6 April 2016

The Board of Trustees met on 6 April 2016 in the Board of Trustees Room, Parramatta Campus. A summary of matters discussed in the open session of the Board meeting is provided below.

The confirmed minutes of the 2 March 2016 (PDF, 270.38 KB) (opens in a new window) meeting are also now available. 

Main Items Considered by the Board

Chancellor's Report

The Chancellor briefed the Board on the consultation process for the student admissions project that is being undertaken by the Higher Education Standards Panel.

A Town and Gown Ball is being organised for October 2016 with fundraising from  corporate sponsorship to provide scholarships for refugee students.

The inaugural Alumni Awards dinner held on 5 April was very successful and recognised the achievements of  many outstanding University alumni in a number of categories.

Vice-Chancellor's Report

The Vice-Chancellor spoke to his written report. The Transforming Western Sydney University plan will be discussed in detail at the Board's strategy day in June.

The Board noted those facilities requiring capital investment and this will be discussed as part of the strategy day considerations. Federal Higher Education reform is still on the agenda with reforms relating to student debt anticipated.

Elections of Chancellor and Deputy Chancellor

The Board re-elected Professor Peter Shergold AC as Chancellor for a term to December 31, 2020. Elizabeth Dibbs was elected as Deputy Chancellor to replace Gillian Shadwick for a term to April 30, 2017.

2015 Audited Financial Statements

Members of the NSW Audit Office attended the presentation of the 2015 Audited Financial Statements to the Board. A register of key issues was maintained throughout the 2015 audit process and regular meetings ensured that these were managed and resolved in a timely manner. The Board approved the Audited Financial Statements and authorised certification by the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor.  The Vice-Chancellor signed the Australian Charities and Not For Profit Commission declaration on behalf of the Responsible Entities.

Research Performance- presentation from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Development)

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Development) presented on the University's research performance and areas for improvement. Significant investment in research staff and PhD scholarships is required over the next five years to ensure the University continues to remain competitive.

Annual Report

The Board approved the 2015 Annual Report and noted some structural changes that would help to highlight key activities for future reports. The Board was pleased to note  the significant diversity in the academic staff profile which matches the diversity of the student profile.

Student Load

The Vice-Chancellor briefed the Board on the student load figures, noting that the final post-31 March census load will not be realised for some weeks. International student load is up on 2015 figures and the risks relating to the processing of visas continue to be monitored.

Angelo Kourtis
Acting University Secretary