets be met over time, both in Victoria and across Australia, given the current configuration of the student profile?
- Considering the established methods of undergraduate selection, are there better ways of assessing students’ suitability for tertiary study and how could these be implemented?
- Will we be able to develop and sustain high quality graduate opportunities that fulfil the promise of the Melbourne Model?
- Does the concept of Knowledge Transfer, which has proved hard to measure, require new terminology as well as a different kind of engagement in teaching, research and community outreach?
Council members engaged in a discussion about these and other matters raised by the Vice-Chancellor, noting that an extensive process of consultation was envisaged throughout the University and with key stakeholders in the community, from whom a critical examination of the issues raised would be sought. In addition to workshops and forums for students and staff, there would be an online facility for input and discussion.
Council noted that responses would be sought by 31 July 2009 and, once the consultation process was complete, a revised Strategic Plan will be brought to Council in December 2009.
Council endorsed the discussion paper for release to the University community and authorised the Vice-Chancellor to approve any minor changes to the final text.
The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the work of Dr Shane Huntington and others in his office in developing an in-depth and challenging discussion paper.
- Values in the Curriculum
The Provost gave a presentation on “Values in the Curriculum”, a topic that related closely to chapter 7 of the Growing Esteem discussion paper. Professor McPhee recalled the original exposition of the “Melbourne Experience” in 2005 and noted that Graduate Attributes, building on its two key basic principles, were articulated in 2006 in the following way:
- Academically excellent
- Knowledgeable across disciplines
- Attuned to cultural diversity
- Active global citizens
- Leaders in communities
Key questions moving forward are how to inculcate these into the curriculum and to what extent they can have impact on individual graduates through this means. The Provost also referred to initiatives in student engagement in 2008-2009, including the “Leadership, Involvement and Volunteer Experience” (LIVE program), which were successful for those students who were involved, but with a total of 5,000 commencing undergraduates each year such programs cannot cater for large numbers. Professor McPhee noted that there would be some curriculum challenges ahead to meet the needs of the first cohort of new generation degree students and that better ways of recognising participation in leadership programs were required.
- Chancellor’s Report[Item B.1]
9.1 VCA Integration Committee
Council received a report from Meeting 1/2009 of the VCA Integration Committee and noted that the VCA Advisory Board was considering possible changes to the name of the Faculty. It also noted that a review is being conducted on the operations, structure and membership of the Board.
Council noted concerns expressed by the Chair of the Advisory Board and the Integration Committee, Mr Noel Turnbull, about current media commentary on the financial situation of the new Faculty, much of which was either misleading or based on false assumptions. The Provost confirmed that it was important to support the new Dean in reinforcing the value of the Melbourne Model to VCAM students. He noted that a taskforce had been established, including representatives from the Advisory Board, Marketing and Communications, Human Resources and others, which would address, inter alia, the question of delivering accurate public messages to the community at large and key stakeholders.
9.2 Nominations for Deputy Chancellor
Council endorsed the waiver of the 30 day requirement for nominations for Deputy Chancellor (a vacancy created by the election of the Hon. Alex Chernov as Chancellor) to enable a call for nominations to be issued on May 26 in preparation for an election date of 22 June. It noted that the term of office would only be until 31 December 2009.
9.3 Dhungalla Kaella Oration in Shepparton
- Vice-Chancellor’s Report[Item B.2]
The Chancellor reported on his visit to the first Dhungalla Kaella Oration event on 20 May, part of an Indigenous Leadership Program, organised by the Indigenous community in Shepparton led by Council Fellow, Mr Paul Briggs and Professor Ian Anderson. The Chancellor advised that it was an excellent occasion and that he looked forward to a similar event in future, which he hoped would be more widely publicised and supported by the University community.
Council received and noted the Vice-Chancellor’s Report.
10.1 ‘Growing Esteem’ Strategy
This item was discussed under Key Issues (minute 8(a) above refers).
10.2 2009 Commonwealth Budget
The Vice-Chancellor reported that the recent Commonwealth Budget, whilst recognising many of the needs of the tertiary education sector, was unlikely to deliver major new funding until 2011 or 2012. It was noteworthy that full funding of research (including overheads) was now an agreed position although additional funds would not flow to universities until 2012. Students will benefit in a number of ways financially, with increased support mechanisms. Further details on Research, Infrastructure, Teaching and Learning, Students/Equity and Strategic Implications were set out in the attachment to the report.
10.3 Point Nepean
Council noted that the recent State Government Budget had not made provision for the University’s Coast and Climate Research Centre. Negotiations with the Department of Sustainability and Environment were continuing.
10.4 Comprehensive Cancer Centre
The Vice-Chancellor summarised the successful bid for Commonwealth and State funding towards a new Centre that would follow the tradition of leading cancer centres around the world; around $1 billion would be invested in the project. To be built on the site of the former Dental Hospital in Grattan Street, the Centre would assemble a critical mass of expertise from among Australia’s cancer researchers and its five partner institutions.
10.5 Asialink/Asia Society AustralAsia Centre
Council noted that Asialink and the Asia Society AustralAsia Centre have entered into a collaboration agreement to enable both to work together to better meet mutual goals and aspirations.
10.6 Compliance Report
Council received and noted the May Compliance Report.
10.7 Disestablishment of the Euro-Australian Co-operation Centre
Council approved the disestablishment of the Euro-Australian Co-operation Centre.
10.8 Swine Flu/Pandemic Memorandum
Council received a memorandum from the Vice-Principal and Head of University Services outlining the University’s contingency plan in response to the possibility of an epidemic of Swine Flu in the local community. It noted that the plan was consistent with State Government policy on the matter and highlighted a range of complex issues that would need to be addressed if action such as closing the University was envisaged. The plan was endorsed. The Chancellor thanked the Vice-Principal and Head of University Services for the efficient and speedy formulation of the contingency plan.
- Provost’s Report [Item B.3]
Council received and noted the Provost’s Report to Council.
11.1 Melbourne University Sport (MUS) Facilities
The Provost reported on significant developments for Melbourne University Sport with the approval of funding for the refurbishment of the Oval Pavilion and a proposed extension and improvements to the University Boatshed on Jefferies Parade. The total cost of these projects is estimated to be in the region of $7.5 million.
11.2 Update on the Library Materials Vote
The Provost recalled that the Report of the Information Futures Commission in 2008 had emphasised the need to address the Materials Vote for the Library, which had suffered from reduced budget allocations and purchasing power in recent times. He advised that there would be a bid for substantially increased funding at the July Planning and Budget conference.
- Senior Vice-Principal’s Report [Item B.4]
Council received the Senior Vice-Principal’s Report to Council.
12.1 Responsible Division Management Implementation
A progress report on the development of a major new service model for business-related services was noted.
12.2 Student System Project
Council noted that the Due Diligence Group had met on 2 April and endorsed further negotiation of revised terms with the contractor. A further report would be made to the June meeting of Council.
12.3 Environmental Health and Safety
Council noted that all non-conformances would be rectified by 26 May and should be signed off by the Victorian WorkCover Authority shortly afterwards.
- Finance Committee[Item C.1(a)]
Council received and noted the report of Finance Committee concerning Meeting 3/2009 held on 24 April 2009.
13.1 Sale of 13 Wildlife Parade, Balwyn North
Council approved the sale by public auction at a reserve price of $760,000 of the property in North Balwyn.
13.2 Sale of 390 Albert Street, East Melbourne
Council approved the sale by public auction at a reserve price of $1,700,000 of the property in East Melbourne.
Council noted that whilst the share market remains volatile, the value of investments had improved recently.
- Academic Board [Item C.2]
Council received and noted the Special Report of Academic Board.
14.1 Entry Pathway – Unilearn Senior Mathematics
Council approved a minimum mark of 75 in the Unilearn Senior Mathematics subject required for entry into University of Melbourne courses, which have VCE Mathematical Methods (Units 3 and 4) as a prerequisite for entry.
- Audit and Risk Committee [Item C.3(a)]
No meeting held.
- Buildings and Estates Committee [Item C.4]
No meeting held.
- Council Nominations and Govenance Committee [C.5]
Council received and noted a report of the Council Nominations and Governance Committee Meeting 2/2009 held on 14 May 2009.
The Chancellor advised that consultations with the State Government about the Model University Bill had been concluded, with agreement that an objective definition of “commercial activity” would be incorporated in the Act. He commended the Vice-Principal and General Counsel and his team for leadership and conscientious attention to the detailed governance matters raised during lengthy deliberations on this matter.
- Honours Committee [C.6]
No meeting held.
- Remuneration and Employment Conditions Committee [C.7]
No meeting held.
-
Legislation and Trusts Committee [Item C.8]
Council received and noted the report of the Legislation and Trusts Committee Meeting 3/2009 held on 11 May 2009.
20.1 Trust Regulations for Submission to Council
Council approved the amendment, revocation, making or re-making of the following Trust Regulations:
(1) Amendment of Regulation R6.72B recommended by the Trusts Lawyer on the advice of Melbourne School of Engineering To govern The Herbert Brooks Exhibition (41/09) (2) Amendment of Regulation R6.72 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of Melbourne School of Land and Environment To govern The Caluna Prize (42/09) (3) Amendment of Regulation R6.72 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of Melbourne School of Land and Environment To govern The R S Fox Bursaries (43/09) (4) Amendment of Regulation R6.72 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of Melbourne School of Land and Environment To govern the Clare Leslie Memorial Prize (44/09) (5) Amendment of Regulation R6.72 recommended by the Projects Lawyer – Trusts on the advice of Melbourne School of Land and Environment To govern the Walter Massy-Greene Prize (45/09)
- Committee of Convocation [Item C.9]
Council received the report of the Committee of Convocation Meeting 2/2009 held on 6 May 2009.
21.1 Representatives on Faculties
- Melbourne Theatre Company Board of Management [Item D.1(a)]
Council approved the following appointment of representatives on Faculties:
Faculty of Architecture, Building & Planning Ms J Chiew Faculty of Arts Dr J Flesch Faculty of Economics & Commerce Mr J Meehan Melbourne Graduate School of Education Dr J Nelson Melbourne School of Engineering Mr A Abbott Melbourne Law School Ms J Crowe*
Mr P Davies*Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences: Representative of medical graduates Dr L Simpson Representative of dental science graduates Dr JK Harcourt School of Dental Science Advisory Board Dr B-A Rodan Faculty of Music and the VCA Dr R McMillan Faculty of Science Dr D Parbery
Council received a report of the Melbourne Theatre Company Board of Management Meeting 3/2009 held on 17 April 2009.
22.1 Appointment to the Board
- The Ian Potter Museum of Art board [Item D.1(b)]
Council approved the appointment of Professor Sharman Pretty to the MTC Board of Management for a term commencing 1 April 2009 to 31 December 2011.
Council received the report of the Ian Potter Museum of Art Board Meeting 2/2009 held on 7 April 2009.
- Summary of Reports of Matters Dealt with by the Vice-Chancellor on behalf of Council [Items D2]
24.1 Approval of Changes to Regulations under Authority of Statute [D.2(a)]
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
24.2 Sealed Documents and Other Matters Report (Confidential) [D.2(b)]
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(b).
24.3 Appointments Report [Item D.2(c)]
24.3.1 Appointments to the Board of Australian National Academy of Music Limited
Council noted that the Vice-Chancellor had approved, on behalf of Council, the appointment of the Mr Ian McRae from 22 December 2008 as a chair and a director on the Board of the Australian National Academic of Music Limited.
24.3.2 Appointment to Medley Hall Council
Council noted that the Vice-Chancellor had approved, on behalf of Council, the appointment of Professor Phillip Goad as a member of the Medley Hall Council.
Council noted that Professor Joan McMeeken was elected chair of the Medley Hall Council for 2009 and that Judge Irene Lawson resigned as of December 2008.
24.3.3 Appointments to Asialink Board
Council noted that the Vice-Chancellor had approved the appointment of the following people, in accordance with s.6.1(f) of Regulation 8.1.R11 – Asialink, for three year terms commencing from 12 May 2009:
- Harrison Young
- Warwick Smith
- Jock Clough
- Sir Rod Eddington
- John Denton
- Chris Leptos
- Stephen Spargo
- Rob Milliner
The meeting closed at 5.40pm.
The next scheduled meeting of Council will be held on Monday 22 June 2009, followed by a dinner in University House at which the Provost, Professor Peter McPhee, has accepted an invitation to be Guest of Honour.