Frequently asked questions
- Why is the University and the Faculty doing this consultation?
A consultation process is a key element of decision-making in the University so earlier this year, the University and the Faculty made a commitment to a consultative process on the future of the Faculty at the University. We are honouring that commitment.
- Is it a genuine consultation or have the decisions already been made?
The consultation will be open and extensive. The discussion paper canvasses submissions around three critical areas – structure, curriculum and finance. .A Review Committee with an independent chair will consider the submissions.
- Who will make the recommendations?
The Review Committee will produce a final report with recommendations?
- Where will the recommendations go?
The recommendations will go to the Vice-Chancellor and the Dean and will be presented to the VCA Integration Committee for approval before submission to the University Council early in 2010.
- Why isn’t the VCA a stand-alone institution?
The former Council of the VCA sought integration with the University in an effort to ensure the VCA’s future financial viability. The discussion paper raises questions about for the future structure of the Faculty, including returning to a stand-alone model, but such an option must be financially viable.
- Does the University want to get rid of practice-based learning at VCAM?
Practice-based learning is fundamental to the Faculty and will remain an intrinsic part of training.
- Why can’t the University just put more money into VCAM?
The University already contributes significantly to the upkeep of the Faculty through subsidies from other faculties in the University. Over the next two years and additional $30 million plus is committed to the Faculty. This money would otherwise be used for students in the faculties providing the subsidy.
- Why can’t the University lobby the Commonwealth Government for more money?
Over many years, the University lobbied for Canberra for better funding for the former VCA and it continues to do so for the Faculty of the VCA and Music.