Curtin Annual Report - parliament.wa.gov.au
Transcript of Curtin Annual Report - parliament.wa.gov.au
2008 Curtin Annual Report
curtin.edu.au
200
8 Curtin A
nnual Rep
ort
Curtin University of Technology Kent Street BENTLEY WA 6102 GPO Box U1987, PERTH WA 6845 Tel: +61 8 9266 9266 curtin.edu.au
CRICOS Provider Code 00301J (WA), 02637B (NSW) 53577-03-08
Curtin University of Technology 2008 Annual Report
2008 Curtin Annual Report
Contents Statement of Compliance 1
Chancellor’s Foreword 2
Vice-Chancellor’s Foreword 4
About Curtin 8
Vision, Mission and Values 9
Strategic Plan 9
2008 Activity Highlights 10
Areas of Strategic Focus 10
Stragetic Themes 18
The Teaching and Learning Plan 22
The Research Management Plan 28
The Internationalisation Plan 30
The Valuing Curtin Staff Plan 32
Report on Operations 36
Governance of the University 36
Administrative Structure 40
Staffing Matters 42
Significant Issues and Trends 44
Other Disclosures and Legal Requirements 47
Curtin in Figures 52
Independent Audit Opinion 55
Financial Report 2008 57
Performance Indicators 114
The Honourable Dr Elizabeth Constable, MLA
Minister for Education; Tourism; Women’s Interests
19th Floor, Governor Stirling Tower
197 St Georges Terrace
PERTH WA 6000
Dear Minister
In accordance with section 61 of the Financial Management Act 2006, we hereby submit for your information and presentation
to Parliament the Annual Report of Curtin University of Technology for the year ending 31 December 2008.
The Annual Report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Financial Management Act 2006.
Yours sincerely
W. Gordon Martin Jeanette Hacket
Chancellor Vice-Chancellor
On behalf of the University Council
Dated this 18th day of March 2009
1
Statement of Compliance
Curtin University of Technology
2
2008 has been a particularly challenging
year. However, it is also one in which
there have been many notable
achievements, and in which Curtin
has set a new vision for the future.
At its retreat in April 2008, Council
set the scene for a review of the
University’s vision, which led to the
approval of a new vision statement:
“An international leader shaping the
future through our graduates and
research, and positioned among the
top 20 universities in Asia by 2020.”
To help the University meet this
ambitious vision, the University Council
and Executive have developed a
strategic plan for 2009 to 2013, after
consultation with senior managers, the
heads of schools and other staff.
The plan provides a framework for the
development of enabling plans and
strategies across all teaching, research
and administrative areas. Its success will
be monitored by indicators which measure
Curtin’s performance in teaching and
learning; research and development; student
and external-stakeholder satisfaction;
staff satisfaction; and financial security.
Underpinned by the organisational values
of integrity, fairness, respect and care,
the strategic plan will direct and define
the shift to the next era for Curtin.
In achieving this vision, it is critical that
we are constantly aware of the need
to adapt to the rapidly changing higher
education and economic environments.
In 2008, the University completed its second
Australian Universities Quality Agency
(AUQA) audit, an important and highly
visible assessment of Curtin’s programs
and initiatives. The audit focused on the
themes of internationalisation, on ensuring
the quality of the student experience, and
on a review of progress on the 2002 Cycle 1
Recommendations and Commendations.
The audit was a lengthy and complex
process, involving many campuses and staff.
The final report is a positive assessment,
and I thank all the staff, partners and
students involved in the process.
In another major achievement for
the University, Council approved the
establishment of Curtin Singapore. Curtin
has had a presence in Singapore for
more than 20 years, working with long-
standing partners. The campus enables
the University to consolidate its range of
educational activities in new facilities, and
to build its brand within the region. Curtin
now has two offshore campuses – in
Singapore and in Miri, in East Malaysia.
During 2008, Council also monitored
progress on the establishment of several
important projects, including the Australian
Sustainable Development Institute, the
Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute
and the Resources and Chemistry Precinct.
More information on these initiatives is
included in the body of this report.
Chancellor’s Foreword
Underpinned by the
organisational values of
integrity, fairness, respect
and care, the strategic plan
will direct and define the shift
to the next era for Curtin.
2008 Annual Report
3
On the financial front, the continuing squeeze
in margins coupled with the dramatic decline
in the global and Australian economies
put even greater emphasis on the need
for efficiency and financial constraint. It is
satisfying, however, to note that the University
ended the year with a healthy surplus, and is
in a sound financial position going forward.
I would like to thank all staff of the University
for their dedication and commitment through
the year. Fellow members of Council also
made an important contribution to Curtin,
despite significant pressures on their time,
and I would like to acknowledge the work
of departing members of Council Mr Mark
Ashley and The Hon. Dr John Cowdell. New
external members welcomed to Council in
2008 were Ms Lynne Thomson, Principal
of St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School, and
Dr Michael Stanford, Group Chief Executive
Officer of St John of God Health Care.
In particular, I wish to thank the Vice-
Chancellor, Jeanette Hacket, for her skill,
energy and leadership throughout the year.
With the strong and motivated leadership
team, a loyal and committed staff
and a sound financial base, we can
look forward with confidence to an
exciting and successful year ahead.
W. Gordon Martin
Chancellor
Curtin University of Technology
4
Education is Australia’s
third-largest export industry,
and it is critical that we
take action to allow the
education sector to play a
key role in dealing with the
current economic downturn,
and ensuring the long-term
productivity of the nation.
Many significant projects and initiatives were
developed in 2008 at Curtin University of
Technology. In addition to ongoing work
to improve outcomes in our core business
of teaching and scholarship and research
and development, Curtin also completed an
extensive University-wide quality audit and
established a new offshore campus. A new
strategic plan and vision for 2009 to 2013
were also developed, and are discussed in
the Chancellor’s foreword to this report.
In October, Curtin underwent its second
Australian Universities Quality Agency (AUQA)
audit. AUQA is the principal national quality
assurance agency in higher education, and
is responsible for providing public assurance
of the quality of Australia’s universities.
Curtin’s audit was a complex and exhaustive
process, involving eight of our offshore
partners across four countries, in addition
to campuses in Sydney, Kalgoorlie and
Bentley. During the audit, more than
650 Curtin staff, students and external
members such as employers and alumni
were interviewed. While it was a major
undertaking to coordinate, the audit was a
very positive experience and of considerable
value in contributing to Curtin’s ongoing
commitment to continuous improvement.
The panel’s final report provides a very
positive assessment of Curtin’s activities
and achievements. The University has the
equal highest number of commendations
(the achievement of a stated goal), and the
equal lowest number of recommendations
(an area in need of attention). Curtin is
the only university to date in this audit
cycle to have no ‘urgent’ affirmations
(areas of attention already identified by
the University), or recommendations.
Among the 11 commendations, Curtin was
praised for initiatives aimed at enhancing
teaching and learning, including the student
evaluation system eVALUate, the Curriculum
2010 course renewal project and the student
orientation activities. The University’s
responsiveness to student concerns and the
active role of the Student Guild within Curtin
was also recognised. The effectiveness
of Curtin’s International Office and that
of the Curtin Business School was noted
by the auditors. The University was also
commended for the conceptualisation,
establishment and successful
development of the Sarawak Campus.
The internationalisation of research at Curtin,
including the development of a research
record at Curtin Sarawak, was also praised.
Curtin Singapore, the University’s new
campus in that country, was officially
launched on 13 November 2008. The
establishment of this campus enables
Curtin to consolidate its current range
of Singaporean educational activities,
and provide improved physical facilities.
Initially Curtin Singapore will offer Curtin
Business School courses, but this
will be expanded over time to include
courses in nursing, health sciences and
humanities. The campus has the capacity
to accommodate 4,500 students. The
opening of Curtin Singapore demonstrates
Curtin’s long-standing commitment to
international education, particularly in Asia.
Vice-Chancellor’s Foreword
2008 Annual Report
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TEACHING AND SCHOLARSHIP
Significant progress was made in teaching and
scholarship during 2008. Positive results were
achieved in the Curtin Annual Student Survey,
with 88 per cent of respondents indicating they
would “recommend Curtin to a friend, relative
or other student”. Also, eVALUate results
for Semester 2 showed a strong pattern of
improvement in student satisfaction. These
results show that students are increasingly
satisfied with the quality of their unit teaching
and learning experiences at Curtin.
The curriculum reform project, Curriculum
2010, was identified in the draft report from
AUQA as a highlight of teaching and learning,
particularly our method of embedding
graduate attributes and the concept of the
triple-i curriculum, which was announced
in 2008. Significant work has been directed
to adopting consistent and streamlined
processes and degree structures, and
to the comprehensive review of courses
and majors. By the end of the year, 26
majors and 48 courses had completed
comprehensive course review, with many
more well into the process. The systematic
review of courses and units being offered
has enabled a reduction of the number
of low-enrolment courses and units.
New services focusing on the implementation
of the Retention Plan in partnership with all
faculties and areas were also introduced.
These include the formalisation of the
Student Transition and Retention Team
(START), which is based in the Future
Students Centre, and new services for
students placed on conditional status.
This approach is proving to be very effective
in supporting new-to-Curtin students and
students at risk of non-completion.
Curtin reached a milestone in Indigenous
education, with the Centre for Aboriginal
Studies celebrating its 25th anniversary in
2008. The University has long been at the
forefront of Indigenous education in Australia,
and has the highest number of Indigenous
students at any Australian university. In 2008,
it was also the first Australian university to
develop a Reconciliation Action Plan.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
Curtin continued to display strong growth in
its research funding performance throughout
2008. The University’s national ranking in
Research Training Scheme funding improved
to 12th, with $13.3 million (up from 13th
in 2007), and Curtin ranked 18th for the
Research Infrastructure Block Grant,
with $2.4 million (up from 20th in 2007).
The University maintained its national
ranking of 11th in the Institutional
Grant Scheme, with $6.4 million.
Curtin achieved its first Australian Research
Council Federation Fellowship, awarded to
Professor Peter Teunissen. The University
signed a $10.5 million partnership
agreement with Rio Tinto to develop a
world-class innovation centre for strategic
research and development in materials
and sensing in mining. Work continued
on the development of the Resources
and Chemistry Precinct, the Curtin Health
Innovation Research Institute and the
Australian Sustainable Development Institute;
key initiatives for Curtin moving forward.
Foyer of the Centre for Aboriginal Studies.
Curtin University of Technology
6
Vice-Chancellor’s foreword (continued)
The Curtin University Sustainability Policy
(CUSP) Institute was also established under the
leadership of renowned sustainability expert
Professor Peter Newman. More information
on these and other research achievements
is provided in the body of this report.
The year also saw major progress in the
key research area of radio astronomy
as part of Curtin’s work to help Australia
secure the world’s largest radio astronomy
project, the $2 billion Square Kilometre
Array (SKA). The Centre of Excellence for
Radio Astronomy Science and Engineering,
led by Curtin in collaboration with The
University of Western Australia, is funded
by the State Government. It will be led
by Professors Steven Tingay and Peter
Hall, acknowledged experts in the field.
The University also launched the new
multi-million-dollar Curtin Institute of
Radio Astronomy (CIRA), a new cross-
disciplinary institute which is the first of
its kind at any Australian university.
CIRA offers courses that combine both
physics and engineering in the field of
astronomy, and boasts the only Chair in
Radio Astronomy Engineering in Australia.
The institute provides a base for all radio
astronomy activity within the University,
and is a focal point for interaction with
external partners. Through CIRA, Curtin will
contribute key science and engineering to
the global SKA project, and help build the
all-important human capital for Australian
and international SKA endeavours.
Curtin’s radio astronomy expertise will also
play a significant role in the $20 million
International Centre for Radio Astronomy
Research (ICRAR) announced by Science and
Innovation Minister Troy Buswell in December.
The University will establish a specialised
section of CIRA to focus on ICRAR projects.
Co-Directors of CIRA, Professors Tingay and
Hall, will serve as Deputy Directors of ICRAR.
PHYSICAL FACILITIES
The development of Curtin’s physical
infrastructure continued in 2008, with
construction continuing on several key
projects. The $116 million Resources and
Chemistry Precinct is being built on the
southern end of the Bentley Campus. It will
bring together the Chemistry Centre of WA
and Curtin’s Department of Chemistry, with
the CSIRO Minerals Research Centre located
nearby. This juxtaposition will enable the
creation of a world-class knowledge precinct
for research and learning in the resources
and chemistry sector. BHP Billiton is also a
partner in the precinct. Work on the facility
is expected to be completed by mid-2009.
Curtin Stadium, a state-of-the-art recreation,
sporting and events facility, will officially
open in 2009. It includes three international-
grade sports courts, a new fitness centre
with two gyms and a spin room, beach
volleyball facilities and a coffee shop.
The Resources and Chemistry Precinct at Curtin’s Bentley Campus.
2008 Annual Report
7
The design allows for the sports area
to be used for large events such as
graduations, examinations, design shows
and formal dinners, with seating for 2,500. Its
development will provide enhanced sporting
facilities for students and staff, and give
Curtin a much-needed indoor space
suitable for large functions and gatherings.
For much of 2008, the University and
its team of urban planning consultants
worked in collaboration with state and local
governments to review the Physical Master
Plan for the Bentley Campus, to ensure
future developments closely support the
University’s vision for the future. The principal
aim of the master plan is to provide a vital
physical environment in which innovation,
interaction, research and learning will thrive.
The plan focuses on the creation of an
urban university town, connected by a
major public transit spine to the central
business district and other knowledge and
activity centres in the immediate region.
The plan envisages creating – over a
30 to 40-year period – a significant property
endowment asset for the University as well
as an exciting environment for people to
learn, work, research, live and develop.
FINANCIAL SECURITY
Curtin strengthened its financial resources
with a surplus for 2008 of $55.8 million.
This is the University’s third successive,
strong surplus, albeit reduced by investment
valuation write downs. The consistent
financial discipline provides security
for Curtin in the current global financial
downturn. Given the uncertainty around
financial matters, the University will continue
to exercise caution in 2009, and work to
reduce costs and increase efficiencies.
MOVING FORWARD
Late in 2008, the Federal Government
received the report of the higher education
review, chaired by Professor Denise Bradley.
Curtin supports the thrust of the review
and has urged government to address and
implement its recommendations urgently.
Education is Australia’s third-largest export
industry, and in light of the decline of the two
largest sectors – iron ore and coal – it is critical
that we take action to allow the education
sector to play a key role in dealing with the
current economic downturn, and ensuring
the long-term productivity of the nation.
I expect 2009 to be a year of change for
higher education, as the impact of the
global financial crisis becomes clearer,
and government implements at least some
of the recommendations of the Bradley
Review. Curtin moves into 2009 in a
strong position to address the challenges
and opportunities we will encounter.
Jeanette Hacket
Vice-Chancellor
The main gymnasium at Curtin Stadium.
Curtin University of Technology
8
About Curtin
Curtin University of Technology is Western
Australia’s largest university, with more than
40,000 students. Of these, about 17,000
are offshore and onshore international
students, and almost 2,000 are research
students. The University takes its name from
the Prime Minister of Australia from 1941 to
1945, John Curtin, and its values reflect the
leadership and strength associated with one
of Australia’s pre-eminent prime ministers.
Curtin is an internationally focused institution.
A culturally diverse university, it fosters
tolerance and encourages the development
of the individual. The University’s programs
centre on the provision of knowledge and
skills to meet industry and workplace
standards. A combination of first-rate
resources, staff and technology makes Curtin
a major contributor to tertiary education,
both within Australia and internationally.
The University’s main campus is in Bentley,
six kilometres south of the centre of Perth,
Western Australia’s capital city. Curtin has
two additional metropolitan campuses
and regional campuses in Kalgoorlie,
Northam, Margaret River and Geraldton.
Curtin also has a campus in the Sydney
Central Business District and two offshore
facilities – Curtin Sarawak, in Miri, Sarawak,
East Malaysia, and Curtin Singapore.
Curtin offers a wide range of undergraduate
and postgraduate courses in business,
humanities, health sciences, resources,
engineering and related sciences.
The University is recognised for high-
impact research across four defined
and distinct areas of focus:
• Resourcesandenergy
• ICTandemergingtechnologies
• Health
• Sustainabledevelopment.
Curtin has close links with business, industry,
government and the community, and its
courses have a strong practical focus, with
many involving vocational or work experience
components. As a result, Curtin graduates
are job-ready and prepared, with skills that
enable them to make a genuine and positive
influence in a continuously changing world.
Curtin University of Technology is a
body corporate established under the
Curtin University of Technology Act
1966, an Act of the Western Australian
Parliament. It is domiciled in Australia.
The University is not an incorporated
company under the Corporations Law.
Therefore it does not have an Australian
Company Number (ACN), nor does it
have a Certificate of Incorporation.
Curtin’s Bentley Campus is located at:
Kent Street
BENTLEY WA 6102
The postal address is:
GPO Box U1987
PERTH WA 6845
Curtin’s web address:
curtin.edu.au
The University’s programs
centre on the provision of
knowledge and skills to meet
industry and workplace
standards. A combination
of first-rate resources, staff
and technology makes
Curtin a major contributor to
tertiary education, both within
Australia and internationally.
2008 Annual Report
9
VISION
An international leader shaping the future through our graduates and research,
and positioned among the top 20 universities in Asia by 2020.
MISSION
Curtin is committed to innovation and excellence in teaching and research,
for the benefit of our students and the wider community.
VALUESIntegrity – being consistently honest and trustworthy in all activities
Respect – having regard for self and others
Fairness – ensuring just decisions through open decision-making
Care – acting to ensure the welfare of others
Strategic PlanThe University’s vision, mission and strategic objectives are operationalised by its Strategic Plan
2009-2013.
Curtin’s strategic plan provides a framework for the development of key plans and strategies
across all teaching and administrative areas, as reflected in primary statements relating to the
Teaching and Learning Plan, the Research Management Plan, the Internationalisation Plan and
the Valuing Curtin Staff Plan.
The section “2008 Activity Highlights” presents Curtin’s activities and achievements over the
year in relation to the primary statements of the previous strategic plan.
As 2008 represented the final year of the University’s previous strategic plan, work commenced
early in the year on the development of a new University strategic plan. The strategic planning
process has given consideration to the trends and changes in the higher education environment.
The University has sought external input, and provided the opportunity to Curtin staff, executive
management and Council to contribute to the development of its strategic direction.
Curtin’s Strategic Plan 2009-2013 presents clear strategies and targets for positioning the
University for sustainability and growth in an ever-changing environment. The plan includes
a vision for 2020, which allows the University to maintain a longer-term focus for its ongoing
development. In 2009, the University will undertake activities to ensure it achieves organisational
alignment with the new strategic plan, and to commence its implementation.
Curtin’s strategic plan
provides a framework
for the development of
key plans and strategies
across all teaching and
administrative areas.
Vision, Mission and Values
Curtin University of Technology
10
• Curtinisbuildinga$116millionResources
and Chemistry Precinct, in partnership
with government research body the
Chemistry Centre WA and industry leader
BHP Billiton. Mark Woffenden, former
director and chief executive officer of
the A.J. Parker Cooperative Research
Centre, was appointed the inaugural
Executive Director of the precinct. The
precinct will address the skills shortage
caused by the resources boom, and will
renew student interest in the sciences.
By 2010, the precinct will be a resources
hub of more than 300 scientists,
engineers and staff for chemistry,
resources and energy-related research.
• TheUniversityformeda$10.5million
partnership with mining giant Rio Tinto to
establish a world-class research centre.
The Centre for Materials and Sensing in
Mining was launched in March, and is
only the second research centre to be
established by Rio Tinto worldwide. It
will foster the development of advanced
technologies, which will enable Rio Tinto’s
global operations to improve productivity
for iron ore operations in the Pilbara,
and for underground developments
in the Rio Tinto Copper group.
• InMarch,CurtinjoinedwiththeChamber
of Minerals and Energy (CME) to help
develop the capacity of the minerals
and energy sector. A Memorandum of
Understanding between Curtin and the
CME was signed to bolster the resolve of
both parties to develop educational and
research programs that strengthen the
Australian resources industry. Expected
outcomes of the cooperative relationship
include increases in the quantity and
quality of students to more readily meet
the resources industry’s employment
and research needs. The agreement
also promises sustainable strategies
for all minerals and energy-related
programs with the Western Australia
School of Mines (WASM), one of the main
beneficiaries of the strategic partnership.
• Buildingonitsscholarshipandresearch
in health, Curtin announced plans to
create a bold, integrated and relevant
health research institute to target problem
2008 Activity Highlights
Strategic focus 1 Relevance to society’s needs and aspirations
VISION AND MISSION
Curtin’s vision, mission and strategic objectives are actioned through its strategic plan.
This section presents a selection of Curtin’s activities and achievements during 2008, and
highlights the areas of strategic focus and themes of the previous strategic plan, which covered
the 2006 to 2008 period, and the priorities of the supporting enabling plans.
MOVING FORWARD FOR WESTERN AUSTRALIA
In 2008, Curtin announced that a focus on education and research in resources and energy,
health, sustainable development, and ICT and emerging technologies would be among
the University’s priorities for the next decade. These areas were chosen to meet mounting
demands in the sectors, and are deemed vital to the future of the State, the nation and
the region. Over the next decade, partnerships with industry, business and government
will be cultivated in these four key areas as Curtin builds on its global presence.
HIGHLIGHTS
Areas of Strategic Focus
2008 Annual Report
11
areas such as the ageing population,
lifestyle diseases and workforce health.
The Curtin Health Innovation Research
Institute will make a major contribution
to reshaping the existing health system
and keeping people out of hospital.
• CurtincreatedtheAustralianSustainable
Development Institute. The initiative
expands the University’s existing delivery
of courses in sustainability, including
cleaner production, environmental biology,
and sustainable aquaculture, tourism and
communities. Curtin will not only work as
a leader in sustainability research, but also
further develop environmentally friendly
strategies for the University’s campuses.
• Curtinisplayingaleadroleinthe
Australian bid for the $2 billion Square
Kilometre Array (SKA) – the world’s largest
radio astronomy project. To help secure
the bid, the University also established the
Curtin Institute of Radio Astronomy (CIRA),
following the announcement in April by the
Western Australian Government that Curtin
and The University of Western Australia will
collaborate in the State’s new $2.3 million
Centre of Excellence for Radio Astronomy
and Engineering, which is led by Curtin.
• CurtinandTheUniversityofWestern
Australia will be equal joint partners in
the $20 million State Government-funded
International Centre for Radio Astronomy
Research (ICRAR) announced by Science
and Innovation Minister Troy Buswell in
December. The University will establish
a specialised section of CIRA to focus
on ICRAR projects. Co-Directors of
CIRA, Professors Tingay and Hall, will
serve as Deputy Directors of ICRAR.
• Curtin’shighestnon-academichonour,
the John Curtin Medal, was awarded
to Aboriginal elder Joan Winch and
community worker Helen Dullard, chief
executive officer of the Hills Community
Support Group (HCSG), for their
contribution to the Western Australian
community. Ms Winch was recognised for
her tireless work to improve Indigenous
primary health care in Western Australia.
She established the Aboriginal Health
Worker Education Program in 1983,
which became the Marr Mooditj (Good
Hands) foundation in 1990. Ms Dullard
has been at the helm of the HCSG since
its inception in the 1980s. Among her
numerous initiatives, she established
a safe house for young women and a
program to help local Aboriginal youth in
Midland to gain and maintain employment.
The University presents the John Curtin
Medal each year to people who exhibit
the former Prime Minister’s qualities of
vision, leadership and community service.
• InOctober,morethan450members
of Curtin Volunteers! visited more than
30 regional WA towns and metropolitan
sites to take part in community service
projects as part of John Curtin Weekend
2008. Projects included revitalising the
Old Gillingarra School site and hall, and
working with the Lancelin community on
their Frogs Rock project for motorbike
frogs. John Curtin Weekend is one of
WA’s largest annual community projects,
and brings together volunteers who are
diverse in age, race, nationality, religion,
life experience and political persuasions.
Curtin volunteers.
Curtin University of Technology
12
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
HIGHLIGHTS
• ThedevelopmentofCurtinStadium,the
$27 million recreation and events facility
under construction at the Bentley Campus,
continued during 2008. The facility will
officially open in mid-2009, although the
fitness centre opened in December 2008.
The stadium will provide enhanced gym
and recreation facilities for the Curtin
and local community. It includes three
international-grade sports courts, the
new fitness centre – including a women’s
gym – beach volleyball facilities, a coffee
shop and a patio area. The venue will
also cater for large events, including
graduations, with seating for 2,500.
• CurtinjoinedtheWesternAustralian
Department of Sport and Recreation
to establish the Centre for Sport and
Recreation Research (CSRR) in the
Faculty of Humanities. The CSRR
was launched in August by The Hon.
John Kobelke MLA – the then Minister
for Police and Emergency Services,
Community Safety, Water Resources,
Sport and Recreation. The CSRR will
undertake research into some of the
new challenges and opportunities facing
sport and recreation in WA, including
governance improvement, responding
to diverse agendas on climate change,
water, participation by Indigenous people,
urban planning and social inclusion.
• TeamsledbyProfessorPeterHowat,
from the Centre for Behavioural
Research in Cancer Control, have been
awarded more than $900,000 for two
projects under the National Health and
Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
to investigate nutrition and physical
activity intervention for mothers with
young children, and for seniors.
• AteamledbyProfessorLeonStraker,
from Curtin’s School of Physiotherapy,
was awarded more than $500,000 by
the NHMRC to investigate whether
access to electronic games decreases
the physical activity of children.
• InCurtin’sSchoolofPublicHealth,
Professor John Mamo and his team
received approximately $550,000 in
NHMRC funding for an investigation
into how dietary fats may influence
the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
• ProfessorsMikeDaubeandPeterHowat
received $900,000 in Healthway funding
to promote, support and coordinate
public health advocacy in Western
Australia, with the establishment of the
Public Health Advocacy Institute of WA.
• AssociateProfessorSiobhanAusten,
from the School of Economics and
Finance, was awarded approximately
$470,000 from the National Centre for
Vocational Education Research (NCVER)
to explore the role of vocational education
and training in promoting labour market
participation among important groups
such as older Australians, young
and prime-age women, Indigenous
Australians and disabled workers.
2008 Annual Report
13
INCREASED SUPPORT FOR ‘AT RISK’ STUDENTS
Services that focus on the implementation of the Retention Plan in partnership with all
faculties and areas have been established. These include the formalisation of START
(the Student Transition and Retention Team), which is a drop-in facility that provides
services for students placed on conditional status. The new approach focuses on
supporting new-to-Curtin students and students at risk of non-completion.
CURRICULUM 2010
The Curriculum 2010 project and its implementation of the course-related objectives
of Curtin’s Teaching and Learning Enabling Plan (2005-2008) continued in 2008.
Progress made so far includes:
• revisionoftheCurtinaward
• developmentoftoolsandmodelsformeasuringunitandcoursesustainability
• comprehensivereviewof48coursesand26majors,withafurther
45 courses and 24 majors currently undergoing review
• introductionofanannualcoursereviewprocess.
The University implemented the Curriculum 2010 project to enhance the quality of its learning
and teaching performance, improve staff workloads, and determine which existing courses
are sustainable in terms of strategic focus, quality and financial viability. The project was
developed to compete and excel in the increasingly dynamic higher education sector.
AUSTRALIAN LEARNING AND TEACHING COUNCIL AWARDS
Three of Curtin’s academics received an
Australian Learning and Teaching Council
(ALTC) Citation for Outstanding Contribution
to Student Learning in 2008. Professor
Marjan Zadnik, from the Department
of Imaging and Applied Physics, was
awarded his citation for two decades of
enhancing students’ learning of physics
through innovative and research-based
curricula, and for scholarly activities
and leadership in physics education.
From Curtin’s Office of Research and
Development, Professor Leonie Rennie
was awarded a citation for her exemplary supervision and empowerment of research students
through promoting high standards in research education for students and their supervisors.
In the Faculty of Science and Engineering, Dean of Teaching and Learning Professor Shelley
Yeo was awarded a citation for the design, development, implementation and evaluation of
Curtin’s approach to academic integrity, and for new plagiarism policies and procedures.
Strategic focus 2 Student-centred learning
CO
UR
TES
Y O
F A
LTC
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education Professor Robyn Quin; Professor Shelley Yeo; Professor Marjan Zadnik; Professor Leonie Rennie; and Vice-Chancellor Professor Jeanette Hacket.
Curtin University of Technology
14
HIGHLIGHTS• Curtinwasawardedthreegrantsfromthe
Australian Learning and Teaching Council
(ALTC) Competitive Grants Program:
– Professor Beverley Oliver, Director of
Teaching and Learning, is the project
leader of a competitive grant called
Building Course Team Capacity to
Enhance Graduate Employability
(a two-year project funded at
$220,000). The project will be
conducted in collaboration with three
other universities, and will involve
developing Curtin’s eVALUate graduate
and employer survey systems.
– Ms Sue Jones, Dean of Teaching and
Learning, Health Sciences, is on the
leadership team of a competitive grant
in partnership with Murdoch University.
This two-year project, Unit Coordinators
as Academic Leaders, focuses on
clarifying, developing and valuing the
role of unit coordinators as informal
leaders of learning in higher education.
– Professor Shelley Yeo and Dr Carmela
Briguglio received a grant for a
Moderation for Fair Assessment in
Transnational Teaching and Learning
project. This two-year project, funded
at $220,000, will be in collaboration with
the University of South Australia. The aim
of the project is to develop a framework
for involving the whole teaching team,
including partner organisation staff, in
moderation practices in assessment
in transnational programs.
• In2008,theeVALUate unit and teaching
survey instruments were available online
for undergraduate and postgraduate
coursework units at Curtin’s Australian
campuses, Curtin Sarawak and
Curtin Singapore, and in Mauritius.
In Semester 2, our offshore partner,
Hong Kong SPACE, was also included
for the first time. Student response rates
are increasing. The number of students
who participated in the unit surveys
increased from 35.6 per cent in 2007
to 40.5 per cent in Semester 2, 2008.
• TheeVALUate results for Semesters
1 and 2 showed a strong pattern of
improvement in student satisfaction. The
results for Semester 2, 2008 indicate
overall satisfaction for units is at 83.5 per
cent, which increased from 82.2 per cent
in Semester 1, 2008 and 81.4 per cent in
Semesters 1 and 2, 2007. For Semester
2, 2008, results showed the greatest
improvements were in feedback on
learning, workload, teaching quality, student
engagement (thinking about learning
more effectively) and overall satisfaction.
• InOctober2008,iZoneopenedonLevel
2 of the Curtin Library. iZone provides
a technology-rich learning environment
within relaxed, vibrant surroundings, where
students can use library resources, while
interacting with each other more creatively.
• InsupportofCurtin’sReconciliation
Action Plan (RAP) 2008, the Curtin Library
established a plan describing how it will
help achieve Curtin’s vision under the
RAP as a place of learning that respects
Indigenous culture and diversity.
• Majorprogresswasmadeonthenew
recreation, sporting and events facility,
Curtin Stadium. The facility will officially open
in mid-2009, although the fitness centre
opened in December 2008. The $27 million
facility includes three international-grade
sports courts, the new fitness centre
which comprises a gymnasium, ladies’
studio and spin room, beach volleyball
facilities, a café and a patio area.
The design allows for the sports area
to be used for large events such as
graduations, examinations, design shows
and formal dinners, with seating for 2,500.
• TheInternationalCareersMonthwas
held in September and culminated in the
International Careers Fair – the first event
of its kind at an Australian university. The
event was aimed at Curtin’s international
cohort and local students who are
considering working overseas. More than
6,000 students attended the Careers
Fair, with the event attracting more than
160 employers as well as accolades from
the Australian Association of Graduate
Employers as the best expo in Australia.
• AStudentMentoringProgramwas
established, with 130 senior students
acting as mentors in 13 different courses
in Semester 1, having an impact on the
experience of more than 1,300 new
students. With the smaller, mid-year intake,
about 40 mentors assisted more than 400
new-to-Curtin students. The highly positive
evaluation provided by all participants
has led the University to plan to double
the numbers of students and teaching
areas involved in the program in 2009.
• In2008,TheLearningCentrecreated
a new website, opening more channels
of communication with students. The
Learning Centre assisted students by
providing seminars and individual support
to more than 3,000 students, addressing
learning skills and language proficiency,
increasing demand in fee-for-service
programs and increasing customised in-
faculty seminars/workshops. The centre
also expanded the service to include
evening and weekend seminars for
postgraduate students, and successfully
piloted 10-hour English language programs.
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
2008 Annual Report
15
• In2008,thechaplaincyteamwas
expanded to include a multi-faith service,
providing religious consultations for
students and staff. The Curtin community
positively received the introduction of an
initiative that addresses student poverty –
a Free Weekly Bread Distribution.
• ResultsfromtheCurtinAnnual
Student Satisfaction Survey indicate
that student satisfaction with distance
education has steadily increased over
the past three years, as follows:
– 79.86 per cent indicated staff were
helpful, and 73.37 per cent thought
services were readily available
– 67.63 per cent thought Distance
Education/Open Universities
Australia (DE/OUA) staff were
flexible in meeting their needs
– 77.04 per cent thought DE/OUA
uses effective methods to
communicate with them.
• TheprojecttomigratetheUniversityto
one Learning Management System, from
WebCT and Blackboard to Blackboard 7,
continued to progress well in 2008.
Infrastructure for the work was finalised,
which included the preparation of servers
for the development of the middleware and
training. Specifications, analysis and design
of the middleware have been completed,
and software development is near
completion. Blackboard was upgraded
to version 8 in December for immediate
staff availability. Student availability
will be ready in Semester 1, 2009.
• StafftraininginBlackboardcommenced
in July and is continuing, with more
than 200 staff having accessed
training. All training resources are
available through flexible delivery.
iZone at the Curtin Library.
Curtin University of Technology
16
CURTIN UNIVERSITY SUSTAINABILITY POLICY (CUSP) INSTITUTE
The Curtin University Sustainability Policy (CUSP) Institute was established in January
2008, headed by the renowned sustainability expert, Professor Peter Newman, and based
in Fremantle. The idea of sustainability in a wide range of human endeavour is a relatively
new concept but is rapidly becoming a key issue in public policy theory and practice.
Sustainability policy is also developing as a recognised profession and a multidisciplinary
research field in its own right. CUSP is a key player in Curtin’s endeavours in this arena.
The group has developed collaborative relationships, nationally and internationally, with
other researchers, with industry and with government bodies. Projects include:
• AnAustralianResearchCouncil(ARC)grantof$100,000tosurveypropertymarket
participants to determine the drivers for, and the barriers to, the uptake of sustainability
initiatives in the commercial and residential property sectors. Professor Peter Newman
leads the project.
• Developmentandanalysisofoneoftheworld’smostambitiousexercisesincitizen
deliberation to date. Professor Janette Hartz-Karp, in collaboration with the Australian
National University, is undertaking the project, at the centre of which is a Citizens
Parliament, composed of one person randomly selected from each of the 150 federal
electoral divisions in Australia. The Citizens Parliament will deliberate questions
concerning governmental reform. The project will analyse citizen engagement with
politics; the degree to which typical citizens can deliberate complex political issues;
and how citizen preferences, capacities and judgements change in deliberation.
• Curtinsecuredsignificantfundingfrom
the ARC for six key, collaborative research
projects through its Linkage Projects
Scheme. Total funding awarded to the
University amounted to $1.9 million over
the life of the six projects, with partner
organisations contributing another
$4.3 million to Curtin. The six projects
awarded ARC Linkage Project funding
span the areas of public health, physical
sciences, chemical engineering, geology,
geochemistry, and artificial intelligence
and signal and image processing, with
collaborating partner organisations
from both public and private sectors.
• Curtin’scommitmenttoensuring
research remains relevant to the broader
community, and that research outcomes
are disseminated, is evident in the
continuing activity under the University’s
intellectual property commercialisation
strategy. Sensear is a Curtin spin-off
company, with innovative products that
enable speech communication in high-
noise environments, without the need
to remove hearing protection. In 2008,
the company was declared one of the
world’s most promising new companies
at launch: Silicon Valley 2008, held by
The Silicon Valley Association of Start-up
Entrepreneurs and hosted by Microsoft.
HIGHLIGHTS
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
Strategic focus 3 High-impact research
2008 Annual Report
17
• In2008,Curtinsecuredahighly
prestigious Federation Fellowship (recently
renamed Laureate Fellowship) from the
Australian Research Council. Professor
Peter Teunissen, a world-renowned expert
in global navigation satellite systems
(GNSSs), will be undertaking a program of
research to improve the integer-estimation
and strengthen models for integrated
GNSS, thus making them more reliable for
the applications in which they are used (for
example, Earth, atmospheric and space
science). Professor Teunissen will be
joining the strong research capability within
Curtin’s Department of Spatial Sciences.
• TheCurtinInstituteofRadioAstronomy
(CIRA) was launched in December
2008 by The Hon. Barry House MLC,
Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer;
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister
for Commerce; Science and Innovation;
Housing and Works. The institute will form
an integral part of the multi-million-dollar
Centre of Excellence for Radio Astronomy
Science and Engineering – a collaborative
initiative with The University of Western
Australia (UWA), which is led by Curtin.
The Centre of Excellence is part of a
significant effort by the State of Western
Australia to help Australia position itself
in the global radio astronomy arena. It
will be led by Professors Steven Tingay
and Peter Hall. Professor Tingay joined
Curtin in 2008 as a Premier’s Research
Fellow, along with Professor Hall as Chair
of Radio Astronomy Engineering at Curtin.
The Centre of Excellence is part of a
broader commitment by the federal and
state governments to secure the world’s
largest international science project – the
$2 billion Square Kilometre Array (SKA).
The decision on which of the two sites –
Australia and Southern Africa – will host the
SKA will be decided in 2011. The efforts
of the parties involved in Australia’s bid,
which include CSIRO and UWA, will ensure
that WA is well placed to reap significant
returns, regardless of whether the SKA
is located locally or in Southern Africa.
• CurtinjoinedtheWesternAustralian
Department of Sport and Recreation
to establish the Centre for Sport and
Recreation Research (CSRR) in the
Faculty of Humanities. The CSRR
was launched in August by The Hon.
John Kobelke MLA – the then Minister
for Police and Emergency Services,
Community Safety, Water Resources,
Sport and Recreation. The CSRR will
undertake research into some of the
new challenges and opportunities facing
sport and recreation in WA, including
governance improvement, responding
to diverse agendas on climate change,
water, participation by Indigenous people,
urban planning and social inclusion.
• TeamsledbyProfessorPeterHowat,
from the Centre for Behavioural
Research in Cancer Control, have been
awarded more than $900,000 for two
projects under the National Health and
Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
to investigate nutrition and physical
activity intervention for mothers with
young children, and for seniors.
• In2008,Curtin’sHydrogenStorageGroup,
headed by Professor Craig Buckley, won
an inaugural research grant from Russian
aluminium company Rusal, surpassing
more than 100 entries from around the
globe. Effectively storing hydrogen in light
metals such as aluminium will pave the way
for hydrogen fuel cells in cars, and reduce
the world’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Curtin University of Technology
18
• Curtinenteredintoa$10.5million
partnership with Rio Tinto to develop
a world-class innovation centre for
strategic research and development in
materials and sensing in mining. The
centre will be led by Associate Professor
Vladimir Golovanevskiy, within the
Western Australian School of Mines.
• ProfessorRolfGubneristheinaugural
Chair in Corrosion, under a sponsorship
arrangement established in 2008 with
Chevron and Woodside – a partnership
that builds on Curtin’s reputation and
strengths in corrosion research.
• CurtinandWesternPowersigned
a sponsorship agreement in 2008
aimed at increasing expertise in the
power industry. Western Power will
provide the Department of Electrical
and Computer Engineering with close
to $1 million over five years to fund a
Chair in Power Engineering, together
with undergraduate bursaries.
• Curtinhasenteredintoanagreement
with Parsons-Brinckerhoff Australia Pty
Ltd for the sponsorship of a professorial
Chair in Sustainability for Professor Peter
Newman, from the Curtin University
Sustainability Policy (CUSP) Institute.
The PB-CUSP alliance is structured
around a three-year Memorandum of
Understanding to integrate future-focused
research ideals with business pragmatism.
• CurtinwilljoinTheUniversityofWestern
Australia and CSIRO in the WA Geothermal
Centre of Excellence to help turn low-heat
geothermal energy around Perth into a
clean and cheap power source. Curtin
will also be joining Murdoch University in
the Centre of Excellence for Research into
Energy for Sustainable Transport (CREST).
• In2008,CurtinjoinedtheWestern
Australian Department of Sport and
Recreation to establish a specialist
research centre in sport and recreation.
The Centre for Sport and Recreation
Research, in the Faculty of Humanities,
was launched on 7 August 2008 by Sport
and Recreation Minister The Hon. John
Kobelke. The centre is believed to be the
first of its kind in Australia, and will be
adopting an evidence-based approach to
investigating current and emerging issues
within the sport and recreation industry.
• ApartnershipwiththeChamberof
Minerals and Energy (CME) was formed
to develop the capacity of the minerals
and energy sector to respond to the
skill shortage in the resources industry.
A Memorandum of Understanding
between Curtin and the CME was
signed on 6 March 2008 to bolster the
development of educational and research
programs that strengthen the Australian
resource industry. The cooperative
relationship will have far-reaching
outcomes, including expected increases
in the quantity and quality of students to
more readily meet the resource industry’s
employment and research needs.
Theme 1 Productive partnershipsStrong, strategic partnerships have
proven to be vital to the growth of
Curtin’s research activities in the past,
and the University will continue to
pursue these alliances in the future.
HIGHLIGHTS
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
2008 Annual Report
19
• Inearly2008,ProfessorYigangXu,
Deputy Director of the Guangzhou Institute
of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, signed a Memorandum
of Understanding with Curtin for
collaborative geoscience research
and training. The visit was initiated by
The Institute of Geoscience Research
(TIGeR), led by Professor Simon Wilde,
and has formalised and strengthened
long-term ties between the University
and the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
• TheCurtinWaterQualityResearch
Centre is undertaking a joint project
with the University of Alberta, funded by
the American Water Works Association
Research Foundation, on developing
methods for measuring disinfection by-
products in water. With epidemiologic
association between chlorinated drinking
water and elevated human risks of bladder
cancer, there is interest in measuring
possible carcinogens, produced as
a by-product of water disinfection.
• ProfessorGeorgeCurryreceived
$720,000 in funding from the Australian
Centre for International Agricultural
Research. The project aims to raise
smallholder productivity and incomes
in the oil palm and cocoa industries
in Papua New Guinea, through
identifying, refining and promoting
effective strategies for commercial
sector partnerships with smallholders.
• TheCouncilofCurtinUniversityof
Technology, at its meeting of 18 June
2008, resolved to confer on Professor Lu
Yongxiang, the President of the Chinese
Academy of Sciences, the degree of
Doctor of Science, honoris causa, for his
contributions to the development of fluid
power transmissions, and his control
and leadership in higher education and
research and development in the Peoples
Republic of China. The degree was
conferred in a ceremony in November
2008, when Professor Lu was in Perth
as part of his visit to Australia leading
the Chinese Academy of Sciences’
delegation to the Joint Academies’
Forum on energy and resources.
• FromJanuarytoDecember2008,Curtin
hosted 46 international visits. These
included the Australian Ambassadors
to Hong Kong, Vietnam, the Philippines,
Russia, Thailand and Egypt, and the
High Commissioner to Singapore. The
Ambassadors of Iran and India also visited.
Countries that visitors came from include
Brazil, Malaysia, Indonesia, Botswana,
Russia, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Japan, the
US, China, Oman, Ireland and South Africa.
Theme 2 International engagement
HIGHLIGHTS
Curtin University of Technology
20
• InMay2008,theYourVoiceCurtinStaff
Satisfaction Survey was administered,
with a 67 per cent response rate from
staff (casual staff were not included).
Overall, Curtin performed as well or
better than 17 other Australian universities
in the sector benchmark group on 21
out of the 30 management practices.
Key areas for improvement related
to processes, senior management
development, communication, career
opportunities, training and development,
workload, change and involvement.
• Workareashaveengagedinaction-
planning sessions to generate local
responses to the survey results. Centrally
resourced initiatives include design and
implementation of Senior Executive
and the Heads of School Leadership
Development Programs; training sessions
addressing staff bullying for at-risk
areas; review and expansion of Excel
Staff Awards program; consolidation of
Curtin’s new Organisational Development
Unit (ODU); and the development of
a consistent framework for workload
allocation for academic staff.
• Aprojectframeworkisunderdevelopment
to coordinate the University-wide initiatives
and local area plans, addressing issues
raised through the survey. The ODU
and Corporate Communications are
collaborating to enhance internal/cross-
sectional communications, and will be
supporting work areas in addressing
issues they identify as priorities.
• InJuly2008,theUniversitysubmitted
its first Equal Employment Opportunity
(EEO) Management Plan to the Office of
Equal Employment Opportunity Western
Australia. The plan covers the period
2008-2010, and sets out a number of
strategies and measurable goals in the
areas of organisational culture; lack
of bias in employment practices; and
strategies to achieve workforce diversity.
As the first Western Australian university
to complete an EEO Management Plan,
Curtin was pleased to be recognised
as an exemplar, and the plan is now
being used as an example of Best
Practice for other organisations.
• In2008,Curtinwas–andis–the
first Australian university to launch a
Reconciliation Action Plan. The plan,
which was developed in association with
Reconciliation Australia, sets out steps the
University will take to continue to develop
reconciliation, and build relationships
between Indigenous and non-Indigenous
people. Launched on 27 May by the Director
of Reconciliation Australia, The Hon. Fred
Chaney AO, Curtin’s Reconciliation Action
Plan is part of the University’s commitment
to promoting an understanding of Indigenous
culture and history; implementing strategies
to increase participation of Indigenous
people in higher education; and continuing
a commitment to fostering partnerships in
Indigenous research and development.
• Curtin’sDigitalMediaUnit(DMU)won
the education category of the 2008 WA
Web Awards. The award recognises the
significant work by the DMU in upgrading
the University’s corporate website for the
Curtin and wider web community as a key
source of information about Curtin and its
offerings. The awards are organised by
the Australian Web Industry Association.
Theme 3 Organisational culture focused on excellence and responsive to its environment
HIGHLIGHTS
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
From left: Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic Professor Jane den Hollander; Vice-Chancellor Professor Jeanette Hacket; The Hon. Fred Chaney; and Centre for Aboriginal Studies Director Associate Professor Anita Lee Hong at the Reconciliation Action Plan launch.
2008 Annual Report
21
• In2008,Curtinachievedahealthysurplus
for the third year in succession. The 2008
surplus was $55.8 million, an outcome
achieved mainly through continued revenue
growth. It should be noted, however,
that this result includes $19.7 million in
capital grants and $8.1 million in unspent
research monies. The University suffered
$27 million of unrealised investment
losses, $23.8 million of which is
reflected in the 2008 operating result.
• Curtin’sstrongfinancialpositionmeans
it has the financial capability to invest
in a range of strategic initiatives and
capital works programs. On top of
the $107.6 million spent in 2008, more
than $216 million will be invested in
equipment, physical facilities and other
assets over the next three years.
Theme 4 A secure financial future
HIGHLIGHTS
Curtin University of Technology
22
CURRICULUM 2010 PROJECT
Curtin’s three-year initiative designed to implement the course-related objectives of Curtin’s
Teaching and Learning Enabling Plan (2005-2008), the Curriculum 2010 (C2010) project,
has nurtured networks across the University to ensure key support areas connect with
teaching and learning. Key activities throughout 2008, and continuing, include the Curtin
Award, Course Sustainability, Annual and Comprehensive Course Review and Course
Data Management. Under the Curriculum 2010 project, a new curriculum model was
developed and agreed upon in 2008. The triple-i curriculum model focuses on Industry
(graduate employability), Indigenous/Intercultural/International (global citizenship), and
Interdisciplinary (rich educational choices) to meet both students’ expectations of career-
focused courses and the increasing demand by industry for highly employable graduates.
The innovative model will enhance and expand Curtin’s established links with business and
industry, with increased work placements, internships and work-integrated learning.
The Teaching and Learning PlanThe Teaching and Learning Enabling Plan
sets the direction for teaching and learning
at Curtin for 2006 to 2008. It aims to ensure
that Curtin graduates are strategic and
creative thinkers, who value lifelong learning.
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
2008 Annual Report
23
• AUnitCostIndicatorwasdevelopedto
enable managers of teaching areas to
determine indicative costs associated
with unit and course delivery. The tool will
provide information to inform decision-
making and ensure sustainability. It
will be piloted more widely in 2009.
• TheUniversitycontinuestoundertake
comprehensive Course Reviews, using
specific needs analysis and curriculum
mapping templates that have been refined
and adapted to provide data pertaining
to courses in a usable format for staff.
Processes have been streamlined as the
tools used for comprehensive course
review have improved. An assessment
matrix has been developed and provides
teaching staff with intelligence about
the assessments in a course, enabled
by visual representation of analysis of
assessments. A process for reviewing
service-taught units was introduced, which
includes a consultative approach with
all stakeholders, and gathers feedback
to inform the review of these units.
• Curtin’sannualCourseReviewshave
been embedded, with refinements scoped
after the second year of operation.
• TheUnitOutlineBuilderisthefirstof
three web-based tools for managing
courses to be sufficiently developed
to pilot. The tool enables unit outlines
to be built online, sourcing data from
the student records system and other
official University databases. A Course
Information Tool has been scoped
for further development in 2009.
• Curtincompletedimplementationof
the eVALUate unit and teaching survey
instruments for undergraduate and
postgraduate coursework units at Curtin’s
Australian campuses, and expanded it
to four international locations. There was
an increase in student participation of
the survey, from 35 per cent in 2007 to
40 per cent in 2008. The results showed an
improvement in overall student satisfaction
with the quality of their unit teaching and
learning experiences at Curtin, up from
83.2 per cent in 2007 to 83.5 per cent in
2008. Graduate and employer surveys
were implemented, with 71 graduate and
71 employer surveys conducted in 2008
as part of the Curriculum 2010 project.
• AnAcademicLeadershipProgramfor
Course Coordinators, an Australian
Learning and Teaching Council (ALTC)
project, was successfully launched in
2008. An ALTC Competitive Grant of
$220,000 was received for a Building
Course Team Capacity to Enhance
Graduate Employability project. A further
ALTC Competitive Grant, of $149,000, in
partnership with Murdoch University as
the lead institution, was awarded for Unit
Coordinators as Academic Leaders.
• Curtin’sFoundationsofLearning
and Teaching at Curtin Eight-Module
Program, developed specifically to
support academic staff, continued to
receive increased participation in 2008,
and resulted in an overall satisfaction
with the program of 99.4 per cent.
• CurtinimplementedtheTurnitinplagiarism
detection software across the University,
after a successful pilot achieving almost
20,000 submissions in the first year.
• CurtinwasawardedthreeAustralian
Learning and Teaching Council Competitive
Grants and three Citations for Outstanding
Contributions to Student Learning.
• In2008,CurtinimplementedaModeration
Pilot Project to investigate the University’s
moderation processes, involving a total
of 7,853 students represented across
all units involved in the project.
• DistanceEducationprint-basedmaterial
was successfully transferred to an
electronic format using the learning
management system Blackboard.
• AUniversity-wideFlexibleLearningProject
commenced to embed contemporary
learning methodologies as components
of curriculum renewal and consolidation,
in conjunction with the C2010 project.
This will assist schools through a flexible
learning, small grants program, and the
flexible delivery of academic staff training.
• InreviewingthemanagementofFieldwork
Education, the University implemented
a policy; commenced development of a
central repository for recording Fieldwork
Partnership agreements; developed and
trialled Fieldwork Preparation Online,
an online program of the essential
information for students undertaking
fieldwork education; and developed
a Fieldwork Guidelines Manual and a
dedicated Fieldwork Education website.
• TheTeachingPerformanceIndex(TPI)
scheme to reward excellence in teaching
and learning was implemented on a
trial basis. Claims could be submitted
by individuals and teams for activities,
achievements, publications or events
occurring in 2007. The online TPI system
HIGHLIGHTS
Curtin University of Technology
24
was designed to draw on data from the
eVALUate system. In total, 401 claims
were submitted, including 280 individual
claims and 121 team claims. A total of
$820,825 was distributed to the faculties.
• TheUniversityestablishedtheStudent
Transition and Retention Team (START),
located at a ‘drop-in’ facility in Hayman
Hall, to focus on orientation, the first-
year experience and student retention.
A Student Retention Plan was developed,
and implementation commenced in
2008. Curtin initiated a student mentor
program for more than 400 new-to-Curtin
students, with the highly positive evaluation
provided by all participants leading the
University to plan to double the numbers
of students and teaching areas involved in
the program in 2009. A Conditional Status
Pilot Program was trialled, using OASIS,
to take a more interventionist approach
to this group of at-risk students. It is
intended to use the outcomes of the pilot
program to implement this intervention
on a University-wide basis in 2009.
• TheconceptofTeaching-Research
Integration at Curtin was developed
to ensure that curriculum draws
on latest research in the discipline,
and opportunities are provided for
students to participate in research
activities. This integration commenced
under the C2010 project.
• CurtinconductedapilotMid-Course
Experience Questionnaire (CEQ), targeting
four major courses in Semester 2, 2008.
The Mid-CEQ aimed at improving
courses rather than constituent units, and
was based on the Course Experience
Questionnaire that forms part of the
Australian Graduate Survey administered
annually to graduates by DEEWR.
By gathering this data mid-course, some
of the concerns about the lagging nature
of data in the CEQ can be avoided.
• AdvertisingstudentWassimKanaan,and
lecturer Mr Blair McLeish, from the School
of Art and Design, won a Bronze World
Medal Award at the New York Festivals
International Advertising Awards 2008.
Their work for Greenpeace was recognised
in the service category of the Advertising
in All Media component of the awards.
Entitled Barnacles, the project aimed to
raise awareness of global warming and the
impact of rising sea levels. The New York
International Advertising Awards receives
entries from 71 countries. Winners are
selected by an international panel of 300
senior creative directors from 48 countries.
• BiomedicalSciencessecond-yearPhD
candidate Melissa Corbett won the WA
competition of the 2008 AusBiotech-GSK
Student Excellence Awards. Ms Corbett
received a trip to Melbourne to attend the
Australian Biotechnology Conference,
where she presented her research, which
focuses on the metabolic functions of
a particular strain of bacteria and how
this information can be used to advance
biomining technologies. The research will
have implications for the way in which
minerals will be extracted in the future.
The AusBiotech-GSK Student Excellence
Awards are open to first- and second-year
PhD students at Australian universities,
who are working on projects that
potentially have a commercial application.
• YoshioTakagi,asecond-yearstudent
undertaking a Bachelor of Arts (Design)
Product and Furniture Design major at
Curtin’s School of Design and Art (SODA),
won two awards at the Melbourne Fringe
Festival in 2008. Mr Takagi won the
Fringe Furniture 2008 People’s Choice
Award and Best Design Award for his
origami-inspired table, titled Molentje.
• Eighteen-year-oldEconomicsand
Finance student Tara Franzinelli won the
fourth Western Australian Business Icon
competition. Ms Franzinelli was one of 40
Western Australians, aged between 18
and 25, who were selected from hundreds
of entrants for the 10-day test to uncover
the State’s sharpest young business
minds. The Business Icon competition
is designed for young people to test
their business skills. Contestants were
challenged through a series of complex
tasks. After a process of elimination,
each of the four finalists had to create a
management plan to assess and deal
with the possibility of a disaster striking
Kwinana and effectively wiping out WA’s
diesel supply. Ms Franzinelli won the
award for her presentation skills and
for delivering a simplified message.
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
2008 Annual Report
25
• MaggieEdmonds,astudentinthe
Growth Program offered by Curtin’s
Centre for Entrepreneurship, was named
the Western Australian Rural Woman
of the Year for 2008, and was also
runner-up for the national title. She was
selected from seven state and territory
winners. The Rural Industries Research
and Development Corporation Rural
Women’s Award is designed to recognise
and encourage the vital contribution
women make to rural Australia.
• InMarch2008,Communicationand
Cultural Studies student Sam Carmody
won the Mary Grant Bruce Short Story
Award for Children’s Literature in the 2007
Fellowship of Australian Writers National
Literary Awards. Mr Carmody won the
award for his short story Vincent. The Mary
Grant Bruce Short Story is awarded to
the best manuscript for readers 10 to 15
years of age. The award carries a prize of
$600 and the honour of being recognised
by the Fellowship of Australian Writers.
• Inearly2008,BenCole,whoisstudying
a Master in Environmental Health at
Curtin, won the first prize of C20,000
(approximately AUD$40,000) in the
international Business in Development
(BiD) Challenge 2007. Mr Cole competed
against 2,275 participants from
144 countries, and was awarded first prize
in the start-up category. His winning idea
was based on a high-quality protective
facemask that contains a layer of activated
carbon cloth and dust filter to capture
chemical pollutants. Mr Cole designed the
mask to protect commuters in Vietnam
from air pollutants. The competition aims
to contribute to economic growth and
employment in developing countries.
Curtin University of Technology
26
• ActuarialSciencegraduateBhaveshHaria
is Curtin’s first graduate to have completed
the necessary examinations to qualify
as a Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries
Australia. He joins only 17 qualified
actuaries working in Western Australia.
• InFebruary2008,25Indigenousgraduates
formed the largest class to date to
graduate from the Bachelor of Education
Conversion Course offered by Curtin’s
Centre for Aboriginal Studies. All graduates
had been working as Aboriginal and
Islander Education Officers statewide,
and converted this qualification to a
Bachelor of Education after studying for
four years full-time at Curtin. Graduates
posted to regional or remote areas
helped ease the teacher shortage.
• FirstClassHonoursChemicalEngineering
graduate Sebastian Bunney secured a
position with energy company Chevron,
through one of the resource industry’s
best graduate engineering programs.
Mr Bunney was appointed to work on
the lucrative North West Shelf Joint
Venture project in his first of the five-
year graduate program. The position
followed his three-months internship
at Chevron, in Houston, Texas.
• ElissaDown,whograduatedfromCurtin’s
Film and Television course in 1998,
won three prestigious Australian Film
Industry Awards in 2008 for her debut
film The Black Balloon. Ms Down, director
and co-writer of the film, won awards
for Best Direction and Best Original
Screenplay, with the film taking out the
Best Film award. The Black Balloon
was also awarded a Crystal Bear at the
2008 Berlin International Film Festival.
• UrbanandRegionalPlanninggraduate
Martin Keen won the esteemed Urban
Development Institute of Australia (UDIA)
(WA) Young Development Professional
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
GRADUATE ACHIEVEMENTS
Vice-Chancellor Professor Jeanette Hacket with graduates from the Centre for Aboriginal Studies Bachelor of Education Conversion Course.
2008 Annual Report
27
Scholarship 2008. The scholarship is
awarded annually to the most outstanding
young person aged 30 years and under,
who is currently working in the industry.
Mr Keen is the youngest Senior Planner
at the East Perth Redevelopment
Authority. He completed a Bachelor
of Arts (Urban and Regional Planning)
with Honours at Curtin in 2006.
• In2008,DrMelindaRedmondreceiveda
commendation from Curtin’s Chancellor for
her PhD thesis about the effect culture has
on the varying prevalence of depression
in different countries. Dr Redmond, who
completed her postgraduate studies at
Curtin’s School of Psychology in 2007, took
up the position of Clinical Psychologist
Registrar at Perth Clinic in 2008.
• MatthewNgui,agraduatefromthe
Department of Art, was co-curator of
the Singapore Biennale 2008, the city’s
largest international contemporary
visual arts exhibition. Mr Ngui is a visual
artist who works in installation, video,
performance and site-specific works.
He has widely exhibited locally and
abroad. He graduated from Curtin in the
late 1980s, when he was the Department
of Art’s third international student.
© N
atio
nal A
rts
Cou
ncil,
Sin
gap
ore
Dr Melinda Redmond
Matthew Ngui
Curtin University of Technology
28
The Research Management PlanThe Research Management Plan provides
the framework to guide Curtin towards
expanding and improving its research
program. It addresses three broad issues:
increasing research capacity, research
differentiation and knowledge transfer.
• Curtincontinuestoprovideleadership
through participation at a high level in
discussions on Australian and State
Government policy, including the Review
of the National Innovation System, the
Senate Inquiry into Research Training
and Research Workforce Issues in
Australian Universities, Excellence in
Research for Australia (ERA) and the
Review of Australian Higher Education.
• Curtinsecuredahighlyprestigious
Federation Fellowship from the Australian
Research Council. Professor Peter
Teunissen is a world-renowned expert
in global navigation satellite systems
(GNSSs). He is undertaking a program
of research to improve the integer-
estimation and strengthen models for
integrated GNSS, and make them more
reliable for the applications in which
they are used (for example, Earth,
atmospheric and space science).
• TheCurtinInstituteofRadioAstronomy
(CIRA) was launched in December 2008 by
The Hon. Barry House MLC, Parliamentary
Secretary to the Treasurer; Parliamentary
Secretary to the Minister for Commerce;
Science and Innovation; Housing and
Works. The institute will form an integral
part of the multi-million-dollar Centre of
Excellence for Radio Astronomy Science
and Engineering – a collaborative initiative
with The University of Western Australia
(UWA), led by Curtin – which is part of a
significant effort by the State of Western
Australia to help Australia position itself
in the global radio astronomy arena. The
centre will be led by Professors Steven
Tingay, a Premier’s Research Fellow,
and Professor Peter Hall, Curtin’s Chair
of Radio Astronomy Engineering, who
both joined the University in 2008.
• ProfessorChun-ZhuLiwasappointed
Director of the new Curtin Centre
for Advanced Energy Science and
Engineering, in October 2008. Professor Li
is an authoritative expert in coal science
and technology. The centre will focus
on developing novel technologies for
both fossil fuels and renewable energy
sources, in light of the global priority
to secure cheap energy supply and
reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Growthinresearchactivitycontinued
in 2008, building on strong growth in
2006 and 2007. Income from Australian
Competitive Research Grants increased
9 per cent in 2007 compared to 2006
figures. Research income showed strong
growth of 21 per cent in 2007, while
publications growth was at 15 per cent.
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
HIGHLIGHTS
From left: Professor Jeanette Hacket; Professor Steven Tingay; The Hon. Barry House MLC; Professor Richard Schilizzi; and Professor Peter Hall at the CIRA launch.
2008 Annual Report
29
• In2008,successfulprojectsunder
the Australian Research Council
(ARC) and National Health and
Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
were awarded as follows:
– Professor Julian Gale, of the
Nanochemistry Research Institute,
was awarded a prestigious Australian
Professorial Fellowship by the
ARC and $900,000 to advance
computer simulation methods in
order to understand the complex
structures of nanoparticles. The
research will allow the mimicry
of natural selectivity and thereby
design of technological materials.
– The Director of the Nanochemistry
Research Institute, Professor Eric
Bakker, was awarded a prestigious
Australian Professorial Fellowship
and $800,000 by the ARC to develop
miniaturised and thin-layer ion sensing
materials, to introduce the concept of
calibration-free sensors. The research
will help in future sensing applications,
such as remote sensing and inexpensive
hand-held monitoring devices.
– In the Centre for Behavioural Research
in Cancer Control, teams led by
Professor Peter Howat were awarded
more than $900,000 for two projects
under the National Health and
Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
to investigate nutrition and physical
activity intervention for mothers with
young children, and for seniors.
– Associate Professor Anna Heitz,
Director of the Curtin Water Quality
Research Centre, in collaboration
with the Water Corporation and GHD,
received approximately $600,000 for
an ARC Linkage project to investigate
the removal of chemicals of concern
from drinking water, which will translate
into treatment plant design. Recycling
treated wastewater for drinking
water is becoming one of the most
important strategies for drought-
proofing Australian water supplies.
– Professor Svetha Venkatesh, in
collaboration with the Lions Eye
Institute and the Association for the
Blind WA, was awarded an ARC
Linkage grant of $480,000 to develop
computational solutions to address
fundamental issues for people with
vision impairment and blindness.
– Professor James Semmens, of the
WA Centre for Population Health
Research, received $390,000 in
NHMRC funding to investigate the
patterns of burn injury, health service
utilisation, economic costs, treatment
pathways and outcomes for all patients
hospitalised with burn injury in Western
Australia for the period 1999 to 2008.
An important focus will also be on
developing preventative injury education
strategies. The proposal outlines a
new collaborative initiative between
the Burn Service of WA and Curtin.
– Associate Professor Tony Butler,
from the National Drug Research
Institute, was awarded $270,000
from the NHMRC to investigate
the link between traumatic brain
injury and offending behaviour.
– Dr Ricardo Mancera, Senior Research
Fellow in the Department of Pharmacy,
was awarded an ARC Linkage
grant, in collaboration with industry
partners Alcoa Alumina and Worsley
Alumina, and the Botanic Gardens
and Parks Authority, to develop cryo-
preservation for high-value provenance
collections of recalcitrant plant species
used in post-mining restoration.
– Professor Robert Donovan,
from the Centre for Behavioural
Research in Cancer Control, was
awarded an ARC Discovery Project
grant of $270,000 to investigate
whether perceptions of morality of
alcohol, tobacco and cannabis use
influence uptake in high school.
– Associate Professor Peter Taylor, from
the Science and Mathematics Education
Centre, was awarded an ARC Discovery
Project grant of $115,000 to look at
preparing Australia’s future citizens
for informed decision-making through
socially responsible science education.
RESEARCH GRANTS
Curtin University of Technology
30
The Internationalisation PlanThe International Enabling Plan aligns
closely with the University’s Strategic
Plan 2006-2008 and includes outcomes
related to staff, students, culture and core
activities with an international perspective.
Strategies to increase international student
numbers, internationalise the curriculum
and develop an international culture among
Curtin staff are the aims of this plan.
HIGHLIGHTS
• In2008,Curtin’sinternationalstudent
population (both onshore and offshore)
grew by 2 per cent to 17,521. This was
achieved in a competitive market, where
international student recruitment has
become increasingly difficult. The increase
highlights Curtin’s strong international
branding and considerable skill in
promoting the benefits of a Curtin research
and/or teaching and learning experience.
• Thenumberofinternationalstudents
enrolled at Curtin’s Bentley Campus
in 2008 increased to 9,734, with a
marked increase in enrolments from
China and India. Curtin continues to
attract a strong flow of students from
Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia.
• In2008,7,787studentsenrolledin
Curtin’s offshore programs in a range of
countries, including Singapore, Malaysia,
Hong Kong, China and Sri Lanka.
• TheAustralianUniversitiesQualityAgency
(AUQA) audit of Curtin University of
Technology was completed in 2008. The
compulsory audit theme focused on a review
of Curtin’s international activities. AUQA
commended the effectiveness and efficiency
of Curtin’s international offices. In addition,
the conceptualisation, establishment and
successful development of an international
campus at Curtin Sarawak was commended.
• InDecember2008,thelatestCurtin
international teaching facility was opened in
Singapore. Curtin Singapore consolidated
Curtin’s Singaporean offshore operations
onto a purpose-built campus. The
University will diversify course availability
to include new program offerings (for
example, increasing the range of courses
offered by Health Sciences). This modern
campus was developed to provide
students with access to the facilities
expected of a complete Curtin campus.
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
Curtin Singapore.
2008 Annual Report
31
• CurtinSydneygrewsuccessfullyin
2008, with student numbers increasing
to 1,692 – an increase of 25 per cent on
2007. New postgraduate courses were
also added to the Sydney Campus.
• Morethan650internationalstudents
sponsored by the Australian Government
[AusAID], foreign governments and
universities, and international companies
were enrolled at Curtin in 2008. The
International Sponsored Students
Section provided assistance and support
to sponsored students, including
individual case management, pastoral
care for students and their families, and
opportunities to participate in social events.
• Duringtheyear,goodprogresswasmade
in the development of higher educational
relationships with international institutions,
and Curtin hosted numerous delegations
from overseas universities. This activity
resulted in the development of several
new memoranda of understanding,
student transfer agreements and
student exchange agreements.
• Curtincontinuedtoprovidestudent
mobility opportunities in 2008. Grants
were available to assist students during
periods of study overseas. The number
of Australian students who participated
in international exchanges increased to
144 (up 20 per cent on 2007). Also, more
than 200 Health Sciences students joined
overseas study tours or clinical placements.
The experiences gained during these
types of activities are an important
element in broadening the international
perspective of Curtin graduates.
• Curtin’sInternationalOfficesupported
the International Students’ committee to
stage the Pasar Malam (night market) –
a highlight of Curtin’s Multicultural
Week. The continued popularity of this
event was demonstrated by record
numbers of stalls and patrons.
• Curtin’sInternationalOfficewasawarded
the Best International Office of the
Year as voted by various International
Student Associations (at the Australian
National Liaison Committee Conference).
Also, Curtin’s International Students
Committee was awarded the Best
International Student Association, with
the University’s Student President
recognised and awarded Best International
Student Ambassador of the Year.
Curtin Sydney.
Curtin University of Technology
32
The Valuing Curtin Staff PlanThe Valuing Curtin Staff Plan is the
University’s plan for the support,
development and growth of its people,
work environment and organisational
culture. The plan outlines the key people,
management strategies and targets that
relate directly to the University’s Vision,
Mission, Values and Strategic Objectives.
• Curtin’sOrganisationalDevelopmentUnit
(ODU) finalised the Curtin Framework
for Leadership and Management
Development as a part of its review to
strengthen the University’s leadership
and management programs.
• FourSeniorManagers’Forumswereheld
during 2008. In addition, a two-day Senior
Managers’ Conference, titled “Curtin
2020”, was held in June, which helped
shape the University’s new strategic plan
and prepare Curtin for the 2008 AUQA
audit. An executive development initiative,
centred on a 360-degree feedback
process, commenced, and an executive
coaching program was established.
• Anew18-monthdevelopmentprogramfor
Heads of School commenced in October
2008. Staff completed the Academic
Leadership for Course Coordinators
Program and the Frontline Management
Program (Certificate IV in Business).
• Arangeofworkshopswas
delivered for professional staff to
develop management skills.
• Curtin’sODUcompleteditsfirstfull-year
of operations. During 2008, the ODU
conducted 119 events for staff, addressing
the needs of 2,181 participants.
• TheODUreviewedtheUniversity’s
Induction Guidelines, Corporate
Induction, Sessional Induction, and
Approaches to Online Staff Development,
IT Training and Compliance Training.
• Curtincontinuedtodevelopinitiativesto
encourage cross-cultural professional
development and internationalisation of
staff. The Fly In Fly Out Induction Program
for staff working offshore was developed
and conducted four times during 2008.
• TheODUsupportedtheimplementation
of the Work Planning and Performance
Review Policy and Guidelines by facilitating
23 workshops for staff and managers.
More than 450 participants attended
the workshops, as at November 2008.
• During2008,theODUundertook40
consultancy/advisory assignments
with faculties, schools and areas in
a continued effort to improve staff
performance and satisfaction.
QUALITY ENHANCEMENT
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
2008 Annual Report
33
• AleadershiproletohelpdriveCurtin’s
commercial success, physical
development planning and overall
information technology initiatives was
created within the University’s executive.
Mr Geoffrey Searle was appointed to the
role as Vice President Corporate Services,
and commenced in September. In his role
at Curtin, Mr Searle heads the finance, IT,
property, facilities, legal services, corporate
risk and executive support areas, and
will spearhead the strategic direction and
policy development for these areas.
• InAugust,CurtinappointedProfessorJohn
Neilson as Pro Vice-Chancellor for the
newly established Curtin Singapore, which
opened in December. Professor Neilson is
responsible for establishing all academic
aspects of Curtin Singapore, which
include providing academic and strategic
leadership, and managing the quality of
its programs. He has been with Curtin for
more than 17 years, serving as Head of
the School of Accounting from 1998, and
as Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor of Curtin
Business School over a number of periods.
• Curtincontinuedtoattracthigh-calibre
academic leaders to its senior positions.
– In January 2008, Professor Jill Downie
was appointed Pro Vice-Chancellor
Health Sciences. Professor Downie
was Head of the School of Nursing and
Midwifery and Professor of Nursing at
Curtin for six years, and acted in the
Pro Vice-Chancellor Health Sciences role
from August 2007. She is an established
national and international researcher
and author, and is a non-executive
director on the Boards of Churches
of Christ Homes and Community
Services Inc. and Bethesda Hospital.
– Professor Duncan Bentley was
appointed Pro Vice-Chancellor
of Curtin Business School. He
succeeded Professor Geoff Crockett,
who retired from Curtin in February
2008. Professor Bentley joined Curtin
from Bond University in Queensland,
where he was Pro Vice-Chancellor
Teaching and Learning. He has a
strong understanding of issues in the
higher education sector, and is an
expert in business, taxation and law.
• ProfessorKevinMcKenna,DeputyVice-
Chancellor International, retired from
Curtin in October, after a 33-year career
with the University. Among other roles,
Professor McKenna held the positions
of acting Executive Dean of Curtin
Business School for 18 months, prior to
being appointed the inaugural Pro Vice-
Chancellor of Curtin Sarawak. He led the
Sarawak campus for five years before
moving to the International Office, where
he made a significant contribution to
the University’s international activities.
LEADERSHIP
Curtin University of Technology
34
• ResearchersfromCurtin’sFacultyof
Health Sciences have won the 2008 WA
Inventor of the Year Award (Early Stage
category) with their simple diagnostic kit
that identifies people at risk of chronic pain.
The Cold Pain Test Kit will contribute to the
quality of patient care provided by GPs.
• TheCurtinNewInventorCompetition
is organised annually by Curtin’s Office
of IP Commercialisation to encourage
the development and eventual
commercialisation of innovative new
research out of the University. In 2008,
Dr Trilochan K. Mukkur, from the School of
Biomedical Sciences, won the $10,000 first
prize in the competition for his invention
of a non-invasive, long-lasting whooping
cough vaccine. Whooping cough is a
highly contagious disease that results in
about 300,000 deaths a year worldwide,
and is the least well controlled of all
vaccine-preventable diseases.
Dr Mukkur’s new vaccine is in its
early stages of development, but it
can be delivered intra-nasally, and is
expected to offer longer immunity and
potentially fewer side effects, if any,
than the existing injection vaccine.
• ThreeCurtinacademicsreceivedan
Australian Learning and Teaching
Council (ALTC) Citation for Outstanding
Contribution to Student Learning in
2008. Professor Marjan Zadnik, from
the Department of Imaging and Applied
Physics, was awarded his citation for two
decades of enhancing students’ learning of
physics through innovative and research-
based curricula, and for scholarly activities
and leadership in physics education.
From Curtin’s Office of Research and
Development, Professor Leonie Rennie
was awarded a citation for her exemplary
supervision and empowerment of
research students through promoting
high standards in research education
for students and their supervisors. In
the Faculty of Science and Engineering,
Dean of Teaching and Learning Professor
Shelley Yeo was awarded a citation for
the design, development, implementation
and evaluation of Curtin’s approach
to academic integrity, and for new
plagiarism policies and procedures.
• Curtin’sVCExcelAwardsrecognisethe
excellent work of Curtin staff across the
University. In 2008, four awards were
presented. In the Individual Category,
Professor Rob Donovan, from the Centre
for Behavioural Research in Cancer
Control, and Ms Haslina Abdul Malek,
Manager University Life at Curtin’s
Sarawak Campus, received awards. In
the Team Category, Housing Services at
the Bentley Campus and the Graduation
Team at Curtin Sarawak received awards.
All recipients demonstrated innovation
and dedication to the University.
• TherewereninewinnersintheCurtin2008
Excellence and Innovation in Teaching
Awards. Six awards were presented for
Teaching Excellence, and three awards
were presented for Programs that Enhance
Learning. Winners received a certificate
in recognition of their contribution to the
quality of student learning, and $5,000
to enhance teaching and learning.
2008 Activity Highlights (continued)
AWARDS
2008 Annual Report
35
STAFF ACHIEVEMENTS
• EmeritusProfessorJohndeLaeterwas
inducted into the Western Australian
Science Hall of Fame. He was recognised
as part of the Premier’s Science Awards
2008 for his lifelong dedication to science
in WA. Professor de Laeter facilitated
collaboration in science between
government, industry and universities.
He has helped advance science education,
and influenced the direction of physical
sciences research. Professor de Laeter was
instrumental in founding Scitech in 1988,
and worked with government to establish
Technology Park in Bentley. He was also
inducted into the Australian Prospectors
and Miners Hall of Fame in October, for his
seminal research into mineral exploration
technology, which led to improvements
in mining exploration practices.
• ProfessorZheng-XiangLi,ofthe
Department of Applied Geology and The
Institute for Geoscience Research, was
a winner in the 2008 Australian Thomson
Scientific Citation Awards. The prestigious
awards are made annually to the most
pre-eminent researchers selected on the
average number of citations per paper that
their published research has generated
over a period of time. Professor Li achieved
591 citations on seven papers, with an
average of 84 citations per paper.
• ProfessorJamesSemmenswasawarded
the Royal Australasian College for
Surgeons Medal for services to the College,
in early 2008. The medal is in recognition
of the work of Professor Semmens and his
team in developing the Safety and Quality
of Surgical Care Project, the Western
Australian Audit of Surgical Mortality and
the NSW version, called the Collaborating
Hospitals Audit of Surgical Mortality.
• ProfessorMichaelAlpersOAwas
elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society,
the world’s oldest scientific academy
in continuous existence since 1660.
His appointment is a rare honour that
recognises researchers who have
made an outstanding contribution to
science. Professor Alpers joins only a
handful of Australians to have received
the award, and is among other noted
fellows, including Isaac Newton,
Christopher Wren and Charles Darwin.
• ProfessorRolandDeMarco,Dean
of Research, Faculty of Science and
Engineering, was awarded the 2008
Royal Australian Chemical Institute
Analytical Chemistry Division, Lloyd
Smythe Medal for excellence in research.
• DeanofEngineeringProfessorMoses
Tadé was the only Western Australian
academic to be given a place in the
prestigious Engineers Australia magazine’s
Top 100 Most Influential Engineers in 2008.
Professor Tadé was recognised for his
outstanding leadership and advocacy for
Curtin‘s outreach scheme, as well as for
his role in securing a number of industry-
sponsored scholarships for engineering
students. The Top 100 engineers list
focuses on present influence rather than
historic achievement, and is compiled each
year by an eminent panel of advisers.
• InformationStudieslecturerDrMargaret
Pember won the 2008 J Eddis Linton
Award for records management in the
category of Outstanding Individual.
Dr Pember was commended for her
tireless promotion of records management
as a profession, and her dedication in
educating recordkeeping professionals
over the last 20 years, as well as for
her research activities. The Records
Management Association of Australasia
presents the award annually.
• DrLizzieFinn,fromtheCentrefor
International Health, won the WA
Department of Health’s 2008 Mental
Health Good Outcomes Award in the
category of Mental Health Research
and Education. Dr Finn won the award
for her doctoral research into GROW, a
community mental health organisation
which operates mutual help groups
for mental health around Australia. Her
research was an important part of raising
community awareness about mental
health, and emphasised the importance
in mutual help groups of empowerment
and enhancement of quality of life.
• AssociateProfessorIanPhau,
from Curtin Business School, was
awarded Outstanding Reviewer at
the Emerald Literati Network Awards
for Excellence. Associate Professor
Phau, who coordinates the Marketing
Honours program and founded the
Curtin Marketing Association, received
the award for his dedication and
significant service as a reviewer for
the Journal of Young Consumers.
• NinestaffwerepromotedfromAssociate
Professor to Professor. Thirteen staff
were promoted from Senior Lecturer to
Associate Professor, and 13 staff were
promoted from Lecturer to Senior Lecturer.
Curtin University of Technology
36
The CouncilThe Council is the governing body of the
University, and its powers are set out
in the Curtin University of Technology
Act 1966. It has “the management and
control of the property and affairs of the
University and may do all such acts and
things as it may think best calculated to
promote the interests of the University”.
The Act provides for a Council comprising
of the Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor,
members appointed by the Governor, a
nominee of the State Minister for Education,
co-opted members, members elected by the
academic and general staff, members elected
by students, members who are members
of bodies that represent the interests of the
University in places other than at the Bentley
Campus, a member of the Academic Board,
and a member of the Alumni Association.
The Council met on eight occasions during
2008, under the University’s Chancellor,
Mr Gordon Martin, and considered two
matters by circular resolution. In addition,
a retreat involving members of Council and
the senior executive was held in April 2008.
Report on Operations
Governance of the University
2008 Annual Report
37
MAJOR ACTIVITIES OF COUNCIL IN 2008 INCLUDED:
Strategic Direction of the University
Council’s role in shaping the strategic
direction of the University culminated at
its meeting of 22 October 2008, when it
approved a new vision for the University, and
then, at its meeting of 10 December 2008,
a new strategic plan for 2009 to 2013.
Council also approved the establishment
of Curtin Singapore to consolidate Curtin’s
presence in Asia and enable the University
to build its brand within the region.
A series of presentations on key issues
and themes was included in the Council’s
meeting/dinner program in 2008 to inform
and enhance Council’s role in shaping
the strategic direction of the University.
Presentations on the following issues
and themes formed part of Council’s
meeting program during 2008:
• ActivitiesoftheFacultyofHumanities
• ActivitiesoftheFacultyofScience and Engineering
• TeachingandLearning
• ActivitiesoftheFacultyofHealthSciences
• Marketing.
Presentations on the following issues and
themes formed part of Council’s dinner
program during 2008:
• BentleyTechnologyParkPrecinctRedevelopment
• Follow-updiscussiononthevision and mission of Curtin
• Navitas:itsmissionandlinkswith Curtin University of Technology
• Sustainability.
Governance of the University
Key governance-related activities in 2008
follow:
• Councilapprovedalistofmattersit
has reserved to itself and approved
a range of residual delegations to the
Vice-Chancellor as part of maintaining
a sound delegations framework
• Councilreviewedarrangementsrelatingto
the governance of the Kalgoorlie Campus
and other non-Bentley campuses
• Councilcontinuedtomonitorprogress
on the establishment of the Australian
Sustainable Development Institute and the
Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute
• Councilapprovedthe2009Budget.
All members of Council also received a
developmental session on duties and
responsibilities to provide them with a shared,
collective understanding of the fundamental
principles of corporate governance.
Curtin University of Technology
38
MEMBERS OF COUNCIL FOR 2008
Commenced Terminated Due to expire
Chancellor
Mr Gordon Martin 1/06/2006 current 31/05/2009
Members appointed by Governor in Council
Mr Mark Ashley 30/05/2006 12/08/2008
Mr Chris Bennett 25/05/2006 current 31/03/2009
Ms Michele Dolin (Pro-Chancellor) 1/04/2007 current 31/03/20101/04/2004 31/03/20071/04/2001 31/03/2004
Mr Ian Fletcher 1/04/2007 current 31/03/2010
Mr Keith Spence 20/06/2006 current 31/03/2009
Dr Michael Stanford 2/12/2008 current 1/12/2011
Ms Lynne Thomson 26/02/2008 current 25/02/2011
Member nominated by the Minister for Education and Training
The Honourable Dr John Cowdell 25/08/2005 22/08/2008
Member who is the Chief Executive Officer
Professor Jeanette Hacket (Vice-Chancellor) 14/08/2006 current ex-officio
Members elected by Full-Time Academic Staff
Associate Professor David Charnock 1/04/2007 current 31/03/20101/04/2004 31/03/20071/04/2001 31/03/2004
Dr Jan Sinclair-Jones 1/04/2008 current 31/03/20111/04/2005 31/03/2008
Members elected by Students
Ms Meera Navaratnam 1/01/2008 9/07/2008
Ms Collette Swindells 1/01/2008 31/12/20087/03/2007 31/12/2007
Member elected by Full-time Salaried (General) Staff
Mr Liam McGinniss 18/06/2007 current 17/06/2010
Co-opted Members
Ms Zelinda Bafile 1/04/2007 current 31/03/201024/06/2004 31/03/2007
Mr Don Humphreys 1/04/2008 current 31/03/20091/04/2005 31/03/200806/2002 31/03/2005
Mr Daniel Tucker 1/08/2007 current 31/07/2010
Members who are members of bodies that represent the interests of the University in places other than the University’s principal campus
The Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam 1/04/2006 current 31/03/2009
Member who is a member of the Academic Board elected by and from the Academic Board
Professor Jo Ward 11/06/2007 current 31/03/2009
Report on Operations (continued)
2008 Annual Report
39
COMMITTEE STRUCTURE (AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2008)
COUNCIL
KALGOORLIE CAMPUS COUNCIL
ACADEMIC BOARD
MURESK INSTITUTE BOARD
ACADEMIC BOARD EXECUTIVE
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE FOR
CURTIN SARAWAK CAMPUS MALAYSIA
ACADEMIC SERVICES COMMITTEE
COURSES COMMITTEE
LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE
INFORMATION GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE
CURTIN INDIGENOUS POLICY COMMITTEE
FINANCE COMMITTEE
STRATEGIC ASSET PLANNING COMMITTEE
FEES AND CHARGES COMMITTEE
PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
UNIVERSITY GRADUATE STUDIES COMMITTEE
UNIVERSITY TEACHING AND LEARNING
COMMITTEE
AUDIT AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS
TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH POLICY COMMITTEE
UNIVERSITY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE
INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
HONORARY AWARDS NOMINATION COMMITTEE
GRIEVANCE RESOLUTION COMMITTEE
VICE-CHANCELLOR
Back row, from left: Council members Michele Dolin; Gordon Martin; Chris Bennett; Liam McGinniss; Keith Spence; David Charnock; Don Humphreys. Front row, from left: Council members Collette Swindells; Jeanette Hacket; Lynne Thomson; Jan Sinclair-Jones; and Jo Ward.
Curtin University of Technology
40
Report on Operations (continued)
SENIOR OFFICERSAdministrative Structure Chancellor Mr Gordon Martin
Vice-Chancellor Professor Jeanette HacketDeputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Professor Jane den HollanderDeputy Vice-Chancellor, Strategy and Planning
Ms Valerie Raubenheimer (until 4/04/08 acting)Professor The Hon. Stephen Martin (from 7/04/08 until 31/07/08)Ms Valerie Raubenheimer (from 1/08/08 acting)
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Development
Professor Linda Kristjanson
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Education Professor Robyn QuinDeputy Vice-Chancellor, International Professor Kevin McKenna (until 31/10/08)
Dr Paddy Forde (from 1/11/08 acting)Vice President, Corporate Services Mr Geoffrey Searle (from 22/09/08)Chief Financial Officer Mr David MenarryPro Vice-Chancellor, Curtin Business School Professor Geoff Crockett (until 31/01/08 acting)
Professor John Neilson (from 1/02/08 until 4/04/08 acting)Professor Duncan Bentley (from 7/04/08)
Pro Vice-Chancellor, Health Sciences Professor Jill DowniePro Vice-Chancellor, Humanities Professor David WoodPro Vice-Chancellor, Science and Engineering Professor Andris StelbovicsPro Vice-Chancellor, Sarawak Professor John EvansPro Vice-Chancellor, Singapore Professor John Neilson (from 21/07/08)Executive Director, Corporate Communications Ms Ann Paterson (until 4/04/08 acting)
Ms Valerie Raubenheimer (7/04/08) until 31/07/08)Mr Rick Barrett (1/08/08 until 31/08/08 acting)Ms Ann Paterson (from 1/09/08 acting)
Executive Director, Properties Mr Stephen HarveyExecutive Director, Strategy and Planning Mr Marco SchultheisGeneral Counsel and Council Secretary Vacant (Position ceased in May 2008 with
duties re-aligned to other roles)
2008 Annual Report
41
ORGANISATIONAL CHART AS AT OCTOBER 2008
Vice‑chancellor
ManagerInternational Office
DirectorInternational Strategy
and Development
DirectorResearch and Development
Pro Vice‑ChancellorFaculty of Health Sciences
Head, Regional Remote E‑Learning
Executive DirectorCorporate Communications
Executive DirectorProperties
Pro Vice‑ChancellorCurtin Sarawak
DirectorIP Commercialisation
Pro Vice‑ChancellorFaculty of Humanities
DirectorVTEC
Dean, ArtJohn Curtin Gallery Chief Information Officer
DeanInternational Student
Recruitment
Executive DirectorJCIPP
Pro Vice‑ChancellorFaculty of Science and Engineering
DirectorSupport Services
DirectorCorporate Risk
Curtin International CollegeDirector
Centre for Aboriginal Studies
University LibrarianUniversity Library
DirectorInternal Audit
Sydney Campus DirectorStaff Services
DirectorGeraldton University
Campus
DirectorLegal and Compliance
Services
Pro Vice‑ChancellorCurtin Singapore
DirectorStudent Services
ManagerSecretariat
DirectorOrganisational Development
DirectorEthics, Equity and
Social Justice
DirectorBusiness Support Unit
DeanGraduate Studies
Pro Vice‑ChancellorCurtin Business School
DirectorTeaching and Learning
Executive DirectorStrategy and Planning Chief Financial Officer
Deputy Vice‑chancellor
international
Deputy Vice‑chancellor
research anD DeVelopment
Deputy Vice‑chancellor
acaDemic
Deputy Vice‑chancellor
eDucation
Deputy Vice‑chancellor
strateGy anD planninG
Vice presiDentcorporate serVices
Curtin University of Technology
42
Report on Operations (continued)
Staffing Matters STAFF SUMMARY
Curtin employed 2,866 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff in 2008 (see table
below), with 1,220 classified as academic staff and 1,646 classified as
general staff. The 2008 census showed an increase across all categories in
the number of academic and general staff over the previous year.
Curtin Higher Education Full-Time Equivalent Staff 2007 – 2008 By Classification and Appointment (as at 31 March each year)
Full or Fractional Time Staff(excluding Hourly Paid / Sessional Staff) TOTAL
Continuing/Permanent Fixed-Term/Temporary
2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008
Academic Staff 665 682 427 538 1,092 1,220
General Staff 1,112 1,140 357 506 1,469 1,646
TOTAL 1,777 1,822 784 1,044 2,561 2,866
In May 2008, new policies relating to
academic promotion and performance
management were enacted. The academic
promotion framework was simplified, with
all promotions to senior academic levels,
including professor, administered centrally
and considered by one central committee –
the University Academic Promotions
Committee. Initial promotion of academic
staff to lecturer is dealt with through
supervisor-employee discussions.
The Work Planning and Performance Review
(WPPR) policy was developed to replace
the Managing for Continuous Improvement
and Growth (MCIG) process, and was
designed to support the Curtin Expectations
for Academic Performance. Training was
provided to staff during the latter half of 2008
in the use and application of the WPPR.
Training will continue on an ongoing basis.
Policy development work commenced in
2008 to ensure compliance with the Working
with Children (Criminal Record Checking)
Act 2004 (WWC). While University staff
who interact with Curtin students in the
course of their normal teaching, research
or administrative duties are exempt from
the provisions of the Act, some staff
will be required to have WWC checks.
Work also commenced on a broader
criminal screening approach to apply to
specific roles within the University.
A Code of Conduct has been drafted
and is due for implementation in early
2009. The Code of Conduct brings
together the linkage of Curtin’s Values
and Guiding Ethical Principles to set
out the standard of behaviour expected
of all Curtin’s staff and associates.
STAFFING POLICIES
2008 Annual Report
43
In February 2008, the Minister for Education
advised of the Federal Government’s
commitment to remove the Higher Education
Workplace Relations Requirements
(HEWRRs) as a condition of university
funding. Consequently, the University was
not required to report on its compliance
to these requirements during 2008. In
addition, as part of the Federal Government’s
broader workplace relations reform agenda,
the ability to offer Australian Workplace
Agreements (AWAs) to employees ceased.
The University continued to offer flexibility of
employment conditions, either by way of a
Collective (certified) Agreement or an Individual
Transitional Employment Agreement (ITEA).
ITEAs are available during the transition
to the new Federal workplace relations
system, and the University can only offer
such agreements until 31 December 2009.
The existing collective agreements for
academic Vocational Training Education
Centre (VTEC), academic and general staff
reached their nominal expiry date in December
2003, April 2008 and November 2008
respectively. However, these agreements
will continue to operate until new or varied
agreements are reached. Negotiations
commenced with the unions representing
members of academic and general staff on
a staged basis. An enterprise bargaining
website was launched in August 2008 to
enable staff to be informed of developments
and to make comment on proposed clauses.
In July 2008, negotiations commenced and
continued during the year with academic staff
at VTEC, whose terms and conditions are
covered by a separate collective agreement.
In November 2008, the University made an
offer in settlement of the joint union claims for
a varied agreement on a ‘without prejudice’
basis. By late 2008, negotiations were still
continuing. However, it is anticipated that a
new agreement will be in place for 2009.
The University responded to the
competitiveness of the Western Australian
labour market and authorised administrative
payments of 1 per cent in both April and
October 2008. These payments applied to all
staff on collective and individual agreements.
However, the October payment was not paid
to VTEC academic staff, as a separate pay
offer from Curtin was under consideration as
part of their enterprise bargaining process.
In June 2008, the University and the
National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU)
reached agreement on terms to settle
Federal Court proceedings, which the
Union commenced against the University
in August 2007. The court proceedings
involved an allegation that the University
had breached its collective agreement by
failing to provide reasonable access to
its email system and refusing to circulate
emails written by union representatives to all
University staff. It was agreed that directly
elected academic staff representatives,
rather than union representatives, would
have reasonable access to their constituents,
namely academic staff of the University.
The focus for prevention and resolution of
disputes in 2008 has been at the local level,
and this has been successful, as no dispute
notifications were lodged in the Australian
Industrial Relations Commission in 2008.
The reportable key performance
indicators for 2008 were:
Incident Rate (lost time injuries/100 employees)
0.097
Frequency Rate (lost time injuries/1,000,000 hours worked)
1.0
Cost / $100 Wage roll $0.33
Rehabilitation Success Rate 83%
Workers’ Compensation and Injury Management
Curtin maintained an in-house accredited
injury management service within EduSafe
to assist injured workers, minimise workers’
compensation costs, ensure efficient
return to work rates, and provide support
to managers in managing injured and/or ill
staff. The effectiveness of these services
is reflected in the Rehabilitation Success
Rate and low Cost/$100 Wage Roll result.
Prevention of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses
Curtin has continued to ensure legislative
compliance in this area and improve systems
for the prevention of workplace injuries and
illnesses. The effectiveness of the systems
approach to health and safety management
is evidenced by the low incident and
frequency rates for 2008, which were
93.5 per cent and 89.8 per cent, respectively,
below the reported rates for the Education
Industry, published by WorkSafe WA.
INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH, WORKERS’ COMPENSATION AND INJURY MANAGEMENT
Curtin University of Technology
44
Report on Operations (continued)
In line with State trends, Curtin experienced
only moderate demand for undergraduate
places in 2008. This was caused by very
low growth in school leaver numbers and
a continued fall in the number of mature-
age applicants, as a result of the strength
of the WA employment market in the first
half of 2008. Curtin’s usual intake profile
is 30 per cent mature-age students, so a
decline in applications from this market
is significant. Overall, undergraduate
enrolment targets were achieved in 2008 by
increasing intakes in courses that had strong
demand, with the bulk of the additional
students being school leaver students.
Although many potential mature-age
students avoided or deferred committing
to an undergraduate course in 2009, they
continued to enrol in Curtin’s postgraduate
courses (paying full fees) in similar numbers
as in 2006 and 2007. A contributing factor to
the continued strength in this category would
be that postgraduate courses are shorter
and usually available part-time, having less
impact on a student’s current employment.
Despite a downturn in the second half of
2008, which may last several years, the
underlying long-term strength of the WA
economy should continue to encourage
and facilitate collaboration between Curtin,
industry and government on many levels,
including applied research and improved
student learning experiences. The decision
several years ago, in collaboration with the
WA Government’s Chemistry Centre, to
invest more than $100 million in a state-of-
the-art Chemistry and Resources Research
Centre at Curtin’s Bentley Campus will bring
significant social and economic benefits to
the people of WA for many years to come.
Other examples of ongoing links are the
nomination of Curtin’s WA School of Mines as
the State’s only provider of Mining Education
Australia industry-driven mining and
resources courses, and further development
of the new Curtin Health Innovation Research
Institute, in partnership with community
health organisations and professionals and
government organisations. This institute,
once completed, will bring significant
benefits to the WA public as well as to
Curtin researchers and students. Despite
challenging economic conditions, these and
other significant projects are continuing to
receive strong financial and in-kind support.
International economic conditions were
good in the first half of the year, and
provided the base for strong growth in
Curtin’s international onshore student
numbers. Curtin’s offshore student numbers
were reduced by 10 per cent as part of a
rationalisation of operations at overseas
locations. The outcome will be fewer but
larger Curtin campuses and education
centres at offshore locations, creating more
effective and efficient controls and processes.
In light of drastic, and pessimistic, changes
to economic forecasts, Curtin has been
reviewing conditions in its main markets.
Although the value of all Asian currencies
fell against the US dollar in the second
half of 2008, the Australian dollar fell
more than the currencies of our main
international markets. As such, Australia
is probably more competitive now, in
relative cost terms, than it has been for
several years. The financial crisis in Asia
will lead to some uncertainty about future
levels of international student enrolment.
Significant Issues and Trends
EFFECT OF ECONOMIC AND OTHER FACTORS
2008 Annual Report
45
CHANGES TO THE LEGAL ENVIRONMENT AFFECTING THE UNIVERSITY IN 2008
The Australian legal environment has
changed significantly in 2008, following the
election of the Australian Labor Party in
2007. The legislative amendments referred
to are significant amendments affecting the
University that have commenced during 2008.
•NationalGreenhouseandEnergyReporting
Regulations2008andtheNational
GreenhouseandEnergyReporting
(Measurement)Determination2008
The National Greenhouse and Energy
Reporting Act 2007 (NGER Act) has
established a national reporting system
in order to quantify the greenhouse gas
emissions and energy that is produced and
consumed by Australian corporations.
The NGER Act requires corporations to
report on energy and emissions if they
are at or above the thresholds for the
relevant reporting period. Reporting occurs
annually and is based on the financial
year. The first reporting period is 1 July
2008 to 31 June 2009. Reports must be
submitted to the Greenhouse and Energy
Data Officer (GEDO) by 31 October,
following the end of that reporting period.
As a result of the NGER Act, Curtin
University of Technology is now required
to measure its energy use and emissions
in accordance with the legislation.
The thresholds for greenhouse gas
emissions, energy consumption and
energy production are set at an individual
facility level and at a “company” level.
In order to report under the NGER Act,
constitutional corporations (including
Curtin) need to register with the
GEDO by 31 August 2009, if it is likely
that the thresholds will be met.
Curtin University of Technology
46
Report on Operations (continued)
The controlling corporation is required to
register and report on behalf of its corporate
group, which includes partnerships,
joint ventures, or subsidiaries, where
Curtin has operational control. The data
reported to the GEDO will be published.
The technical criteria for measuring
and calculating energy use and
emissions as prescribed in the
NGER Act are set out in the National
Greenhouse and Energy Reporting
Measurement Determination 2008.
•HigherEducationSupportAct2003
The Higher Education Support
Amendment (Removal of the Higher
Education Workplace Relations
Requirements and National Governance
Protocols Requirements and Other
Matters) Act 2008 amended the Higher
Education Support Act 2003 (HESA).
As a result of the amendments to HESA,
Universities no longer have to comply
with the Higher Education Workplace
Relations Reforms (HEWRRs) and the
National Governance Protocols (NGPs)
in order to receive funding from the
Commonwealth Grants Scheme.
Section 33-17 of HESA has been
repealed, which removes the Higher
Education Workplace Relations
Reforms from the Act entirely.
There have also been various amendments
in regards to higher education quality;
quality assurance; the appointment of
additional quality auditing bodies for
higher education providers; and the terms
under which the Minister may revoke a
body as a higher education provider.
HESA was also amended in 2008
by the Higher Education Support
Amendment (2008 Budget Measures)
Act 2008 to provide for the following:
– full-fee paying places for new
domestic undergraduates will be
phased out from 1 January 2009
– Eleven thousand new Commonwealth-
supported places will be introduced by
2011 and funded on a continuing basis
– decreases to the maximum annual
contributions for students enrolling in
mathematics, statistical or science units
in 2009 from $7,412 a year to $4,162,
while providing the higher education
provider transitional loading under the
Commonwealth Grants Scheme for
the resulting reduction in revenue
– Commonwealth-supported places
for early childhood education
and nursing will increase
– the number of Commonwealth
undergraduate scholarships will be
doubled by 2012 to 88,000, and the
number of Australian postgraduate
holders will be doubled by 2012 to 10,000.
HESA was amended by the Higher
Education Support Amendment (VET FEE-
HELP ASSISTANCE) Act 2008 in 2008.
The amendments to HESA are
aimed at increasing the capacity and
productivity of the workforce by making
it easier for Australians to complete
Vocation Education and Training (VET)
studies through VET FEE-HELP.
Specifically, the amendments require that
in order for VET FEE-HELP (additional
to the Higher Education Loan Program
[HELP]) to be offered to VET students, VET
providers must comply with the VET FEE-
HELP Guidelines. The guidelines stipulate
that providers of VET-accredited diplomas
or advanced diploma qualifications must
ensure credit transfer arrangements
are in place with the higher education
provider in accordance with the Act.
• WorkplaceRelationsAct1996
The Workplace Relations Amendment
(Transition to Forward with Fairness) Act
2008 amended the Workplace Relations
Act 1996 in order to replace Australian
Workplace Agreements (AWAs) with
individual transitional employment
agreements and collective agreements.
As a result of the amendments:
– Australian Workplace Agreements can
no longer be made; instead, Individual
Transitional Employment Agreements
can be made until 31 December 2009
– provisions relating to proposed
collective agreements and taking
part in ballots for protected industrial
action have been clarified
– a new No-Disadvantage test
replaces the Fairness Test
– there is a new approval process
for some agreements
– unilateral termination of collective
agreements is prohibited.
•WorkplaceRelationsRegulations2006
A number of minor amendments
have been made to the Workplace
Relations Regulations 2006 through
the Workplace Relations Amendment
Regulations 2008 (No. 1.).
The Regulations were amended following
the enactment of the Workplace Relations
(Transition to Forward with Fairness) Act
2008, in order to amend or omit terms
that are no longer applicable, such as:
– omitting provisions related to the
Workplace Relations fact sheets
– replacing references to Australian
Workplace Agreements with Individual
Transitional Employment Agreements.
2008 Annual Report
47
ACT OF GRACE PAYMENTS
Under section 6.4 of the policy on Act of Grace Payments, Curtin undertakes to report through the
Annual Report all Act of Grace Payments made in each financial year. In 2008, a sum of $82,929
was paid, representing payments of $1,000, $2,000, $2,355, $26,546 and $51,028 respectively.
ADVERTISING – ELECTORAL ACT 1907
Under section 175ZE of the Electoral Act 1907, the University is required to disclose
expenditure for advertising agencies, market research organisations, polling
organisations, direct mail organisations and media advertising organisation costs.
For 2008, the following costs were recorded against these items:
Advertising AgenciesGatecrasher AdvertisingThe Brand AgencyMarketforce exPressMarket United
$1,297,901$569,783$33,639$16,450
Media Advertising OrganisationMedia DecisionsStudent Edge
$2,416,911$45,375
Market ResearchResearch SolutionsSynovatePainted Dog
$296,251$39,294$72,120
Polling Organisations N/A
Direct-Mail Organisations N/A
Total $4,787,724
Other Disclosures and Legal Requirements
Curtin University of Technology
48
Curtin Stadium
Curtin has committed $27.5 million to
the development of a recreation and
events centre to improve the recreational
opportunities and facilities for its students
and staff. Curtin Stadium will be capable
of hosting a wide range of academic
events such as graduation ceremonies
and examinations as well as sports
events in a weatherproof environment.
The project is currently in the construction
phase, with the first stage handover of the
new Gymnasium and Administration Offices
having occurred in November 2008.
Completion of the main events
area and sports stadium building
is scheduled for mid-2009.
Resources and Chemistry
Research and Education Precinct
The State Government’s decision to co-
locate the Chemistry Centre of WA (CCWA)
on the Bentley Campus adjacent to the
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial
Research Organisation’s (CSIRO) Waterford
site will enable the creation of a world-
class Resources and Chemistry Precinct
in the southern gateway to the campus.
The final cost of the project is
anticipated to be some $116.1 million.
The CCWA component will be funded
via a Treasury loan, and repaid by a
lease arrangement with CCWA.
Works commenced on site in January
2007. Completion was originally scheduled
for late 2008, but it is now anticipated to
be mid-2009, as a result of the high levels
of activity in Western Australia in both
the resources and construction sectors.
The impact on both human and material
resources has delayed this project.
Master Plan – Bentley Campus
The University and its team of urban
planning consultants have been working
in collaboration with state and local
governments to review the Physical Master
Plan for the Bentley Campus to ensure
that future developments closely support
the University’s vision for the future.
The principal aim of the master plan is
to provide a vital physical environment
in which innovation, interaction,
research and learning will thrive.
The plan focuses on the creation of an
urban university town setting, connected
by a major public transport spine to
the Perth Central Business District and
other significant knowledge and activity
centres in the immediate region.
The plan envisages creating, over a 30
to 40 year period, a significant property
endowment asset for the University as well
as an exciting environment for people to
learn, work, research, live and develop.
The University will consider and endorse
the new Master Plan in early 2009.
DIRECTORS’ AND OFFICERS’ LIABILITY INSURANCE
Curtin University of Technology provides
adequate insurance cover for Directors’
and Officers’ Liability and Directors’ and
Officers’ Supplementary Legal Expenses
for its Council members and Officers.
CAPITAL WORKS
Report on Operations (continued)
2008 Annual Report
49
DISABILITY ACCESS AND INCLUSION PLAN OUTCOMES
In 2008, mainstream University practices
were reviewed to ensure access and
inclusion strategies become routine.
Outcomes included:
Outcome 1: People with disabilities
have the same opportunities as
other people to access the services
of, and events organised by, Curtin.
The Events Access checklist ensures Curtin
events – for example: graduations, careers
expos and orientation – are accessible.
Curtin Stadium – the University’s new,
accessible on-campus events, graduation
and sporting complex – is near completion.
Outcome 2: People with disabilities
have the same opportunities as
other people to access Curtin’s
buildings and facilities.
OASIS informs students and staff
about interruptions to physical access
on the Bentley Campus. The public is
informed via the Properties website.
Investigation by student researchers
of the relationship between access
and the recruitment and retention of
students with disabilities is underway.
The purchase of motorised Gophers
and installation of courtesy parking bays
for people with temporary disabilities,
and the completion of a second
wheelchair re-charging facility at the
Bentley Campus, was achieved.
Outcome 3: People with disabilities
receive information from Curtin in
a format that will enable them to
access the information as readily as
other people are able to access it.
Curtin’s general, administrative and
academic information was reviewed
to provide staff guidelines regarding
accessible information and alternative
format material on the website.
Outcome 4: People with disabilities
receive the same level and quality
of service from Curtin staff as other
people receive from Curtin staff.
The Disability@Curtin website is routinely
upgraded with guidelines and practices to
help staff support people with disabilities.
New Disability Awareness training programs
are in development. The individual electronic
student Curtin Access Plan is operational.
Outcome 5: People with disabilities
have the same opportunities as other
people to make complaints to Curtin.
The complaints process is described on
an accessible website, with alternative
formats available on request, as well as
access provided to a confidential telephone
or personal interview. The needs of people
with disabilities were included in a 2008
review of the complaints process.
Outcome 6: People with disabilities
have the same opportunities as
other people to participate in any
public consultation by Curtin.
Accessible online surveys with alternative
formats are available on request.
Outcome 7: People with disabilities
have the same opportunities
as other people to participate
in employment at Curtin
(additional Curtin Outcome).
Curtin has a Recruitment Officer to recruit
and retain people with disabilities. Curtin
established a partnership with external
employment providers to increase
recruitment at Curtin. The Careers
Service incorporated principles of the
Universal Design Principles to support
Curtin graduates with disabilities in career
planning, including Curtin as a prospective
employer – a new service to support
staff with disabilities in development.
Other outcomes include:
• Curtinparticipatedinthereviewof
the Disability Services Act 1993.
• TheUniversityinitiatedandhostedajoint
WA universities meeting to clarify external
reporting responsibilities regarding agents
and contractors, which culminated in
significant exploration of this matter at
various Curtin campuses throughout 2008.
• TheUniversalDesignReferenceGroup
is developing its role of guiding the
principle of ‘universalism’ in Curtin’s
facilities, practices and programs.
• Policiespertainingtostudents
with disabilities were reviewed
and updated in 2008.
Curtin University of Technology
50
PRICING POLICIES ON OUTPUTS PROVIDED
Fees are charged in accordance with
Commonwealth Government guidelines and
University policy.
Students in Commonwealth-supported
places are required to contribute towards
the cost of their education. The student
contribution amount is calculated for each
study period for his or her student load and
the annual course contributions that apply for
that year. In common with most universities,
Curtin charges the maximum student
contribution amount permitted by legislation.
Tuition fees for other students are determined
by taking into account a number of factors,
such as cost of delivery, ‘market’ factors and
legislative requirements.
Approved fees are published online at:
fees.curtin.edu.au
RECORDKEEPING – COMPLIANCE WITH THE STATE RECORDS ACT 2000Curtin is committed to the reliable and
systematic management of its documents
and records in accordance with best
practice standards. As Curtin University
of Technology was established under an
Act of the Parliament of Western Australia,
it is also subject to the provisions of the
State Records Act 2000. In accordance
with this Act, Curtin works under an
approved Recordkeeping Plan (RKP) and
develops policies, processes, systems
and tools to assist its staff in meeting the
requirements of the plan. In 2008, a revised
RKP was submitted and subsequently
approved for five years. This plan contains
timelines and responsibilities for improving
recordkeeping practices at Curtin.
Significant improvements
and developments
• AnewUniversityInformationManagement
directorate was established to provide
leadership in information management
activities. This new directorate brings
together the Records and Archives
Office, the flow Project and the
Information Governance Project.
• AnInformationGovernance
Committee was established to
provide strategic direction for
information management at Curtin.
• AUniversityRecordkeeping
Policy was developed and all
procedures were revised.
• flow, a system for enterprise-wide
content management for paper and
electronic documents, including email
and web content, has been designed and
developed for implementation in 2009.
• Avitalrecordsprogramhasbeen
established, which provides input
into area disaster recovery plans.
• ThetoptwolevelsoftheCurtin
Common Vocabulary for organising
and describing Curtin’s information
assets have been developed.
• Curtin’slegacyrecordsarebeing
processed through the Inactive Records
Disposal Project, which includes the
identification of archival material.
• Ariskassessmentofpaperrecord
storage areas on the Bentley
Campus has been carried out.
Induction for new staff
• Informationonrecordkeepingand
recordkeeping responsibilities is
included in the University’s induction
package for new staff, and is discussed
again in staff induction sessions.
• UniversityInformationManagementstaff
attend the University’s induction sessions
to provide additional recordkeeping
information and handouts to new staff.
Ongoing training
• Trainingwasmadeavailableforallstaff
on Creating and Keeping Records,
Sentencing Records, Transfer and
Destruction, Managing Email and
Preparing for flow. These modules have
been run on a monthly basis. Information
sessions and presentations to staff
on information management initiatives
were conducted throughout the year.
• Meetingswereheldeverytwomonths
with the Records Liaison Group to discuss
policies, training, ongoing developments
and projects, and other recordkeeping
matters. This group will be replaced
in 2009 by the flow hub, comprising
members from all areas of the University.
• 665currentCurtinstaffmembershave
completed online records awareness
training. All staff are required to
complete this training within two
months of commencing at Curtin.
The content for this training is being
reviewed, with a new, more relevant
package to be available by mid-2009.
Comprehensive Review
of Recordkeeping
• AcomprehensiveconsultationwithCurtin
staff was undertaken in 2007 and 2008
to identify the information management
needs of staff. A number of difficulties
with existing practices, particularly with
the flow of information within areas
and across organisational boundaries,
were identified, and the flow strategy
was developed to address these.
Report on Operations (continued)
2008 Annual Report
51
• Keyrecommendationsfromthisreport
were to:
– establish principles, practices and
security models that support more
open access to information
– establish a secure central
repository for the management
of all electronic documents
– establish a central register and
appropriate decentralised storage
areas for paper folders
– establish an enterprise web
content management system
that facilitates the publishing of
information to the Curtin website.
RISK MANAGEMENT REPORT
Curtin University of Technology continued
the development of its risk management
program in 2008. A comprehensive
strategic and business risk management
framework, structured in accordance with
AS/NZS 4360: 2004, was introduced in
all faculties and areas. The University’s
Strategic and Operational Risk Profile has
been completed, and risk controls applied
are commensurate with the assessed level
of risk. Further work on the University’s
preparedness for potential crises and
business continuity was also undertaken.
SENIOR OFFICER DISCLOSURES
The senior officers of the University have
declared:
• theydonothold(asanomineeor
beneficially) any shares in any subsidiary
body of the University; and
• they(orafirmofwhichtheyarea
member, or an entity in which they have
a substantial interest) do not hold any
interests in any existing or proposed
contracts with the University or subsidiary
body, related body or affiliated body
of the University, except Professor Jill
Downie, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Health
Sciences, who has declared that she is
on the boards of Bethesda Hospital and
Bethanie Inc as a non-executive director,
both of which the University has entered
into clinical placement agreements.
STRATEGIC PROCUREMENT
Curtin continues to deliver improved
commercial processes, practices and
systems through a strategic procurement
approach. Contracts have been executed in
many separate expenditure categories, with
substantial savings to date. Strategic supplier-
relationship management is now used to
maximise opportunities from commercial
relationships, for added value and innovation.
SUBSIDIARY BODIES
The University had no subsidiary
bodies as at 31 December 2008.
UNIVERSITY PUBLICATIONS AND MARKETING ACTIVITIES
The major publications and marketing
activities of the University in 2008 were:
• theAnnualReport2007(printandelectronic)
• UndergraduateProspectus(domesticandinternational)
• CurtinCoursesHandbook(printandelectronic)
• Citemagazine(twiceayear)
• R&DNowandR&DNews(bothtwicea year), and other research-focused
publications.
Curtin’s four teaching faculties also
issue publications each year.
Major promotional, public relations or
marketing activities undertaken included:
• educationalexpos
• CurtinOpenDay
• theannualJohnCurtinMedalspresentation
• participationintheInnovationFestivalandNational Science Week
• publiclectures(suchastheHaydnWilliamsFellowship Lecture and the Ethics Lecture)
• proactiveandreactivemedialiaisonasappropriate
• Curtinfacilitiesandprogramlaunches
• Curtinnovationcorporatebrandingcampaign
• marketingcampaignsfocusedonundergraduate and postgraduate student recruitment
• coordinationofvisitsbyoverseasdelegations and VIPs
• courseandpublic-interestlecturesadvertising on an ad hoc basis for many schools and teaching areas.
Curtin University of Technology
52
Full-Year Student Population 2004-2008(Higher Education only)
20000
24000
28000
32000
36000
40000
44000
Nos
Nos
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Student Numbers Student Load (EFTSL)
Student Enrolments by Study Mode 2004-2008
0
8000
16000
24000
32000
40000
48000
2004 2005 2006 20082007
2004 2005 2006 20082007
Internal and Multi-Modal External
Student Enrolments (Nos) by Enrolling Faculty 2008
Student Enrolments by Course Level 2004-2008
Not for Degree
Undergraduate PG Coursework
PG Research
Student Load (EFTSL) by Teaching Faculty 2008
Student Enrolments by Gender 2004-2008
0
8000
16000
24000
32000
40000
48000Female Male
0
10000
20000
30000
40000
50000
Nos
Nos
Nos
Nos
Nos
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Student Enrolments by Funding Category 2004-2008
0
10000
20000
30000
40000
50000
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Commonwealth Supported
FP International
Aust Fee Paying
RTS
ATSI Student Enrolments 2004-2008
400
420
440
460
480
500
520
540
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
FP International Student Enrolments by Home Country
0
2000
4000
6000
10000
8000
Hong Kong IndonesiaMalaysia Singapore Other
Awards Completions by Course Level 2004-2008
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
12000
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Other Undergraduate Undergraduate HonoursPG Coursework PG Research
Humanities5,222
CBS11,155
Science & Engineering
5,203
Health Sciences5,516
Other*2,220
Humanities7,861
CBS15,592
Science & Engineering
7,190
Health Sciences8,142
Other*4,329
*Other includes Centre for Aboriginal Studies, CRE, Curtin Sarawak and Externsion Studies/Credit Transfer
*Other includes Centre for Aboriginal Studies, CRE, Curtin Sarawak and Externsion Studies/Credit Transfer
Curtin in Figures
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008Full-Year Student PopulationStudent NumbersHigher Education 37,116 39,562 40,360 41,348 42,252Vocation and Education Training (VET) 3,998 4,083 4,859 5,006 5,170Student Load (EFTSL)Higher Education 25,677 26,741 27,796 28,806 29,316
Student Enrolments by Study ModeInternal and Multi-Modal 34,653 36,808 37,510 38,335 39,136External 2,518 2,683 2,658 2,681 2,675
Student Enrolments by GenderFemale 19,601 20,576 21,274 22,119 22,519Male 17,515 18,986 19,086 19,229 19,733
Student Enrolments by Enrolling FacultyCentre for Aboriginal Studies 382 328 388 316 319Humanities 7,079 7,522 7,307 7,536 7,861Curtin Business School 14,872 15,188 15,347 15,624 15,592Science and Engineering 6,641 7,248 6,808 6,915 7,190Health Sciences 6,275 6,854 7,273 7,763 8,142Vice-Chancellory 1,386 1,573 2,135 2,284 2,247Curtin Sarawak 1,207 1,543 1,805 1,744 1,763
Student Load (EFTSL) by Teaching FacultyCentre for Aboriginal Studies 322 301 386 309 347Humanities 4,857 4,761 4,896 5,095 5,222Curtin Business School 9,997 10,103 10,971 11,299 11,155Science and Engineering 4,731 4,876 4,941 5,073 5,203Health Sciences 4,306 4,574 4,954 5,274 5,516Vice-Chancellory 207 259 280 305 335Curtin Sarawak 1,259 1,354 1,370 1,398 1,538
2008 Annual Report
53
Full-Year Student Population 2004-2008(Higher Education only)
20000
24000
28000
32000
36000
40000
44000
Nos
Nos
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Student Numbers Student Load (EFTSL)
Student Enrolments by Study Mode 2004-2008
0
8000
16000
24000
32000
40000
48000
2004 2005 2006 20082007
2004 2005 2006 20082007
Internal and Multi-Modal External
Student Enrolments (Nos) by Enrolling Faculty 2008
Student Enrolments by Course Level 2004-2008
Not for Degree
Undergraduate PG Coursework
PG Research
Student Load (EFTSL) by Teaching Faculty 2008
Student Enrolments by Gender 2004-2008
0
8000
16000
24000
32000
40000
48000Female Male
0
10000
20000
30000
40000
50000
Nos
Nos
Nos
Nos
Nos
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Student Enrolments by Funding Category 2004-2008
0
10000
20000
30000
40000
50000
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Commonwealth Supported
FP International
Aust Fee Paying
RTS
ATSI Student Enrolments 2004-2008
400
420
440
460
480
500
520
540
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
FP International Student Enrolments by Home Country
0
2000
4000
6000
10000
8000
Hong Kong IndonesiaMalaysia Singapore Other
Awards Completions by Course Level 2004-2008
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
12000
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Other Undergraduate Undergraduate HonoursPG Coursework PG Research
Humanities5,222
CBS11,155
Science & Engineering
5,203
Health Sciences5,516
Other*2,220
Humanities7,861
CBS15,592
Science & Engineering
7,190
Health Sciences8,142
Other*4,329
*Other includes Centre for Aboriginal Studies, CRE, Curtin Sarawak and Externsion Studies/Credit Transfer
*Other includes Centre for Aboriginal Studies, CRE, Curtin Sarawak and Externsion Studies/Credit Transfer2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Student Enrolments by Course LevelDoctorates (PhD) 1,400 1,577 1,475 1,462 1,502Master by Research 199 309 329 325 337Master by Coursework 4,145 4,649 4,709 4,743 5,111Other Postgraduate 1,726 1,686 1,617 1,668 1,675Graduate Certificate 938 1,064 1,052 1,213 1,338Bachelor Honours 301 246 197 230 210Bachelor Pass 26,891 28,076 28,781 29,432 29,730Other Undergraduate 334 355 487 529 471Not for Degree* 2,993 3,370 2,538 2,845 3,034*Most “Not for Degree” students are extension and summer school students who are also enrolled in degree courses. These students are counted in both categories.
Student Enrolments by Funding CategoryCommonwealth Supported Places 16,119 16,606 17,216 17,886 18,456FP International onshore 6,856 7,563 8,272 8,820 9,735FP International offshore 8,385 9,215 8,765 8,351 7,792RTS/HDR Fee Scholarship 1,093 1,322 1,277 1,278 1,316Australian Fee Paying – Postgraduate 4,193 4,353 4,335 4,472 4,311Australian Fee Paying – Undergraduate 1,047 891 129 192 316
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders (ATSI) Student EnrolmentsHigher Education 515 448 495 466 495Vocation and Education Training (VET) 442 437 484 488 513
FP International Student Enrolments by Home CountryHong Kong 2,683 2,457 2,506 2,276 1,921Indonesia 1,185 1,238 1,228 1,169 1,054Malaysia 4,124 4,263 4,232 4,198 4,279Singapore 2,443 2,190 2,149 2,140 2,097Other 4,805 6,503 6,994 7,432 8,233
Awards Completions by Course LevelDoctorates (PhD) 146 133 152 162 135Master by Research 55 40 45 48 29Master by Coursework 1,157 1,382 1,411 1,513 1,575Postgraduate/Graduate Diploma 606 644 612 628 683Graduate Certificate 391 497 524 598 683Bachelor Graduates 74 42 33 21 13Bachelor Honours 583 538 656 640 857Bachelor Pass 5,791 5,915 5,874 5,632 5,865Associate Degree/Diploma 67 90 99 303 149Total 8,870 9,281 9,406 9,545 9,989
54
0
1000
2000
3000
4000
Staff Total FTE 2004-2008*
0500
10001500200025003000
4000
FTE
FTE
FTE
FTE
FTE
3500
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Academic and General Staff FTE 2004-2008(Full Time and Fractional Full Time only)
0
1000
2000
3000
4000
2004 2005 2006 2007
Academic General
Staff FTE by Gender 2004-2008(Full Time and Fractional Full Time only)
2004 2005 2006 2007
Female Male
0
700
2100
1400
2800
3500
4200
2004 2005 2006 2007
Full Time Fractional Full Time Casual/Sessional
Staff FTE by Function 2004-2008(Full Time and Fractional Full Time only)
0
1000
2000
3000
4000
2004 2005 2006 2007
2008
2008
2008
2008
Teaching and Research Teaching onlyResearch only Other Functions
Staff FTE by Employment Contract 2004-2008
*Includes an estimated casual/sessional staff FTE of 488 in 2008.
Curtin in Figures (continued)
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008Staff Total FTEHigher Education 2,906 3,063 3,024 2,927 3,353*Vocation and Education Training (VET) 126 113 112 109 105
*Includes an estimated casual/sessional staff FTE of 488
Academic and General Staff FTE (Full Time and Fractional Full Time only)Academic 1,065 1,124 1,110 1,093 1,220General 1,512 1,581 1,550 1,470 1,646
Staff FTE by Gender (Full Time and Fractional Full Time only)Female 1,285 1,327 1,365 1,339 1,539Male 1,292 1,378 1,295 1,224 1,327
Staff FTE by Employment ContractFull-Time 2,262 2,349 2,289 2,198 2,455Fractional Full-Time 315 356 371 365 411Casual/Sessional 329 358 364 488 488**Includes an estimated casual/sessional staff FTE of 488
Staff FTE by Function (Full Time and Fractional Full Time only)Teaching only 105 148 151 133 149Research only 157 170 174 191 217Teaching and Research 769 778 768 739 809Other Functions 1,546 1,609 1,567 1,499 1,691
Curtin University of Technology
55
Auditor General
Page 1 of 2
4th Floor Dumas House 2 Havelock Street West Perth 6005 Western Australia Tel: 08 9222 7500 Fax: 08 9322 5664
INDEPENDENT AUDIT OPINION
To the Parliament of Western Australia
CURTIN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2008
I have audited the accounts, financial statements, controls and key performance indicators of the Curtin University of Technology.
The financial statements comprise the Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2008, and the Income Statement, Statement of Changes in Equity and Cash Flow Statement of the University for the year then ended, a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory Notes.
The key performance indicators consist of key indicators of effectiveness and efficiency.
University Councilí s Responsibility for the Financial Statements and Key Performance Indicators The University Council is responsible for keeping proper accounts, and the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Treasurerí s Instructions, and the key performance indicators. This responsibility includes establishing and maintaining internal controls relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements and key performance indicators that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances; and complying with the Financial Management Act 2006 and other relevant written law.
Summary of my Role As required by the Auditor General Act 2006, my responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements, controls and key performance indicators based on my audit. This was done by testing selected samples of the audit evidence. I believe that the audit evidence I have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for my audit opinion. Further information on my audit approach is provided in my audit practice statement. Refer "http://www.audit.wa.gov.au/pubs/Audit-Practice-Statement.pdf".
An audit does not guarantee that every amount and disclosure in the financial statements and key performance indicators is error free. The term ìreasonable assuranceî recognises that an audit does not examine all evidence and every transaction. However, my audit procedures should identify errors or omissions significant enough to adversely affect the decisions of users of the financial statements and key performance indicators.
Auditor General
Page 1 of 2
4th Floor Dumas House 2 Havelock Street West Perth 6005 Western Australia Tel: 08 9222 7500 Fax: 08 9322 5664
INDEPENDENT AUDIT OPINION
To the Parliament of Western Australia
CURTIN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2008
I have audited the accounts, financial statements, controls and key performance indicators of the Curtin University of Technology.
The financial statements comprise the Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2008, and the Income Statement, Statement of Changes in Equity and Cash Flow Statement of the University for the year then ended, a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory Notes.
The key performance indicators consist of key indicators of effectiveness and efficiency.
University Councilí s Responsibility for the Financial Statements and Key Performance Indicators The University Council is responsible for keeping proper accounts, and the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Treasurerí s Instructions, and the key performance indicators. This responsibility includes establishing and maintaining internal controls relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements and key performance indicators that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances; and complying with the Financial Management Act 2006 and other relevant written law.
Summary of my Role As required by the Auditor General Act 2006, my responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements, controls and key performance indicators based on my audit. This was done by testing selected samples of the audit evidence. I believe that the audit evidence I have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for my audit opinion. Further information on my audit approach is provided in my audit practice statement. Refer "http://www.audit.wa.gov.au/pubs/Audit-Practice-Statement.pdf".
An audit does not guarantee that every amount and disclosure in the financial statements and key performance indicators is error free. The term ìreasonable assuranceî recognises that an audit does not examine all evidence and every transaction. However, my audit procedures should identify errors or omissions significant enough to adversely affect the decisions of users of the financial statements and key performance indicators.
56
Curtin University of Technology Financial Statements and Key Performance Indicators for the year ended 31 December 2008
Audit Opinion In my opinion,
(i) the financial statements are based on proper accounts and present fairly the financial position of the Curtin University of Technology at 31 December 2008 and its financial performance and cash flows for the year ended on that date. They are in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Treasurerí s Instructions;
(ii) the controls exercised by the University provide reasonable assurance that the receipt, expenditure and investment of money, the acquisition and disposal of property, and the incurring of liabilities have been in accordance with legislative provisions; and
(iii) the key performance indicators of the University are relevant and appropriate to help users assess the Universityí s performance and fairly represent the indicated performance for the year ended 31 December 2008.
GLEN CLARKE ACTING AUDITOR GENERAL 20 March 2009
Page 2 of 2
Curtin University of Technology Financial Statements and Key Performance Indicators for the year ended 31 December 2008
Audit Opinion In my opinion,
(i) the financial statements are based on proper accounts and present fairly the financial position of the Curtin University of Technology at 31 December 2008 and its financial performance and cash flows for the year ended on that date. They are in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Treasurerí s Instructions;
(ii) the controls exercised by the University provide reasonable assurance that the receipt, expenditure and investment of money, the acquisition and disposal of property, and the incurring of liabilities have been in accordance with legislative provisions; and
(iii) the key performance indicators of the University are relevant and appropriate to help users assess the Universityí s performance and fairly represent the indicated performance for the year ended 31 December 2008.
GLEN CLARKE ACTING AUDITOR GENERAL 20 March 2009
Page 2 of 2
2008 Annual Report
57
Curtin University of Technology Financial Report 2008
CONTENTS
Certification of the Financial Statements 58
Income Statement 59
Balance Sheet 60
Statement of Changes in Equity 61
Cash Flow Statement 62
Notes to the Financial Statements 63
Report by the Members of the University Council 110
58
Curtin University of Technology
Certification of the Financial Statements
CERTIFICATION OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The accompanying financial statements of Curtin University of Technology and the accompanying consolidated financial statements have been
prepared in compliance with the provisions of the Financial Management Act 2006 from proper accounts and records to present fairly the financial
transactions for the financial year ended 31 December 2008 and the financial position as at 31 December 2008.
At the date of signing, we are not aware of any circumstances which would render any particulars included in the financial statements misleading or
inaccurate.
W. Gordon Martin Jeanette Hacket David Menarry
Chancellor Vice-Chancellor Chief Financial Officer
Dated this 18th day of March 2009
CERTIFICATION OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS REQUIRED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT AND WORKPLACE RELATIONS
We declare that:
• atthetimeofthiscertification,therearereasonablegroundstobelievethatCurtinUniversityofTechnologywillbeabletopayitsdebts
as and when they fall due; and
• theamountofAustralianGovernmentfinancialassistanceexpendedduringthefinancialyearended31December2008wasforthepurpose(s)
for which it was provided and complied with applicable legislation, contracts, agreements and program guidelines in making expenditure.
W. Gordon Martin Jeanette Hacket
Chancellor Vice-Chancellor
Dated this 18th day of March 2009
59
Curtin University of Technology
Income Statementfor the year ended 31 December 2008
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
Revenue from continuing operations
Australian Government financial assistance
Australian Government grants 4 215,447 188,260
HECS-HELP – Australian Government payments 4 68,590 63,887
FEE-HELP 4 12,926 12,686
State and Local Government financial assistance 5 26,375 21,923
HECS-HELP – Student payments 21,050 19,363
Fees and charges 6 171,182 152,111
Investment revenue 7 23,276 22,501
Royalties, trademarks and licences 8 27,458 21,240
Consultancy and contracts 9 35,041 26,729
Other revenue 10 39,626 37,775
640,971 566,475
Deferred Government superannuation contributions 9,206 (4,166)
Total revenue from continuing operations 650,177 562,309
Expenses from continuing operations
Employee benefits 11(a) 315,500 274,312
Depreciation and amortisation 12 24,873 23,725
Repairs and maintenance 13 13,435 12,195
Finance costs 14 1,765 1,813
Impairment of assets 15 21,011 (8)
Losses on disposal of non-current assets 16 2,015 21
Other expenses 17 206,619 178,683
585,218 490,741
Deferred employee benefits for superannuation 11(b) 9,206 (4,166)
Total expenses from continuing operations 594,424 486,575
Net operating result for the year 55,753 75,734
This Income Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
60
Curtin University of Technology
Balance Sheetas at 31 December 2008
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents 18 129,975 110,110
Trade and other receivables 19 25,621 25,653
Inventories 20 1,029 1,061
Other financial assets:
Unrestricted 21 38 561
Restricted 22 65,269 53,149
Other non financial assets 23 20,317 13,949
Total Current Assets 242,249 204,483
Non-Current Assets
Trade and other receivables 19 72,806 64,383
Other financial assets – unrestricted 21 35,903 72,569
Property, plant and equipment 24 647,374 565,419
Total Non-Current Assets 756,083 702,371
Total Assets 998,332 906,854
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Trade and other payables 25 6,192 6,176
Borrowings 26 1,189 627
Provisions 27 54,588 50,309
Other liabilities 28 53,604 48,202
Total Current Liabilities 115,573 105,314
Non-Current Liabilities
Borrowings 26 51,898 33,824
Provisions 27 89,423 78,627
Total Non-Current Liabilities 141,321 112,451
Total Liabilities 256,894 217,765
Net Assets 741,438 689,089
EQUITY
Reserves 29 36,430 31,545
Retained surplus 29 705,008 657,544
Total Equity 741,438 689,089
This Balance Sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
61
Curtin University of Technology
Statement of Changes in Equityfor the year ended 31 December 2008
Other Reserves Retained Earnings Total Equity
Note $’000 $’000 $’000
At 1 January 2007 36,566 585,912 622,478
Unrealised investment gain/(loss) for the year (8,857) – (8,857)
Realised investment (gain)/loss (295) – (295)
Unrealised hedging gain/(loss) 29 – 29
Operating result for the year – 75,734 75,734
Transfers from retained earnings 29(f) 15,486 (15,486) –
Transfers to retained earnings 29(f) (11,384) 11,384 –
At 31 December 2007 29 31,545 657,544 689,089
Unrealised investment gain/(loss) for the year (27,189) – (27,189)
Realised investment (gain)/loss 23,814 – 23,814
Realised hedging (gain)/loss (29) – (29)
Operating result for the year – 55,753 55,753
Transfers from retained earnings 29(f) 20,112 (20,112) –
Transfers to retained earnings 29(f) (11,823) 11,823 –
At 31 December 2008 29 36,430 705,008 741,438
This Statement of Changes in Equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
62
Curtin University of Technology
Cash Flow Statementfor the year ended 31 December 2008
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts
Australian Government grants received 4(g) 299,030 265,528
HECS-HELP – Student payments 21,050 19,363
Fees and charges 174,087 154,765
Royalties, trademarks and licences 28,074 20,721
Consultancy and contracts 34,564 28,657
Interest received 12,637 10,373
Dividends received 392 111
Distributions received 8,186 12,017
Other 41,336 37,573
Payments
Payments for employee benefits (311,942) (272,678)
Payments to suppliers (220,544) (192,322)
Interest and other costs of finance paid (1,764) (1,813)
Net cash provided by operating activities 38(b) 85,106 82,295
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Payments for property, plant and equipment (107,618) (64,956)
Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment 216 254
Payments for investments (2,690) (14,735)
Proceeds on redemption of investments 1,596 –
Net cash used in investing activities (108,496) (79,437)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Repayment of borrowings (1,052) (827)
Proceeds from borrowings 18,248 9,517
Cash used in financing activities 17,196 8,690
CASH FLOWS FROM STATE GOVERNMENT
Financial assistance 26,059 21,923
Cash provided by State Government 26,059 21,923
Net increase/ (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 19,865 33,471
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 110,110 76,639
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 38(a) 129,975 110,110
This Cash Flow Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
63
Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
64
Curtin University of Technology
1 SuMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOuNTING POLICIES
The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial report are set out below. These policies have been consistently
applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.
(a) Basis of preparation
This general purpose financial report has been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, other authoritative
pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board, the requirements of the Department of Education, Employment and
Workplace Relations, applicable sections of the Financial Management Act 2006 and applicable Treasurer’s Instructions.
The financial statements and notes thereto comply with Australian Accounting Standards, some of which contain requirements specific
to not-for-profit entities that are inconsistent with International Financial Reporting Standards requirements.
Historical cost convention
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for certain financial instruments which are reported at
fair value.
Accrual basis of accounting
The financial statements, except for cash flow information, are prepared using the accrual basis of accounting.
Critical accounting estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Australian Accounting Standards requires the use of certain critical accounting
estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the University’s accounting policies. The areas
involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the financial statements,
are disclosed in note 2.
The financial report is presented in Australian dollars and all values are rounded to the nearest thousand dollars ($’000).
(b) Not for profit status
For the purpose of the application of Accounting Standards and Interpretations, the University is considered to be a not-for-profit entity.
(c) Principles of consolidation
Consolidated financial statements are prepared by combining the financial statements of all entities that comprise the consolidated entity, being
the University (the parent entity) and any controlled entities, in accordance with AASB 127 “Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements”
and modified by Treasurer’s Instruction 1105.
Consolidated financial statements are not required this year as there are no controlled entities.
(d) Revenue recognition
Revenue from sale of goods and disposal of other assets and the rendering of services is recognised when the University has passed control
and the significant risks and rewards of ownership have passed to the buyer of the goods or other assets, or when a service has been
provided to a customer.
Student fees
Student fees are recognised when the University has provided the service(s) to the student.
Commonwealth supported student income
Income for Commonwealth supported students is recognised when the University has provided the service(s) to the student.
Research income
Research grants from government are recognised as revenue when the University obtains control over the asset comprising the contributions.
When the University does not have control of the contribution, does not have the right to receive the contribution or, in the case of reciprocal
grants, has not fulfilled grant conditions, the grant contribution is treated as deferred income as a liability in the Balance Sheet.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
65
Curtin University of Technology
1 SuMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOuNTING POLICIES (CONTINuED)
Research income (continued)
Reciprocal research income from other entities is recognised as revenue when the University has provided the service to the customer.
Non-reciprocal research income from other entities is recognised as revenue when the University obtains control over the asset comprising
the contributions.
Unspent non-reciprocal research grant funds at the end of each financial year are recognised by way of a Research Grants reserve (refer note 29).
Other government grants
Other grants from government are recognised as revenue when the University obtains control over the asset comprising the contributions.
When the University does not have control over the contribution, does not have the right to receive the contribution or, in the case of reciprocal
grants, has not fulfilled grant conditions, the grant contribution is treated as deferred income as a liability in the Balance Sheet.
Consultancy fees
Consultancy fees are recognised when the University has provided the service(s) to the customer.
Other contributions revenue
Donations, gifts and other non-reciprocal contributions are recognised as revenue when the University obtains control over the assets
comprising the contributions.
Contributions of assets are recognised at their fair value. Contributions of services are only recognised when a fair value can be reliably
determined and the services would be purchased if not donated.
(e) Acquisition and disposal of assets
All property, plant and equipment with a cost of greater than $5,000 (excluding GST) is recorded as a non-current asset at cost,
less subsequent depreciation and impairment.
Borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial
period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalised as part of the cost of that asset.
Assets acquired at no cost or for nominal consideration are initially recognised at their fair value at the date of acquisition.
Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the disposal proceeds with the carrying amount and are included in the
Income Statement.
(f) Depreciation of non-current assets
All non-current assets having a limited useful life are depreciated or amortised over their estimated useful lives, in a manner which reflects the
consumption of their future economic benefits.
Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis from the time the asset becomes available for use. Estimated useful lives are as follows:
•Land Notdepreciated
•Buildings 5-50years
•Leaseholdlandandimprovements Shorterof50yearsorlifeoflease
•Computingequipment 3years
•Otherequipmentandfurniture 8years
•Motorvehicles 5years
•Worksofart Notdepreciated
Land and works of art controlled by the University are classified as non-current assets. They are anticipated to have indeterminate useful lives
since their service potential is not, in any material sense, consumed. As such, no amount for depreciation is recognised.
Assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each reporting date.
Library collections
The total cost of the last three years’ acquisition of library books and journals is considered to represent an acceptable carrying value of the
library collection. In each year, that year’s cost of acquisition is added onto the carrying value, and the earliest year’s cost of acquisition within
the carrying value is written off as an acceptable estimate of the depreciation of the library collection for the current year.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
66
Curtin University of Technology
1 SuMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOuNTING POLICIES (CONTINuED)
(g) Impairment of property, plant and equipment
Where the recoverable amount of an asset is less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount is reduced to the recoverable amount. That
reduction is an impairment loss, which is recognised as an expense to the Income Statement. Recoverable amount is based on “value in use”
and is determined as the depreciated replacement cost of the asset.
(h) Intangible assets
An intangible asset shall be recognised if, and only if:
(a) it is probable that expected future economic benefits are attributable to the asset and will flow to the University; and
(b) the cost of the asset can be measured reliably.
(i) Leases
In accordance with AASB 117 “Leases”, leased assets classified as “finance leases” are recognised as assets. The amount initially brought to
account as an asset is the present value of minimum lease payments. An equivalent finance lease liability is brought to account at the same time.
Finance leased assets are amortised on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset.
Finance lease payments are allocated between interest expense and reduction of lease liability over the term of the lease. The interest expense
is determined by applying the interest rate implicit in the lease to the outstanding lease liability at the beginning of each lease payment period.
Operating lease payments are recognised as an expense in the Income Statement on a basis which reflects the pattern in which economic
benefits from the leased asset are consumed.
(j) Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and current replacement cost. Costs are assigned by the method most appropriate to each
particular class of inventory, with the majority being measured on a weighted average cost basis.
(k) Receivables
Current accounts receivable are recognised at nominal amounts receivable, as they are due for settlement no more than 30 days from the date
of recognition. Non-current accounts receivable are recognised at fair value.
Collectibility of receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be uncollectible are written off as bad debts. A provision
for impaired receivables is raised when there is objective evidence that the University may not be able to collect the debt.
(l) Investments
In accordance with AASB 139 “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement”, investments other than unlisted shares are classified
as available-for-sale and are measured at fair value. For available-for-sale investments, gains and losses arising from changes in fair value
are recognised directly in equity, until the security is disposed of or is determined to be impaired, at which time the cumulative gain or loss
previously recognised in equity is transferred to the Income Statement for the period.
Unlisted shares are stated at historical cost unless there has been a permanent diminution in value, in which event a recoverable amount write-
down is made.
Interest revenue and other investment income is recognised when earned.
(m) Payables
Payables, including accruals (expenses incurred but not yet billed), are recognised when the University becomes obliged to make future
payments as a result of a purchase of assets or services. Payables are generally settled within a 30-day term.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
67
Curtin University of Technology
1 SuMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOuNTING POLICIES (CONTINuED)
(n) Interest bearing liabilities
Bank loans and other interest bearing liabilities are recorded at an amount equal to the net proceeds received.
Borrowing costs for qualifying assets are capitalised net of any investment income earned on the unexpended portion of the borrowings. Other
borrowing costs are expensed when incurred.
(o) Employee benefits
Annual leave
This benefit is recognised at the reporting date in respect of employees’ service up to that date and is measured at nominal amounts expected
to be paid when the liabilities are settled, including anniversary increments and anticipated salary increases.
Long service leave
The liability for long service leave expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting date is recognised in the provision for employee
benefits as a current liability and is measured at the nominal amounts expected to be paid when the liability is settled.
The liability for long service leave expected to be settled more than 12 months from the reporting date is recognised in the provision for
employee benefits as a non-current liability and is measured at the present value of expected future payments to be made in respect of
services provided by employees up to the reporting date.
Superannuation
The University contributes to a number of superannuation schemes, including both defined contribution and defined benefit schemes.
Payments to defined contribution schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due. The University’s obligation is limited to these contributions.
Defined benefit schemes provide a defined lump sum benefit to scheme members based on years of service and final average salary. A defined
benefit liability is included in the Balance Sheet equal to the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the reporting date (less any past
service costs not yet recognised) less the fair value of scheme assets at the reporting date.
The cost of providing benefits is determined using the projected unit credit method, with actuarial valuations being carried out on an annual
basis. Actuarial gains and losses are recognised as an income or an expense in the period in which they occur. Where appropriate the
University has adopted the multi-employer provisions of AASB 119 “Employee Benefits” paragraph 30. This is currently relevant to the
UniSuper Defined Benefit scheme.
unfunded superannuation
An arrangement exists between the Commonwealth Government and the State Government to meet the unfunded liability for the University’s
beneficiaries of the State Superannuation Schemes on an emerging cost basis. The unfunded liabilities have been recognised in the Balance
Sheet under Provisions, with a corresponding asset recognised under Receivables. The recognition of both the asset and the liability
consequently does not affect the year-end net asset position of the University. The liability and equivalent receivable are measured actuarially
on an annual basis.
Accrued or prepaid salaries
Accrued salaries represent the amount due to staff but unpaid at the end of the financial period, as the end of the last pay period for that
financial year does not always coincide with the end of the financial period. The University considers that the nominal carrying amount
approximates net fair value.
If the payroll is paid on a date prior to the end of the financial year, the amount prepaid which overlaps the year end is treated as a current asset.
(p) Employee benefits on-costs
Annual leave and long service leave on-costs are not categorised as employee benefit costs but are recognised and disclosed separately in
accordance with AASB 119 “Employee Benefits”.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
68
Curtin University of Technology
1 SuMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOuNTING POLICIES (CONTINuED)
(q) Foreign currency
Transactions denominated in a foreign currency are translated at the rates in existence at the dates of the transactions. Foreign currency
monetary items, which include cash, receivables and payables, are translated at exchange rates current at the reporting date. Exchange gains
and losses are brought to account in the Income Statement.
The University enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to manage its exposure to foreign exchange risk to material transactions
denominated in foreign currency. Hedges of foreign exchange risk on highly probable or firm commitments are recognised as cash
flow hedges. The University reviews the effectiveness of the hedging instrument in offsetting the changes in the cash flows of the
hedged transaction, with the effective portion being recognised directly in Equity. The gain or loss on any ineffective portion is recognised
immediately in the Income Statement and amounts recognised in Equity are transferred to the Income Statement in the period(s) that
the hedged transaction is recognised. Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedge instrument expires, is terminated, exercised,
or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. At this point, the cumulative gain or loss recognised in Equity is immediately recognised in
the Income Statement.
(r) Reserves
Reserves are created for funds that are retained and set aside for expenditure on specified items in future periods.
(s) Taxes
Income tax
Curtin University of Technology is exempt from income tax as per Subdivision 50-B of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.
Goods and services tax (GST)
Revenue, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST except:
• wheretheGSTincurredonapurchaseofgoodsandservicesisnotrecoverablefromthetaxationauthority,thentheGSTisrecognisedas
part of the cost of acquisition or as part of the expense item as applicable; and
• receivablesandpayablesarestatedwiththeamountofGSTincluded.
The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included as part of receivables or payables in the Balance Sheet.
Cash flows are included in the Cash Flow Statement on a gross basis and the GST component of cash flows arising from investing and
financing activities, which is recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority are classified as operating cash flows.
Fringe benefits tax
The University is liable to pay Fringe benefits tax, and it is included in “Other Expenses” in the Income Statement.
Payroll tax
The University is liable to pay Payroll tax, and it is included in “Other Expenses” in the Income Statement.
(t) Other expenses
Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs expense is recognised on an accrual basis.
Borrowing costs for qualifying assets are capitalised net of any investment income earned on the unexpended portion of the borrowings.
Other borrowing costs are expensed when incurred.
Repairs and maintenance
All repairs and maintenance expenditure is charged to the Income Statement during the financial period in which it is incurred.
Research and development
Research and development costs are expensed to the Income Statement as incurred.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
69
Curtin University of Technology
1 SuMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOuNTING POLICIES (CONTINuED)
(u) Comparative figures
Comparative figures are, where appropriate, reclassified so as to be comparable with the figures presented in the current financial year.
The comparative figures for Disaggregated Information (Note 3), Royalties, Trademarks and Licences (Note 8), Other Revenue (Note 10) and
Reserves and Retained Surplus (Note 29) have been adjusted to reflect a number of reclassifications to provide more meaningful information.
The comparative figures for Financial Instruments (Note 30) have been reclassified to reflect changes in Interest Rate Risk and Price Risk
Sensitivity. Interest Rate Risk Sensitivity has been increased to +/-200 basis points (2007: +/-100 basis points) and Price Rate Risk Sensitivity
has been increased to +/-15% (2007: +/-5%) to reflect the level of uncertainty and historical change currently being experienced in the market.
(v) Externally operated campuses
The University provides its educational services through a number of campuses and other locations. The three campuses outside of Western
Australia are managed and operated by third parties through contractual arrangements with the University. The University has no ownership or
financial interest in these third party companies other than by way of the contractual arrangements.
Operator Campus
Colleges of Business and Technology (NSW) Pty Ltd Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
(a 100% subsidiary of Navitas Limited)
Curtin (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Navitas Singapore Pte Ltd Singapore
(a 100% subsidiary of Navitas Limited)
The University accounts for its revenues from these campuses (which mainly comprise service fees and royalties) in accordance with its
accounting policy for revenue recognition (refer note 1(d)).
2 CRITICAL ACCOuNTING ESTIMATES AND JuDGEMENTS
Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events
that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
(a) Critical accounting estimates and assumptions
The key assumptions made concerning the future, and other key sources of estimating uncertainty at the reporting date that have a significant
risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are:
• Provisionforimpairmentofreceivables–(refernotes1(k)and19)
• Superannuationbenefitsandassociatedassets/liabilities(refernote1(o))
• Discountratesusedinestimatingnon-currentprovisions–discountratesarebasedonmarketyieldsongovernmentbonds
• Estimatingusefullifeofkeyassets–theusefullifereflectstheconsumptionofthekeyassets’futureeconomicbenefits(refernote1(f)).
(b) Critical judgements in applying the University’s accounting policies
The judgements that have been made in the process of applying accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts
recognised in the financial report include:
• Estimatingtheusefullifeofkeyassets
• Impairmentofproperty,plantandequipment
• Impairmentofreceivables
• Impairmentofotherfinancialassets(includinginvestments).
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
70
Curtin University of Technology
3 DISAGGREGATED INFORMATION
(a) Industry – Dual Sector Providers
2008 2007
Higher Education VET1 Total
UniversityHigher
Education VET Total University
Income Statement $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Revenue from continuing operations
Australian Government financial assistance
Australian Government grants 215,247 200 215,447 187,974 286 188,260
HECS-HELP – Australian Government payments 68,590 – 68,590 63,887 – 63,887
FEE-HELP 12,926 – 12,926 12,686 – 12,686
State and Local Government financial assistance 15,343 11,032 26,375 9,941 11,982 21,923
HECS-HELP – Student payments 21,050 – 21,050 19,363 – 19,363
Fees and charges 170,160 1,022 171,182 151,184 927 152,111
Investment income 23,143 133 23,276 22,353 148 22,501
Royalties, trademarks and licences 27,458 – 27,458 21,240 – 21,240
Consultancy and contracts 35,037 4 35,041 26,729 – 26,729
Other revenue 36,795 2,831 39,626 34,898 2,877 37,775
625,749 15,222 640,971 550,255 16,220 566,475
Deferred Government superannuation contributions 9,206 – 9,206 (4,166) – (4,166)
Total revenue from continuing operations 634,955 15,222 650,177 546,089 16,220 562,309
Expenses from continuing operations
Employee benefits 307,893 7,607 315,500 266,782 7,530 274,312
Depreciation and amortisation 23,740 1,133 24,873 22,540 1,185 23,725
Repairs and maintenance 12,655 780 13,435 11,804 391 12,195
Finance costs 1,489 276 1,765 1,538 275 1,813
Impairment of assets 21,011 – 21,011 (8) – (8)
Losses on disposal of non-current assets 1,796 219 2,015 14 7 21
Other expenses 201,845 4,774 206,619 173,298 5,385 178,683
570,429 14,789 585,218 475,968 14,773 490,741
Deferred employee benefits for superannuation 9,206 – 9,206 (4,166) – (4,166)
Total expenses from continuing operations 579,635 14,789 594,424 471,802 14,773 486,575
Net operating result for the year 55,320 433 55,753 74,287 1,447 75,734
1 Vocational Education and Training
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
71
Curtin University of Technology
3 DISAGGREGATED INFORMATION (CONTINuED)
(a) Industry – Dual Sector Providers (continued)
2008 2007
Higher Education VET1 Total
UniversityHigher
Education VET Total University
Balance Sheet $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents 132,508 (2,533) 129,975 112,899 (2,789) 110,110
Trade and other receivables 24,800 821 25,621 24,783 870 25,653
Inventories 1,029 – 1,029 1,061 – 1,061
Other financial assets:
Unrestricted 38 – 38 561 – 561
Restricted 65,010 259 65,269 53,133 16 53,149
Other non financial assets 20,317 – 20,317 13,949 – 13,949
Total Current Assets 243,702 (1,453) 242,249 206,386 (1,903) 204,483
Non-Current Assets
Trade and other receivables 72,266 540 72,806 63,843 540 64,383
Other financial assets (unrestricted) 35,903 – 35,903 72,569 – 72,569
Property, plant and equipment 614,803 32,571 647,374 531,692 33,727 565,419
Total Non-Current Assets 722,972 33,111 756,082 668,104 34,267 702,371
Total Assets 966,674 31,658 998,332 874,490 32,364 906,854
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Trade and other payables 6,149 43 6,192 5,924 252 6,176
Borrowings 694 495 1,189 132 495 627
Provisions 54,149 439 54,588 49,926 383 50,309
Other liabilities 53,223 381 53,604 47,480 722 48,202
Total Current Liabilities 114,215 1,358 115,573 103,462 1,852 105,314
Non-Current Liabilities
Borrowings 48,678 3,220 51,898 29,944 3,880 33,824
Provisions 88,811 612 89,423 78,030 597 78,627
Total Non-Current Liabilities 137,489 3,832 141,321 107,974 4,477 112,451
Total Liabilities 251,704 5,190 256,894 211,436 6,329 217,765
Net Assets 714,970 26,468 741,438 663,054 26,035 689,089
EQUITY
Reserves 36,430 – 36,430 31,545 – 31,545
Retained surplus 678,540 26,468 705,008 631,509 26,035 657,544
Total Equity 714,970 26,468 741,438 663,054 26,035 689,089
1 Vocational Education and Training
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
72
Curtin University of Technology
3 DISAGGREGATED INFORMATION (CONTINuED)
(a) Industry – Dual Sector Providers (continued)
Higher Education VET University
Other reserves
Retained earnings
Total Equity
Other reserves
Retained earnings
Total Equity
Total Equity
Statement of Changes in Equity $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
At 1 January 2007 36,566 561,324 597,890 – 24,588 24,588 622,478
Unrealised investment gain/(loss) for the year (8,857) – (8,857) – – – (8,857)
Realised investment (gain)/loss (295) – (295) – – – (295)
Unrealised hedging gain/(loss) 29 – 29 – – – 29
Operating result for the year – 74,287 74,287 – 1,447 1,447 75,734
Transferred from retained earnings 15,486 (15,486) – – – – –
Transferred to retained earnings (11,384) 11,384 – – – – –
At 31 December 2007 31,545 631,509 663,054 – 26,035 26,035 689,089
Unrealised investment gain/(loss) for the year (27,189) – (27,189) – – – (27,189)
Realised investment (gain)/loss 23,814 – 23,814 – – – 820
Realised hedging (gain)/loss (29) – (29) – – – (29)
Operating result for the year – 55,320 55,320 – 433 433 78,747
Transferred from retained earnings 20,112 (20,112) – – – – –
Transferred to retained earnings (11,823) 11,823 – – – – –
At 31 December 2008 36,430 678,540 714,970 – 26,468 26,468 741,438
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
73
Curtin University of Technology
3 DISAGGREGATED INFORMATION (CONTINuED)
(a) Industry – Dual Sector Providers (continued)
2008 2007
Higher Education
VET Total University
Higher Education
VET Total University
Cash Flow Statement $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts
Australian Government Grants received 298,830 200 299,030 265,242 286 265,528
HECS-HELP – Student payments 21,050 – 21,050 19,363 – 19,363
Fees and charges 173,065 1,022 174,087 155,170 (405) 154,765
Royalties, trademarks and licences 28,074 – 28,074 20,721 – 20,721
Consultancy and contracts 34,560 4 34,564 28,657 – 28,657
Interest received 12,504 133 12,637 10,227 146 10,373
Dividends received 392 – 392 111 – 111
Distributions received 8,186 – 8,186 12,017 – 12,017
Other 38,456 2,880 41,336 34,739 2,834 37,573
Payments
Payments for employee benefits (304,401) (7,541) (311,942) (264,521) (8,157) (272,678)
Payments to suppliers (214,201) (6,343) (220,544) (186,892) (5,430) (192,322)
Interest and other costs of finance paid (1,488) (276) (1,764) (1,538) (275) (1,813)
Net cash provided by operating activities 95,027 (9,921) 85,106 93,296 (11,001) 82,295
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Payments for property, plant and equipment (107,423) (195) (107,618) (64,834) (122) (64,956)
Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment 216 – 216 231 23 254
Payments for investments (2,690) – (2,690) (14,735) – (14,735)
Proceeds on redemption of investments 1,596 – 1,596 – – –
Net cash used in investing activities (108,301) (195) (108,496) (79,338) (99) (79,437)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Repayment of borrowings (392) (660) (1,052) (212) (615) (827)
Proceeds from borrowings 18,248 – 18,248 9,517 – 9,517
Cash used in financing activities 17,856 (660) 17,196 9,305 (615) 8,690
CASH FLOWS FROM STATE GOVERNMENT
Financial assistance 15,027 11,032 26,059 9,941 11,982 21,923
Cash provided by State Government 15,027 11,032 26,059 9,941 11,982 21,923
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents held 19,609 256 19,865 33,204 267 33,471
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 112,899 (2,789) 110,110 79,695 (3,056) 76,639
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 132,508 (2,533) 129,975 112,899 (2,789) 110,110
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
74
Curtin University of Technology
3 DISAGGREGATED INFORMATION (CONTINuED)
(b) Geographical
Geographical
Revenue Operating Result Assets
2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007
$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Australia 629,967 542,393 50,730 70,261 992,395 900,208
Asia 18,318 18,045 4,208 4,635 5,122 5,808
Other 1,892 1,871 815 838 815 838
650,177 562,309 55,753 75,734 998,332 906,854
Revenue4 AuSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE INCLuDING HECS-HELP AND FEE-HELP
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
(a) Commonwealth Grants Scheme and Other Grants 43(a)
Commonwealth Grants Scheme 128,175 119,977
Indigenous Support Fund 2,478 2,133
Workplace Reform Program 1,573 1,581
Workplace Productivity Program – 2,813
Disability Support Program 9 154
Superannuation Program 5,991 6,424
Capital Development Pool 5,202 –
Equity Programs 270 241
Learning&TeachingPerformanceFund 500 500
Collaboration&StructuralReformProgram 249 –
Improving the Practical Component of Teacher Education Initiative 308 –
Transitional Cost Program 1,865 –
Total Commonwealth Grants Scheme & Other Grants 146,620 133,823
(b) Higher Education Loan Programs 43(b)
HECS-HELP 68,590 63,887
FEE-HELP 12,926 12,686
Total Higher Education Loan Programs 81,516 76,573
(c) Scholarships 43(c)
Australian Postgraduate Awards 2,405 2,347
Indigenous Staff Scholarships 12 21
Indigenous Access Scholarships 174 –
International Postgraduate Research Scholarships 457 455
Commonwealth Education Costs Scholarships 1,451 1,158
Commonwealth Accommodation Scholarships 2,178 1,665
Total Scholarships 6,677 5,646
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
75
Curtin University of Technology
4 AuSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE INCLuDING HECS-HELP AND FEE-HELP (CONTINuED)
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
(d) DIISR – Research 43(d)
Institutional Grants Scheme 6,438 6,178
Research Training Scheme 13,291 12,919
Research Infrastructure Block Grants 2,366 2,109
Commercialisation Training Scheme 127 128
Implementation Assistance Program 124 61
Australian Scheme for Higher Education Repositories 221 118
Total DIISR – Research Grants 22,567 21,513
(e) Australian Research Council
(i) Discovery 43(e)(i)
Project 4,054 3,866
Fellowships 356 –
Total Discovery 4,410 3,866
(ii) Linkages 43(e)(ii)
Infrastructure 160 500
International 35 217
Projects 2,248 1,936
Total Linkages 2,443 2,653
(f) Other Australian Government financial assistance
Other (includes Cooperative Research Centre funding) 32,730 20,759
Total Australian Government Financial Assistance 296,963 264,833
Reconciliation
Australian Government grants [a+c+d+e+f] 215,447 188,260
HECS-HELP – Australian Government payments 68,590 63,887
Other Australian Government loan programs (FEE-HELP) 12,926 12,686
Total Australian Government Financial Assistance 296,963 264,833
(g) Australian Government Grants received – cash basis
CGS and Other DEEWR Grants 43 (a) 146,942 133,371
Higher Education Loan Programs 43 (b) 83,130 75,680
Scholarships 43 (c) 7,818 6,598
DIISR Research 43 (d) 22,567 21,513
ARC grants – Discovery 43 (e)(i) 4,111 3,852
ARC grants – Linkages 43 (e)(ii) 2,072 2,547
Other Government Grants 32,194 21,671
Total Australian Government Grants received – cash basis 298,834 265,232
OS-Help (Net) 196 296
Total Australian Government funding received – cash basis 299,030 265,528
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
76
Curtin University of Technology
5 STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
WA State Department of Education and Training 10,269 11,444
WA State Government – other 16,106 10,466
WA Local Government – 13
Total State and Local Government Financial Assistance 26,375 21,923
6 FEES AND CHARGES
Course Fees and Charges
Fee-paying overseas students 136,189 121,746
Continuing education 7,222 6,227
Fee-paying domestic postgraduate students 10,128 9,463
Fee-paying domestic undergraduate students 465 387
Total Course Fees and Charges 154,004 137,823
Other Non-Course Fees and Charges
Amenities and service fees – (1)
Examination fees 2,406 1,955
Late fees 332 355
Library fines 151 161
Parking fees 2,125 1,755
Registration fees 636 582
Incidental fees 482 446
Ancillary fees 411 479
Student accommodation 7,330 6,692
Other fees and charges 3,305 1,864
Total Other Non-Course Fees and Charges 17,178 14,288
Total Fees and Charges 171,182 152,111
7 INVESTMENT REVENuE
Dividends from investment shares 392 111
Distributions from managed funds 8,186 12,017
Realised gain on sale of other financial assets 1,586 295
Interest received 13,112 10,078
Total Investment Revenue 23,276 22,501
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
77
Curtin University of Technology
8 ROYALTIES, TRADEMARkS AND LICENCES
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
Royalties 27,458 21,240
Total Royalties, Trademarks and Licences 27,458 21,240
9 CONSuLTANCY AND CONTRACTS
Research
Consultancy 10,497 8,147
Contract research 24,544 18,582
Total Consultancy and Contracts 35,041 26,729
10 OTHER REVENuE
Trading income¹ 14,844 15,298
Donations 2,260 2,517
Rental income 2,473 2,349
Sundry income from Australian businesses 5,956 4,706
Sundry income from Australian non-profit organisations 7,038 7,181
Sundry income from overseas sources 1,702 1,261
Insurance claims 298 43
Staff salary recoveries 1,382 1,314
Proceeds from sale of minor equipment 115 147
Conference income 818 686
Exchange rate gains 664 –
Other 2,076 2,273
Total Other Revenue 39,626 37,775
¹ Revenue from sale of goods included under trading income
Sales 8,534 8,226
Cost of sales:
Opening inventory 600 552
Purchases 6,273 6,111
6,873 6,663
Closing inventory (576) (600)
Cost of Goods Sold 6,297 6,063
Gross margin before selling and administrative expenses 2,237 2,163
Inventory purchases are included under “Other Expenses – Inventory used and sold” (See note 17).
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
78
Curtin University of Technology
expenses
11 EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
(a) Employee Benefits
Academic
Salaries 134,312 115,071
Contribution to funded superannuation and pension schemes 23,698 22,404
Long service leave 3,560 2,915
Annual leave 8,936 8,270
Total Academic 170,506 148,660
Non-academic
Salaries 114,036 99,180
Contribution to funded superannuation and pension schemes 19,427 16,340
Long service leave 3,361 2,734
Annual leave 8,170 7,398
Total Non-academic 144,994 125,652
Total Academic and Non-academic Employee Benefits 315,500 274,312
(b) Unfunded Superannuation
Deferred employee benefits for unfunded superannuation schemes 9,206 (4,166)
12 DEPRECIATION AND AMORTISATION
Buildings 14,765 13,931
Leasehold land and improvements 47 48
Computing equipment 1,358 1,864
Other equipment and furniture 4,792 4,300
Motor vehicles 257 285
Library collections 3,654 3,297
Total Depreciation Expense 24,873 23,725
13 REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE
Property 3,754 5,113
Minor new works 9,022 6,380
Grounds maintenance 659 702
Total Repairs and Maintenance 13,435 12,195
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
79
Curtin University of Technology
14 FINANCE COSTS
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
Interest on borrowings 2,991 2,028
Less: Amount capitalised (1,226) (215)
Total Finance Costs 1,765 1,813
15 IMPAIRMENT OF ASSETS
Bad debts written off 276 1,529
Movement in provision for impaired receivables (3,079) (1,537)
Impairment of other financial assets 23,814 –
Total Impairment of Assets 21,011 (8)
16 NET LOSS ON DISPOSAL OF NON-CuRRENT ASSETS
Carrying amount for disposal of non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment 2,231 275
Proceeds from disposal of non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment (216) (254)
Net Loss on Disposal of Non-Current Assets 2,015 21
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
80
Curtin University of Technology
17 OTHER ExPENSES
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
Advertising, marketing and promotional 6,888 5,387
Amenities and service 726 778
Books 2,365 2,251
Computer peripherals and parts 14,298 15,194
Consumables 8,276 11,672
Contract work 42,839 34,939
Exchange rate losses – 28
Fees and commissions 8,914 7,040
Financial assistance provided/research support 8,019 4,001
Graduations 1,071 1,149
Hospitality 3,234 2,036
Insurance 1,217 1,496
Inventory used and sold 7,220 8,142
Lease and rental 4,170 3,765
Non-capitalised equipment 6,805 4,936
Occupational health safety and welfare 219 323
Offshore partner fee share 5,253 5,091
Payroll tax 16,679 14,621
Postage and courier 1,806 1,374
Publications 847 777
Scholarships, grants and prizes 25,913 19,285
Security 376 270
Staff development and training 4,149 3,436
Staff recruitment 1,357 745
Subscriptions 3,728 3,635
Telecommunications 2,399 2,288
Travel 15,678 13,446
Utilities and cleaning 10,552 9,477
Workers’ compensation 1,178 664
Other 443 437
Total Other Expenses 206,619 178,683
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
81
Curtin University of Technology
Assets
18 CASH AND CASH EquIVALENTS (uNRESTRICTED)
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
Cash at bank and on hand1 44,966 19,934
Deposits2
– At call – 176
– Fixed term 85,009 90,000
Total Cash and Cash Equivalents (unrestricted) 129,975 110,110
1 Cash at bank and on hand Cash on hand is non-interest bearing and cash at bank is subject to variable interest rates (refer to note 30).
2 Deposits Deposits are interest bearing at variable interest rates (refer to note 30).
19 TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES
Current
Student receivables 5,505 3,613
Less: Provision for impaired receivables (250) (250)
5,255 3,363
General receivables 18,108 23,894
Less: Provision for impaired receivables (978) (4,057)
17,130 19,837
Deferred Government contribution for unfunded superannuation 3,236 2,453
Total Current 25,621 25,653
Non-Current
Deferred Government contribution for unfunded superannuation 72,806 64,383
Total Receivables 98,427 90,036
Impaired receivables
The creation and release of the provision for impaired receivables has been included in “Impairment of Assets” in the Income Statement. Amounts charged to the provision account are generally written off when there is no expectation of recovering additional amounts. The other amounts within receivables do not contain impaired assets and are not past due date. Based on historical trends, it is expected that these amounts will be received when due.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
82
Curtin University of Technology
19 TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES (CONTINuED)
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
As at 31 December 2008 current receivables for student fees with a nominal value of $0.250 million (2007: $0.250 million) were impaired. The amount of the provision was $0.250 million (2007: $0.250 million).
The ageing of these receivables is as follows:
Less than 12 months 42 42
Greater than 12 months 208 208
250 250
As at 31 December 2008, current receivables for student fees of $2.324 million (2007: $2.092million) were past due date but not impaired. The ageing analysis of these receivables is as follows:
Less than 12 months 2,281 1,971
Greater than 12 months 43 121
2,324 2,092
As at 31 December 2008 current general receivables with a nominal value of $0.978 million (2007: $4.057 million) were impaired.
The ageing of these receivables is as follows:
Less than 12 months 399 865
Greater than 12 months 579 3,192
978 4,057
As of 31 December 2008, current general receivables of $6.783 million (2007: $10.667 million) were past due date but not impaired. The ageing analysis of these receivables is as follows:
Less than 12 months 6,047 10,667
Greater than 12 months 736 –
6,783 10,667
Movements in the provision for impaired student fees receivables are as follows:
Balance at start of year 250 2,034
Provision for impairment recognised during the year 231 42
Receivables written off during the year as uncollectable (196) (840)
Unused amount reversed (35) (986)
Balance at end of year 250 250
Movements in the provision for impaired general receivables are as follows:
Balance at start of year 4,057 4,269
Provision for impairment recognised during the year 567 936
Receivables written off during the year as uncollectable (80) (689)
Foreign exchange (gains)/losses – (459)
Unused amount reversed (3,566) –
Balance at end of year 978 4,057
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
83
Curtin University of Technology
20 INVENTORIES
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
Inventories held for resale:
Merchandise (at cost) 726 694
Inventories not held for resale:
General stores (at cost) 114 118
Farming stores (at current replacement cost) 189 249
Total inventories not held for resale 303 367
Total Inventories 1,029 1,061
21 OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS – uNRESTRICTED
Current
Interest bearing loans advanced
– Sundry loans 38 27
Foreign currency forward contract – 534
38 561
Non-Current
Available-for-Sale
– Funds under management (at fair value) 31,330 69,898
unlisted shares and warrants (at cost) 4,328 2,389
Interest bearing loans advanced
Sundry loans 245 282
Total Non-Current Other Financial Assets 35,903 72,569
Total Other Financial Assets – unrestricted 35,941 73,130
All available-for-sale financial assets are denominated in Australian currency. For an analysis of the credit risk and sensitivity of available for sale financial assets to price and interest rate risk, refer to note 30.
22 OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS – RESTRICTED
Current Available-for-Sale
Restricted funds under management
– Research activities 41,723 33,637
– Donations and prizes 16,980 15,793
– Trusts 6,566 3,719
Total Restricted Funds under Management (at fair value) 65,269 53,149
Total Restricted Other Financial Assets 65,269 53,149
Restricted funds are invested as managed funds.
All available-for-sale financial assets are denominated in Australian currency. For an analysis of the credit risk and sensitivity of available for sale financial assets to price and interest rate risk, refer to note 30.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
84
Curtin University of Technology
23 OTHER NON-FINANCIAL ASSETS
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
Current
Prepayments 11,787 9,025
Accrued income 8,530 4,924
Total Other Non-Financial Assets 20,317 13,949
24 PROPERTY, PLANT AND EquIPMENT
Land¹
At cost 83,272 83,437
Buildings
At cost 463,415 438,834
Accumulated depreciation (87,203) (72,795)
376,212 366,039
Leasehold land and improvements
At cost 4,654 4,655
Accumulated depreciation (800) (754)
3,854 3,901
Work in progress
Capital projects (at cost) 133,055 66,712
Computing equipment
At cost 12,732 18,990
Accumulated depreciation and impairment (10,096) (17,130)
2,636 1,860
Other equipment and furniture
At cost 61,455 60,963
Accumulated depreciation and impairment (38,850) (40,999)
22,605 19,964
Motor vehicles
At cost 2,003 2,225
Accumulated depreciation and impairment (1,312) (1,456)
691 769
Library collections
At cost 17,542 15,807
Accumulated depreciation (3,654) (3,297)
13,888 12,510
Works of art
At cost 11,161 10,227
Total Property, Plant and Equipment 647,374 565,419
¹ Parts of the sites upon which the University is located, in particular the Bentley and Northam campuses, are vested in the University by the WA State Government for purposes consistent with the Curtin University of Technology Act 1966.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
85
Curtin University of Technology
24
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Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
86
Curtin University of Technology
LiAbiLities
25 TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
CurrentTrade payables 6,192 6,176
26 BORROWINGS
CurrentTreasury loans 1,189 627
Non-CurrentTreasury loans 51,898 33,824
Total Borrowings 53,087 34,451
Treasury LoansThe University has the following loans with the WA Treasury Corporation:
Treasury Loans
Principal outstandingAverage Interest
rateMaturity date2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Capital works – quarterly principal and variable rate interest repayments 273 310 6.01% 15.10.2017
Muresk campus housing
– fixed rate interest only quarterly repayments with the loan principal to be repaid at date of maturity
2,050 2,050 6.50% 15.07.2018
Bentley campus housing
– fixed rate interest only quarterly repayments with the loan principal to be repaid at date of maturity
16,800 16,800 7.05% 15.01.2018
– quarterly principal and variable rate interest repayments 1,044 1,184 6.01% 15.10.2017
Goldfields Arts Centre
– quarterly principal and variable rate interest repayments 3,715 4,375 6.02% 15.10.2014
Chemistry Centre of WA building
– fixed rate interest and principal repayment at maturity1 29,205 9,732 4.80% 01.07.2009
Total Treasury Loans 53,087 34,451
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Financing facilities availableAt reporting date, the following financing facilities had been negotiated and were available:
Total facilities: – Treasury Loans¹ 113,282 114,119
Facilities used at reporting date: – Treasury Loans 53,087 34,451
Facilities unused at reporting date: – Treasury Loans 60,195 79,668
¹ The financing facilities include an amount for construction of the University’s Resources and Chemistry Research and Education Precinct which includes the Chemistry Centre of WA building. At reporting date, $29.205 million had been drawn down (2007: $9.732 million) from the $89.400 million facility.
The loan comprises several draw downs at fixed interest rates which together mature in July 2009. The University has an agreement to refinance the loan into a 20-year loan at a fixed rate which has yet to be determined.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
87
Curtin University of Technology
27 PROVISIONS
2008 2007
Note $’000 $’000
CurrentEmployee benefits provisionsAnnual leave1 24,132 22,117Long service leave2 22,744 21,788Superannuation: Deferred employee benefits for unfunded Superannuation 36(b) 3,236 2,453 Other University pension liabilities 36(a) 89 102
Total Employee Benefits Provisions 50,201 46,460
Other provisions Employment on-costs 2,813 2,634Redundancy costs 1,574 1,215
Total Other Provisions 4,387 3,849
Total Current Provisions 54,588 50,309
Non-CurrentEmployee benefits provisionsLong service leave 13,546 12,813Superannuation: Deferred employee benefits for unfunded Superannuation 36(b) 72,806 64,383 Other University pension liabilities 36(a) 700 721
Total Employee Benefits Provisions 87,052 77,917
Other provisions Employment on-costs 813 710Sarawak research fund provision 1,558 –
Total Non-Current Provisions 89,423 78,627
Total Provisions 144,011 128,936
Movements in Other Provisions Movements in each class of provision during the financial year, other than employee benefits, are set out below:
Employment on-costs provisionBalance at beginning of year 3,344 3,293Addition/(reduction) in provisions recognised 1,470 937Reduction arising from payments (1,188) (886)
Balance at end of year 3,626 3,344
Redundancy costs provisionBalance at beginning of year 1,215 1,924Addition/(reduction) in provisions recognised 984 650Reduction arising from payments (625) (1,359)
Balance at end of year 1,574 1,215
Sarawak research fund provisionBalance at beginning of year – – Addition/(reduction) in provisions recognised 1,558 – Reduction arising from payments – –
Balance at end of year 1,558 – The University has agreed to contribute a proportion of its royalties receivable from the Curtin Sarawak campus to a research fund for that campus.1 Annual leave (including employment on-costs) Annual leave liabilities (including employment on-costs) have been classified as current as there is no unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 12 months after balance sheet date. Actual settlement of the current liabilities is expected to occur as follows:
Within 12 months of balance sheet date 16,309 12,991 More than 12 months after balance sheet date 9,271 10,453
25,580 23,4442 Long service leave (including employment on-costs) Long service leave liabilities have been classified as current where there is no unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 12 months after balance sheet date. Actual settlement of the current liabilities is expected to occur as follows:
Within 12 months of balance sheet date 5,179 5,111 More than 12 months after balance sheet date 18,930 17,984
24,109 23,095
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
88
Curtin University of Technology
28 OTHER LIABILITIES
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Current
Income received in advance 31,250 24,240
Accrued expenses 15,788 15,175
Foreign currency forward contract – 505
Monies held in trust 6,566 8,282
Total Other Liabilities 53,604 48,202
equity29 RESERVES AND RETAINED SuRPLuS
Reserves
Bookshop future development 29(a) 1,029 826
General 29(b) – –
Investments revaluation reserve 29(c) (6,322) (2,947)
Hedging reserve 29(d) – 29
Research grants reserve 29(e) 41,723 33,637
Total Reserves 36,430 31,545
Retained surplus 29(f) 705,008 657,544
(a) Bookshop future development
The Bookshop Future Development Reserve is used to fund special projects or other capital spending undertaken by the Bookshop.
Movement in reserveBalance at beginning of year 826 676Transfer to reserve 203 150
Balance at end of year 1,029 826
(b) General
The General Reserve represents funding set aside for the ongoing development of University infrastructure and special initiatives.
Movement in reserveBalance at beginning of year – 230 Transfer from reserve – (230)
Balance at end of year – –
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
89
Curtin University of Technology
29 RESERVES AND RETAINED SuRPLuS (CONTINuED)
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
(c) Investments revaluation reserve
The investments revaluation reserve arises on the revaluation of available-for-sale financial assets. Where a revalued financial asset is sold that portion of the reserve which relates to that financial asset, and is effectively realised, is recognised in the Income Statement. Where a revalued financial asset is impaired, the portion of the reserve which relates to that financial asset is transferred to the Income Statement.
Movement in reserve
Balance at beginning of year (2,947) 6,205
Unrealised valuation gain/(loss) recognised (27,189) (8,857)
Cumulative (gain)/loss on sale of financial assets – (295)
Cumulative (gain)/loss on impairment of financial assets 23,814 –
Balance at end of year (6,322) (2,947)
(d) Hedging reserve
The hedging reserve represents hedging gains and losses recognised on the effective portion of foreign currency cash flow hedges. The cumulative deferred gain or loss on the hedge is recognised in the Income Statement when the hedged transaction is considered to be ineffective or when the hedge is settled.
Balance at beginning of year 29 –
(Gain)/loss recognised on settled forward exchange contracts (29) –
Unrealised gain/(loss) on unsettled forward exchange contracts – 29
Balance at end of year – 29
(e) Research grants reserve
Non-reciprocal research grants are required by Accounting Standards to be recognised as income when received. This reserve is provided for the balance of unspent research grants at the end of each financial year.
Balance at beginning of year 33,637 29,455
Transfer to reserve 19,909 15,336
Transfers from reserves (11,823) (11,154)
Balance at end of year 41,723 33,637
(f) Retained surplus
Balance at beginning of year 657,544 585,912 Net operating result 55,753 75,734
Transfers to reserves (20,112) (15,486)
Transfers from reserves 11,823 11,384
Balance at end of year 705,008 657,544
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
90
Curtin University of Technology
30
F
INA
NC
IAL
IN
ST
Ru
ME
NT
S
Fixe
d In
tere
st R
ate
Mat
urity
Tota
l
Fore
ign
Exch
ange
Ris
k Se
nsiti
vity2
Inte
rest
Rat
e Ri
sk S
ensi
tivity
Pric
e Ri
sk S
ensi
tivity
3
Cred
it Ri
skCa
rryin
g Am
ount
Fair
Valu
e4W
eigh
ted
Aver
age
Effe
ctive
In
tere
st
Rate
%
Non‑
inte
rest
be
arin
g
Varia
ble
inte
rest
ra
te
Less
th
an
1 ye
ar
Mor
e th
an
5 ye
ars
‑10%
+10
%‑2
00bp
s+
200b
ps‑1
5%+
15%
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0
2008
Fin
anci
al A
sset
s
Cash
and
cas
h eq
uiva
lent
s5.
11%
45
44,
921
85,
009
129
,975
1
75
–
(143
) –
(2
37)
–
237
–
1
29,9
75
Rece
ivabl
es 9
8,42
7 9
8,42
7 9
8,42
7 9
8,42
7
Accr
ued
inco
me
8,5
30
8,5
30
8,5
30
Unre
stric
ted
inve
stm
ents
:
– U
nlis
ted
secu
ritie
s 2
,461
2
,461
2
,461
– In
tere
st‑b
earin
g lo
ans
adva
nced
6.01
% 2
83
283
2
83
– P
re‑s
eed
fund
s 1
,867
1
,867
1
,867
– F
unds
und
er m
anag
emen
t 1,5
0.43
% 2
3,42
6 7
,904
3
1,33
0 (2
4) –
24
–
–
(4,0
62)
–
4,0
62
7,9
04
31,
330
Rest
ricte
d ot
her f
inan
cial
ass
ets5
65,
269
65,
269
–
(9,2
42)
–
9,2
42
65,
269
Tota
l Fin
anci
al A
sset
s 2
00,0
25
53,
108
85,
009
–
338,
142
175
–
(1
43)
–
(261
) –
2
61
–
–
(13,
304)
–
13,3
04 1
06,3
31
338,
142
Fin
anci
al L
iab
ilitie
s
Paya
bles
6,19
26,
192
6,19
2
Borro
win
gs5.
69%
5,03
248
,055
53,0
87(7
) –
7
–
53,0
87
Empl
oyee
ben
efits
142,
453
142,
453
142,
453
Sara
wak
rese
arch
fund
1,55
81,
558
1,55
8
Fore
ign
curre
ncy
hedg
e pa
yabl
e–
–
–
Othe
r lia
bilit
ies
53,6
0453
,604
53,6
04
Tota
l Fin
anci
al L
iab
ilitie
s20
3,80
75,
032
–
48,0
5525
6,89
4 –
–
–
–
(7
) –
7
–
–
–
–
–
–
256,
894
1 Fu
nds
unde
r m
anag
emen
t m
ainl
y co
mpr
ises
inve
stm
ents
in u
nit
base
d fu
nds.
Cre
dit
risk
expo
sure
rel
ates
onl
y to
fund
s un
der
man
agem
ent
not
in u
nit
base
d fu
nds.
2 A
pos
itive
num
ber
indi
cate
s an
incr
ease
in o
pera
ting
surp
lus
and
equi
ty w
here
the
Aus
tral
ian
dolla
r w
eake
ns a
gain
st t
he fo
reig
n cu
rren
cy.
3 O
pera
ting
resu
lt w
ould
not
be
affe
cted
as
the
equi
ty in
vest
men
ts a
re c
lass
ified
as
avai
labl
e-fo
r-sa
le a
nd it
is a
ssum
ed t
hat
inve
stm
ents
are
not
ass
esse
d as
impa
ired.
4 Th
e fa
ir va
lue
of fi
nanc
ial a
sset
s an
d fin
anci
al li
abilit
ies
are
dete
rmin
ed b
ased
on
eith
er q
uote
d m
arke
t pr
ices
at
bala
nce
date
or
cost
.5
Fund
s un
der
man
agem
ent
in u
nit
base
d fu
nds
rece
ive
inco
me
by w
ay o
f dis
trib
utio
ns a
nd d
o no
t at
trac
t in
tere
st.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
91
Curtin University of Technology
30
F
INA
NC
IAL
IN
ST
Ru
ME
NT
S (
CO
NT
INu
ED
)
Fixe
d In
tere
st R
ate
Mat
urity
Tota
l
Fore
ign
Exch
ange
Ris
k Se
nsiti
vity2
Inte
rest
Rat
e Ri
sk S
ensi
tivity
Pric
e Ri
sk S
ensi
tivity
3Cr
edit
Risk
Fair
Valu
e4W
eigh
ted
Aver
age
Effe
ctive
In
tere
st
Rate
%
Non‑
inte
rest
be
arin
g
Varia
ble
inte
rest
ra
te
Less
th
an
1 ye
ar
Mor
e th
an
5 ye
ars
‑10%
+10
%‑2
00bp
s+
200b
ps‑1
5%+
15%
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Inco
me
Stm
ent
Othe
r Eq
uity
Carr
ying
Amou
nt
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0
2007
Fin
anci
al A
sset
s
Cash
and
cas
h eq
uiva
lent
s7.
18%
46
20,
064
90,
000
110
,110
(1
76)
–
176
–
1
10,1
10
Rece
ivabl
es 9
0,03
6 9
0,03
6 9
0,03
6 9
0,03
6
Accr
ued
inco
me
4,9
24
4,9
24
4,9
24
Fore
ign
curre
ncy
hedg
e re
ceiva
ble
534
5
34
–
89
–
(19)
534
5
34
Unre
stric
ted
inve
stm
ents
:
– U
nlis
ted
secu
ritie
s 1
,472
1
,472
1
,472
– In
tere
st‑b
earin
g lo
ans
adva
nced
6.44
% 3
09
309
3
09
– P
re‑s
eed
fund
s 9
17
917
9
17
– F
unds
und
er m
anag
emen
t 11.
15%
51,
596
13,
767
4,5
35
69,
898
(24)
–
24 –
–
(7
,742
) –
7
,742
1
8,30
2 6
9,89
8
Rest
ricte
d ot
her f
inan
cial
ass
ets
53,
149
53,
149
–
(7,9
75)
–
7,9
75
53,
149
Tota
l Fin
anci
al A
sset
s 2
02,6
74
34,
140
94,
535
–
331,
349
–
89
–
(19)
(200
) –
2
00
–
–
(15,
717)
–
15,7
17 1
08,8
72
331,
349
Fin
anci
al L
iab
ilitie
s
Paya
bles
6,17
66,
176
6,17
6
Borro
win
gs6.
93%
5,86
828
,582
34,4
50(7
) –
7
–
34,4
50
Empl
oyee
ben
efits
128,
936
128,
936
128,
936
Sara
wak
rese
arch
fund
––
–Fo
reig
n cu
rrenc
y he
dge
paya
ble
505
505
5
05
Othe
r lia
bilit
ies
47,6
9747
,697
47,6
97
Tota
l Fin
anci
al L
iab
ilitie
s18
3,31
45,
868
–
28,5
8221
7,76
4 –
–
–
–
(7
) –
7
–
–
–
–
–
–
217,
764
1 Fu
nds
unde
r m
anag
emen
t m
ainl
y co
mpr
ises
inve
stm
ents
in u
nit
base
d fu
nds.
Cre
dit
risk
expo
sure
rel
ates
onl
y to
fund
s un
der
man
agem
ent
not
in u
nit
base
d fu
nds.
2 A
pos
itive
num
ber
indi
cate
s an
incr
ease
in o
pera
ting
surp
lus
and
equi
ty w
here
the
Aus
tral
ian
dolla
r w
eake
ns a
gain
st t
he fo
reig
n cu
rren
cy.
3 O
pera
ting
resu
lt w
ould
not
be
affe
cted
as
the
equi
ty in
vest
men
ts a
re c
lass
ified
as
avai
labl
e-fo
r-sa
le a
nd it
is a
ssum
ed t
hat
inve
stm
ents
are
not
ass
esse
d as
impa
ired.
4 Th
e fa
ir va
lue
of fi
nanc
ial a
sset
s an
d fin
anci
al li
abilit
ies
are
dete
rmin
ed b
ased
on
eith
er q
uote
d m
arke
t pr
ices
at
bala
nce
date
or
cost
.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
92
Curtin University of Technology
31 FINANCIAL RISk MANAGEMENT
Market Risk
Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market prices. Components
of market risk to which the University is exposed are:
(i) Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk refers to the risk that the value of a financial instrument or cash flows associated with the instrument will fluctuate due to changes in
market interest rates.
The University is exposed to interest rate risk from its use of interest bearing financial assets and liabilities. Non-derivative interest bearing assets are
predominantly short-term liquid assets, ie cash, cash deposits, interest-bearing loans advanced and some funds under management. The interest
rate liability risk arises from borrowings issued at fixed rates, which give exposure to fair value interest rate risk, and from borrowings at a variable
interest rate, which give rise to cash flow interest rate risk. The University manages its borrowings in accordance with targeted interest rate, liquidity
and debt portfolio maturity profiles. Notes 26 and 30 provide further detail.
Note 30 details the University’s sensitivity to a 200 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates assuming the change took place at the
beginning of the financial year and held constant throughout the reporting period. The University’s sensitivity to interest rate risk has increased
over the period due to higher cash and cash equivalents held and the change to the sensitivity rate (2007: 100 basis points increase or decrease)
reflecting volatility associated with the current global financial crisis.
During the year the University increased its borrowings by $19.473 million including the capitalisation of interest and guarantee fee of $1.226 million
in relation to the construction of the Chemistry Centre of WA building. The loan comprises several draw downs at fixed interest rates which together
mature in July 2009. The University has an agreement to refinance this loan into a 20-year loan at a fixed rate which has yet to be determined.
The uncertainty of the interest rate to be charged is mitigated by the repayment of the loan by way of rent payable by the State Government to the
University.
(ii) Foreign Currency Risk
Foreign currency risk refers to the risk that the value of a financial commitment, recognised asset or liability will fluctuate due to changes in foreign
currency rates. The University’s foreign currency exchange risk arises primarily from:
• tradegeneralreceivablebalancesdenominatedinaforeigncurrency;and
• transactionsforreceiptsandpaymentssettledinforeigncurrenciesorwithpricesdependentonforeigncurrencies.
The University manages this risk by conducting its contracts and business in Australian dollars where it is commercially practical to do so.
Furthermore, the University seeks to hedge any material, highly probable, foreign currency transactions by way of permitted instruments with
appropriate counterparties. The University does not undertake speculative positions on movements in foreign currency exchange rates.
Foreign currency cash as at year end comprised: 2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Euro bank account 1,577 -
The University does not have any significant exposure to foreign currency assets or liabilities at the reporting date. Note 30 details the University’s
sensitivity to a 10% increase and decrease in the Australian dollar against the Euro. A positive number indicates an increase in operating surplus and
equity where the Australian dollar weakens against the Euro.
The University enters into forward foreign exchange contracts to cover material, highly probable, foreign currency transactions. There are no
outstanding forward foreign currency contracts at reporting date.
The sensitivity analysis in Note 30 is unrepresentative of the University’s inherent foreign exchange risk since the year-end exposure does not reflect
material US dollar and British pound transactions which are hedged and settled before year end.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
93
Curtin University of Technology
31 FINANCIAL RISk MANAGEMENT (CONTINuED)
(iii) Price Risk
Price risk refers to the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in market prices.
The University is exposed to market price risks arising from its investments. Note 30 details the University’s sensitivity to a 15% increase or decrease
in equity prices at reporting date on its funds under management. At reporting date, if the inputs to valuation of funds under management had been
15% higher or lower, with all other variables held constant, operating surplus would not be affected, since the University accounts for unrealised
gains and losses through reserves. It is assumed for this price risk sensitivity analysis that investments would not be impaired (in which case any
impairment loss would be recognised through the Income Statement). The University’s sensitivity rate has been changed over the period
(2007: 5% increase or decrease) reflecting volatility associated with the current global financial crisis.
Equity reserves would increase or decrease by $13.304 million (2007: $15.717 million) mainly as a result of changes in the fair value of available-for-sale
funds under management. The University’s sensitivity has reduced over the period due to the lower fair value of equity investments held.
Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk that a contracting entity will not complete its obligations under a financial instrument resulting in a financial loss to the University.
The University has exposure to credit risk and financial loss on all financial assets included in our balance sheet, comprising cash and cash
equivalents, trade and other receivables, and other financial assets.
The University has adopted the policy of only dealing with creditworthy counterparties where this is possible. The credit risk on funds under
management and derivative financial instruments is limited as the counterparties are either with banks or investment grade fund managers.
For an analysis of credit risk of the University refer to Note 30.
The current global financial crisis has resulted in the downgrading of some of the University’s funds under management to below investment grade
and a loss of current active market for particular investments. At reporting date, the University was made aware of objective evidence for impairment
of some investments. The cumulative loss of $23.814 million was recognised in the current period (2007: nil).
Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk refers to the risk of financial loss to the University as a result of insufficient funds being available to meet its short and long-term liabilities.
The University manages liquidity risk by maintaining adequate cash and cash equivalent balances and borrowing facilities by continuously monitoring
forecast and actual cash flows and matching the maturity profiles of financial assets and liabilities.
Fair Value Estimation
The fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities shown on Note 30 are determined as follows:
• Duetotheshort-termnatureofcurrentreceivables,theircarryingvalueisassumedtoapproximatefairvalueand,basedoncredithistory,itis
expected that the receivables that are neither past due nor impaired will be received when due.
• Fundsundermanagementaretradedontheactivemarket.Hence,thefairvalueoftheseinvestmentsisbasedonquotedmarketpricesatthe
reporting date.
• Thefairvalueofforwardexchangecontractsisdeterminedbycalculatingtheforwardrateexpectedbasedontheclosingmid-pointspotrate,
interest rates differential between currencies and days to maturity.
• Equitysharesandotherinvestmentsaremeasuredatcostastheirfairvaluecannotbemeasuredreliably.Thiscomprisesunlistedsharesand
pre-seed capital which are not traded on the active market. The University currently has no intention to dispose of these financial instruments.
• ThefairvalueofborrowingsequalsthecarryingamountbasedoncashflowsdiscountedusingborrowingratesprovidedbytheWestern
Australian Treasury Corporation. The rates vary between 4% and 7% depending on the purpose of the borrowing (2007: 6% to 7%).
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
94
Curtin University of Technology
32 REMuNERATION OF MEMBERS OF THE ACCOuNTABLE AuTHORITY AND SENIOR OFFICERS
(a) Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority
Names of Persons who were members of the Accountable Authority during the financial year
For the purposes of the Financial Management Act 2006, the University Council is the Accountable Authority of the University.
Chancellor
Mr Gordon Martin
Members Appointed by Governor in Council
Mr Mark Ashley (resigned 12 August 2008)
Mr Chris Bennett
Ms Michele Dolin, Pro-Chancellor
Mr Ian Fletcher
Mr Keith Spence
Dr Michael Stanford (appointed 2 December 2008)
Ms Lynne Thomson (appointed 26 February 2008)
Member Nominated by the Minister for Education and Training
The Honourable Dr John Cowdell (ceased 22 August 2008)
Member who is the Chief Executive Officer
Professor Jeanette Hacket, Vice-Chancellor
Members Elected by Full-time Academic Staff
Associate Professor David Charnock
Dr Jan Sinclair-Jones (re-elected 1 April 2008)
Member Elected by Full-time General Staff
Mr Liam McGinniss
Co-opted Members
Ms Zelinda Bafile
Mr Don Humphreys (re-appointed 1 April 2008)
Mr Daniel Tucker
Members who are members of bodies that represent the interests of the university in places other than the university’s principal campus
The Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam
Member who is a member of the Academic Board elected by and from the Academic Board
Professor Jo Ward
Members Elected by Students
Ms Meera Navaratnam (elected 1 January 2008 and ceased 9 July 2008)
Ms Collette Swindells (re-elected 1 January 2008 and ceased 31 December 2008)
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
95
Curtin University of Technology
32 REMuNERATION OF MEMBERS OF THE ACCOuNTABLE AuTHORITY AND SENIOR OFFICERS (CONTINuED)
Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority
Total remuneration relates to Members’ executive or contracted roles at the University. No remuneration was paid or payable to Members for their
role as members of Council. The number of members of the Accountable Authority, whose total fees, salaries, superannuation and other benefits for
the financial year fall within the following bands, were:
2008 2007
Number Number
Nil – $10,0001 15 19
$50,001 – $60,000 – 1
$110,001 – $120,000 – 1
$120,001 – $130,000 2 1
$130,001 – $140,000 1 1
$170,001 – $180,000 1 –
$180,001 – $190,000 – 2
$480,001 – $490,000 – 1
$500,001 – $510,000 1 –
¹ All these members received nil remuneration
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Aggregate Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority 1,074 1,273
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
96
Curtin University of Technology
32 REMuNERATION OF MEMBERS OF THE ACCOuNTABLE AuTHORITY AND SENIOR OFFICERS (CONTINuED)
(b) Remuneration of Senior Officers
The number of Senior Officers other than Senior Officers reported as members of the Accountable Authority, whose total of fees, salaries,
superannuation and other benefits for the financial year fall within the following bands, were:
2008 2007
Number Number
Nil – $10,000 – –
$10,001 – $20,000 1 –
$20,001 – $30,000 2 –
$40,001 – $50,000 1 –
$70,001 – $80,000 – 2
$80,001 – $90,000 2 1
$90,001 – $100,000 2 1
$100,001 – $110,000 1 –
$140,001 – $150,000 – 2
$150,001 – $160,000 1 1
$180,001 – $190,000 – 1
$190,001 – $200,000 1 –
$200,001 – $210,000 1 –
$210,001 – $220,000 – 1
$220,001 – $230,000 1 –
$230,001 – $240,000 – 1
$240,001 – $250,000 – 2
$250,001 – $260,000 1 2
$270,001 – $280,000 1 1
$280,001 – $290,000 2 –
$290,001 – $300,000 2 –
$300,001 – $310,000 2 1
$340,001 – $350,000 – 1
$360,001 – $370,000 1 –
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Aggregate Remuneration of Senior Officers 4,026 3,343
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
97
Curtin University of Technology
33 REMuNERATION OF AuDITORS
During the year the following fees (excluding GST) were paid for services provided by the auditor of the parent entity and non-related audit firms:
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
(a) Auditor of the University
Auditing the financial report 230 199
Other audit services 10 17
240 216
(b) Other auditors
Other audit services 25 39
Total Remuneration of Auditors 265 255
34 CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND CONTINGENT ASSETS
Contingent Liabilities
(a) Legal Actions
The University is exposed to a number of contingent liabilities as a result of legal actions that have arisen in the normal course of business and which
are being defended by the University. While the amounts cannot be reliably quantified, the University does not believe that these legal actions would
result in material loss to the University.
(b) Native Title Claims
Native Title Claims have been lodged with the National Native Title Tribunal in respect of a portion of land, being Crown land vested in the University,
including the Kalgoorlie and Bentley campuses. The University is unable to reasonably estimate the financial impact if the claims were to be
successful.
Contingent Assets
Inheritance Property
As at 31 December 2008, the University expects to receive approximately $1.5 million (2007: $1.5 million) from the proceeds of sale of a property
bequeathed to the University. The amount will be a restricted asset to be used in accordance with the bequest.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
98
Curtin University of Technology
35 COMMITMENTS FOR ExPENDITuRE
(a) Capital expenditure commitmentsCapital expenditure commitments, being contracted future capital expenditure additional to the amounts reported in the financial statements, are payable as follows:
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Within one year 24,736 96,600
After one year but not more than five years – 902
Total Capital Expenditure Commitments 24,736 97,502
The capital commitments include amounts for:
Buildings 24,736 97,502
(b) Non-cancellable operating lease commitments
Commitments in relation to operating leases contracted for at the reporting date but not recognised as liabilities, are payable as follows:
Within one year 6,710 5,836
After one year but not more than five years 5,755 7,194
More than five years 26,001 26,454
Total Non-cancellable Operating Lease Commitments 38,466 39,484
Representing:
Non-cancellable operating leases 38,466 39,484
(c) Other expenditure commitments
Commitments in relation to purchase orders are payable as follows:
Within one year 3,966 9,454
All the above commitments are inclusive of GST.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
99
Curtin University of Technology
36 DEFINED BENEFIT SuPERANNuATION PLANS
(a) Curtin University of Technology Superannuation Scheme 1968-1993
Until 30 June 2006, a group of former employees was entitled, on retirement, death or disablement, to defined benefits under the Curtin University of
Technology Superannuation Scheme. In some circumstances the Scheme provided pension benefits. All members of the Scheme had retired, and
had either received a pension or were entitled to receive a pension at a future date under certain circumstances. The Scheme was wound-up on
30 June 2006. Some former members of the wound-up Scheme entered into a contractual relationship direct with the University. The University now
provides benefits to those individuals, consistent with their entitlements under the wound-up Scheme. The University meets the benefits directly as
they fall due.
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Reconciliation of the Present Value of the Defined Benefit Obligation
Present value of defined benefit obligations at beginning of the year 823 929
Current service cost – –
Interest cost 49 52
Actuarial (gain)/loss 34 (58)
Benefits paid (117) (100)
Present value of defined benefit obligations at end of the year 789 823
These defined benefit obligations are wholly unfunded, such that there are no assets. The employer contributes, as required, to meet the benefits paid.
Reconciliation of the Fair Value of Assets
Fair value of assets at beginning of the year – –
Employer contributions 116 100
Benefits paid (116) (100)
Fair value of assets at end of the year – –
Reconciliation of the Assets and Liabilities Recognised in the Balance Sheet
Present value of defined benefit obligation 789 823
Fair value of assets – –
Net liability 789 823
Liability recognised in the Balance Sheet as:
Current 89 102
Non-current 700 721
789 823
Expense Recognised in the Income Statement
Interest cost 49 52
Actuarial (gain)/loss 34 (58)
Superannuation expense/(benefit) 83 (6)
Assets
There are no assets held specifically to meet the University’s obligations with regard to this liability.
Nature of Asset/Liability
The University has recognised a liability in the balance sheet under Provisions in respect of its defined benefit superannuation arrangements. The
University has no legal obligation to settle this liability with an immediate contribution or additional one off contributions. The University intends to
continue to meet the cost of the benefits as they fall due.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
100
Curtin University of Technology
36 DEFINED BENEFIT SuPERANNuATION PLANS (CONTINuED)
(b) Government Employees Superannuation Board (GESB)
Scheme Information
Pension Scheme members receive pension benefits on retirement, death or invalidity. The Fund Share of the pension benefit, which is based on
the member’s contributions plus investment earnings, may be commuted to a lump sum benefit. The University does not bear the cost associated
with indexation of any pension arising from the Fund Share. The State share of the pension benefit, which is fully employer-financed, cannot be
commuted to a lump sum benefit.
Some former Pension Scheme members have transferred to the Gold State Super Scheme. In respect of their transferred benefit, the members
receive a lump sum benefit at retirement, death or invalidity which is related to their salary during their employment and indexed.
The following disclosures are in respect of the employer-financed benefits only. The Pension Scheme and Gold State Super Scheme have been
combined in the note disclosure below.
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Reconciliation of the Present Value of the Defined Benefit Obligation
Present value of defined benefit obligations at beginning of the year 66,836 71,002
Current service cost 52 84
Interest cost 3,870 4,048
Actuarial (gain)/loss 11,289 (1,610)
Benefits paid (6,005) (6,688)
Present value of defined benefit obligations at end of the year 76,042 66,836
These defined benefit obligations are wholly unfunded, such that there are no Assets. The employer contributes, as required, to meet the benefits paid.
Reconciliation of the Fair Value of Scheme Assets
Fair value of Scheme assets at beginning of the year – –
Employer contributions 6,005 6,688
Benefits paid (6,005) (6,688)
Fair value of Scheme assets at end of the year – –
Reconciliation of the Assets and Liabilities Recognised in the Balance Sheet
Present value of defined benefit obligations 76,042 66,836
Fair value of the Scheme assets – –
Net deficit 76,042 66,836
Net deficit is recognised as a liability in the Balance Sheet as follows:
Current 3,236 2,453
Non-current 72,806 64,383
76,042 66,836
Expense Recognised in Income Statement
Service cost 52 84
Interest cost 3,870 4,048
Actuarial (gain)/loss 11,289 (1,610)
Superannuation expense 15,211 2,522
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
101
Curtin University of Technology
36 DEFINED BENEFIT SuPERANNuATION PLANS (CONTINuED)
(b) Government Employees Superannuation Board (GESB) (continued)
Scheme Assets
There are no assets in the Pension Scheme to support the State Share of the Benefit or in the Gold State Super Scheme for current employees to support the transferred benefits. Hence, there is:
• NofairvalueofSchemeassets• NoassetallocationofSchemeassets• Noassetsusedbytheemployer• NoexpectedreturnofSchemeassets• NoactualreturnonSchemeassets.
Principal Actuarial Assumptions used
2008 2007
Discount rate (active members) 4.63% p.a. 6.08% p.a.
Discount rate (pensioners) 4.63% p.a. 6.08% p.a.
Expected salary increase rate 4.50% p.a. 4.50% p.a.
Expected pension increase rate 2.50% p.a. 2.50% p.a.
The discount rate is based on the 10-year Government bond rate at the relevant date. The decrement rates used (for example, mortality and
retirement rates) are based on those used at the last actuarial valuation for the Schemes, as at 31 December 2008.
Historical Information
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Present value of defined benefit obligation 76,042 66,836
Fair value of Scheme assets – –
Deficit in Scheme 76,042 66,836
Experience adjustments (gain)/loss – Scheme assets – –
Experience adjustments (gain)/loss – Scheme liabilities 4,604 2,648
The experience adjustment for Scheme liabilities represents the actuarial (gain)/loss due to a change in the liabilities arising from the Scheme’s
experience (for example, membership movements, unit entitlements) but excludes the effect of the changes in assumptions (for example,
movements in the bond rate and changes in pensioner mortality assumptions).
Expected Contributions
2009
$’000
Expected employer contributions 6,634
Nature of Asset/Liability
The University has recognised a liability in the balance sheet under Provisions in respect of its defined benefit superannuation arrangements (refer
note 27). The GESB does not impose a legal liability on the University to cover any deficit that exists in the Schemes.
An arrangement exists between the Australian Government and the Western Australian State Government to meet the unfunded liability for
beneficiaries of the State Superannuation Schemes on an emerging cost basis. Accordingly, a corresponding asset is recognised under Receivables
(refer note 19).
The recognition of both the asset and the liability consequently do not affect the year end net asset position of the University.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
102
Curtin University of Technology
36 DEFINED BENEFIT SuPERANNuATION PLANS (CONTINuED)
(c) UniSuper Defined Benefit Plan
Scheme Information
The UniSuper Defined Benefit Plan (DBP) is a multi-employer defined benefit plan under superannuation law. However, it is considered to be a
multi-employer defined contribution plan under the Accounting Standard AASB 119 – Employee Benefits. This is because where there are or may
be insufficient funds to provide benefits payable, the Trustee must reduce the benefits payable on a fair and equitable basis. The employer’s legal or
constructive obligation is limited to the amount that it agrees to contribute to the funds and the actuarial and investment risks rest with the employee.
Employer contributions for all superannuation plans of $43.125 million (2007: $38.744 million) were charged as an expense under employee benefits
(note 11) as they fell due.
37 EVENTS OCCuRRING AFTER REPORTING DATE
No events have occurred since balance date that are likely to have a material impact on the financial report of the University.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
103
Curtin University of Technology
38 NOTES TO THE CASH FLOW STATEMENT
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
(a) Reconciliation to cash
Cash at the end of the year as shown in the Cash Flow Statement is reconciled to the
related items in the Balance Sheet as follows:
Cash and cash equivalents (note 18) 129,975 110,110
Balance as per Cash Flow Statement 129,975 110,110
(b) Reconciliation of operating result from ordinary activities to net cash
inflow from operating activities
Net operating result 78,747 75,734
Depreciation expense 24,873 23,725
Movement in allowance for impairment of receivables (3,079) (1,995)
Net loss on disposal of non-current assets 2,015 21
Other non-cash items (490) –
Net exchange differences (664) –
Financial assistance receipts from WA Government (26,375) (21,923)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
(Increase)/decrease in trade and other receivables (4,609) 4,082
(Increase)/decrease in inventories 32 448
(Increase)/decrease in other current assets (5,837) (811)
Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables 16 4,399
Increase/(decrease) in provisions 15,075 (1,963)
Increase/(decrease) in other current liabilities 5,402 578
Net Cash provided by Operating Activities 85,106 82,295
39 NON-CASH FINANCING AND INVESTING ACTIVITIES
During the financial year, the University incurred $1.226 million (2007: $0.215 million) in interest and guarantee fee costs relating to the draw down
of $9.517 million for the construction of the Chemistry Centre of WA building. These costs were capitalised as part of the building cost and the
associated borrowings and are not reflected in the Cash Flow Statement.
There were no other significant non-cash financing or investing activities not reflected in the Cash Flow Statement.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
104
Curtin University of Technology
40 ExPLANATORY STATEMENT
Significant variances between current year actual and prior year actual revenues and expenditures
2008 2007Variance
Actual Actual
$’000 $’000 $’000 %
Revenue
[1] Australian Government grants 215,447 188,260 27,187 14%
[2] HECS-HELP Australian Government payments 68,590 63,887 4,703 7%
[3] State and Local Government financial assistance 26,375 21,923 4,452 20%
[4] Fees and charges 171,182 152,111 19,071 13%
[5] Royalties, trademarks and licences 27,458 21,240 6,218 29%
[6] Consultancy and contracts 35,041 26,729 8,312 31%
[7] Deferred Government superannuation contributions 9,206 (4,166) 13,372 -321%
Expenses
[8] Employee benefits 315,500 274,312 41,188 15%
[9] Impairment of assets 21,011 (8) 21,019 -262738%
[10] Losses on disposal of non-current assets 2,015 21 1,994 9493%
[11] Other expenses 206,619 178,683 27,936 16%
[12] Deferred employee benefits for superannuation 9,206 (4,166) 13,372 -321%
This disclosure is required by Treasurer’s Instruction 945.
Note Commentary
[1] The increase in Australian Government grants reflects an increase in student numbers, increases in cluster funding, the introduction of new
grants (Capital Development Pool, Transitional Cost Program) and increases in other grants.
[2] The increase reflects increases in student numbers and student contribution amounts.
[3] The increase in State and Local Government financial assistance is due to an increase in the number of research grants received by the
University in 2008.
[4] The increase in Fees and charges reflects a combination of factors including an increase in average fee rates. International onshore fee paying
student numbers have increased, partly offset by decreases in domestic fee paying and offshore student numbers. The University also received
amounts in 2008 for intellectual property commercialisation fees.
[5] The increase in Royalties, trademarks and licences is largely due to the increase in student numbers at the Curtin Sydney campus which has
completed its third full year of operations. The increase is partially offset by higher expenditure within Other Expenses.
[6] The increase in Consultancy and contract revenue is a result of increased consultancy activity and receipt of research grants.
[7] The revenue movement is the result of an annual actuarial revaluation. It is offset by an equal movement in the equivalent expense category.
[8] The increase in employee benefits is mainly the result of higher staff numbers and salary increases during the year.
[9] The 2008 expense reflects the impairment of investments of $23.8 million offset by the release of the 2007 doubtful debt provision relating to
Curtin Sarawak of $2.96 million following settlement of the outstanding debt.
[10] The University undertook a full stocktake of Property, plant and equipment in 2008, which led to the retirement or disposal of a number of assets.
[11] The increase in Other Expenses occurs across a number of expenditure categories and is due to the increases noted in most income
categories. In particular, Contract Work, Scholarships, Advertising and non-capital equipment expenditure have increased.
[12] The revenue movement is the result of an annual actuarial revaluation. It is offset by an equal movement in the equivalent expense category.
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
105
Curtin University of Technology
41 RELATED PARTIES
Transactions with specified accountable authority and senior officers
(a) Accountable authority and senior officers’ remuneration and retirement benefits
Details of remuneration and retirement benefits are disclosed in note 32 to the financial statements.
(b) Other transactions with specified accountable authority and senior officers
University Council members, or their related entities, may conduct transactions with the University that occur within a normal employee, customer or
supplier relationship on terms and conditions that are no more favourable than those with which it is reasonable to expect the University to adopt if it
was dealing at arm’s length in similar circumstances.
These transactions include the following and have been quantified below where the transactions are considered likely to be of interest to users of
these financial statements:
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Transaction Type Related partyPurchases Curtin Student Guild 1,854 1,098
Revenue Curtin Student Guild 1,334 618
Receivable at 31 December Curtin Student Guild 1,039 142
Payable at 31 December Curtin Student Guild 111 –
42 SuPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
2008 2007
$’000 $’000
Write-Offs
Public property written off by the Minister during the financial year – 653
Losses through Theft, Defaults and Other Causes
Losses of public moneys and public and other property through theft or default 5 2
Amounts recovered – –
5 2
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
106
Curtin University of Technology
43
A
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L O
F C
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MO
NW
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LTH
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FIN
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(a)
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2008
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$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
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$’00
0$’
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$’00
0$’
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$’00
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Fina
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l ass
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rece
ived
in C
AS
H
durin
g th
e re
port
ing
perio
d 1
27,4
01
118,
453
2,4
78
2,1
33
270
2
41
9
126
1
,573
1
,581
–
2
,154
5
00
500
Net
acc
rual
adj
ustm
ents
774
1
,524
–
–
–
–
–
2
8 –
–
–
6
59
–
–
Rev
enue
for
the
perio
d 1
28,1
75
119,
977
2,4
78
2,1
33
270
2
41
9
154
1
,573
1
,581
–
2
,813
5
00
500
Sur
plus
/(def
icit)
from
the
pre
viou
s ye
ar –
–
–
–
3
70
237
3
5 1
51
–
–
–
–
–
–
Tota
l rev
enue
incl
udin
g ac
crua
l rev
enue
128
,175
11
9,97
7 2
,478
2
,133
6
40
478
4
4 3
05
1,5
73
1,5
81
–
2,8
13
500
5
00
Less
exp
ense
s in
clud
ing
accr
ual e
xpen
ses
(128
,175
) (1
19,9
77)
(2,4
78)
(2,1
33)
(780
) (1
08)
(108
) (2
70)
(1,5
73)
(1,5
81)
–
(2,8
13)
(500
) (5
00)
Sur
plus
/(def
icit)
for
repo
rtin
g pe
riod
–
–
–
–
(140
) 3
70
(64)
3
5 –
–
–
–
–
–
Cap
ital
Dev
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Sup
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Pro
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Tran
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osts
P
rogr
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2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
Fina
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l ass
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rece
ived
in C
AS
H
durin
g th
e re
port
ing
perio
d 5
,202
1
,327
6
,905
6
,856
2
49
–
308
–
2
,047
–
14
6,94
2 1
33,3
71
Net
acc
rual
adj
ustm
ents
–
(1,3
27)
(914
) (4
32)
–
–
–
–
(182
) –
(3
22)
452
Rev
enue
for
the
perio
d 5
,202
–
5
,991
6
,424
2
49
–
308
–
1
,865
–
14
6,62
0 1
33,8
23
Sur
plus
/(def
icit)
from
the
pre
viou
s ye
ar –
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
4
05
388
Tota
l rev
enue
incl
udin
g ac
crua
l rev
enue
5,2
02
–
5,9
91
6,4
24
249
–
3
08
–
1,8
65
–
147,
025
134
,211
Less
exp
ense
s in
clud
ing
accr
ual e
xpen
ses
(5,2
02)
–
(5,9
91)
(6,4
24)
–
–
(7)
–
(1,8
65)
–
(146
,679
) (1
33,8
06)
Sur
plus
/(def
icit)
for
repo
rtin
g pe
riod
–
–
–
–
249
–
3
01
–
–
–
346
4
05
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
107
Curtin University of Technology
43
A
Cq
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FEE
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2008
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2008
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$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
Fina
ncia
l ass
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rece
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in C
AS
H
durin
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e re
port
ing
perio
d 7
0,52
2 6
2,25
3 1
2,60
8 1
3,42
7 8
3,13
0 7
5,68
0 1
96
296
Net
acc
rual
adj
ustm
ents
(1,9
32)
1,6
34
318
(7
41)
(1,6
14)
893
(1
96)
(296
)
Rev
enue
for
the
perio
d 6
8,59
0 6
3,88
7 1
2,92
6 1
2,68
6 8
1,51
6 7
6,57
3 –
–
Sur
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from
the
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–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Tota
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enue
incl
udin
g ac
crua
l rev
enue
68,
590
63,
887
12,
926
12,
686
81,
516
76,
573
–
–
Less
exp
ense
s in
clud
ing
accr
ual e
xpen
ses
(68,
590)
(6
3,88
7)
(12,
926)
(1
2,68
6)
(81,
516)
(7
6,57
3)
–
–
Sur
plus
/(def
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for
repo
rtin
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riod
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
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sTo
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2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
$’00
0$’
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$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
Fina
ncia
l ass
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rece
ived
in C
AS
H
durin
g th
e re
port
ing
perio
d 2
,405
2
,347
4
57
455
1
,999
1
,518
2
,741
2
,256
1
2 2
2 2
04
–
7,8
18
6,5
98
Net
acc
rual
adj
ustm
ents
–
–
–
–
(548
) (3
60)
(563
) (5
91)
–
(1)
(30)
–
(1
,141
) (9
52)
Rev
enue
for
the
perio
d 2
,405
2
,347
4
57
455
1
,451
1
,158
2
,178
1
,665
1
2 2
1 1
74
–
6,6
77
5,6
46
Sur
plus
/(def
icit)
from
the
pre
viou
s ye
ar 9
05
482
(5
58)
(408
) –
7
–
2
4 –
1
–
–
3
47
106
Tota
l rev
enue
incl
udin
g ac
crua
l rev
enue
3,3
10
2,8
29
(101
) 4
7 1
,451
1
,165
2
,178
1
,689
1
2 2
2 1
74
–
7,0
24
5,7
52
Less
exp
ense
s in
clud
ing
accr
ual e
xpen
ses
(2,0
91)
(1,9
24)
(502
) (6
05)
(1,4
51)
(1,1
65)
(2,1
78)
(1,6
89)
–
(22)
(1
74)
–
(6,3
96)
(5,4
05)
Sur
plus
/(def
icit)
for
repo
rtin
g pe
riod
1,2
19
905
(6
03)
(558
) –
–
–
–
1
2 –
–
–
6
28
347
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
108
Curtin University of Technology
43
A
Cq
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LTH
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ian
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2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
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$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
$’00
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Fina
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d 6
,438
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,178
1
3,29
1 1
2,91
9 2
,366
2
,109
1
24
61
221
1
18
Net
acc
rual
adj
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ents
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Rev
enue
for
the
perio
d 6
,438
6
,178
1
3,29
1 1
2,91
9 2
,366
2
,109
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24
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1
18
Sur
plus
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from
the
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ar –
–
–
–
–
9
62
(2)
–
(7)
–
Tota
l rev
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incl
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crua
l rev
enue
6,4
38
6,1
78
13,
291
12,
919
2,3
66
3,0
71
122
6
1 2
14
118
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exp
ense
s in
clud
ing
accr
ual e
xpen
ses
(6,4
38)
(6,1
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(13,
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(1
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9)
(2,3
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(3,0
71)
(122
) (6
3)
(123
) (1
25)
Sur
plus
/(def
icit)
for
repo
rtin
g pe
riod
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
(2)
91
(7)
Com
mer
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ion
Trai
ning
Sch
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Tota
l
2008
2007
2008
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$’00
0$’
000
$’00
0$’
000
Fina
ncia
l ass
ista
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rece
ived
in C
AS
H
durin
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port
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perio
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27
128
2
2,56
7 2
1,51
3
Net
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–
–
–
–
Rev
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for
the
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d 1
27
128
2
2,56
7 2
1,51
3
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3 –
2
4 9
62
Tota
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incl
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160
1
28
22,
591
22,
475
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exp
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clud
ing
accr
ual e
xpen
ses
(113
) (9
5)
(22,
453)
(2
2,45
1)
Sur
plus
/(def
icit)
for
repo
rtin
g pe
riod
47
33
138
2
4
Notes to the Financial Statementsfor the year ended 31 December 2008
109
Curtin University of Technology
43
A
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$’00
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Fina
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l ass
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,755
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56
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4,1
11
3,8
52
Net
acc
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299
1
4 –
–
2
99
14
Rev
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for
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,054
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,866
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3,0
62
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(2,7
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(4,6
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–
–
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(4,6
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335
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92)
376
2
0 7
11
(972
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(ii)
Link
ages
Spe
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h In
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ives
Infra
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$’00
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$’00
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1
60
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3
5 2
17
1,8
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1,8
30
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72
2,5
47
Net
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–
–
–
–
–
–
371
1
06
371
1
06
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1
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26
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–
(24)
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(4
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(42)
(2
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(3,4
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(4,2
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26
26
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30
(137
) 1
,779
1
,459
110
Curtin University of Technology
Report by the Members of the University Council
The members of the University Council present their report for the year ended 31 December 2008.
Members
The following persons were members of the Curtin University of Technology Council during 2008:
Chancellor
Mr Gordon Martin
Members Appointed by Governor in Council
Mr Mark Ashley (resigned 12 August 2008)
Mr Chris Bennett
Ms Michele Dolin, Pro-Chancellor
Mr Keith Spence
Mr Ian Fletcher
Dr Michael Stanford (appointed 2 December 2008)
Ms Lynne Thomson (appointed 26 February 2008)
Member Nominated by the Minister for Education and Training
The Honourable Dr John Cowdell (ceased 22 August 2008)
Member who is the Chief Executive Officer
Professor Jeanette Hacket, Vice-Chancellor
Members Elected by Full-time Academic Staff
Associate Professor David Charnock
Dr Jan Sinclair-Jones (re-elected 1 April 2008)
Member Elected by Full-time General Staff
Mr Liam McGinniss
Members Co-opted by Council
Mr Don Humphreys (re-appointed 1 April 2008)
Ms Zelinda Bafile
Mr Daniel Tucker
Member Elected by the Alumni Association
Vacant
Members who are members of bodies that represent the interests of the university
in places other than the university’s principal campus
The Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam
Vacant
Vacant
Member who is a member of the Academic Board elected by and from the Academic Board
Professor Jo Ward
Members Elected by Students
Ms Meera Navaratnam (elected 1 January 2008 and ceased 9 July 2008)
Ms Collette Swindells (re-elected 1 January 2008 and ceased 31 December 2008)
111
Curtin University of Technology
Meetings of Members
The number of meetings of the University Council and of each committee of Council held during the year ended 31 December 2008, and the number
of meetings attended by each member were:
Members
Council Meetings
Meetings of committees
Audit&Compliance* Finance Executive Legislative
Attended Held Attended Held Attended Held Attended Held Attended Held
Mr Gordon Martin, Chancellor 8 8 9 10
Mr Mark Ashley (resigned 12/08/2008) 1 5 2 5
Ms Zelinda Bafile1 5 8 6 6 1 1
Mr Chris Bennett2 7 8 6 6
The Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam
2 8
Associate Professor David Charnock 8 8
The Honourable Dr John Cowdell (ceased 22/08/2008)
4 5 2 2
Ms Michele Dolin, Pro-Chancellor 6 8 7 8 8 10
Mr Ian Fletcher 5 8 6 10
Professor Robert Guthrie (co-opted) 1 1
Professor Jeanette Hacket, Vice-Chancellor 8 8 6 8 10 10 1 1
Mr Don Humphreys (re-appointed 01/04/2008) 6 8 6 6 6 10
Mr Liam McGinniss 6 8
Ms Meera Navaratnam (elected 01/01/2008 and ceased 09/07/2008)
3 4
Dr Jan Sinclair-Jones (re-elected 01/04/2008) 7 8
Mr Keith Spence 6 8 7 8 7 10
Dr Michael Stanford (appointed 02/12/2008) 0 1
Ms Collette Swindells (re-elected 01/01/2008) 8 8
Ms Lynne Thomson (appointed 26/02/2008) 5 7
Mr Daniel Tucker 2 8
Professor Jo Ward 7 8 10 10
Mr Wayne Zekulich (co-opted) 4 6
* Renamed from the Audit Committee to the Audit and Compliance Committee on 20 February 2008.1 Also a member of the Curtin Sarawak Campus Management Committee, Appeals Committee and Grievance Resolution Committee.2 Also a member of the Curtin Sarawak Campus Management Committee.
The number of meetings held represents the number of regular and special meetings held during the time a member was a member of the Council
or a committee of Council during the year. The number of meetings held does not include meetings conducted out-of-session for the consideration
of circular resolutions.
Report by the Members of the University Council (continued)
112
Curtin University of Technology
Report by the Members of the University Council (continued)
Principal Activities
During the year, the principal continuing activities of the University were:
(a) to provide courses of study appropriate to a university, and other tertiary courses, and to aid the advancement, development and practical
application of knowledge;
(b) to encourage and participate in the development and improvement of tertiary education whether on a full or part-time basis; and
(c) to encourage and undertake research and to aid directly or indirectly the application of science and technology to industry.
No significant changes in the nature of the activities of the University occurred during the year.
Review of Operations
The net operating result for the year ended 31 December 2008 was $55.753 million (2007: $75.734 million).
The operations of the University during the financial year are reviewed in the following accompanying sections of the Annual Report:
– Chancellor’s Foreword
– Vice-Chancellor’s Report
– Report on Operations
– 2008 Activity Highlights
Significant Changes in the State of Affairs
No significant changes in the University’s state of affairs occurred during the year.
Matters Subsequent to the End of the Financial Year
No events have occurred since balance date that are likely to have a material impact on the financial report of the University.
Likely Developments and Expected Results of Operations
The University will continue to further its objectives, consistent with the principal activities outlined above. To provide further detail would result in
unreasonable prejudice.
Environmental Regulation
The members of the University Council are not aware of any breaches of environmental regulations.
Relevant legislation that Curtin is subject to includes:
– Environmental Protection Act 1986
– Environmental Impact Assessment (Part IV Division 1) Administrative Procedures 2002
– National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007
Relevant environmental regulations include:
– Environmental Protection Regulations 1987
– Environmental Protection (Controlled Waste) Regulations 2004
– Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997
– Environmental Protection (Unauthorised Discharges) Regulations 2004
– National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Regulations 2008
– National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (Measurement) Determination 2008
The University is committed to protecting, preserving as well as improving the environment in which the University operates.
113
Curtin University of Technology
Report by the Members of the University Council (continued)
Insurance of Members of Council and Officers
The University provides Directors and Officers Liability and Employers Practices Insurance and Supplementary Legal Expenses Cover through
contracts with external insurance providers. The cover applies to members of Council, Directors and Executive Officers of the University.
Proceedings on behalf of Curtin university of Technology
No material legal proceedings have been initiated by or against Curtin University of Technology during 2008.
This report is made in accordance with a resolution of the members of the University Council.
W. Gordon Martin
Chancellor
Curtin University of Technology
Bentley, Perth, WA
Dated this 18th day of March 2009
Curtin University of Technology
114
CONTENTS
Certification of Performance Indicators 115
Curtin’s Institutional Performance Indicators 116
Section A – Higher Education Performance 117
Section B – Vocational Education and Training Performance 134
Performance Indicators
2008 Annual Report
115
Performance Indicators (continued)
CERTIFICATION OF PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
We hereby certify that the performance indicators are based on proper records,
are relevant and appropriate for assisting users to access Curtin University
of Technology’s performance, and fairly represent the performance of Curtin
University of Technology for the financial year ended 31 December 2008.
W. Gordon Martin Jeanette Hacket
Chancellor Vice-Chancellor
On behalf of the University Council
Dated this 18th day of March 2009
Curtin University of Technology
116
Curtin is committed to innovation and excellence in teaching and research, for the
benefit of our students and the wider community. The institutional effectiveness and
efficiency Performance Indicators (PIs) used by Curtin are designed to demonstrate
progress towards meeting Teaching and Learning and Research and Development
objectives and targets as espoused in the University’s Strategic and Enabling Plans.
The performance indicators used are divided into two categories – effectiveness and efficiency –
and are used in the following context:
• Effectivenessmeasurestheextenttowhichoutcomeshavebeenachieved
• Efficiencymeasurestheresourcesusedtoattainacertainlevelofoutput.
Section A indicators focus on Curtin’s higher education operations, while those in Section
B relate to Curtin’s Kalgoorlie-based vocational education and training programs (VET).
The following diagram summarises the approach.
Trend data for the last three to four years are provided so that overall direction
and rate of progress can be seen. These trend data also illuminate broad changes
in cases where short-term variability may hide longer-term trends.
Curtin’s Institutional Performance Indicators
INTRODUCTION
A. Higher Education
B1 Effectiveness
B2 Efficiency
A1 Teaching and LearningA1.1 Effectiveness
A1.2 Efficiency
A2.1 Effectiveness
A2.2 EfficiencyA2 Research and Development
B. Vocational Education and Training
Performance Indicators (continued)
2008 Annual Report
117
Performance Indicators (continued)
A1 HIGHER EDUCATION TEACHING AND LEARNING PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
REF NAME OBJECTIVE
A1.1Effectiveness
a Employment and Study Destinations of New First Degree Graduates Quality graduates
b Perceived Teaching Quality – Australian Graduate Survey Quality teaching
c Subject Load Pass Rate Student progress and achievement
A1.2Efficiency
dTeaching and Learning Expenditure per EFTSL and as a percentage of Curtin Total Expenditure
Efficient Teaching and Learning expenditure
e Teaching and Learning Expenditure per Successful EFTSL
Efficient Teaching and Learning expenditure
fGraduate Productivity Rate (Undergraduate, Postgraduate Coursework and Research degrees)
Student progress and achievement
A2 HIGHER EDUCATION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
A2.1 Effectiveness
g Research Higher Degree Enrolments as a Percentage of Total Enrolments Research intensity
hInstitutional Grants Scheme (IGS): Comparison between Curtin and all Australian Universities
Research funding
i
All Research Funding: Comparison between Curtin and the Averages for ATN Universities and National Ranking
Research funding
jCooperative Research Centre (CRC) Funding: Comparison between Curtin and all Australian Universities
Research funding
k
Number of Research Publications: Comparison between Curtin and the Averages for ATN and all Australian Universities
Research publications
A2.2 Efficiency
l
Research Funding per 10 FTE Academic Staff: Comparison between Curtin and the Averages for ATN Universities and National Ranking
Research funding efficiency
m
Research Publications per 10 FTE Academic Staff: Comparison between Curtin and the Averages for ATN Universities and all Australian Universities.
Research publications efficiency
Section A Higher Education Performance
Curtin University of Technology
118
A1.1 TEACHING AND LEARNING EFFECTIVENESS
REF NAME OBJECTIVE
a Employment and Study Destinations of New First Degree Graduates Quality graduates
b Perceived Teaching Quality – Australian Graduate Survey Quality teaching
c Subject Load Pass Rate Student progress and achievement
section A Higher education performance
A1 Teaching and Learning Performance IndicatorsStrategic Objective:
Toprovideexcellentteaching
thatfacilitateslearning.Quality graduates, measured by:
(a) Employment and Study Destinations of New First Degree Graduates
Benchmark gauge: Australian Universities’ Average
This indicator measures Curtin’s effectiveness in both assisting students to reach their full
potential and in producing graduates who are of productive value to employers and the
community.
Table 1 shows results from the Australian Graduate Survey (AGS), which combines the Graduate
Destination Survey (GDS) and Course Experience Questionnaire (CEQ). It summarises the
major activities of new first degree (that is, bachelor, bachelor honours, and diploma) Curtin
graduates each year of the series, and compares these with the national average sourced
from Graduate Careers Australia (GCA). Surveys in each year deal with the graduates of
the previous year. Therefore the latest available national data, which is from the 2007 AGS
survey, applies to the views of students who graduated in 2006. In addition to this national
data, Curtin also has access to the views of its own 2007 graduates from the results of the
latest survey conducted in 2008. These results are included in the accompanying table.
The 90 per cent outcome in 2008 exceeds Curtin’s target. It also exceeds the benchmark of
86 per cent which is the national 2007 graduates’ ‘mode of choice’ outcome. The benchmark
data are sourced from the latest GCA report 2007.
The percentage of Curtin graduates employed has increased each year since 2005,
demonstrating the continuing attractiveness of a Curtin degree to students and
employers. It is acknowledged that labour market conditions do influence this indicator.
For example, the decline in the percentage of students choosing to go on to full-time
study can be attributed in part to the very strong labour market in Western Australia.
Performance Indicators (continued)
2008 Annual Report
119
Performance Indicators (continued)
TABLE 1. EMPLOYMENT AND STUDY DESTINATIONS OF NEW BACHELOR DEGREE GRADUATES1 2005 – 2008Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents only
2005 SURVEY 2006 SURVEY 2007 SURVEY 2008 SURVEY
ACTIVITY CURTIN ALL2 CURTIN ALL2 CURTIN ALL2 CURTIN ALL2
Full-Time Work 59% 55% 66% 55% 67% 56% 69% n/a
Full-Time Study 20% 23% 13% 20% 12% 20% 11% n/a
Not Working, Seeking FT Work 6% 5% 4% 4% 3% 3% 3% n/a
Part-Time Work, Seeking Full-Time Work 6% 8% 7% 8% 6% 7% 5% n/a
Part-Time Work, Not Seeking Full-Time Work 6% 6% 7% 8% 6% 8% 8% n/a
Not Working, Seeking Part-Time Work 1% 1% 0% 0% 1% 1% 0% n/a
Unavailable for Work/Study 2% 3% 3% 5% 5% 5% 4% n/a
Total 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% n/a
Percentage Graduates in Mode of Choice3 84% 82% 87% 84% 88% 86% 90% n/a
Curtin Target 80% 82% 82% 82%
Benchmark (Australian Universities’ Average) 81% 82% 84% 86%
Total Number of Respondents 2,059 65,738 2,010 66,702 2,165 65,110 2,047 n/a
Response Rate 57% n/a 62% n/a 69% n/a 66% n/a
Rounding errors may occur1. Data are taken from the Australian Graduate Surveys conducted by Curtin and other universities of all their graduates.2. All refers to All Australian universities. While Curtin has access to its 2008 survey results, national data for 2008 are not available until 2009.3. Definition: The percentage of new first degree graduates working in the mode of their choice as a percentage of the total number of graduates seeking work. Mode of Choice = (the number of graduates in full-time work + number in part-time work, not seeking full-time work) /
(total number of respondents minus those in full-time study and those unavailable for study or work).
NOTES:a. Graduates are surveyed in the year following their completion/graduation. For example, the 2008 survey applies to students who completed their course in 2007.b. GDS/AGS data are frequencies and not means, thus standard deviations are not reported.c. Survey data for 2008: Confidence Level = 99%; Confidence Interval = 1.65.d. National data from the 2008 survey are not yet available.
Curtin University of Technology
120
Quality teaching, measured by:
(b) Perceived Teaching Quality – Australian Graduate Survey (AGS)
Benchmark gauge: Australian Universities’ Average
The 22 item Australian Graduate Survey (AGS) conducted by Curtin and other institutions
provides graduate outcome measures of teaching and learning within the Course Experience
section. The AGS asks graduates to rate their perceptions using five aspects of their recently
completed course: good teaching, clear goals and appropriate standards, generic skills, overall
satisfaction and (new in 2007) graduate qualities. This new scale, which replaces appropriate
assessment and appropriate workload, assesses a number of general skills that are not
specific to the area of study. It also addresses how the course contributed to the graduate’s
enthusiasm for further learning and how they value other diverse perspectives and ideas.
Graduate perceptions of the extent to which they have developed generic skills, together with
their overall satisfaction, are fundamental to monitoring the quality of teaching and learning.
Surveys in each year deal with the graduates of the previous year. In the years 2005 to 2007,
AGS survey data for all universities were analysed by the Australian Council for Educational
Research on behalf of the GCA. Graduates assign scores across a range from –100 to +100
against each criterion. A score of -100 corresponds to complete disagreement, while at the other
end of the scale +100 indicates complete agreement. Results are shown in Table 2. In addition
to this national data, Curtin also had access to its own results of the latest survey, conducted
in 2008 for students who graduated in 2007, which are included in the accompanying table.
On average, 86 per cent of Curtin’s 2007 graduates (surveyed in 2008) were broadly
satisfied with their course experience. This is a slight decline against the previous
survey findings of 88 per cent, and is again below the Curtin target of 90 per cent.
The 2008 result also failed to achieve the benchmark of 90 per cent, which is the percentage
of broadly satisfied graduates from all Australian universities, using data from the latest GCA
report (2007).
Curtin continues to implement development and change initiatives directed towards
continuous improvement in the quality of teaching and learning, to achieve better outcomes.
Performance Indicators (continued)
Section A Higher Education Performance
A1 Teaching and Learning Performance IndicatorsStrategic Objective:
To provide excellent teaching
that facilitates learning.
2008 Annual Report
121
Performance Indicators (continued)
TABLE 2. PERCEIVED TEACHING QUALITY – AUSTRALIAN GRADUATE SURVEY (AGS) 2005 – 2008Average Graduate Score –100 (complete disagreement) to +100 (complete agreement)
AGS Scale2005 SURVEY 2006 SURVEY 2007 SURVEY 2008 SURVEY
CURTIN ALL4 CURTIN ALL4 CURTIN ALL4 CURTIN ALL4
Good Teaching +20(42.1) +19 +20
(39.1) +20 +19(40.3) +22 +19
(42.0) n/a
Clear Goals and Standards +20(35.7) +17 +19
(37.4) +18 +17(39.5) +18 +17
(39.4) n/a
Appropriate Assessment2 +21(42.4) +23 +20
(43.6) +22 n/c +23 n/c n/a
Appropriate Workload2 +3(37.0) +8 +5
(35.4) +8 n/c +8 n/c n/a
Graduate Qualities2 n/c n/c n/c +42 +35(40.6) +41 +34
(42.1) n/a
Generic Skills +37(33.6) +37 +36
(35.7) +37 +35(39.9) +38 +34
(41.5) n/a
Overall Satisfaction +37(46.3) +39 +37
(47.6) +40 +34(49.2) +40 +34
(50.9) n/a
Percent Broad Agreement5 Overall Satisfaction 90% 90% 89% 90% 88% 90% 86% n/a
Curtin Target 90% 90% 90% 90%
Benchmark (Australian Universities Average) 89% 90% 90% 90%
Number of Respondents1 2,229 69,071 2,393 72,980 2,328 78,206 2,153 n/a
Response Rate 43% n/a 50% n/a 49% n/a 46% n/a
1. Since 1998, a student undertaking a double major has had the option of completing two Aust. Graduate Surveys. Of the 2,153 Curtin respondents to the 2008 survey, 675 provided additional information about a major.
2. In 2007, a new scale Graduate Qualities was collected for the first time in place of Appropriate Assessment and Appropriate Workload which are no longer collected in the AGS. Therefore these scales are marked n/c or not collected for previous years.
3. n/a = not available.4. All refers to All Australian universities.5. Broad agreement includes responses of 3, 4 and 5 on a 5-point scale where 5 is strongly agree, so eliminating disagree and disagree strongly.
NOTES:a. Graduates are surveyed in the year following their completion/graduation. For example, the 2008 survey applies to students who completed their course in 2007.b. Bracket figures are the standard deviation for each CEQ/AGS scale.c. Survey data for 2008: Confidence level = 99%; Confidence interval = 2.05.d. National data for 2008 are not yet available.
Curtin University of Technology
122
Student achievement and progress, measured by:
(c) Subject Load Pass Rate (SLPR)
Benchmark gauge: National Rates within 4 Broad Discipline Categories
The Subject Load Pass Rate indicator (also often referred to as ‘Success Rate’ or
‘Progress Rate’) measures quantity and timeliness of students attaining a pass
result in their units of study. Sound curriculum design, good pedagogy, appropriate
assessment practices and learning support should sustain subject load pass
rates and, thus, course progression, minimising course completion times.
This indicator is the percentage in each academic year of assessed subject load (based
on credit points studied) for which students were awarded a passing grade.
The data in Table 3 shows that Curtin’s overall Subject Load Pass Rate in 2008 was 88 per cent.
This is an improvement of 2 per cent over 2007 and reaches Curtin’s minimum target.
Within each of the four main Branches of Learning subgroups that Curtin measures, Curtin’s
achieved SLPRs in 2008 exceed the benchmarks for these subgroups, which is the all Australian
universities rates sourced from the Commonwealth Government’s Learning and Teaching
Performance Fund (Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR)
2009)) national data (see notes in Table 3). An all-universities benchmark SLPR using all
Branches of Learning combined, against which Curtin can test its overall SLPR, is not available.
TABLE 3. SUBJECT LOAD PASS RATE (SLPR) BY BRANCH OF LEARNING 2006 – 2008 STUDENT LOAD PASSED AS A PERCENTAGE OF STUDENT LOAD ASSESSEDBRANCH OF LEARNING 2006 2007 2008
Science, Computing, Engineering, Architecture, Agriculture 85% 85% 87%
Benchmark 81% 82% 82%
Administration, Business, Economics, Law 84% 84% 85%
Benchmark 82% 82% 82%
Humanities, Arts and Education 88% 88% 89%
Benchmark 85% 85% 84%
Health Sciences 94% 95% 95%
Benchmark 90% 91% 90%
Curtin Overall SLPR 86% 86% 88%
Curtin Target 88% 88% 88%NOTES:a. Rounding error may occur.b. Data source: the Commonwealth annual student statistical collections. The Subject Load
Pass Rates presented in the table exclude Higher Degree by Research student load.c. Benchmark source: 2009 DEEWR Student Outcome Indicators for Learning and Teaching
Performance Fund. The benchmark includes Commonwealth Supported bachelor degree students only. National overall SLPR have not been published since 2006.
Performance Indicators (continued)
Section A Higher Education Performance
A1 Teaching and Learning Performance IndicatorsStrategic Objective:
To provide excellent teaching
that facilitates learning.
2008 Annual Report
123
Performance Indicators (continued)
A1.2 TEACHING AND LEARNING EFFICIENCYREF NAME OBJECTIVE
d Teaching and Learning Expenditure per EFTSL and as a percentage of Curtin Total Expenditure
Efficient Teaching and Learning expenditure
e Teaching and Learning Expenditure per Successful EFTSL
Efficient Teaching and Learning expenditure
f Graduate Productivity Rate Student progress and achievement
Efficient teaching and learning expenditure, measured by:
(d) Teaching and Learning Expenditure per EFTSL
Benchmark gauge: Average for WA Universities
(e) Teaching and Learning Expenditure per Successful EFTSL
Benchmark gauge: None
Teaching and Learning expenditure relates to the teaching of coursework (that is, non-
research) programs. The two indicators reported in Table 4A show: (i) the average cost of
teaching each Equivalent Full-Time Student Load (EFTSL) where load is sourced from the
Commonwealth annual statistical collections; and (ii) the average cost of teaching each
successful EFTSL. Both of these provide an insight into the efficiency with which monies
directed towards the Teaching and Learning objective have been spent. Table 4B shows the
comparison in 2008 dollars (that is, after applying CPI adjustments to previous years’ data).
It is important to note that average expenditure per EFTSL is largely dependent on the mix of
disciplines taught by an institution. Curtin’s high representation of laboratory-based courses
raises service delivery costs when compared to institutions where non-laboratory based
courses feature more prominently. Also, Curtin incurs higher than average costs in supporting
the delivery of regional higher education programs through its presence in Kalgoorlie,
Northam, Esperance, Margaret River, Albany, Geraldton, Karratha and Port Hedland.
Curtin University of Technology
124
TABLE 4A. TEACHING AND LEARNING ExPENDITURE1 AT HISTORICAL COST 2005–2008
Expenditure and EFTSL details 2005 2006 2007 2008
A. (1) Teaching and Learning Expenditure ($’000) $338,091 $348,880 $388,619 $479,836
(2) Total Curtin Expenditure ($’000) $403,869 $418,003 $471,871 $579,635
(3) Teaching and Learning Expenditure percentage 83.7% 83.5% 82.4% 82.8%
B. Total Taught EFTSL 23,905 23,814 24,317 24,570
C. Successful EFTSL 20,773 20,575 21,017 21,523
Indicator (d) Teaching and Learning Expenditure ($) per EFTSL $14,143 $14,650 $15,981 $19,529
Curtin Target $14,500 $14,500 $14,500 $14,500
Benchmark(Average WA Universities prior year) $16,984 $17,494 NA NA
Indicator (e) Teaching and Learning Expenditure ($) per Successful EFTSL $16,275 $16,957 $18,491 $22,294
Curtin Target $16,500 $16,500 $16,500 $16,500
1. Teaching and Learning Expenditure reported above excludes that for the Kalgoorlie VET sector. All University Expenditure is now reported: (i) on Teaching and Learning or Research and Development, in line with the University’s objectives; and (ii), consistent with the University’s Financial Statements. For these reasons, the data may differ from those shown in earlier Annual Reports.
NOTES:a. Benchmark source: From Murdoch University’s Teaching and Learning expenditure
per EFTSL spreadsheet but this has been discontinued since last year.b. Benchmark for Teaching and Learning expenditure per successful EFTSL is unavailable.
TABLE 4B. TEACHING AND LEARNING ExPENDITURE AT CONSTANT DOLLAR VALUE 2005 – 2008
Expenditure and EFTSL details 2005 2006 2007 2008
A. (1) Teaching and Learning Expenditure ($’000) $358,433 $362,975 $396,391 $479,836
(2) Total Curtin Expenditure ($’000) $428,169 $434,890 $481,308 $579,635
(3) Teaching and Learning Expenditure percentage 83.7% 83.5% 82.4% 82.8%
B. Total Taught EFTSL 23,905 23,814 24,317 24,570
C. Successful EFTSL 20,773 20,575 21,017 21,523
Indicator (d) Teaching and Learning Expenditure ($) per EFTSL $14,994 $15,242 $16,301 $19,529
Indicator (e) Teaching and Learning Expenditure ($) per Successful EFTSL $17,254 $17,642 $18,860 $22,294
HigherEducationIndexationFactor1 1.213309 1.236362 1.261089 1.286311
1. Higher Education Indexation Factor in the table are extracted from the Commonwealth Special Gazette No S97 and used to convert historical cost figures to December 2008 price levels.
Performance Indicators (continued)
Section A Higher Education Performance
A1 Teaching and Learning Performance IndicatorsStrategic Objective:
To provide excellent teaching
that facilitates learning.
2008 Annual Report
125
Student progress and
achievement, measured by:
(f) Course Completions per
10 FTE Academic Staff
Benchmark gauge: ATN average
The indicator Graduate Productivity Rates
provides an insight into the efficiency with
which monies directed towards the Teaching
and Learning objective have been spent.
These rates show changes over time
in the output of graduates for every
10 full-time equivalent staff. Table 5A
provides the rates for undergraduate
and postgraduate coursework students,
where the numerator is based on graduate
numbers and the denominator on ‘teaching’
and ‘teaching and research’ staff only.
The 2008 postgraduate coursework
graduates per 10 FTE academic staff
improves to 26.5 and exceeds the target
of 20.0.
Curtin’s 2008 undergraduate productivity
rate of 60.4 has fractionally declined
against the 2007 figure. However, it
is above Curtin’s target of 57.0 and
considerably above the Australian
Technology Network (ATN)1 benchmark.
1 The ATN universities consist of the five major former Institutes of Technology across Australia: Queensland University of Technology; University of Technology, Sydney; RMIT University; the University of South Australia and Curtin University of Technology.
TABLE 5A. GRADUATE PRODUCTIVITY RATES1 2005 – 2008 GRADUATIONS PER 10 FTE ACADEMIC STAFF2
2005 2006 2007 2008
Undergraduate 60.5 62.0 62.8 60.4
Curtin Target 57.0 57.0 57.0 57.0
Benchmark (ATN in prior year) 49.3 50.4 50.8 50.6
Postgraduate Coursework 20.7 24.9 24.5 26.5
Curtin Target 20.0 20.0 20.0 20.0
Benchmark (ATN in prior year) 25.1 24.8 27.0 26.2
1.Foreachyearshown(X)graduates(thenumerator)aretakenasthosewithawardsapprovedintheperiod1Januaryto31DecemberinyearX-1.Thusfor2008therewouldhavebeen86.9graduates for every 10 FTE teaching in the period 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2007.
2. Included in the denominator are staff from all funding sources categorised as ‘teaching’ or ‘teaching and research’. An average of the staff in the previous three years is taken.
NOTES:a. Curtin Source: Student Record System S1.b. Benchmark Source: 2005-2007 DEEWR Selected Higher Education Student and Staff Data Collection.
Table 5B shows Postgraduate Research productivity rates, with the data disaggregated to
the Master and Doctorate levels. The denominator is restricted to staff eligible to supervise
research students.
There are significant declines in both Master and Doctorate completions in 2008 after
bumper numbers in 2007. These result in the higher degree productivity rates dropping
back to more normal levels; decline in Master completions is more marked though.
However, Curtin higher degree productivity rate remains above the ATN benchmark.
TABLE 5B. RESEARCH DEGREE COMPLETIONS PRODUCTIVITY RATE 2005 – 2008 RESEARCH HIGHER DEGREE COMPLETIONS PER 10 FTE ACADEMIC STAFF1
2005 2006 2007 2008
Master 0.61 0.65 0.77 0.49
Doctorate 1.98 1.99 2.82 2.13
All Research 2.60 2.64 3.59 2.62
Curtin Target 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Benchmark (ATN in prior year) 2.55 2.52 2.40 2.581. Staff data comprise a three-year average of teaching and research academic staff of Lecturer
B level and above in academic organisational units only and from all funding sources. Hourly paid academic staff are excluded. These staff data are derived from the Commonwealth annual statistical collections. An average of the staff in the current and previous two years is taken.
NOTES:a. Curtin Source: Graduate Studies.b. Benchmark Source: 2005-2007 DEEWR Selected Higher Education Student and Staff Data Collection.
Performance Indicators (continued)
Curtin University of Technology
126
A2.1 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT EFFECTIVENESS
REF NAME OBJECTIVE
g Research Higher Degree Enrolments as a Percentage of Total Enrolments Research intensity
h Institutional Grants Scheme (IGS): Comparison between Curtin and all Australian Universities Research funding
i All Research Funding: Comparison between Curtin and the Averages for ATN and National Ranking Research funding
j Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) Funding: Comparison between Curtin and all Australian Universities Research funding
k Number of Research Publications: Comparison between Curtin and the Averages for ATN and all Australian Universities
Research publications
Data for five performance indicators that
assist in demonstrating how effectively
Curtin is meeting its Research and
Development Objectives are presented
below. Three indicators – (h), (i) and (j) –
show the quantity and proportion of research
funding received; while indicator (g) gauges
research intensity in terms of proportion of
research students. Indicator (k) measures
research publications output.
These indicators are compared to those
for other universities to determine Curtin’s
relative performance. They are presented
alongside averages for the universities in
Western Australia, the ATN and the broad
spectrum of Australian universities.
section A Higher education performance
A2 Research and Development PerformanceStrategic Objective:
To focus on areas of high-impact,
high-quality research.
Performance Indicators (continued)
2008 Annual Report
127
Performance Indicators (continued)
Research intensity
increase, measured by:
(g) Research Higher Degree
Enrolments and Load
as a Percentage of Total
Enrolments and Total Load
Benchmark gauge: WA and
National averages
One of Curtin’s educational strategies
to raise its research profile is to increase
the proportion of research higher degree
enrolments to be equal to or greater
than 5 per cent of total enrolments, and
research degree EFTSL greater than or
equal to 4.5 per cent of total EFTSL.
Table 6A shows that research higher
degree enrolments in 2008 fell behind 2007
in terms of both number of enrolments
and percentage of total enrolments.
The percentage was also below the target
and the benchmarks for Western Australian
and Australian universities. The position
is similar when measured in research
EFTSL. However, it should be noted that
total 2008 research EFTSL increased by
5 per cent compared to 2007 (Table 6B).
In Australia, Curtin ranks 17th in percentage
of research enrolments and 24th in
percentage of research EFTSL. These
rankings place Curtin in the first quarter of
the list of 106 Australian higher education
institutions for this measure (DEEWR, 2007).
TABLE 6A. RESEARCH HIGHER DEGREE ENROLMENTS BY LEVEL AND TOTAL RESEARCH ENROLMENTS AS A PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL CURTIN ENROLMENTS: 2004 – 2008
RESEARCH HIGHER DEGREE 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Master 210 259 282 309 287
Doctorate 1445 1495 1442 1429 1410
Total Research 1655 1754 1724 1738 1697
Percentage of Total Enrolments 5.0% 4.9% 5.0% 4.8% 4.6%
Curtin Target (minimum) 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 5.0%
All WA Universities Benchmark 5.3% 5.2% 5.2% 4.9%
All Australian Universities Benchmark 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 4.9%
Curtin’s National Ranking (of 106 Australian Institutions) 21 20 18 17
NOTES:a. All enrolment data are for the year at 31 March.b. Benchmarks source: DEEWR Selected Higher Education Student Statistics for Western Australian and
Australian universities.c. Benchmarks are DEEWR published data of previous year.
TABLE 6B. RESEARCH EFTSL AS A PERCENTAGE OF CURTIN’S TOTAL EFTSL 2004 – 2008
RESEARCH HIGHER DEGREE 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Master 89 126 154 149 137
Doctorate 840 831 849 843 905
Total Research 929 957 1003 992 1042
Percentage of Total EFTSL 4.1% 4.0% 4.2% 4.1% 4.2%
Curtin Target (minimum) 4.5% 4.5% 4.5% 4.5%
All WA Universities Benchmark 4.9% 4.9% 4.9% 4.7%
All Australian Universities Benchmark 5.0% 5.0% 4.9% 4.7%
National Ranking(of 90 Australian Institutions) 26 25 23 24
NOTES:a. All EFTSL data are for the year at 31 March.b. Benchmarks source: DEEWR Selected Higher Education Student Statistics for Western Australian and
Australian universities.c. Benchmarks are DEEWR published data of previous year.
Curtin University of Technology
128
TABLE 7. INSTITUTIONAL GRANT SCHEME FUNDS AND PERCENTAGE SHARE OF NATIONAL TOTAL 2006-2008 (RANKING ACCORDING TO %IGS SHARE IN 2008)
RANK UNIVERSITY ($’000)2008
% SHARE 2008
% SHARE 2007
% SHARE 2006
1 University of Melbourne (M) 36,915 12.0 11.8 11.52 University of Sydney (M) 33,435 10.9 10.1 10.33 University of Queensland (M) 29,121 9.5 9.6 9.74 Monash University (M) 23,582 7.7 7.4 7.25 University of New South Wales (M) 23,071 7.5 7.5 7.86 Australian National University 17,499 5.7 6.0 6.07 University of Western Australia (M) 16,989 5.5 5.6 5.78 University of Adelaide (M) 16,232 5.3 5.5 5.59 University of Tasmania (M) 8,429 2.7 2.6 2.410 University of Newcastle (M) 7,478 2.4 2.5 2.411 CURTINUNIVERSITY 6,438 2.1 2.1 2.112 Queensland University of Technology 6,270 2.0 1.9 1.813 Griffith University 5,978 1.9 2.0 2.114 Flinders University of SA (M) 5,976 1.9 2.0 2.115 University of Wollongong 5,874 1.9 1.9 1.916 Macquarie University 5,829 1.9 1.9 1.917 La Trobe University 5,331 1.7 1.8 1.918 University of South Australia 5,310 1.7 1.7 1.619 Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology 5,224 1.7 1.8 1.820 University of Technology, Sydney 5,190 1.7 1.6 1.421 Murdoch University 5,099 1.7 1.7 1.822 Deakin University 4,273 1.4 1.5 1.423 James Cook University 3,997 1.3 1.3 1.324 University of New England 3,265 1.1 1.1 1.225 University of Western Sydney 3,125 1.0 1.1 1.126 Swinburne University of Technology 2,434 0.8 0.8 0.827 Charles Darwin University 2,056 0.7 0.7 0.528 Victoria University 1,966 0.6 0.7 0.729 Edith Cowan University 1,923 0.6 0.6 0.630 Charles Sturt University 1,849 0.6 0.6 0.531 University of Canberra 1,605 0.5 0.6 0.632 Southern Cross University 1,592 0.5 0.5 0.533 Central Queensland University 1,339 0.4 0.4 0.434 University of Southern Queensland 996 0.3 0.3 0.435 University of Ballarat 839 0.3 0.3 0.336 Australian Catholic University 674 0.2 0.2 0.237 University of the Sunshine Coast 273 0.1 0.1 0.138 Melbourne College of Divinity 216 0.1 0.1 0.139 Bond University 140 0.1 0.0 0.040 University of Notre Dame, Australia 124 0.0 0.0 0.041 Batchelor Inst Indigenous Tertiary Ed 123 0.0 0.0 0.0
Total 308,076 100.0 100.0 100.0
Research funding (input)
growth, measured by:
(h) Institutional Grant Scheme
proportion of National total.
Benchmark gauge: All
Australian Universities
The Institutional Grant Scheme (IGS)
is distributed across universities by a
performance-based formula comprising
research income (weighted 60 per cent);
publications (10 per cent); and using
the two most recent years’ data on
higher degree research student places
measured in EFTSL (30 per cent).
Table 7 provides the IGS allocations by
university and is ranked according to each
institution’s share of the total IGS for 2008.
Curtin ranks 11th nationally, and is the
highest ranked of the ATN universities.
ATN universities are identified in the table in
italics, the Western Australian universities are
identified in bold type and universities with
medical schools and supporting departments
are identified with the letter ‘M’. The latter
group has the advantage of enhanced
access to National Competitive Research
Grants schemes (for example, medical
research funding through the National Health
and Medical Research Council), and includes
The University of Western Australia – the only
Western Australian university that is ranked
higher than Curtin. Curtin’s IGS allocation
should be assessed in this context.
Performance Indicators (continued)
2008 Annual Report
129
Performance Indicators (continued)
TABLE 8. ALL RESEARCH FUNDING: COMPARISON BETWEEN CURTIN, THE AVERAGE OF ALL ATN UNIVERSITIES AND NATIONAL RANKING 2005 – 2007
2005 2006 2007
SOURCE OF RESEARCH FUNDING CURTIN$’000
ATN1
$’000 NAT RANK CURTIN$’000
ATN1
$’000 NAT RANK CURTIN$’000
ATN1
$’000 NAT RANK
Australian CompetitiveResearch Grants2 8,640 9,848 19 11,877 11,402 17 12,968 12,145 16
Other Public SectorResearch Funding2 7,985 7,987 15 13,795 11,474 10 24,074 14,313 9
Industry and OtherFunding for Research2 13,650 8,601 10 14,929 10,184 11 13,328 11,899 13
Cooperative ResearchCentres Funds 6,156 3,333 7 7,109 3,694 6 7,691 4,171 5
Other Sources(that is, IGS and RIBG) 7,564 6,637 17 8,092 7,210 17 8,287 7,733 17
Total Research Income 43,995 36,406 11 55,803 43,964 11 66,348 50,261 11
Curtin Target 12 12 11
1. ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities.2. Source data: the Commonwealth’s Higher Education Research Data Collection.NOTES:All financial data are for calendar year periods except for CRC data which is reported on a financial year.
Research funding (input) growth, measured by:
(i) Total Research Funding
Benchmark gauge: ATN Average and National Ranking
Evidence of outcomes in relation to the Research and Development objective can be demonstrated in Curtin’s continued overall higher performance
in relation to ATN average. Curtin continues to grow overall research income. Income from Australian Competitive Research Grants continued to
grow in 2007, with a substantial increase in Other Public Sector Research Funding. Curtin maintains its position at 11th in the national ranking.
Curtin University of Technology
130
Research funding (input)
growth, measured by:
(j) Cooperative Research
Centre (CRC) Funding
Benchmark gauge: National ranking
Established through the Commonwealth
Government’s Cooperative Research
Centre Program, CRCs link the public
and private sectors across Australia and
bring together a wide range of expertise
and facilities, with a focus on new and
innovative research, leading to competitive
technological applications. Funding from
CRC differs from other funding sources in
that it is calculated on a financial year. It is
reported here for the HERDC reporting year.
Table 9 expands upon the Cooperative
Research Centre funding data provided in
the previous table and is an indicator of the
amount of applied collaborative research
at Curtin, which reflects, in particular, the
University’s commitment to collaboration
with external organisations in research
and development, technology transfer
and innovation. Curtin exceeded its target
by improving its national ranking by one
place from 6th in 2006 to 5th in 2007.
TABLE 9. CRC FUNDING FOR THE HERDC REPORTING YEAR 2007 % CRC FUNDING YEARS 2005 – 2007 UNIVERSITY RANKING ACCORDING TO % SHARE IN 2007
RANK UNIVERSITY ($’000)2007
% SHARE 2007
% SHARE 2006
% SHARE 2005
1 University of Queensland 14,710 11.7 14.7 13.92 University of Melbourne 13,015 10.3 9.4 9.63 Monash University 9,681 7.7 5.9 9.04 University of Sydney 8,017 6.4 6.0 5.45 CURTINUNIVERSITY 7,691 6.1 5.4 4.76 University of Tasmania 6,625 5.3 4.4 3.67 University of Western Australia 6,427 5.1 5.7 5.28 University of Adelaide 6,011 4.8 5.2 5.29 Queensland University of Technology 5,883 4.7 3.5 3.210 University of New South Wales 5,635 4.5 3.7 3.211 Murdoch University 5,526 4.4 4.0 3.112 University of Canberra 3,489 2.8 1.0 1.413 University of South Australia 3,317 2.6 1.8 1.914 Southern Cross University 3,121 2.5 3.1 2.815 Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology 2,995 2.4 2.6 2.616 University of New England 2,876 2.3 2.3 2.517 James Cook University 2,805 2.2 4.5 4.518 Swinburne University of Technology 2,226 1.8 1.4 1.819 Australian National University 1,852 1.5 2.0 2.620 University of Newcastle 1,822 1.4 1.2 1.021 Griffith University 1,721 1.4 2.8 3.222 Charles Darwin University 1,593 1.3 1.0 1.423 La Trobe University 1,438 1.1 0.7 0.824 Macquarie University 1,354 1.1 0.7 0.725 Charles Sturt University 1,056 0.8 1.1 1.126 University of Wollongong 999 0.8 1.5 2.227 University of Technology, Sydney 969 0.8 0.8 0.428 University of Western Sydney 866 0.7 0.5 0.329 Deakin University 709 0.6 0.3 0.330 Victoria University 652 0.5 1.0 0.831 Flinders University of SA 470 0.4 0.5 0.732 Central Queensland University 381 0.3 0.9 0.733 Edith Cowan University 112 0.1 0.1 0.034 University of Southern Queensland 92 0.1 0.2 0.135 Australian Catholic University 0 0.0 0.0 0.035 Australian Maritime College 0 0.0 0.1 0.035 Batchelor Inst Indigenous Tertiary Ed 0 0.0 0.0 0.035 Bond University 0 0.0 0.0 0.035 Melbourne College of Divinity 0 0.0 0.0 0.035 University of Ballarat 0 0.0 0.0 0.035 University of Notre Dame, Australia 0 0.0 0.0 0.035 University of the Sunshine Coast 0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Total 126,138 100.0 100.0 100.0
Performance Indicators (continued)
2008 Annual Report
131
Performance Indicators (continued)
Research publications growth measured by:
(k) Number of Research Publications
Benchmark gauge: ATN and National average
Research publications are considered an important measure of research performance throughout the higher education sector. The publication of a
piece of research demonstrates that referees, expert in the appropriate field, have judged the work worthy of acceptance and dissemination to the
research community.
Table 10 gives Curtin’s relative performance in respect of the publications indicator over the period 2005 – 2007 against averages for the ATN and
for all Australian universities.
Additional initiatives and incentives were put in place in 2006, and there has been an increase in total HERDC points awarded for publications,
between 2005 and 2007.
There is a 14 per cent increase in publications in 2007 compared to 2006, with Curtin’s total publications exceeding the ATN average for the first
time, and the University’s national ranking improved from 15th in 2006 to 13th in 2007.
TABLE 10. HERDC (UNWEIGHTED) POINTS FOR RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS: COMPARISON BETWEEN CURTIN, AVERAGE OF ALL ATN UNIVERSITIES AND AVERAGE OF ALL AUSTRALIAN UNIVERSITIES 2005 – 2007
2005 2006 2007
PUBLICATION TYPE CURTIN ATN1 ALL2 CURTIN ATN1 ALL2 CURTIN ATN1 ALL2
Books 6.5 8.8 16.5 13.6 12.1 17.3 19.2 15.6 18.0
Book Chapters,Journal Articles,Conference Publications
915.0 1018.6 967.2 1012.9 1116.0 1014.1 1149.7 1140.2 1046.3
Total Publications 921.5 1027.5 983.7 1026.5 1128.1 1031.4 1168.9 1155.8 1064.3
Curtin Target 983.7 1031.3 1134.4
1. ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities.2. All refers to the average of all Australian Universities.
Curtin University of Technology
132
A2.2 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT EFFICIENCY
REF NAME OUTPUT/OBJECTIVE
lResearch Funding per 10 FTE Academic Staff: Comparison between Curtin and the Averages for ATN Universities and National Ranking
Research funding efficiency
m
Research Publications per 10 FTE Academic Staff: Comparison between Curtin and the Averages for ATN Universities and all Australian Universities.
Research publications efficiency
Research funding efficiency, measured by:
(l) Total Research Funding per 10 FTE Academic Staff
Benchmark gauge: ATN average and National rank
The indicator Research Funding per 10 FTE Academic Staff provides an insight into the efficiency
with which monies directed towards the Research and Development goal have been earned.
Table 11 compares Curtin’s research funding performance per 10 FTE academic
staff with the averages for the ATN universities and all Australian universities.
Curtin’s funding of $766,000 per 10 FTE in 2007 remains above the ATN average
and places its national ranking at 14th position, similar to previous year.
Section A Higher Education Performance
A2 Research and Development PerformanceStrategic Objective:
To focus on areas of high-impact,
high-quality research.
TABLE 11. RESEARCH FUNDING PER 10 FTE ACADEMIC STAFF1: COMPARISON BETWEEN CURTIN, THE AVERAGE OF ALL ATN UNIVERSITIES AND THE NATIONAL RANKING 2005 – 20071
2005 2006 2007
CURTIN ATN2 NAT CURTIN ATN2 NAT CURTIN ATN2 NAT
Source of Research Funding $’000/10 FTE
$’000/10 FTE Rank $’000/
10 FTE$’000/10 FTE Rank $’000/
10 FTE$’000/10 FTE Rank
Australian CompetitiveResearch Grants 102 116 23 140 129 20 150 135 20
Other Public SectorResearch Funding 94 92 19 162 129 14 278 158 4
Industry and OtherFunding for Research 161 101 10 175 114 12 154 130 15
Cooperative ResearchCentre Funds 73 38 8 84 41 6 89 45 5
Other Sources(that is, IGS and RIBG) 89 77 21 95 81 19 96 86 19
Total 519 425 17 656 493 14 766 554 14
Curtin Target 500 500 525
1. FTE Academic Staff is defined as Full-time equivalent (FTE) academic staff from all funding sources in academic organisational units only, and include teaching and research staff with a level of Lecturer B or above and research-only academic staff at all levels. Hourly paid academic staff is excluded.
2. ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities.
Performance Indicators (continued)
2008 Annual Report
133
Performance Indicators (continued)
Research publications productivity, measured by:
(m) Total Number of Research Publications per 10 FTE Academic Staff
Benchmark gauge: ATN and National average
Research publications per 10 full-time equivalent (FTE) academic staff at Curtin are provided in Table 12 and compared with the publication
rates for ATN, and for all Australian universities. All staff data are derived from the Commonwealth annual statistical collections. The definition of
academic research staff is identical to that used for the efficiency indicators (Note 1 of Table 11).
Curtin’s output of 13.5 publications per 10 FTE in 2007 is a marked improvement over the previous two years’ and raises it above the ATN average
as well as the National average.
TABLE 12. NUMBER OF RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS PER 10 FTE ACADEMIC STAFF1: COMPARISON OF CURTIN, AVERAGE OF ALL ATN UNIVERSITIES AND AVERAGE OF ALL AUSTRALIAN UNIVERSITIES, 2005 – 2007
2005 2006 2007
PUBLICATION TYPE CURTIN ATN2 ALL3 CURTIN ATN2 ALL3 CURTIN ATN2 ALL3
Books 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2
Book Chapters,Journal Articles,Conference Publications
10.8 11.8 12.3 11.9 12.5 11.9 13.3 12.3 11.1
Total 10.9 11.9 12.5 12.1 12.6 12.1 13.5 12.8 11.3
Curtin Target 12.5 12.1 12.7
1. FTE Academics Staff is defined as Full-time equivalent (FTE) academic staff from all funding sources in academic organisational units only, and include teaching and research staff with a level of Lecturer B or above and research-only academic staff at all levels. Hourly paid academic staff is excluded.
2. ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities.3. All refers to the average of all Australian Universities.
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VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING PERFORMANCE INDICATORS SUMMARY
REF NAME OUTPUT/OBJECTIVE
B1 Effectiveness
n Percentage of Graduates Satisfied with Courses Quality teaching
o Employment Rate of Graduates Quality graduates
p Graduates in Further Study Quality graduates
B2 Efficiency q Expenditure per Student Curriculum Hour
Efficient Teaching and Learning expenditure
Quality teaching, measured by:
(n) Percentage of Graduates Satisfied with their Course
Benchmark gauge: National average
Table 13, covering the years 2005 – 2008, signals the extent to which Curtin met
individual student needs in terms of skills formation outcomes through provision
of training services, and as assessed as part of a nationally conducted Graduate
Survey. In 2007, Curtin continued to exceed both State and national averages.
The national surveying body carries out biennial detailed small area sampling. In 2006
and 2008 the survey returns are deemed insufficient for reporting purposes.
TABLE 13. VET GRADUATE SATISFACTION 2005 – 2008
2005(1) 2006 2007(1) 2008
Curtin90%(89%)
n/a 90%(91%) n/a
number of Respondents 1,558 1,673
State87%(87%) n/a 88%
(87%) n/a
number of Respondents 36,068 36,544
National88%(88%) n/a
89%(89%)
n/a
number of Respondents 345,012 391,597SURVEY DATA FOR 2007:
Curtin: Response rate = 98%; sample size = 424 and standard deviation = 0.8State: Response rate = 98%; sample size = 6,053 and standard deviation = 0.8National: Response rate = 98%; sample size = 40,626 and standard deviation = 0.8
NOTES:a. Data for 2006 and 2008 were unavailable because the national surveying body switched from annual
to biennial ‘detailed’ small area sampling. Consequently, the relevant 2006 and 2008 survey returns for Curtin were deemed insufficient for reporting purposes.
b. (1) Bracketed percentages represent estimates prepared by the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER), provided to the Western Australian Department of Training and Employment (WADOT), and are intended as a better measure of the full year’s outcomes given the data collected in June. Unbracketed percentages are generated from actual rather than estimated responses.
c. Rounding errors may occur.d. Number of respondents, response rate in percentage, sample size and standard deviation for Curtin,
State and national data in 2005 and 2007 are sourced from NCVER report. Confidence level and interval are not reported.
Section B Vocational Education and Training Performance
B1 Vocational Education and Training EffectivenessStrategic Objective:
To supply quality teaching and skills
formation services to both meet customer
needs and provide education and
training for employment in the region.
Performance Indicators (continued)
2008 Annual Report
135
Performance Indicators (continued)
Quality graduates, measured by:
(o) Employment Rate of Graduates
Benchmark gauge: WA and National average
Table 14, showing the proportion of graduates in employment in the year following
their graduation, indicates the extent to which the desired outcomes were
successfully achieved in terms of an employable and adaptable graduate. Curtin
VET graduates in 2007 had higher employment rates and lower unemployment rates
than both the State and national averages, continuing the pattern set in 2005.
TABLE 14. VET GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT 2005 – 2008
2005(1) 2006 2007(1) 2008
No. % No. % No. % No. %
Curtin
Employed 372 89%(91%) n/a n/a 376 91%
(92%) n/a n/a
Unemployed 22 5%(5%) n/a n/a 13 3%
(3%) n/a n/a
Not in Labour Force 22 5%(4%) n/a n/a 25 6%
(5%) n/a n/a
Number of Respondents 1,541 1,669
state
Employed 5,241 78%(78%) n/a n/a 4,681 83%
(83%) n/a n/a
Unemployed 563 8%(9%) n/a n/a 340 6%
(6%) n/a n/a
Not in Labour Force 866 13%(13%) n/a n/a 641 11%
(11%) n/a n/a
Number of Respondents 34,211 34,974
national
Employed 32,231 80%(79%) n/a n/a 31,094 81%
(80%) n/a n/a
Unemployed 3,735 9%(10%) n/a n/a 3,183 8%
(9%) n/a n/a
Not in Labour Force 4,347 11%(11%) n/a n/a 3,980 10%
(10%) n/a n/a
Number of Respondents 329,118 378,830survey Data for 2007:Curtin: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 422State: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 5,781National: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 39,062
NOTES:a. Data for 2006 and 2008 were unavailable because the national surveying body switched from annual to biennial ‘detailed’ small area sampling. Consequently, the
relevant 2006 and 2008 survey returns for Curtin were deemed insufficient for reporting purposes.b. (1) Bracketed percentages represent estimates prepared by the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER), provided to the Western
Australian Department of Training and Employment (WADOT), and are intended as a better measure of the full year’s outcomes given the data collected in June. Unbracketed percentages are generated from actual rather than estimated responses.
c. Rounding errors may occur.d. Numbers of respondents, response rate in percentage, and sample size for Curtin, State and national data in 2005 and 2007 are sourced from NCVER report.
Confidence level and interval and standard deviation are not reported.
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136
Quality graduates, measured by:
(p) Graduates in Further Study
Benchmark gauge: WA and National average
The proportion of graduates who enrol in further study provides another measure of
effectiveness in achieving the desired outcome of meeting customer needs. Table 15 provides
these data for the period 2005 – 2008, with Curtin benchmarked against State and national
data. Note that respondents may also be in work while engaging in further study. A significantly
higher percentage of Curtin VET graduates enrolled for further study in 2007 compared with
2005. The gap between the Curtin outcome and the State and national benchmarks has been
significantly reduced.
TABLE 15. VET GRADUATES ENROLLED IN FURTHER STUDY 2005 – 2008
2005(1) 2006 2007(1) 2008
No. % No. % No. % No. %
Curtin 92 22%(20%) n/a n/a 102 25%
(23%) n/a n/a
Number of Respondents 1,529 1,669
target – Exceed State and National Percentages
State 2,416 37%(36%) n/a n/a 1,881 33%
(34%) n/a n/a
NumberofRespondents 33,649 34,974
national 13,415 34%(33%) n/a n/a 12,147 32%
(31%) n/a n/a
NumberofRespondents 324,042 378,830Survey Data for 2007:Curtin: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 422State: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 5,781National: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 39,062
NOTES:a. Data for 2006 and 2008 were unavailable because the national surveying body switched from annual to biennial ‘detailed’ small area sampling. Consequently the
relevant 2006 and 2008 survey returns for Curtin were deemed insufficient for reporting purposes.b. (1) Bracketed percentages represent estimates prepared by the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER), provided to the Western
Australian Department of Training and Employment (WADOT), and are intended as a better measure of the full year’s outcomes given the data collected in June. Unbracketed percentages are generated from actual rather than estimated responses.
c. Rounding errors may occur.d. Numbers of respondents, response rate in percentage, and sample size for Curtin, State and national data in 2005 and 2007 are sourced from NCVER report.
Confidence level and interval and standard deviation are not reported.
Performance Indicators (continued)
2008 Annual Report
137
Performance Indicators (continued)
Efficient teaching and learning expenditure, measured by
(q) Expenditure per Student Curriculum Hour
Benchmark gauge: Not available
The indicator Expenditure per Student Curriculum Hour provides an insight into the
efficiency with which monies directed towards the VET goal have been spent.
Table 16 records expenditure and Student Curriculum Hours (SCH). Ratios of Expenditure
to SCH, with the numerator definition altered to reflect Teaching or Non-Teaching Costs
respectively, are shown together with an overall Total Cost per SCH indicator.
section b vocational education and training performance
B2 Vocational Education and Training EfficiencyStrategic Objective:
Tosupplyqualityteachingandskills
formationservicestobothmeetcustomer
needsandprovideeducationand
trainingforemploymentintheregion.
TABLE 16. ExPENDITURE PER STUDENT CURRICULUM HOUR 2005 – 2008
2005 2006 2007 2008
Total SCH 622,379 667,924 656,868 573,195
Curtin Target in SCH 565,388 565,388 565,388 600,668
Total Teaching and Learning Expenditure $14,497,642 $12,466,442 $14,703,886 14,791,2711
Teaching Expenditure per SCH $11.40 $8.98 $10.57 $14.20
Non-Teaching Expenditure per SCH $11.90 $9.68 $11.81 $11.60
Total Teaching Expenditure per SCH $23.30 $18.66 $22.38 $25.801. Total Teaching and Learning expenditure includes $6.7 million of other non-teaching related expenditure.
NOTES:• RoundingErrorsmayoccur.
2008 Curtin Annual Report
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Curtin University of Technology 2008 Annual Report