Annual Report
05
2
Curtin University of Technology
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chancellor’s Foreword
3
Vice-Chancellor’s Report
5
Vision, Mission and Goals
10
Report on Operations
Governance of the University
Commercialisation Of Research & Technology Development
Capital Works
Internationalisation
Staffing Matters
11
11
26
28
29
31
2005 Activity Highlights
The Teaching and Learning Plan
The Research Management Plan
The Internationalisation Plan
The Valuing Curtin Staff Plan
32
41
44
47
50
Curtin in Figures
53
Key Performance Indicators
57
Financial Statements
79
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Curtin University of Technology
Chancellor’s Foreword
CHANCELLOR’S FOREWORD
The University has had a very eventful year in 2005.
The work that began in 2004 to enable the University to achieve compliance
with the National Governance Protocols continued during the first half of the
year. Curtin worked with the other public universities in Western Australia to
develop agreed amendments to their respective enabling legislative instruments.
It is a tribute to the spirit of cooperation among the universities that such
agreement was achieved without perturbation. In August 2005 the Curtin
University of Technology Act 1966 (“the Act”) was amended through the
Universities Legislation Amendment Act 2005, with significant consequences
for the composition of the Council. The requirement that all Council members
with two exceptions (the Chancellor, and the Vice-Chancellor) have to be
chosen ad personam meant that there was change in the manner in which a
number of Council positions were filled in order to make it more democratic
and open.
Professor Twomey’s announcement in early 2005 that he would retire in April
2006 led to the commencement of the search process for his replacement,
during the first half of the year. Selection criteria were developed through a
wide consultative process which included a formal invitation to bodies such as
the Academic Board and the Professoriate to provide advice to the Council.
The resultant “Capability Statement” is an amalgam of the contributions of
many groups and individuals, and the Council itself. The search process was
suspended in May 2005, when the University decided to actively explore the
possibility of a merger with Murdoch University. With the mutual decision in
November to abandon the exercise, the Vice-Chancellor search process was
resumed in December. A nine-member Selection Panel chaired by the Pro
Chancellor, and with representation from both students and staff as well as
external members will now have the responsibility of making a recommendation
to the Council on the appointment of the next Vice-Chancellor.
The decision in November 2005 to discontinue explorations on a possible
Curtin-Murdoch merger was deeply disappointing, but was a consensus
decision shared by both parties. Considerable effort was invested by a very large
group of Curtin staff, as well as by the Council’s Merger Committee which led
the negotiations. The Council itself also met on a number of occasions outside
its scheduled timetable, in order to keep itself briefed, and to give direction.
I take this opportunity to record my appreciation of the work of all of those staff,
and my Council colleagues. The merger work will not be wasted as Curtin is
now more self aware then before and the stronger for having documented a
large number of matters in a detailed manner. This knowledge will be
invaluable to the University as it re-positions itself in 2006 in an increasingly
deregulated and competitive environment. Collegiality at the University has
also been much enhanced.
The University continued to grow its physical footprint. In July 2005, the
University’s first Australian campus outside of Western Australia commenced
operations in Sydney. The Curtin Sydney Campus centrally located in The
Rocks district of Sydney will initially deliver Curtin programs at the diploma
and bachelor levels, to the very large market of international students whose
preference is to live and study in Sydney. During the year, the University began
teaching at Midland, one of two regional locations for which the University was
successful in obtaining contestable Commonwealth Government funding.
Teaching in the other location under this arrangement – Armadale – will
commence in 2006. At year’s end, Curtin had seven campuses and seven
education centres in Western Australia, in addition to its interstate campus in
Sydney and its overseas campus in Miri, Sarawak, East Malaysia.
Curtin Chancellor
Dr Eric Tan AM
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Curtin University of Technology
Chancellor’s Foreword
During 2005 the Council was involved in what is possibly the most significant
infrastructure development in Curtin’s history. In April 2005, the Council
approved the University entering into an agreement with the Chemistry Centre
of Western Australia (CCWA), which will entail the provision of a prescribed
area of land on the Bentley Campus appropriate for the accommodation of the
CCWA, and the construction of a facility to be leased to the CCWA for 20
years. This significant decision led to a more substantial proposal to establish a
Resources and Chemistry Research and Education Precinct to bring together
the University’s Department of Applied Chemistry, and an expanded CSIRO
Minerals Facility at Waterford as well as the CCWA. At the end of 2005, the
Precinct – which would create the State’s largest group of researchers in applied
chemistry and related disciplines – had attracted support from the
Commonwealth Government through a Capital Development Grant, and two
major industry partners which will contribute both to the funding costs of the
construction of the Precinct as well as through the relocation of their respective
research outfits.
My term as Chancellor will expire in early March 2006. I am honoured to have
been Chancellor of the University during what has undoubtedly been a time of
unprecedented change for the Australian higher education sector. During this
time, Curtin has continued to thrive and to live up to its reputation as an
innovative and agile institution. This success is a tribute to the excellent leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Twomey, his senior management team,
and all the staff who have worked so hard and so willingly, to ensure Curtin’s
place amongst Australia’s leading universities. I would also like to pay tribute to
our Council Members who have given so generously of their time and expertise
to Curtin.
Dr Eric Tan AM
Chancellor
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Curtin University of Technology
Vice-Chancellor’s Report
VICE-CHANCELLOR’S REPORT
The year 2005 was a year of change; a year of success as well as a year of intense
reflection as we framed the future for Curtin University of Technology. It may
well prove to be a watershed year which sets the foundations for the vision we
have established for ourselves for the next 10 years.
In 2005 Curtin continued to do extremely well in both areas of teaching and
learning and research and development. Curtin’s academic staff were successful
in achieving two national teaching awards (from the 16 available annually),
continuing a most successful trend in this area in recent times (second only to
the University of Queensland).
In terms of its research and development performance, Curtin continued to
make significant improvements and advances. These included an increase in
research funding coupled with impressively increased outputs in regard to
publications, the commercialisation of research and the growth consolidation of
partnerships with major business and industry groups.
A major focus of attention during the year has been the development of the
Resources and Chemistry Research and Education Precinct (RCREP) at the
southern end of our main Bentley Campus. This $160 million conglomerate will
include the State Chemistry Centre, CSIRO Minerals, two of Australia’s
largest resource companies and a number of smaller companies, as well as
Curtin’s Department of Applied Chemistry. The involvement of upper
secondary school students will complete the precinct making it the largest such
complex in the southern hemisphere and among the largest in the world. It is
the largest single project the University has ever contemplated and is but one
example of how far the University has progressed in its development from our
humble beginnings of 40 years ago. It is also pleasing to note that, in a period
which has proven to be challenging for all Australian universities, Curtin
completed the year with a $23 million operating surplus.
The year also saw a continuation of the wave of reforms to the higher education
sector as initiated by Dr Brendan Nelson, the Commonwealth Minister for
Education, Science and Training. The reforms have necessitated major changes
to the ways in which Australian universities operate and report to government
and have been challenging in their scope and emphasis. Among the legislative
changes have been industrial reforms and voluntary student unionism. The
University continues to work with its staff and students to seek a satisfactory
outcome to these and previous challenges.
Student Fees
In April 2005, University Council resolved to increase undergraduate
domestic student tuition fees by 25 per cent as allowed under the Higher
Education Support Act 2003 (C’th)(HESA). Curtin was the only Western
Australian university not to increase its undergraduate student fees in 2004.
Alongside this the University Council approved a $2 million undergraduate
scholarships portfolio for 2006 and beyond. The scholarships portfolio, which
builds on the John Curtin Undergraduate Scholarships, include generous
allocations for up to 100 additional merit awards as well as a range of access
scholarships to ensure that indigenous students, those from regional WA and
students with disabilities are not prevented from enrolling. The early indications
are that the scholarships have been extremely well received.
Higher Education Workplace Reform Requirements
One of the most significant reforms introduced by the Commonwealth
Government in 2005 was the Higher Education Workplace Reform
Requirements (HEWRRs). These reforms impacted directly on workplace
arrangements and the distribution of research funding to universities. Higher
Education Providers’ (HEP) workplace arrangements are required to comply
Curtin Vice-Chancellor
Professor Lance Twomey
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Curtin University of Technology
Vice-Chancellor’s Report
with HEWRRs, including agreements and workplace policies and practices in
order to be eligible for increases in the Commonwealth Government Scheme –
an additional 5 per cent in 2006 and 7.5 per cent from 2007. The University
successfully settled both the Academic and General Staff Enterprise Bargaining
Agreements in 2005. As a consequence of these Agreements the University has
increased flexibility in its employment practice and is now able to offer
Australian Workplace Agreements to all staff.
Research Quality Framework
The introduction of the Research Quality Framework instigated a review of the
way in which research funding is distributed to universities by the
Commonwealth Government. In response, the Australian Technology
Network has undertaken modelling exercises to determine possible outcomes of
the framework and the effect the funding will have on its member universities.
Research
The University’s research performance continued impressively in 2005.
Development and planning for the Resources and Chemistry Research and
Education Precinct (formerly the Minerals and Chemistry Research and
Education Precinct) was well underway at the year’s end with the
commencement of forward works for a new main entrance off Manning Road.
Planning is on target for the precinct to be occupied by mid 2007. We have also
received encouraging feedback from industry interested in relocating to the
precinct. This will be the largest such cluster of scientists and researchers in the
southern hemisphere. Furthermore, in December, Dr Brendan Nelson
announced that Curtin would receive $5 million in Capital Development Pool
funding to re-locate the Department of Applied Chemistry to the RCREP.
This was tremendous news for the University and provides a welcome stimulus
to the project.
In July we announced an alliance between Curtin and a local company DTI
Group Ltd to develop leading-edge surveillance systems for public transport.
DTI is a Perth based company leading the world in the provision of mobile
digital video surveillance systems for public transport. It is working with our
Institute for Multi-sensor Processing and Content Analysis on a $1 million
research project to generate the world’s first pre-emptive mobile video
surveillance systems, significantly improving security of public bus and rail
transport in Australia and internationally.
The University’s commercialisation success also continues to build. The success
of Neuromonics Pty Ltd continued to grow, helping tinnitus sufferers
throughout Australia. The treatment is now being exported.
In November the University was awarded a AUD1.5 million grant by the
US-based Alcoa Foundation as part of its Conservation and Sustainability
Fellowship Program, for a project to be conducted through our Alcoa Centre
for Stronger Communities. The five-year program aims to support and foster
sustainability across the globe, with the current focus on improving education in
sustainability issues. Curtin was one of just five academic partners in the world
selected by the Foundation to participate in this signature program and is the
only Australian research organisation considered to have the expertise to fulfil
the program’s aims of progressing education in economic, environmental and
social sustainability issues. The other research partners include The London
School of Economics and Political Science, the University of Sao Paulo in
Brazil, Tsinghua University in the Peoples Republic of China and the
University of Michigan in the United States of America. Curtin’s research
program will focus on sustainability in the south coast region of Western
Australia. Entitled Sustaining Gondwana: Harnessing local, place-based
knowledges for sustainable outcomes, the project will document and enhance
economic, environmental and social sustainability initiatives in the region.
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Curtin University of Technology
Vice-Chancellor’s Report
Teaching and learning
The 2005 national teaching awards were a successful event for the University.
Dr Len Sparrow and Dr Sandra Frid won the Teaching Award for Social
Sciences; and the Curtin Advantage project, led by Ms Tracey Hodgkins, won
the Institution Category for the “Provision of Support Services that Assist
Student Learning”. Curtin performed exceptionally well in these awards, being
the most successful institution behind the University of Queensland.
Additionally, Ms Tracey Hodgkins, director of Curtin Advantage, was named
2005 Telstra Western Australian Business Woman of the Year for her work in
developing Curtin Advantage.
A significant innovation in 2005 was the development of eVALUate which
enables all students to provide feedback on every unit they study each semester
via the internet. The pilot completed in late 2005 assessed over 2000 units of
study and has provided extremely valuable feedback to lecturers and course
coordinators. It is a significant achievement for the University and will enable
ongoing improvements and innovation in our teaching delivery, curriculum
design and unit assessment.
Community engagement
Curtin continued to ensure strong interaction in its local community. The
relationship with Technology Park to develop the precinct is ongoing with
continuing support from the State Government. Also the Community Liaison
Committee supported a small project, Bussed-e, developed as a partnership
between the University, the Boronia Pre-release Centre and a local Community
Action Group, edVentures, to ensure young children at risk were collected f
rom home, provided with breakfast and delivered to their local schools. The
outstanding success of this early intervention project was recognised at the
2005 State Public Services Awards where it took out first prize in its category
– a very proud moment.
The Alcoa Foundation grant mentioned above is a tremendous achievement for
the University and is further evidence of the University’s growing partnerships
with the international community.
International
There was a general softening in the number of international onshore students
coming to Australia to study, a trend which follows on from last year. Following
many years of continuous growth in the number of new international students
coming to study in Australia, there was zero growth in 2005 nationally. Curtin
An artist’s impression of
the Resources and
Chermistry Ressearch
and Education Precinct
buildings proposed for
Curtin’s Bentley
Campus.
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Curtin University of Technology
Vice-Chancellor’s Report
Curtin’s Sydney
Campus was officially
opened in June.
however performed particularly well with a growth of new onshore enrolments
of over 3 per cent.
Following the trend across Australia, the number of students from our
traditional source countries for international students, including Malaysia,
Indonesia and Singapore fell slightly. However this fall was not as great as that
experienced by most other Australian universities. However, the number of
students from the People’s Republic of China grew by 23 per cent (in line with a
general increase to some other universities nationally) making China our third
most significant country after Malaysia and Indonesia. Significant growth in
student numbers was also experienced in the number of students coming from
India, South Korea, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.
Sydney
This year Curtin commenced operations in Sydney, launching its campus in
June. The delivery of Curtin programs in Sydney aims to meet the increasing
demand from international students for courses in this region. It also provides
an excellent opportunity for Curtin to establish an operational base to connect
more directly with the headquarters of many significant corporations. The
Sydney Campus also provides the opportunity for Curtin to offer fee-paying
postgraduate courses. The first student intake commenced in July. The initial
course offerings are the Foundation Certificate of Commerce, Diploma of
Commerce, and the Bachelor of Commerce (with majors in Accounting,
Marketing and a Management and Marketing double major).
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Curtin University of Technology
Vice-Chancellor’s Report
Open Day
Open Day was held on Sunday 14 August and was considered by most to be the
best ever. It was well attended by parents and potential students alike. The new
organisation of the displays based about the Sir Charles Court Promenade
going through the spine of the University worked particularly well and made it
easy for prospective students and their parents to locate the appropriate areas.
Financial – $23 million operating surplus
I am pleased that the Divisions have been able to deliver at least break even
budgets for the year. One of the strategies we implemented (in June) to ensure
the University’s future financial sustainability was to ask all areas of the
University to identify a five percent cut to their spending.
Merger
In June this year, Curtin and Murdoch Universities undertook a joint feasibility
study to assess the potential benefits of a proposed merger between the two
institutions. The study revealed that although there were significant benefits to
be gained it would also be a highly complex and expensive process with no
assurance of success.
After considerable negotiation and discussion, both universities decided they
would be better served at this point by continuing to explore research and other
synergies but remaining separate institutions. These discussions will continue
into 2006 and are likely to extend to other universities both within and outside
of Western Australia.
Strategic Plan and Future Positioning
The University confirmed its established strategic directions and continued to
clarify the enabling and supporting strategic plans as a normal part of the
cyclical review of the planning process. The 2005 budget was developed in close
association with the Strategic Plan and the University has benefited
considerably from this interaction. This process has been further refined as
Curtin moves into 2006. Partnerships with governments, business and industry,
strategically important and relevant individuals, other universities (both within
and outside of Australia) and major research entities, remains as a cornerstone
of Curtin’s strategy and direction for the future.
Professor Lance Twomey AM
Vice-Chancellor
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Curtin University of Technology
Vision, Mission and Goals
VISION, MISSION AND GOALS
Curtin University of Technology is Western Australia’s largest University. In
2005, Curtin’s 38,000 students attended seven campuses and seven education
centres in Western Australia; one campus in New South Wales; and one
campus in East Malaysia.
The University applies the philosophy of its namesake, former Prime Minister
John Curtin, who said:
“The great university… should look ever forward;
for it the past should be but a preparation
for the greater days to be”.
VISION
Curtin aspires to be a world-class university of technology.
MISSION
Curtin is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and the enrichment of
culture.
The University places particular value on:
• the search for innovative applications of technology in all fields of human
endeavour;
• the cultivation of responsive and responsible links with the wider community
emphasising service, practical relevance, social justice and ethical behaviour;
• the development of students and staff as citizens of the world, emphasising an
international outlook, cultural diversity, and an informed respect for
indigenous peoples
GOALS
The Curtin community is united by a commitment to scholarship that embraces
teaching and research as complementary and inter-linked. Through productive
partnerships, the University strives for excellence in:
• teaching and learning, developing graduates as lifelong learners who make a
positive contribution to society;
• research and development, resulting in creative solutions to significant
problems.
Strategic Plan
The University’s Vision, Mission and Goals are operationalised by its Strategic
Plan. 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 2005 Activity Highlights presents Curtin’s activities and
achievements over the year in relation to the primary statements of the Strategic
Plan.
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Governance of the University
GOVERNANCE OF THE UNIVERSITY
THE COUNCIL
The Council is the governing body of the University and has such powers,
consistent with the Curtin University of Technology Act 1966 (WA), to
discharge its functions and provide such facilities for its staff and students as it
considers desirable.
The Act provides for a Council comprising of the Chancellor, the ViceChancellor, members appointed by the Governor in Executive Council, a
nominee of the State Minister for Education, co-opted members, members
elected by academic and general staff, members elected by and from the
students, and a member of the Alumni Association.
During the first half of 2005, the University worked with colleague public
universities in Western Australia to prepare draft amendments to each
university’s enabling legislation to achieve full compliance with the National
Governance Protocols. The Protocols, which were introduced through the
Higher Education Support Act 2004 (C’th) (HESA) provided for a portion of
Commonwealth funding to the public universities to be contingent upon
compliance with the Protocols.
The Universities Legislation Amendment Act 2005 (WA) which came into
operation on 13 August 2005, made several significant changes to the
membership of the Council:
• The ex officio status of the Chair of the Academic Board was removed, and
replaced with the provision for “one member of the Academic Board of the
University established by Statute, elected by and from the Academic Board”
• The provision for the two student members to be elected by the Student
Guild Council was replaced with the provision for “two persons elected by
and from the students”
• The provisions for the ex officio membership of the Chairperson of the
Kalgoorlie Campus Council, and the chairs of any Board of a branch of the
University were replaced with the provision for “up to three persons
appointed by the Council from persons who are members of bodies that
represent the interests of the University in places other than the University’s
principal campus, and who are not staff or students of the University.”
An election was conducted to select the member of the Academic Board, and
the Chair was unanimously elected.
The President of the Curtin Student Guild, and the President of the Curtin
University Postgraduate Students Association ceased to be members on
13 August 2005. The election process to give effect to the new provision for
student members was commenced in late 2005 but terminated when a number
of difficulties with the electronic aspects of the balloing process did not work
properly. The election process will be recommenced in early 2006.
In acknowledgement of the importance of student opinion in the Council’s
decision-making, the Council resolved to invite the two Presidents to attend all
meetings of the Council with full rights of audience and debate pending the
declaration of the student elections.
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Governance of the University
In 2005, the Council comprised the following members:
Chancellor
Dr Eric Tan
Term expires 2 March 2006
Members Appointed by the Governor
Ms Georgina Carnegie
Term expires 31 March 2007
Datuk Pattingi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam
Term expires 31 March 2006
Ms Michele Dolin (Pro Chancellor)
Term expires 31 March 2007
Dr Brian Hewitt
Term expires 31 March 2006
Dr David Karpin
Term expires 31 March 2007
Mr Wayne Zekulich
Term expires 31 March 2006
Ex Officio Members
Vice-Chancellor
Professor Lance Twomey
Nominee of the Minister charged with the administration of the
School Education Act 1999
Ms Norma Jeffery
Resigned 24 August 2005
The Hon. John Cowdell
With effect from 22 August 2005
Chairperson, Kalgoorlie Campus Council
Until 13 August 2005
Vacant
Nominee of the Board, Muresk Institute
Adjunct Professor Peter Browne
Until 13 August 2005
Up to three members of bodies that represent the interests of the
University in places other than the University’s principal campus
Adjunct Professor Peter Browne
With effect from 13 August 2005
Vacant
Vacant
Chairperson, Academic Senate/Board
Associate Professor Douglas Yorke
Until 13 August 2005
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Governance of the University
One member of the Academic Board of the University established by
Statute, elected by and from the Academic Board
Associate Professor Douglas Yorke
With effect from 13 August 2005
Term expires 31 March 2007
Co-opted Members
Ms Zelinda Bafile
Term expires 31 March 2007
Mr Donald Humphreys
Term expires 31 March 2008
Dr Ruth Shean
Term expires 31 March 2008
Members Elected by Full-time Academic Staff
Associate Professor David Charnock
Term expires 31 March 2007
Dr Malcolm Innes-Brown
Term expired 31 March 2005
Dr Jan Sinclair-Jones
With effect from 1 April 2005; term expires 31 March 2008
Members Elected by Curtin Student Guild Council
Until 13 August 2005
Undergraduate
Mr Patrick Gorman
Postgraduate
Ms Tanya Vernon
Two persons elected by and from the students
With effect from 13 August 2005
Vacant
Vacant
Member Elected by Full-time General Staff
Ms Lyn Marks
With effect from 2 March 2005; term expires 31 March 2007
Member Elected by Alumni Association
Vacant
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Governance of the University
CURTIN GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE FOR 2005
COUNCIL
ViceChancellor
Regional
Education
Committee
Planning and
Management
Committee
Executive
Committee of
the Council
Muresk
Institute Board
of Management
Curtin
Kalgoorlie
Board
Academic
Board
Finance
Committee
Committees of the Academic Board
• Admissions and Matriculation
• Courses
• Student Progress
• University Graduate Studies
• University Research and Development
• University Teaching and Learning
Audit
Committee
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Governance of the University
SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF CURTIN UNIVERSITY
OF TECHNOLOGY
A decision was taken by the University in 2004 to devolve consultancy
management to the Divisions of the University.
Curtin Consultancy Pty Ltd
Curtin Consultancy Ptd Ltd was wound up in 2005. In preparation for winding
up, the company had completed any current projects by December 2004,
assigning any longer term contracts to the University. The Chairperson
through this period was Stephen Phillips, who resigned on 8 December 2004.
At the time of winding up, office bearers were as follows:
Director:
Conrad Crisafulli, Director of Intellectual Property
Commercialisation, Curtin University of Technology
Director:
Professor Barney Glover, Pro Vice-Chancellor,
Research & Development, Curtin University of
Technology
Director:
Gem Cheong, University Secretary, Curtin University
of Technology
Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd
By resolution of the Directors, it was determined that the final date of trading
for Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd would be 30th June 2005, with stock and
equipment to be sold to WA School of Mines, Curtin University of Technology
at cost price and market value respectively.
The Balance Sheet for Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd has been cleared and
office holders are working in conjunction with RSM Bird Cameron to wind up
the Company. A cost centre within the WA School of Mines, WASM
Functions Services, commenced operating on 1 July 2005 taking over from
Uniservices. In 2005, officer holders were:
Director:
Peter Lilly, Director, WA School of Mines
Llesa Hawke, Finance & Planning Officer,
Director/Secretary:
WA School of Mines
MANAGEMENT
In 2005 Vice-Chancellor Lance Twomey announced his intention to step down
from the position, effective April 2006. The search for a new Vice-Chancellor
commenced, with the services of a professional executive recruitment firm, but
were suspended pending the outcome of a feasibility study into a proposed
merger between Curtin and Murdoch University. The decision not to merge
the two universities initiated the renewal of the recruitment process in
November 2005.
Professor Graham Lodwick, Pro Vice-Chancellor Sarawak, retired on
31 December 2005. Professor John Evans, previously Dean of the University of
Wollongong in Dubai, and before that Head of Department Finance and
Banking in the Curtin Business School, was selected to succeed him from
1 January 2006.
In November 2005 Professor Barney Glover, Pro Vice-Chancellor Research &
Development resigned in order to take up the position of Deputy
Vice-Chancellor Research at the University of Newcastle, New South Wales.
His resignation takes effect in February 2006 and the recruitment process for a
new Pro Vice-Chancellor Research & Development has commenced.
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Governance of the University
DIRECTORS’ AND OFFICERS’ LIABILITY INSURANCE
In 2005 Curtin took out Directors and Officers Liability insurance to the value
of $20 million with Chubb Insurance Company of Australia Limited and also
secured Excess Directors and Officers Liability insurance coverage through
AIG – American Home Assurance Company for a further $20 million. The total
premium paid was $91,901.98.
This cover is designed to indemnify and keep indemnified, members of the
Council and Executive Managers against all actions or claims (whether arising
during or after the term of office of the Council member or period of employment of the Executive Manager) in respect of any act or thing done or omitted
to be done in good faith, in the exercise or purported exercise of any power or
duty conferred or imposed upon the Council or a committee of the Council, or
upon any member or members of the Council or Executive Manager, by or
under the Curtin University of Technology Act 1966.
The indemnities apply provided that the member has exercised the same care
and diligence that a reasonable person in a like position would have exercised.
The indemnity does not cover claims brought about by any dishonesty of the
Assured.
To highlight the personal responsibility inherent in the roles of individuals on
the Council, and of Senior Managers, the Council resolved on 22 June 2005 :
that all Council members and all Executive Managers of the University
(the “officers” designated in the premium) should contribute to 1 per cent
of the University’s D & O insurance premium;
An equal cost allocation between 19 Council members and 15 Executive
Managers required each to contribute $27.03.
RISK MANAGEMENT REPORT
Strategic Risk Profile
In July 2005, the Planning and Management Committee endorsed the
University’s first Strategic Risk Profile. This was the culmination of over
12 months’ consultation with all senior officers of the University – Executive
Managers, and Heads of Faculty, School and Areas – on what they individually
perceived as the most serious risks to the achievement of Curtin’s Vision,
Mission and Strategic Objectives. The Risk Profile is based on a risk matrix as
contained in HB 436:2004 Risk Management Guidelines – a companion to the
Australian and New Zealand Standard on Risk Management AS/NZ
4360:2006). The matrix identifies one “extreme” risk and 34 “high” risks for the
period 2005 – 2006. The Risk Profile also identifies one or more senior officers
who have responsibility for coordinating the University’s response to the risks.
The Strategic Risk Profile was discussed at length by the August and
December meetings of the Audit Committee, which noted that the
Vice-Chancellor would submit the Profile to the February 2006 Council
meeting for its adoption. In the meantime, and subject to the Council accepting
the identification and grading of the risks, the Audit Committee approved a
2006 Internal Audit Work Plan designed to provide the Council with
assurances that the University is adequately addressing, managing and reducing
the extreme and high risks as described in the Strategic Risk Profile.
The Profile is, necessarily, a dynamic document, which will be regularly and
periodically reviewed and updated in light of changing circumstances in the
University’s operating environment. It is anticipated that the Council will be asked
to approve a revised Profile at least once a year, but probably more frequently.
Managing to Address Bullying
In acknowledgement of the risks to the University community posed by bullying
behaviour, an Anti-Bullying Project Officer position was established for 2005.
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This Officer’s responsibility was to develop an anti-bullying policy and
procedures for dealing with allegations of bullying; and to institute a training
program for managers to identify and address bullying in the work place.
The Planning and Management Committee approved the policy on The
Prevention and Management of Bullying at its meeting of 8 November.
Critical Incident Management
During the year, the Planning and Management Committee also adopted the
Critical Incident Policy and Procedures. The policy recognises that a critical
incident may take many forms, including events causing physical or emotional
trauma, any event which seriously impacts upon the University’s ability to
conduct its affairs normally; or any event which may seriously and adversely
impact on the University’s reputation. Following adoption of this policy, work
began on the development of the detailed Schedules, each of which will
describe the procedures to be followed when a particular kind of critical
incident occurs. In acknowledgement of the potential impact of an outbreak of
avian influenza on the University’s operations, one of the first Schedules being
developed at year’s end was the University’s response to such an outbreak. Two
others which were being developed at the end of 2005 related to the University’s
response to a bomb threat; and a major hazardous chemical spillage.
Commercialisation of Intellectual Property
The Finance Committee of the Council exercised its responsibilities for
financial risk management by adopting a Protocol for reviewing the use of
pre-seed funding for promising ventures intended to commercialise promising
intellectual property.
Information, Communication & Technology (“ICT”) Monitoring
The investment in 2004 in two devices – an internet monitoring and reporting
system, and a peer-to-peer blocking package – proved their worth. Auditing of
internet download volumes, and of peer-to-peer communication using the
University’s ICT infrastructure during 2005 demonstrated significant
reductions in both of these. No major copyright or other legislative
infringements were identified during 2005. The use of warning notices to
those whose usage put the University at risk assisted in the containment of
questionable internet traffic activity.
Budget
Most importantly, the Council adopted a 2006 budget which ensures the
achievement of a surplus which is vital to ensure the University’s financial health
and capacity to respond successfully to opportunities for enhancement of
teaching, and research and development.
Privacy Project
The University is currently exempt from the Privacy Act 1988 (C’lth), and
Western Australia does not have State legislation on privacy. However, Curtin
takes very seriously its moral and ethical responsibility for the proper
management of individuals’ private information. A project was initiated in late
2005 to review the current processes associated with collection, storage and use
of private information to ensure acceptable standards and reduce the risk of
inadvertent mismanagement of such information.
Oversight of Risk Management
The Audit Committee of the Council has a responsibility to the Council for,
amongst other things, overseeing the systems set in place by management for
risk management and compliance. During the year, the Audit Committee was
heavily focussed on gaining assurances in relation to the management of risk in
the University; and took a keen interest in ensuring that management was
taking appropriate and timely action to address significant internal control
matters raised by way of Internal Audit or External Audit Reports.
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Curtin University of Technology
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The draft Strategic Risk Profile developed by the Planning and Management
Committee was the subject of detailed discussion at the last two meetings of the
Audit Committee in 2005.
CHANGES TO LEGAL ENVIRONMENT AFFECTING
THE UNIVERSITY IN 2005
The Universities Legislation Amendment Act 2005 (WA) which was gazetted
in August 2005 effected a number of significant changes to the Curtin
University of Technology Act 1966 (“the Act”). The requirement in the
National Governance Protocols that all members of the Council be appointed
ad personam (with a few exceptions), led to a requirement for elections to fill
vacancies previously filled by other means. The immediate consequence of the
changes to the Act were to disqualify the Chair of the Academic Board and the
two student members – the President of the Curtin Student Guild and the
President of the Curtin University Postgraduate Students’ Association – from
automatic membership. An election was conducted amongst the members of
the Academic Board to select a Board member to sit on the Council. The two
former student members were granted full rights of audience and debate at
meetings of the Council pending a universal suffrage election which will select
two student Council members “by and from the students”.
Other changes relating to bodies representing the University’s interests outside
the principal Campus have led to the total potential number of members of the
Council increasing from 21 to 22. Since the filling of these positions is at the
Council’s discretion, the actual number of members at any time may be fewer
than 22.
New provisions relating to the conduct of individual Council members, and
empowering the Council to suspend or remove a member of Council in
specified circumstances; and requiring Council members to declare conflicts of
interest and not be involved in decision-making which would create such
conflict or perceived conflict; have clarified the role and responsibilities of
individual Council members.
During 2005, the Commonwealth Minister for Education introduced the
Higher Education Workplace Reform Requirements (HEWRRs). Work to
enable the University to achieve compliance with the HEWRRS occupied a
significant amount of time in the second half of 2005. Development of an
Australian Workplace Agreement (AWA) to be made available as an alternative
to employment under a Certified Agreement; and changes to committee
constitutions to ensure that where there is union representation there is also a
direct election mechanism for staff to select members; were particularly
time-consuming. Nonetheless, strong collaboration amongst the relevant areas
ensured that the University was able to report full compliance by the deadline of
30 November 2005.
In December, the Higher Education Support Amendment (Abolition of
Compulsory Up-front Student Union Fees Act 2005) (C’th) was passed.
Concern about the impact of the late passage of this legislation on student
administration was partially alleviated by the clarification that the Act would
only prohibit the collection of non-academic service fees from July 2006.
The University will therefore be able to continue the collection of an Amenities and
Services fee for continuing students, and students commencing in Semester One
2006. The legislation impacts directly on the enabling Acts of the Western
Australian public universities. The universities agreed in December that, early in
2006, they would reconvene the steering committee which had worked
collaboratively to achieve compliance with the National Governance Protocols in
2004. Whilst the precise detail of wording in Acts may vary, the intent of the
amendments, to reflect the “Voluntary Student Unionism” changes will be the same.
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Governance of the University
ACT OF GRACE PAYMENTS
Under section 6.4 of the policy on Acts of Grace, Curtin undertakes to report
any payments of money made as an Act of Grace in the Annual Report each
year. In 2005, only one Act of Grace payment was made: in December 2005 a
sum of $181.82 was paid to a staff member.
COMPLIANCE WITH THE STATE RECORDS ACT 2000 (WA),
AND STATE RECORDS COMMISSION STANDARD 2
RECORDKEEPING PLANS: PRINCIPLE 6: COMPLIANCE
The efficiency and effectiveness of the University’s recordkeeping systems is
evaluated not less than once every 5 years
During 2005 the role of the Records Liaison Group, comprising representatives
from all University Divisions was made more formal: there were regular
scheduled meetings of the Group, with a view to the establishment of shared
protocols for records management and the identification of education and
training needs.
The University conducts a recordkeeping training program
The large staff population, and physically distributed nature of the University,
pose particular challenges for achieving compliance with the State Records Act
and the State Records Commission’s Standards. Funding was approved for two
fixed-term positions of Recordkeeping Plan Officers for 2005. However, it
would have been impossible for these staff to both write the training manuals,
and then deliver programs to all staff in an effective and efficient manner.
Consequently, the University chose to acquire an electronic self-paced program
on Records Management as developed by the law firm Blake Dawson
Waldron. The electronic Self-Administered Legal Training (e-SALT) program
has been written using University-specific scenarios. This program will allow
staff to undertake a mandatory records training program in their own time, at
their own pace. By linking completion of the program to the University’s
Human Resource Information System, the University will be able at any time to
ascertain the individual staff members who have undertaken the e-SALT
training. It is proposed to implement e-SALT for Records Management in
early 2006.
The efficiency and effectiveness of the recordkeeping training program is
reviewed from time to time
Following the appointment of the two Recordkeeping Plan Officers in
mid-2005, a systematic training program, covering topics which are central to
the University’s Recordkeeping Plan was put in place. Participants in every
training session were invited to evaluate the session at the conclusion of that
session. The feedback has been used to inform the continuous improvement of
the program. The feedback is also provided to the Records Liaison Group.
The University’s induction program addresses employee roles and
responsibilities for compliance with the University’s Recordkeeping Plan
Since 2004, all new staff attending the University’s Induction program have
been provided with a handout which introduces them to recordkeeping. With
effect from 2006, the Records and Archives Office will conduct monthly records
awareness induction sessions for all new staff. Newly commencing staff will also
be required to complete the e-SALT program within the first three months of
their employment.
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Curtin University of Technology
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Governance of the University
EFFECT OF ECONOMIC AND OTHER FACTORS
The resources “boom” in Western Australia impacted upon demand for
undergraduate places, particularly from mature-aged students, who have
traditionally constituted slightly more than half the annual commencing
undergraduate intake. Strong demand from employers in the resources sector,
meant that many people who might otherwise have considered entering higher
education decided to move into well-paid employment. A proportion of
students who were on Leave of Absence from their programs also opted not to
return in 2005, because of the employment opportunities. By the census date in
Semester One (March 24), Curtin was projecting as a worst case scenario an
8.5 per cent under-enrolment in its Commonwealth subsidised student load.
Significantly reduced attrition and a high number of second semester
enrolments from a concerted marketing campaign resulted in the University
being within 0.7 per cent (85 Equivalent Full-Time Student Load (EFTSL)) of
its negotiated Commonwealth target of 12,798 EFTSL.
UNIVERSITY PUBLICATIONS
The major publications produced by the University each year are:
•
the Annual Report
•
undergraduate and postgraduate prospectuses
Curtin Courses Handbook
•
•
Cite (twice a year) – the University magazine
R&D Now and other research focussed publications
•
CurtinLink
•
In addition, Curtin’s Divisions also issue publications each year.
Major promotional, public relations or marketing activities during the year
included:
•
Educational “expos”
•
Curtin Open Day
•
the annual John Curtin Medals presentation
•
involvement in Innovation Week and National Science Week
•
promotion of Curtin achievements to the media
•
Curtin facility and program launches
Curtinnovation corporate branding campaign
•
•
undergraduate and postgraduate recruitment campaigns
•
course and public interest lecture advertising on an ad hoc basis for many
schools and teaching areas.
In preparing its publications and promotional activities the University is
conscious of developing and maintaining a consistent, recognisable brand that is
synonymous with its reputation. These efforts have been effective as reflected in
Curtin being the only education provider to receive an award as an “emerging
brand” in the 2005 WA Business News “Brand” awards.
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Governance of the University
THE ELECTORAL ACT 1907 – SECTION 175ZE
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 2005, the following costs were recorded against these items:
Advertising agencies
Gatecrasher Advertising
Market Force Productions
Executive Media
Sub total
Market research organisations
Market Equity
Sub total
Polling organisations
N/a
Direct mail organisations
Australia Post
Sub total
$
701,309
448,162
745
1,150,216
85,294
85,294
–
931,379
931,379
Media advertising organisations
N/a
–
Total
2,166,889
COMPLIANCE WITH STATE GOVERNMENT
GUIDELINES
The Government of Western Australia issued an Annual Report Framework for
public sector agencies in March 2005. As an entity established by an Act of the
Parliament in Western Australia, this Report complies with that framework for
reporting required by the State.
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SENIOR OFFICERS OF CURTIN UNIVERSITY
OF TECHNOLOGY IN 2005
Vice-Chancellor
Professor Lance Twomey
Deputy Vice-Chancellor
Professor Jeanette Hacket
Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research and Development
Professor Barney Glover
Pro Vice-Chancellor, Academic Services
Professor Jane den Hollander
Pro Vice-Chancellor, International
Professor Kevin McKenna
Executive Dean, Curtin Business School
Professor Michael Wood
Executive Dean, Division of Engineering, Science and Computing
Professor Peter Lee
Executive Dean, Division of Health Sciences
Professor Charles Watson
Executive Dean, Division of Humanities
Professor Tom Stannage
Acting Executive Dean, Division of Resources and Environment
Associate Professor Graeme Wright
Executive Dean and Pro Vice-Chancellor, Curtin Sarawak
Professor Graham Lodwick
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Governance of the University
ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
COUNCIL
Chancellor
University
Secretary
ViceChancellor
Deputy
ViceChancellor
Executive
Deans
Pro ViceChancellor
Research &
Development
Pro ViceChancellor
International
Pro ViceChancellor
Academic
Services
Centre for
Aboriginal
Studies
Curtin
Business
School
Consultancy
Services
International
Programs
Information
Services
Corporate
Communications
Curtin
Sarawak
Graduate
Studies
Curtin
International
College
Learning
Support
Network
Financial &
Commercial
Services
Engineering,
Science &
Computing
Intellectual
Property/
Commercialisation
Staff Services
John Curtin
Gallery
Health
Sciences
Research &
Development
Student
Services
Properties
Humanities
Strategic
Projects
University
Counselling &
Health Services
University
Planning
Resources &
Environment
Legal
Services
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Governance of the University
PRESCRIBED INTERESTS
Treasurer’s Instruction 903 requires Council members and senior officers to
declare in the Annual Report any pecuniary interests in a subsidiary, related or
affiliated body of the University. Declared interests of members of Council and
senior officers as listed in the Annual Report are as follows:
Professor Bevil Milton (Barney) Glover
Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Development
Minor shareholding in Neuromonics Ltd, a University spin-out company.
The University is a minority shareholder.
Mr David Menarry
Chief Financial Officer
Director, Curtin (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd. This company is a joint venture partner
with the University and operates the Sarawak Campus.
Adjunct Professor Peter Browne
Education consultant, Member of Council
Provided consultancy services to Curtin in the area of regional education.
Mr Patrick Gorman
President, Student Guild and Member of Council
Paid an honorarium as President, by the Guild, from moneys collected by the
University through the Amenities and Services Fee.
PRICING POLICIES ON OUTPUTS PROVIDED
In 2004 Curtin was the only Western Australian University not to increase fees
for undergraduates as allowed under the Higher Education Support Act 2003
(C’lth)(HESA). The decision applied to the 2005 student intake only, with a
review planned prior to enrolments for 2006.
However retaining fees at their pre-existing levels did not attract additional
students. As a result of the ongoing budgetary pressures being experienced, in
April 2005 the Council supported a recommendation to increase undergraduate
fees for 2006 by 25 per cent.
The increase will affect all undergraduate students who enrolled from 2005,
except those in nursing and teaching as these areas have been exempt by the
legislation.
The 2006 fees were approved by the Council on 27 April 2005 (Council
Resolution 31/05), and under delegated authority by the Vice-Chancellor and
Executive Committee (refer to Executive Committee Resolutions 49/05 and
52/05 and Council Resolution 116/05).
Approved fees are published on http://www.fees.curtin.edu.au/index.cfm
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Governance of the University
REVIEW OF COURSES
During 2005 the University embarked on a significant review of the study
packages offered to students. At the start of 2005 Curtin had 884 courses and
6924 units and by the end of year there was a net reduction of eight courses and
91 units. In the latter half of 2005 a more proactive approach was taken on the
reduction in numbers and as a result of working with Divisions, a four per cent
reduction in courses was achieved between September and December and a five
per cent reduction in units.
Table 2: Study Packages 2005
Study Package
Type
Courses
Majors
Streams
Minors
Units
Theses
Jan
2005
Sep
2005
884
267
235
71
6924
254
898
307
225
71
6707
258
Oct
2005
892
307
225
71
6973
257
Dec Commenced in
2005
2005
876
306
212
71
6833
254
54
17
399
-
The rate of creation of new courses and units has reduced when compared to
2004. In 2005 only 54 new courses commenced (approved in 2004) in
comparison with 101 in 2004.
With regard to units in 2005, less units were created than in 2004 and 490 were
discontinued in 2005.
The Courses Committee – a sub-committee of the Academic Board – approved
seven “fast-track” courses. Of these, a suite of courses (Graduate Certificate and
Postgraduate Diploma in Domiciliary Nursing) were created by the School of
Nursing in response to their industrial partner Silver Chain providing
scholarships. The School of Nursing also responded to the provision of
government funding and developed a Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health
Nursing. The fast-tracked Master of Science (Actuarial and Financial Science)
also attracted significant interest from prospective international students.
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Commercialisation of Research & Technology Development
COMMERCIALISATION OF RESEARCH
& TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT
The research and development project portfolio continued to grow, particularly
through an increase in industry-funded research.
Consistent with most Australian universities, Curtin uses a variety of
approaches to the commercialisation of research outcomes. In broad terms,
these can be summarised as follows:
• Where a body of research indicates commercial relevance but has not yet
advanced to the proof of concept stage, approaches are made to potential
industry partners to fund specific research programs, to take the technology
to the point where investors would be prepared to provide the development
capital required. In return, providers of such funds would typically be given
some rights for subsequent commercialisation. These can vary from a right to
negotiate terms in good faith, through to more definitive arrangements.
Examples of this approach include “Downhole Communications” and
“Fungal Coal to Liquids”.
• Some research outcomes lend themselves well to licensing. This is particularly
true of technologies which are not “disruptive”, but rather complement the
state of the art and would have wide application, providing modest benefit to
a large number of users. Licensing may also be apt where benefits will only
flow a long time into the future – but are likely to be large in the event of
success. The value of such technologies gets heavily discounted because of
this long time delay; so it may be better to accept a reward in the form of a
small royalty on what are expected to be very large revenues. “StatMux” is
being commercialised this way, and this is a likely path also for “Trader
Model”.
• Increasingly, universities are adopting a model where the technology is
assigned to a new “spin-out” company. The university ends up with equity in
this company, in proportion to the value of the technology relative to the cash
provided by investors. The advantage of this approach is that the equity
partners stand to benefit from the very large capital gains which are possible
in the event of successful commercialisation. Further, the university can, at
the appropriate time, take an “exit” from the project – making new capital
available to further the objectives of the university. A significant number of
projects are suited to this approach, including “Cool Energy”,
“Neuromonics” and “iPOM”.
In an important first step in the implementation of the Commercialisation
Strategy, Council approved the formation of the Curtin Pre-Seed
Commercialisation Fund with an initial amount of $1 million being allocated
out of the University’s investment portfolio. Subject to performance, the Fund is
expected to grow to $5 million by 2010. The Finance Committee has approved
Guidelines for the operation of the Pre-Seed Commercialisation Fund and
more generally for the commercialisation of and investment in University
intellectual property.
2005 has been very active in commercialisation and technology development
activities within the Office of Research and Development, with work conducted
in relation to the following companies.
Neuromonics Pty Ltd
Neuromonics Pty Ltd is a Curtin spin-out company commercialising a
treatment for Tinnitus invented by a Curtin graduate, Dr Paul Davis. Clinics
are operating across Australia, with one in Auckland, New Zealand. The
business was successfully launched in the United States of America in
September, where sales are building well.
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Curtin University of Technology
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Commercialisation of Research & Technology Development
Cool Energy Ltd
The Cool Energy technology initially arose out of an industry collaboration
with Core Laboratories Australia (CoreLab), leveraged with a
Commonwealth Government R&D Start grant. The technology was
spun-out into a company jointly owned by CoreLab, Curtin and the inventor,
Professor Robert Amin. Further research and development was funded
under an agreement with Shell and Woodside.
iPOM Pty Ltd
The Centre for Excellence for Intelligent Process Operation Management
(iPom) has developed a sophisticated software product to assist large process
plants to rationalise alarms and processes through complex large scale
pattern recognition and data analysis. BP Refinery and Millenium Chemicals
have been trialling the products and found them valuable. A spin-out
company has been formed and has been successful in securing AusIndustry
COMET assistance.
Millmapper
This technology involves the innovative use of terrestrial laser scanning to
monitor liner wear in grinding mills. It has arisen from the work of Dr Derek
Lichti, Associate Professor Mike Stewart and Mr Jochen Franke.
The technology provides operators better information for significantly
reduced downtime, leading to big operational savings. A contract to provide
services to Alcoa has been executed and is earning revenue.
Sea Gyro Pty Ltd
Developed by a student at the Centre for Marine Science and Technology,
Sea Gyro is an ‘active’ gyroscope technology that has a number of advantages
over alternative boat stabilisation systems currently used: it can be installed
on small-medium sized vessels, does not create drag, and works while the
vessel is at anchor. In addition, as gyroscopes constitute a significant energy
store, Sea Gyro can be integrated with the vessel’s power system. Sea Gyro
has utilised an AusIndustry COMET grant to identify the best
commercialisation path. The process identified luxury yachts and power
cruisers as the most attractive initial target market.
Trader Model
The Trader Model is a patent-pending algorithm for accurately pricing
exotic options in financial markets. All competitor products use
extraordinarily complex models which may deliver a price, but which do not
inform the user of the true risk or give insights into how to hedge. The
TraderModel solves this problem. It provides excellent price predictions
while retaining its intuitive characteristics.
Carbohydrate Chemistry for Drug Discovery – GAGs
GAGs is the name given to a project in Biomedical Sciences for developing
novel drugs for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, asthma and inflammation,
using carbohydrate (or sugar) structures. The patent entered the
international stage in April, with Associate Professor Deirdre Coombe and
Dr Warren Kett as the inventors. Activities on commercialising the GAGs
project have led to a $1.6 million research project with Clinical Cell Culture.
The margin on this project is allowing the GAGs activities to be funded
pending securing direct capital.
Endocrine Mimetics
The initial objective of this project is to develop a drug, to be taken in tablet
form (or similar), which produces the same effect as insulin. Insulin therapy
can currently only be administered by injection.
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Capital Works
CAPITAL WORKS
Resources and Chemistry Research and Education Precinct
Planning began for what is the University’s most significant infrastructure
program since its establishment.
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 Research and Education
Precinct at the south gateway to the campus. This emerging knowledge cluster
will accommodate some 200 scientists from Curtin’s Faculty of Science, the
Chemistry Centre of WA and CSIRO, and has great potential to further
Science and Mathematics education and research at Curtin.
The CSIRO component of this precinct has some $9.5 million of funding.
The indicative cost of the Curtin component of the precinct (Applied Chemistry
and the CCWA) is estimated to be $88.65 million. The CCWA component will
be funded at some $34.3 million via a Treasury loan and repaid by a lease
arrangement with CCWA. The Capital Development Pool funding submission
to the Commonwealth Government was successful in obtaining $5 million
towards the project.
The conceptual planning for these facilities commenced in 2005 with
construction targeted for 2006, subject to approval of the University Council.
Forward works to prepare the site and provide some infrastructure commenced
in late 2005. Contingent on Council approval, the main construction contract is
anticipated to commence by mid-2006 and be completed by mid-2008.
Building 300 Project
The Building 300 project is an amalgamation of a number of facilities required
by the University to deliver its teaching and research programs in 2006 as
follows:
Additional classrooms for 2006;
•
•
Additional Pharmacy teaching laboratory for 2006;
Small Animal Holding Research facility; and
•
•
Physical Containment (PC3) Research laboratory.
This project is currently nearing the end of its documentation stage and is
programmed for completion and occupation in mid 2006.
The original budget of $10.291 million funded over 2004/2005 was
supplemented by a further $1.424 million from the Capital Programs for 2006,
to cover the extraordinary cost escalation increases experienced in the building
industry in 2004 and 2005. A further $586,000 was provided to fund changes
required by the Office of Gene Technology Regulation to ensure the Building
complied with new regulation codes.
Electrical and Mechanical Infrastructure
Planning and some early forward works for a new High Voltage Substation and
a new Mechanical Central Plant Building commenced in 2004. Work on these
continued during 2005. It is estimated that the total cost of these projects will
be $11.78 million (including cost escalation).
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Internationalisation
INTERNATIONALISATION
Curtin is the third largest Australian provider of education to international
students onshore and offshore.
Further to the activities described in the section on 2005 Activity Highlights,
the University continued to extend its operations in relation to
internationalisation:
• The International Office, which is responsible for University-wide planning,
support and coordination of Curtin’s international activities was re-certified
in 2005 to ISO 9001:2000 for all its operations.
• Curtin increased its international onshore enrolments in 2005 by around four
per cent to 2856 (headcount), and significantly increased enrolments from the
developing markets of China, India, Korea and Vietnam.
• The University made 8075 offers to international students in 2005, an
increase of nine per cent over 2004.
• Enrolments of Australian Development Scholarship students – from a range
of developing countries in the Asia-Pacific – increased by 4.65 per cent in
2005; 35 per cent are commencing students.
• An increasing number of both outbound and inbound students undertake
Study Exchange and Study Abroad. Inbound Study Abroad numbers
increased around 10.5 per cent from 178 in 2004 to 199 in 2005. Outbound
exchange numbers increased by 16.7 per cent from 60 in 2004 to 70 in 2005.
• Thirteen Memoranda of Understanding for Academic Cooperation or
Student/Staff Exchange involving nine countries were signed in 2005. These
included:
China University of Mining Technology – China
Hanoi University of Mining and Geology – Vietnam
Mahidol University – Thailand
Sam Ratalangi – Indonesia
Yu Da College of Business – Taiwan
INTI International College – Malaysia
Simon Fraser University – Canada
South China University of Technology – China
South East Asian Ministers of Education Organisation Regional
Language Centre – Vietnam
Chulalongkorn University – Thailand
Quality Assurance
Quality assurance and compliance issues in international education grow more
complex by the day – and potentially more expensive if there are failures in the
system. The University has obligations in the provision of such education under
its own policies and in accordance with Australian and international legislation.
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Curtin University of Technology
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Internationalisation
Curtin delivers programs through collaborators in:
Africa (three partners under African Virtual University contract)
China (4)
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China (3)
Indonesia (2)
Iran (1)
Malaysia (4)
Mauritius (1)
Netherlands (1 – Shell)
New Zealand (1)
Pakistan (2)
Sarawak (1)
Singapore (7)
Sri Lanka (2)
United Kingdom (1)
Vietnam (1)
Under the Collaborative Education Services Policy, desktop reviews were
undertaken of all programs delivered to international students through
collaborators in 2004; and an onsite review of all collaborators in Singapore was
undertaken in October 2005.
Curtin Sydney
The University’s Sydney Campus (operated by IBT Education Ltd)
commenced teaching international students in Trimester 2 of 2005.
Initial courses offered were:
• Foundation Certificate of Commerce
• Diploma of Commerce
• Bachelor of Commerce available in three major areas: Accounting, Marketing
and a double major in Management and Marketing.
In August 2005, the New South Wales Department of Education and Training
gave approval for the following additional courses to be offered:
• Master of Accounting
• Master of Professional Accounting
• Master of Commerce (Management)
This was subsequently extended to:
• Graduate Certificate in Management
• Postgraduate Diploma in Commerce (Management)
• Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting
• Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting
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Curtin University of Technology
Report on Operations
Staffing Matters
STAFFING MATTERS
Staff Summary
Curtin employed 2,704 full-time equivalent (FTE) in 2005 (see Table 1); with
1,124 classified as academic staff and 1,580 classified as general staff. The 2005
census showed a slight increase in the number of academic and general staff
over the previous year.
Table 1: Curtin Higher Education Full-Time Equivalent Staff
2004 – 2005
By classification and appointment (as at 31 March each year)
Total
Full or Fractional Time Staff
(excluding Hourly Paid/Sessional Staff)
Continuing/
Permanent
2004
2005
Academic Staff
General Staff
TOTAL
690
1,177
1,867
685
1,198
1,883
Fixed Term/
Temporary
2004
2005
375
335
710
439
382
821
2004
1,065
1,512
2,577
2005
1,124
1,580
2,704
Industrial Relations
In May 2005 the Commonwealth Government announced the Higher
Education Workplace Reform Requirements (HEWRRs). The University was
required to comply with these requirements and the National Governance
Protocols in order to be eligible to receive increased levels of Commonwealth
Grant Scheme funds.
To ensure compliance with the HEWRRs, the University was required to
review and amend its Workplace Agreements, policies and practices. Amongst
other things, the University is required to provide employees with genuine
choice and flexibility in agreement making by offering Australian Workplace
Agreements (AWAs).
In addition to developing an AWA for staff, during 2005 the University
concluded negotiations for both the Academic and General Staff Certified
Agreements. These Agreements will expire in 2008.
The University submitted its HEWRRs compliance statement to the
Department of Education, Science and Technology on 5 December 20051.
Workers’ compensation and injury management
The details for the year were:
Rehabilitation Success Rate:
Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate
Estimated Cost of Claims per $100 payroll
Premium Rate
86%
1.14
$0.10
0.35
1 In accordance with Treasurer’s Instruction 903 (xii), the University reports that the Commonwealth Minister for
Education, Science and Training requested clarification of a number of matters contained in the Academic and
General Staff Certified Agreements (“CAs”). The University has addressed these matters in consultation with staff
representatives. At the time of submitting this report, the Agreements have been varied and made available for all staff
to review in preparation for a ballot on their acceptability. Pending acceptance of the CAs, the University has prepared
a response for the Minister.
32
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
Activities Relating to the Vision, Mission and Goals Statement
2005 ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHTS
CURTIN ASPIRES TO BE A WORLD-CLASS
UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
Curtin’s Vision, Mission and Goals are operationalised through its Strategic
Plan. This section presents Curtin’s activities and achievements during 2005
in relation to the primary statements of the Strategic Plan.
Curtin scientist features in
periodic review
Dr Bob Loss.
Scientists and students around the world will turn to work by Curtin’s Dr Bob
Loss to access the most up to date information on atomic weights.
Dr Loss was recognised as a leading
authority on atomic weights in April when
his research was used to update the official
periodic table, to be used in all chemistry
texts for the next two years.
The International Union of Pure and
Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) reviews the
periodic table every two years to cater for
new measurements arising from
technological advancements.
“It’s a strange feeling to spend so many
years of one’s life using a set of such key
chemical data – from my teenage years as a
science student to my time as an isotope
researcher and teacher – and to now find
the official IUPAC periodic table has my
name on it,” Dr Loss said.
Division of Science, Engineering and
Computing Executive Dean Professor Peter Lee said the achievement
highlighted the truly world-class nature of work carried out by Dr Loss and
his colleagues.
33
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
Activities Relating to the Vision, Mission and Goals Statement
Highlights
• Curtin’s Graduate School of Business was ranked 90th in the list of the
world’s top 100 Master of Business Administration courses (MBAs) by the
Economic Intelligence Unit, linked to The Economist. Only MBAs from
three other Australian universities were ranked in the top 100: Monash,
Melbourne Business School and Macquarie Graduate School of
Management.
• Associate Professor Kliti Grice from the Department of Applied Chemistry
had her research paper related to theories of global warming published in
Science, one of the world’s most influential scientific research publications.
• Professor Vijay Rangan was recognised by his international peers for his
contribution to the advancement of geopolymers at the World Congress of
Geopolymer in France. A spin-off company, 3Ede. R&D Pty Ltd, has been
formed to commercialise geopolymer concrete created by Professor Rangan.
• The fifth edition of The Rat Brain in Stereotaxic Coordinates was launched
in March by Curtin and the Australian Neuroscience Society. The book,
co-authored by Curtin Professor Charles Watson and Professor George
Paxinos from the University of New South Wales, assists neuroscientists in
understanding the organisation of the human brain. The publication has
been cited over 30,000 times. The second edition alone is listed as No. 32 in
the 50 most cited publications of all time by Thomson ISI. It is easily the
most cited Australian publication ever.
• Dr Helen Armstrong was one of three Australians who won service awards
from the UN-sponsored International Federation for Information
Processing. The Federation represents more than 400,000 professionals
around the world.
• Professor Will Featherstone, Acting Head of the Department of Spatial
Sciences, was awarded a 10 month, highly prestigious research fellowship by
the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation in Germany. He is working at
Stuttgart University on a new theory of Ellipsoidal Physical Geodesy.
• Professor Byron Lamont of the Department of Environmental Biology,
contributed to the most highly-cited paper for the first six months of 2005
publication in the prestigious journal, Nature.
• Curtin was ranked in the top 100 universities world-wide for Social Sciences
and Technology by the 2005 Times Higher Education Supplement and
ranked 101 overall in the world’s top 200 universities.
34
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
Activities Relating to the Vision, Mission and Goals Statement
The University places particular value on: the search for innovative
applications of technology in all fields of human endeavour
Small camera is big news
Andrew Woods with
the stereoscopic
underwater camera,
the Mini-3D.
The world’s smallest underwater stereoscopic video camera, developed by
Curtin’s Centre for Marine Science and Technology (CMST), was
commercialised by Canadian company Welaptega Marine Ltd.
CMST Research Fellow Andrew
Woods says that stereoscopic (3-D)
video – designed specifically for use
on underwater remotely operated
vehicles (ROVs) – has many
advantages over regular 2-D video
cameras.
“Stereoscopic vision allows
improved image understanding,
particularly the ability to see
through suspended matter or turbid
water, to see through visual clutter
and to judge size and distance,”
Woods says. “3-D also allows the
ROVs to be operated with greater
accuracy due to improved
visualisation and the camera being
small – only 129 mm in length –
means it can be used on small inspection ROVs. This flexibility makes the
camera ideal for use in the oil and gas industry.”
The camera, known at the Mini-3D, was developed in cooperation with
Welaptega, a service company to the oil and gas industry. “Their main line of
work is checking the integrity of mooring chains on off-shore installations.
As these chains are sometimes in confined locations underwater, they required a
small, versatile and functional camera,” says Woods.
Although the Mini-3D has been designed for use in water depths of up to 300
metres, Woods says CMST has developed another 3-D camera that can operate
at a depth of 4000 metres.
Highlights
• A new technology float that is commercialising products developed in the
United States of America is working with Curtin to research future
developments. Asurn International’s chosen field is ‘convergence’ technology
that enables voice, data and video systems to be integrated. Asurn is
conducting research with Curtin’s Professor Elizabeth Chang whose
$450,000 Australian Research Council grant is ultimately designed to
improve take-up of technology in a distributed environment.
• Curtin installed its ‘Pier Cam’ underwater cameras at the end of the Exmouth
Navy Pier. The camera will allow images of the natural ecosystem to be
beamed around the world in real time. Head of Curtin’s Department of
Applied Biosciences, Dr Glen Whisson, noted that the project is funded by a
number of local government agencies, local businesses and the Naval
Communications Station.
35
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
Activities Relating to the Vision, Mission and Goals Statement
The University places particular value on: the cultivation of
responsive and responsible links with the wider community
emphasising service, practical relevance, social justice and ethical
behaviour
Two worthy winners receive the
John Curtin Medal
The John Curtin Medal honours Australia’s wartime Prime Minister John
Curtin by celebrating those who exhibit his qualities of vision, leadership and
community service. The medal ceremony marks the anniversary of his accession
to the country’s highest political office on 7 October 1941.
In October, two worthy
candidates, one a helper of
the homeless and the other
a cancer expert, were
awarded the prestigious
John Curtin Medal at the
Bentley Campus : Chief
Executive Officer of St
Bartholomew’s House,
Mrs Lynette Evans, and
integrative cancer
treatment expert, Dr David
Joske, received the award
in recognition of their
contributions to the
Western Australian
community.
The Vice-Chancellor
Professor Lance Twomey
said Mrs Evans and Dr
Joske are leading citizens
who have exhibited John Curtin’s qualities of vision, leadership and community
service in their chosen fields.
Mrs Evans is dedicated to improving support services for homeless people by
focusing on an holistic approach to treating their mental illness and helping
them live more independently within the community.
Dr Joske’s vision for providing complementary medical therapies in addition to
mainstream cancer treatments led to the establishment in 2001 of the Sir
Charles Gairdner Hospital Brownes Dairy Cancer Support Centre. Originally
started as a drop-in centre for cancer patients undergoing treatment, the facility
has grown to such a point that a Foundation was needed to support all the extra
work being undertaken. This Foundation has been named SolarisCare and
provides complementary medical therapies in addition to mainstream cancer
treatments.
(l-r) 2005 John Curtin
Medal recipient Mrs
Lynette Evans, Professor
Lance Twomey, Dr David
Joske and Professor
Jeanette Hacket.
36
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
Activities Relating to the Vision, Mission and Goals Statement
Highlights
• Fiona McGaughey, a master degree student with the Centre for Human
Rights Education, was responsible for editing Australia’s submission of a
‘shadow report’ from a wide range of Australia Non Government
Organisations (NGOs) for the United Nations Committee for the
Elimination of Racial Discrimination based in Geneva. Because of the quality of the report, the Australian NGOs nominated Fiona to formally present
the report to the UN Committee in Geneva in March.
• Two Port Hedland women, Gillian Harris and Sylvia Lockyer, graduated
with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, completing their qualification entirely
in the Pilbara – a first for this region. Curtin’s School of Nursing provided
tuition for the degree; the Combined Universities Centre for Rural Health
provided the organisational structure; and Port Hedland Regional Hospital
provided their placements and satellite linkups for study sessions. The Centre
for Aboriginal Studies at Curtin also provided funds for tutoring and travel
expenses.
• Curtin has established a Centre for Applied Ethics and Philosophy. Headed
by Dr Stephan Millet, the Centre will engage in and coordinate the
advancement of knowledge and the enrichment of culture through teaching,
research and consultancy. Particular focus will be given to questions
associated with the application of technology; ethics of human interaction,
especially health, business, education, media and the environment; and
policy.
• Curtin was a sponsor of “Words and Ideas, A Curtin Celebration” as part of
the 2005 Perth International Festival. Liz Byrski was the coordinator for the
fully subscribed three-day event. As part of the Curtin Celebration there was
a workshop for practitioners with prominent writers. Other activities
featured high profile writers including Helen Garner and Bill Bryson.
• Curtin’s Indigenous Health Program at the Centre for Development Health
was successful in obtaining funding of $1.6 million over five years from the
National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to develop and
evaluate a program for Indigenous families. The project is a collaborative
effort with the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research and will assist
in strengthening parents’ child-rearing skills and increasing children’s
identification with their indigenous culture.
37
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
Activities Relating to the Vision, Mission and Goals Statement
The University places particular value on: the development of
students and staff as citizens of the world, emphasising an
international outlook, cultural diversity, and an informed respect for
indigenous peoples.
Healing and art in indigenous
communities
The John Curtin Gallery continued to strengthen its ties with the indigenous
community with a major exhibition in 2005. The Indigenous Art and Healing
exhibition celebrated the way art is integrated within all aspects of life in
indigenous communities, and valued not just for its visual appeal but also for its
social and religious significance.
The exhibition showcased the work of many artists who are
known for their role as prominent healers within their
communities as well as for their artistic talents.
Within indigenous communities, to be a healer or artist is to
participate and assist in the health and well-being of the
community. Drawn together by their visual portrayal of land
and spiritual well-being, the works represent the diversity of
indigenous culture.
Held from July to September, the exhibition included works
from the University Art Collection, the private collections of
Dr Jo Lagerberg and Stephen Swift and works loaned from
Dr Ian Bernadt.
Highlights
• The Australian Government and the European Union
have endorsed and funded Curtin’s application to be part
of an international exchange program between 10
international universities in the area of cultural heritage.
The project, Sharing Our Heritage, consists of a $1.4 million
partnership between international universities and heritage agencies. Up to
20 Australian students who enrol in a master degree program in cultural
heritage at Curtin, Deakin, Western Sydney or Charles Darwin universities
will receive subsidies for one semester’s study in Europe. Partner institutions
in Belgium, Germany, Ireland and Spain will also come to Australia for one
semester of study.
Curtin’s magazine ‘Cite’
featured the Indigenous
Art & Healing
Exhibition in its Winter
edition.
38
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
Activities Relating to the Vision, Mission and Goals Statement
Through productive partnerships, the University strives for
excellence in: teaching and learning, developing graduates as lifelong
learners who make a positive contribution to society
Giving Curtin students an Advantage
Tracey Hodgkins.
Tracey Hodgkins, Director of Curtin Advantage, was named 2005 Telstra
Western Australian Business Woman of the Year; and the Curtin Advantage
program won the 2005 Australian Awards for University Teaching in the
category “Provision of Support Services that Assist Student Learning”.
Aimed at bridging the gap between university and the
business world, the Curtin Advantage program is set
up as a working model of a company with all relevant
departments and divisions that exist in a real
multi-tiered company environment. Curtin students
are coached and mentored by Curtin staff as well as
volunteers from industry and government.
Designed to cross disciplines, projects are developed
under the areas of entrepreneurship and innovation;
social enterprise and community development;
advantage training and development courses; and
work placements and industry liaison. Projects
undertaken are as varied as building racing cars to
assisting the Coral Bay community in developing
their town into a world-renowned sustainable
eco-tourism area.
In winning the Award for University Teaching, Curtin
Advantage received a certificate, a trophy and a grant
of $50,000 to be used to further develop its services.
Highlights
• Professor Louis Evans and her PhD student Kado Muir have paired up with
the Desert Knowledge Cooperative Research Centre in Alice Springs to
launch “Plants for People” a program in which senior Indigenous men and
women will help scientists to record age-old knowledge about plants that
might one day lead to new treatments for heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
One participating community is in Alice Springs where plant specimens are
being recorded in three Aboriginal languages as well as in English.
• The Library and Information Service (LIS) reviewed resources provided by
key onshore and offshore partners in 2005 with a focus on information
literacy. Activities included undertaking collaborative information literacy
teaching between Australian Technology Network universities and our
offshore partners; embedding information literacy into courses (piloting with
Education as a core first unit); investigating online opportunities (eg via
WebCT, Blackboard); working to ensure all first year students receive some
form of information literacy education; creating an information literacy package for staff; and investigating how “Skills for Teaching Information
Literacy” can be used for training and professional development for LIS staff.
39
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
Activities Relating to the Vision, Mission and Goals Statement
Through productive partnerships, the University strives for
excellence in: research and development, resulting in creative
solutions to significant problems
Water, water everywhere…
Professor Bob Kagi, Dr Anna Heitz and the team at Curtin’s Centre for
Applied Organic Geochemistry secured over $1 million in State Government
funding over three years for the Department of Health-led project titled
“Characterising treated wastewater for drinking purposes following Reverse
Osmosis treatment”.
The other major partners in this
project include the Department of
Environment and the Water
Corporation, with input from the
CSIRO, the Chemistry Centre of
Western Australia and the
National Measurement Institute.
This is a world-class project with
major implications for planning the
provision of water supplies in
Western Australia. As a result of
the grant, a leading-edge water
laboratory will be established at
Curtin.
The Centre for Applied Organic
Geochemistry has established a
reputation for applied research and
collaborative work with the Water Corporation. This led to the launch of the
Curtin Water Quality Research Centre in early 2005 which aims to foster
innovative research and practical solutions to water quality issues in Western
Australia, as well as nationally and internationally.
Highlights
• The Neuromonics Processor, a finalist in the Australian Design Awards, was
awarded a Design Mark in April. The processor, which delivers an acoustic
stimulus, forms a key part of a groundbreaking tinnitus treatment now
available through clinics in Australia. Curtin PhD graduate Dr Paul Davis,
now Associate Professor in the Division of Health Sciences, developed the
treatment.
• Professor Graham Pervan of the Curtin Business School is undertaking a
joint research program with industry partner Repcol Ltd to study the
viability of using offshore labour for small to medium size companies. The
project, Analysis of Effective Offshoring Processes for Australian
Organisations, has received a $160,000 Australian Research Council Linkage
Grant. Professor Rudy Hirscheim from Louisiana State University, who is
amongst the world’s top 10 researchers on outsourcing, is also collaborating
on the three-year project.
Professor Bob Kagi.
40
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
Activities Relating to the Vision, Mission and Goals Statement
• Curtin research is assisting the resource sector with a novel statistical
technique to improve gas reserve estimations. Dr Ritu Gupta from the
Department of Mathematics and Statistics has developed an experimental
design and analysis method that is assisting in gas reserve estimations. As
part of R2D3 (Research to Discover, Develop and Deploy Energy Solutions)
alliance group, Dr Gupta’s method, developed in collaboration with
Associate Professor Kapillil Vijayan from the University of Western Australia
(UWA), significantly reduces the amount of computing effort required to
define the range of possible reserves for a given field, or group of fields.
The research was funded by Woodside, one of four partners in the R2D3
alliance that also includes the CSIRO.
• Professors John Mackenzie and Aileen Plant are recognised international
experts who have been called upon to advise the Australian government and
the World Health Organisation on strategies to contain the spread of avian
influenza. Professor Plant’s expertise has previously been recognised by the
award of the Vietnamese National Medal of Honour for her work in
containing the SARS epidemic in Vietnam; Professor Mackenzie is the first
and only winner of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia Award for Scientific
Excellence.
• Curtin’s Coastal and Marine Geocience Group from the Department of
Applied Geology, has contributed to the State Government’s Ten Year Plan
for Ningaloo Marine Park. The group has assessed the risk of land
degradation of the coastline adjacent to the reef as part of ongoing research
into sustainable tourism development of the area. The project is led by
Associate Professor Lindsay Collins and is also supported by the Western
Australia Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM),
the Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Sustainable Tourism and the
Western Australia Department of Planning and Infrastructure.
41
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Teaching and Learning Plan
THE TEACHING AND LEARNING PLAN
The aim of the Teaching and Learning Plan is to ensure that Curtin graduates
are strategic and creative thinkers who value lifelong learning.
The priorities of Curtin’s Teaching and Learning Plan are to:
Establish Curtin’s culture as a learning community at its urban, regional and
offshore campuses, education centres and other locations;
Develop and apply a framework for demonstrating teaching effectiveness;
Expand Curtin’s flexible teaching and learning programs through innovative
applications of technology.
Taking education where it is needed
Located 280km south of Perth in Western Australia’s premium wine growing
region, the Margaret River Education and Training Campus is a joint initiative
of the Margaret River Senior High School, the State Department of Education
and Training, South West Regional College of TAFE, Curtin and Edith
Cowan University.
The Campus adds significant depth to the teaching of viticulture and oenology
in Western Australia. The Centre for Wine Excellence hosts research into grape
and vine physiology, plant stress responses, water relations and leaf gas
exchange, stable isotope discrimination and biosynthesis of secondary
metabolites; and conducts small-scale wine making.
Curtin’s Margaret River Campus celebrated its first year of operation by
toasting the 2005 vintage produced by students. Twenty four wines were
produced this year by Curtin students with support from the region’s wineries
in donating grapes for the students’ work.
The Centre for Wine Excellence, based at the Campus, has seen the signing of
the Western Australia Viticulture and Wine Research Alliance between Curtin,
the University of Western Australia and the State Department of Agriculture.
The Centre will receive over $500,000 from external agencies over the next
five years.
The Margeret River
Education and Training
Campus.
42
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Teaching and Learning Plan
To establish Curtin’s culture as a learning community at its urban,
regional and offshore campuses
Highlights
• The Curtin Sydney Campus received accreditation from the New South
Wales Government, and had its first intake of students in July. The initial
course offerings are the Foundation Certificate of Commerce, Diploma of
Commerce and the Bachelor of Commerce (with majors in Accounting,
Marketing and a Management and Marketing double major). The delivery of
Curtin programs in Sydney is aimed to meet increasing international student
demand for courses in the region, as well as the potential for providing
postgraduate fee-paying places.
• The National Centre for Science, Information and Communication
Technology, and Mathematics Education for Rural and Regional Australia–
WA Hub (or SiMERRWA) is a new Curtin Centre designed to boost
mathematics, sciences and ICT skills of primary and secondary school
students in Western Australia. The new Centre is the WA hub of the
National Centre of Science Information and Communication Technology
and Mathematics Education for Rural and Regional Australia (SiMERR).
The Centre will enhance students’ potential in science, ICT and mathematics
by boosting educational research and providing more support for regional
and isolated teachers and students. The Centre is supported by the
Australian Government in collaboration with Curtin and the SiMERR
National Centre at the University of New England.
• In its first year of operation, Curtin’s Midland Education Centre saw 27
students enrol from a wide range of backgrounds including school leavers
and mature entrants. The Centre is funded by the Commonwealth
Government.
• The first locally trained school teachers in the Mid-West region have
completed Curtin’s Bachelor of Education degree at the Geraldton
Universities Centre. Most of the graduates juggled work and family
commitments while undertaking their studies. All graduates are planning to
remain in the region with three of the five already employed at year’s end.
• Curtin’s Vocational Training and Education Centre has received a grant of
nearly $150,000 from the Commonwealth Government for its “Better Living,
Better Life Project” which supports about 120 people across the Goldfields.
During a period of 26 months, the program will provide help to young
Indigenous mothers to improve skills and confidence in their parenting
abilities and assist them in continuing in mainstream activities such as school
and work.
• Curtin Volunteers! celebrated its 10th year of service to the community in
March. The Vice-Chancellor commended all of those involved with CV! for
their outstanding efforts in making that important link between the
University and the community.
To develop and apply a framework for demonstrating teaching
effectiveness
Highlights
• Curtin has developed a new online system for gathering and reporting
student feedback on teaching and learning at the unit level. The new system,
eVALUate, was trialled early in 2005 and implemented for undergraduate
and postgraduate coursework units in October.
43
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Teaching and Learning Plan
• Mapping Curtin’s Course Learning Outcomes into Your Course Curriculum
is a new publication from the Learning Support Network designed to assist
staff in incorporating learning outcomes into curricula.
• Curtin had three finalists in the 2005 national Carrick Institute Award for
University Teaching with two of the three winning their categories.
Dr Sandra Frid and Dr Len Sparrow from the Department of Education
won the Teaching Award in Social Sciences, whilst Curtin Advantage, led by
Tracey Hodgkins, won the Institutional Award for the provision of support
services to assist student learning. Associate Professor David Baccarini from
Construction Management was also a finalist.
• Curtin’s Excellence and Innovation in Teaching Awards 2005 were awarded
to:
Dr Maureen Bickley, Graduate School of Business
Dr Murray Adams and Mrs Lesley Clugston, Department of Biomedical
Sciences
Dr Cornelia Locher, School of Pharmacy
Dr Sandra Frid and Dr Len Sparrow, Mathematics Education,
Department of Education
Ms Shamsul Kamariah, School of Business, Curtin Sarawak
Dr Hong Ming Yan, School of Engineering, Curtin Sarawak
Dr Brian Von Konsky, School of Computing
Associate Professor Bruce Maycock, Associate Professor Peter Howatt,
Ms Sharyn Burns, Ms Jenny Collins, Ms Linda Portsmouth, Mr Graham
Brown and Dr Alexandra McManus, Health Promotions Team, School
of Public Health
• The European Foundation for Management Development operates a system
of accrediting management and business education, known as the European
Quality Improvement System (EQUIS). Curtin Business School (CBS),
the first Australian business school to receive EQUIS accreditation, was
re-accredited in 2005. CBS has led other Australian business schools in this
initiative; another six have since been accredited.
To expand Curtin’s flexible teaching and learning programs through
innovative applications of technology.
Highlights
• Iain Murray, a lecturer in the Department of Electrical and Computer
Engineering (ECE) received $80,000 in equipment support from the Cicso
Networking Academy and the Association of the Blind of Western Australia
to modify the Cisco Administrator Curriculum so visually impaired students
can participate and be certified. Curtin is the first university in the world to
modify Cicso’s curriculum using tools designed for the blind. Two ECE
graduates, Kerry Hoath who is blind and Neil Hines who has some sight
impairment, are the first visually impaired Networking Academy instructors
in the world to teach other blind students.
44
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Research Management Plan
THE RESEARCH MANAGEMENT PLAN
In 2005, Curtin continued to increase its research capability with significant
growth in publications, research income and completions of higher degrees by
research.
The priorities of Curtin’s Research Management Plan are to:
• Maintain and further develop critical R&D capability in key areas;
• Attract new strategic partners to Curtin;
• Increase the level of external support for R&D.
Curtin strikes gold with new
Centre of Excellence
The Centre for
High-Definition
Geophysics featured in
the R&D Now Annual
Review for 2005.
A new State Government Centre for Excellence will be housed within Curtin’s
Department of Exploration Geophysics. The Centre for High-Definition
Geophysics (CHDG) will investigate how seismic technologies can detect
mineral resources such as gold, base metals and coal, and also locate
underground water reserves.
The new Centre has been established with State funding
through the Centres of Excellence in Science and Innovation
program and follows a successful project using seismic
methods for gold exploration in the Goldfields. The project
was undertaken by Curtin’s Department of Exploration
Geophysics and funded by the Minerals and Energy Research
Institute of Western Australia and four gold mining
companies.
Dr Anton Kepic, Head of the Department of Exploration
Geophysics, said the success of the initial project made it clear
that seismic technologies would help in the exploration of
other resources.
“Results showed that seismic techniques could be used to
reveal gold ore bodies and other complex underground
structures that existing imaging techniques were not able to
achieve,” said Dr Kepic.
“We will now be able to develop the use of seismic reflection
methods in hard rock environments of other base minerals
such as nickel and copper. We will also investigate how
seismic methods can benefit the coal and coal-bed methane
industry, environmental and water resource groups, and geotechnical and
engineering industries.”
The Centre, which will receive $2.3 million over four years, is supported by a
range of industry partners including Placer Dome Pacific, Goldfields, Sydney
Gas, BHP Coal, Griffin Coal, BHP-WMC, Jubilee Mines, Independence
Group, Anglo-Gold, ISA Technologies and IBM.
45
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Research Management Plan
To maintain and further develop critical R&D capability in key areas
Highlights
• The Council approved the establishment of a $1 million per annum pre-seed
fund to provide financial support for embryonic commercialisation ventures
to enable their development to a stage where significant third-party
investment funds may be attracted. The University hopes that the pre-seed
fund will enable repeats of the earlier successes of ventures like Neuromonics
Pty Ltd (which developed a commercially successful treatment for tinnitus)
and Sea Gyro Pty Ltd (which is developing a stabilisation device to reduce
rolling motions at sea).
• Curtin has partnered the University of Western Australia and the
State Government in the new Urban Design Centre of Western Australia.
Launched in May, the city-based centre is expected to promote excellence in
teaching, research and practice of urban design and aims to develop
innovative solutions to complex urban design problems.
• The Commonwealth Government has awarded a major research grant of
almost $400,000 to the Planning and Transport Research Centre
(PATREC) based at Curtin to determine the impacts of transit-oriented
development in areas next to the new Perth-Mandurah railway. PATREC is
a joint endeavour of Curtin, the University of Western Australia, and Edith
Cowan University.
• Nigel Kirby has been awarded a prestigious Australian Synchrotron
Research Program Fellowship. Dr Kirby will be based at Curtin and will be
undertaking research on Biomimetic Crystallisation of Calcium Carbonates.
In addition to his own research, Dr Kirby will promote the use of
synchrotron radiation in research at Curtin.
To attract new strategic partners to Curtin
Highlights
• An alliance between Curtin and DTI Group Ltd for the development of
leading-edge surveillance systems for public transport was announced in July.
Funding for the project has been provided by the Commonwealth
Government under the National Research Priority of Safeguarding Australia
from terrorism and crime.
• Curtin’s Graduate School of Business and the State Department of Justice
have signed a Business Research Agreement to enable them to work
together on a range of research initiatives over the next three years. The
agreement aims to provide the Department with robust research that informs
and enhances its organisational development, governance, leadership and
business management processes.
• The Western Australian School of Mines (WASM) and CRCMining have
become partners in an innovative new research program. WASM’s
internationally renowned Rock Mechanics Group will be the initial link
between Curtin and CRCMining, which will be providing $400,000 in
annual funding. The group will have access to a broad range of industry
partners worldwide and exposure to other groups supported by
CRCMining. Other participating universities include: the University of
Newcastle, New South Wales; the University of Queensland; the University
of Sydney; and the University of Arizona; along with a several corporate
entities such as BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto.
46
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Research Management Plan
• Curtin’s Research Centre for Stronger Communities received five year
funding from the Alcoa Foundation in the US for an international study on
sustainability and conservation. Focussing on the area between Walpole to
the South Australian border known as the Bassian region, the project will
look at economic, environmental and social issues that affect the region.
Also involved in the project are the London School of Economics and
Political Science, the University of Michigan, the University of Sao Paolo
and Tsinghua University which will provide a global perspective on these
issues.
• The Dr Haruhisa Handa Chair in Human Rights has been re-funded by an
additional $150,000 by the philanthropist, Dr Haruhisa Handa.
• The State Government is providing $2.6 million over five years from the
Centres of Excellence in Science and Innovation program to the John
de Laeter Centre of Mass Spectrometry. The Centre is a partnership
between Curtin, the University of Western Australia, the Geological Survey
of Western Australia and CSIRO and consists of eight mass-spectrometerbased laboratories that provide isotopic and elemental composition data of
benefit to a number of areas including the resources and environmental
sectors.
• Curtin has signed an agreement with local Perth company ISA Technologies
to collaborate on research in information technology. The agreement also
provides a strategic framework for the development of joint
commercialisation opportunities. Curtin’s Centre for Marine Science and
Technology is participating in an ISA-led research project that is
investigating the potential for high performance computing to solve
hydrodynamic problems faced by the ship building industry.
To increase the level of external support for R&D
Highlights
• The WA Energy Research Alliance, in which Curtin, CSIRO, and the
University of Western Australia are partners, has achieved the unprecedented
feat of gaining funding commitments of $70 million from the State
government, Woodside Petroleum and Chevron. Research foci include:
oil and gas exploration and development, hydrocarbon processing,
industry-related health and safety and environmental issues, education and
training initiatives, deepwater seismic acquisition and interpretation, drilling
and production of high volume large bore wells, remote sub-sea production
systems, carbon dioxide capture and long-term containment, and
development of emerging technologies such as the hydrogen economy.
• The 2005 publication of the Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and
Engineering’s 2004 Annual Report noted Curtin had the fourth highest level
of research funding, as well as the fourth highest level of publication output
in the physics, applied chemistry and engineering disciplines in Australia.
This is an endorsement of the quality of Curtin’s research in Applied Physics,
Applied Chemistry and the Centre for Fuels and Energy in the Department
of Chemical Engineering.
47
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Internationalisation Plan
THE INTERNATIONALISATION PLAN
Curtin’s Internationalisation Plan aims to integrate an international and
intercultural perspective in all its activities, including research and development,
teaching and learning and management policies and systems.
The priorities of Curtin’s Internationalisation Plan are to:
• Commit to internationalising the curriculum and increasing opportunities for
international mobility;
• Provide flexible delivery of programs and service;
• Increase Curtin’s profile, recognition and reputation overseas;
• Develop emerging and growth markets with long term potential;
• Increase the size and value of international research and development
collaborations;
Training the cream of the crop
Curtin Business School (CBS) is delivering an executive education program for
senior Chinese managers in the new gas industry in Guandong Province in
China. The Australian Centre for Natural Gas Management, established by
CBS and the University of Western Australia (UWA), is designed to provide a
comprehensive understanding of the global gas industry from management,
business and financial perspectives. The contract has involved negotiations
across industry and government in both Australia and China. The invitation to
CBS to provide a comprehensive education program such as this affirms
Curtin’s international reputation and its commitment to serve local and
international business communities.
CBS business development manager Cisca Spencer
said the two universities had worked together over
several years to develop the course. Since gas is
expected to supply 12 per cent of China’s total
energy use by 2010, the need for increased numbers
of Chinese managers with a comprehensive
knowledge of all facets of the industry is essential.
“A program such as this makes Australia more than
a simple supplier of a commodity, since over five to
10 years it will develop a significant cohort of senior
Chinese managers with a good understanding of
Australian society and business and a wide range of
relationships with the Australian gas industry,”
Spencer said.
The course provides modules in business, management and English language training and includes input from local downstream
user companies and
regulators. A four-week module hosted by Woodside in Karratha and a 10-day
visit to companies and regulators in Victoria and Canberra is also featured.
The Zhongshan University and the South China University of Technology,
both situated in Guangzhou, will be responsible for training that takes place
inside China.
The program is part of the joint Curtin/UWA Australian Centre for Natural
Gas Management. Over the next 10 years Chinese managers in the gas industry
will attend the Perth-based program and will receive a joint Curtin/UWA
Executive Management Certificate.
WA’s resources boom has
opened up education
opportunities for Curtin.
48
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Internationalisation Plan
To commit to internationalising the curriculum and increasing
opportunities for international mobility
Highlights
• The Learning Support Network has developed professional development
materials and seminars to assist academic areas to embed two of Curtin’s
Course Learning Outcomes – namely, the requirement that students are able
to: 1. “Recognise and apply international perspectives” (CLO 7) and
2. “Demonstrate cultural awareness and understanding” (CLO 8).
• A number of units within the Division of Health Sciences have included
internationalisation within their curricula. The Schools of Nursing and
Midwifery, Public Health, Occupational Health, Physiotherapy and
International Health have also incorporated international experiences
through practicums in, or study tours to China, Thailand, Cambodia and
several other countries.
To provide for flexible delivery of programs and service
Highlights
• On 4 May, 220 bachelor and master degrees were awarded to students
graduating from the Sarawak Campus in Miri. This was the largest
graduating class to date, bringing the total graduates from Sarawak to 750.
• In 2003 Curtin launched the $5 million virtual education project in
partnership with the African Virtual University (AVU). Curtin’s involvement
with the project has already shown signs of success with a number of
Diploma students moving on to further their studies around the world,
including at Curtin. These successes highlight the importance if Curtin’s
involvement with the AVU, which aims to improve the availability of higher
education in Africa.
To increase Curtin’s profile, recognition and reputation overseas
Highlights
• The 2005 Good Universities Guide awarded Curtin the top five-star ranking
for international enrolments.
• Provision of education and training to students enrolled to study in Australia
on student visas is regulated by the Education Services for Overseas Students
Act 2000 (C’th) (the ESOS Act). For providers of education and training to
overseas students enrolled to study in Western Australia, there is also the
requirement to register under the Education Providers (Full Fee Overseas)
Registration Act 1991 (WA) (ESPRA) in order to provide courses to
international full fee paying students. Curtin recently underwent an ESPRA
and ESOS Audit which ensured the renewal of registration under the
ESPRA and found the University is ‘maintaining a high level of compliance
under the ESOS Act”.
• The International Office has facilitated and established the Laos Alumni
branch in Vientianne, Lao PDR, with a small seeding grant from the
University.
To develop emerging and growth markets with long term potential.
Highlights
Curtin has developed a number of key strategies and activities in China:
• Celia Cornwell was appointed to the new position of Director, China
Development in the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor International.
The Director assists the University in facilitating a number of teaching and
research projects with key Chinese stakeholders, including the development
of several articulation agreements that were concluded with Chinese
universities this year.
49
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Internationalisation Plan
• Contracts have been finalised with two universities for delivery of Accounting
programs in China, with one including some academic staff exchange.
• The School of Nursing and Midwifery entered into an agreement with
Dalian Medical University for the delivery of Bachelor of Science (Nursing
Conversion) and Bachelor of Science (Registered Nurse Bridging)
• Curtin signed two new innovative contracts with sponsorship partners,
Woodside and IDP Education Australia. The Woodside contract involves
Woodside Energy Pty Ltd sponsoring 12 engineering students from the
College of Technology, Kukuk, Iraq. The Australian Placement
Scholarships contract has been signed with IDP as a part of Australia’s
Tsunami relief strategy.
• Curtin’s coursework Master of International Relations program, which
began in 2003, has seen enrolments more than triple in 2005 and is now
attracting students locally and internationally from more than 20 countries.
To increase the size and value of international research and
development collaborations
Highlights
• Professor Dong-ke Zhang, Director of the Centre for Fuels and Energy was
appointed to the position of Honorary Professor of the South China
University of Technology (SCUT), the highest honour presented to a foreign
scholar. SCUT and Curtin are closely involved in collaborative research and
training in natural gas utilisation under the Australian-China Special LNG
(liquefied natural gas) Research Fund.
• Through its Western Australian School of Mines, Curtin entered into an
agreement to share expertise and staff with the Universidad de la Serena in
Chile. The agreement will expand world-renowned research capacity in
mining geomechanics. The agreement will involve the exchange of
information, research and academic staff between the two universities.
• The Muresk Institute has led the world’s first research into the agribusiness
industry in the Mindana region of southern Philippines. The research team
investigated the agribusiness supply chain and quality management of small
vegetable producers to address key issues affecting the industry. The project
was funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research
over a two year period.
• A research project between Curtin Business School (CBS) and Sun
Microsystems has formed a computing grid linking three continents.
The gird is part of the Innovation Node: Western Australian Grid Project.
The Edinburgh Parallel Computing Centre in the UK, Curtin and the
Chinese Academy in Beijing are partners in the project led by Professor
Ashley Lloyd, Chair of Electronic Business in CBS.
• Two training courses in agriculture management and administration were
conducted in 2005 as part of the Human Resource Development for Iraq
Project. The project, conducted by the Muresk Institute, trained 50 officials
from the Ministry of Agriculture, selected by AusAid advisers.
The participants were selected on the basis of their potential to lead and
manage change within the agricultural sector upon their return to Iraq.
• Dr Steve Reddy from the Department of Applied Geology and colleagues
Dale Evans, Yale (USA) and Rajat Mazumder, Asutosh College (India)
received funding from UNESCO and the International Union of Geological
Sciences to lead an international research program on Palaeoproterozoic
supercontinents and global evolution. This Curtin-led project brings
together academic, government, and industry scientists from at least
20 countries to develop a global view of the Earth during this period of
planetary transition.
50
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Valuing Curtin Staff Plan
THE VALUING CURTIN STAFF PLAN
The Valuing Curtin Staff Plan maps out the agenda for how the University
regards and provides for the needs of its staff.
Below (from top):
Professor Svetha
Venkatesh, Professor
Michael Alpers,
Emeritus Professor John
de Laeter and Professor
Johan Galtung.
The Valuing Curtin Staff Plan has, as its priorities, to:
• Develop collegial and ethical partnerships;
• Attract a highly competent international workforce enabling maximum
organisational effectiveness;
• Attract, retain and reward staff through the provision of competitive,
contemporary performance based rewards;
Professors honoured with new award
The Council established a new award of “John Curtin Distinguished Professor”
in three categories: John Curtin Distinguished Emeritus Professor, John Curtin
Distinguished Visiting Professor, and John Curtin Distinguished Professor.
The criteria for the award are that the professor has the capacity to provide a
significant and sustained contribution to the University, as evidenced by an
exceptional reputation nationally and internationally, exceptional teaching
and/or research skills or scholarly, creative and artistic achievements, an
exceptional record of public service, or having received the title of
“Distinguished Professor” from another internationally recognised University.
The conferral of the title is a high honour, and will not be routinely awarded.
The policy confines the award of the title for serving professors to one each year,
although for 2005 only – the inaugural year – the policy permitted the Council to
confer more than one in this category. The Visiting Professor category may only
be conferred on one person per year within each Division.
The inaugural recipients of the awards were:
John Curtin Distinguished Professor – Professor Svetha Venkatesh
(Computer Science) and Professor Michael Alpers (Health Sciences –
Infectious Diseases)
John Curtin Distinguished Emeritus Professor – Emeritus Professor John
de Laeter (Applied Physics)
John Curtin Distinguished Visiting Professor – Professor Johan Galtung
(Peace Studies)
“The conferral of these new titles is a significant honour for these individuals,
acknowledging their dedication and outstanding scholarship,” Vice-Chancellor
Professor Lance Twomey said.
“The four inaugural recipients of the award have made a significant contribution
not only to their professional discipline, but to the community at large, in their
efforts to push the boundaries of science and to improve human health and
safety. The work of these four individuals is inspiring, and Curtin is very pleased
to be able to honour them in this way,” Professor Twomey said.
51
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Valuing Curtin Staff Plan
To develop collegial and ethical partnerships
Highlights
• Curtin Business School undertook culture mapping of the Division in 2004
in conjunction with Human Synergistics. In 2005, the Division began
implementing the results and has received positive feedback from the staff.
As part of this, a Futures Group which includes both academic and general
staff has been established which looks at future strategy development for the
Division from a “bottom-up” approach.
To attract a highly competent international workforce enabling
maximum organisational effectiveness
Highlights
• Two new certified agreements – the Academic Staff Certified Agreement
2005 – 2008; and the General Staff Certified Agreement 2005 – 2008 were
both registered.
• In compliance with the Commonwealth Government’s Higher Education
Workplace Reform Requirements (HEWRRs), Australian Workplace
Agreements (AWAs) were offered to first newly commencing staff, and
subsequently to all staff as an alternative form of contract to the Certified
Agreements.
• Curtin successfully obtained a ‘2005 EOWA Employer of Choice for Women’
citation. The citation is awarded by the Equal Opportunity for Women in the
Workplace Agency to organisations that create work cultures that support
and advance women. Curtin was first awarded the citation in 2002. In 2005
EOWA awarded only 115 citations to organisations Australia-wide and only
to four in WA.
• Curtin named seven (up from five last year) new Curtin Research Fellows
from an applicant pool of over 70 highly competitive applicants.
• Professor John Mackenzie AO, was awarded the inaugural Academy of
Sciences Malaysia Award for Scientific Excellence in honour of the former
Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad. This award recognises the
tremendous contribution Professor Mackenzie has made in the area of
emerging tropical diseases.
• Julienne van Loon received the 2004 Australia/Vogel Literary Award for her
novel, “Road Story”. The novel was launched at Curtin in August.
• Professor Barney Glover, Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Development,
was named by WA Business News as one of the seven most influential
leaders in science and technology in Western Australia.
• Professor Greg Craven received the Western Australian Premier’s Book
Award for non-fiction for his book “Conversations with the Constitution”.
• Curtin Distinguished Emeritus Professor of Physics, John De Laeter won
the prestigious Australian Government Eureka Prize for promoting the
understanding of science. The prize was jointly awarded to Professor de
Laeter and David Blair from the University of Western Australia for their
involvement in the Gravity Discovery Centre in Gingin.
• Professor Peter Lilly, Director of the Western Australian School of Mines,
was elected President of the Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy, the pre-eminent organisation representing professionals in the
minerals sector in the Australasian region.
52
Curtin University of Technology
2005 Activity Highlights
The Valuing Curtin Staff Plan
• Professor Richard Nile was invited by the European Australian Studies
Association to be the special guest of honour at its eighth biennial conference
held in Hungary this year. The occasion sought to honour Professor Nile for
his outstanding contribution to the field.
• Professor Simon Wilde from the Department of Applied Geology was
invited to present the Lewis G Weeks Distinguished Lecture at the
University of Madison in the United States. In August, Australian astronaut
Andy Thomas took a piece of the world’s oldest crystal, collected by
Professor Wilde, aboard the space shuttle “Discovery”.
To attract, retain and reward staff through the provision of
competitive, contemporary performance based rewards
Highlights
• The winners of the 2005 Awards for Excellence were:
Groups (4)
The African Virtual University Project Team;
Library and Information Service Staff;
Information Management Services;
Educational Technologies and the Course Evaluation on the Web (CEW)
Management Team
Individuals (4)
Mr Lewis Pannell, Western Australian School of Mines;
Mr Glen Hutchings, School of Accounting, Curtin Business School;
Ms Leah Dowsett, Office of Research and Development; and
Professor Elizabeth Chang, School of Information Systems, Curtin Business
School
53
Curtin University of Technology
Curtin in Figures
CURTIN IN FIGURES
Full Year Student Population
Student Numbers
Higher Education
Vocation Education
& Training (VET)
Student Load
Higher Education
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
31331
34035
36032
37116
39562
3671
3357
3712
3998
4083
21266
23297
24983
25677
26741
2003
2004
2005
33714
2363
34653
2518
36808
2683
Student Enrolments by Study Mode
Internal and Multi-Modal
External
2001
2002
29213
2155
31880
2196
Student Enrolments by Gender
Female
Male
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
17000
14331
18324
15711
19341
16691
19601
17515
20576
18986
Student Enrolments by Enrolling Division
Centre for Aboriginal Studies
Humanities
Curtin Business School
Engineering, Science
and Computing
Health Sciences
Resources and Environment
Curtin Sarawak
Extension and Credit Transfer
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
345
5839
12614
400
6506
13269
364
7011
14052
382
7079
14872
328
7522
15188
4241
5709
1940
4687
6024
2169
223
1204
5012
6095
1960
762
1253
4908
6275
2088
1207
1031
4828
6854
2865
1543
1128
1043
*Other includes Centre for Aboriginal Studies, Curtin Sarawak and
External Studies/Credit Transfer
54
Curtin University of Technology
Curtin in Figures
Student Load (EFTSL) by Teaching Division
*Other includes Centre for Aboriginal Studies, Curtin Sarawak and
External Studies/Credit Transfer
Centre for Aboriginal Studies
Humanities
Curtin Business School
Engineering, Science
and Computing
Health Sciences
Resources and Environment
Curtin Sarawak
Extension and Credit Transfer
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
279
4157
8460
327
4687
8757
320
5015
9354
322
4857
9997
301
4761
10103
3064
3932
1315
3288
4221
1477
487
52
3364
4323
1481
1208
27
3402
4306
1508
1259
27
3485
4574
1614
1354
36
2003
2004
2005
1407
216
3855
1771
819
356
25565
484
3536
1400
199
4145
1726
938
301
26891
334
2993
1577
309
4649
1686
1064
246
28076
355
3370
58
Student Enrolments by Course Level
2001
Doctorates (PhD)
Master by Research
Master by Coursework
Other Postgraduate
Graduate Certificate
Bachelor Honours
Bachelor Pass
Other Undergraduate
Not for Degree*
2002
1236
1415
327
322
3377
3636
1716
1771
698
650
346
369
22334 24068
371
379
2364
2765
* 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 Category
2001
2002
Commonwealth Supported Places16602 17227
FP International onshore
5208
5523
FP International offshore
5319
6372
RTS/HDR Fee Scholarship
990
1045
Australian Fee Paying
– Postgraduate
2838
3273
Australian Fee Paying
– Undergraduate
914
1079
2003
2004
2005
16421
6481
7565
1064
16119
6856
8385
1093
16606
7563
9215
1322
3824
4193
4353
1198
1047
891
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders (ATSI)
Student Enrolments
Higher Education
Vocational Education
& Training (VET)
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
478
558
494
515
448
338
319
334
442
437
55
Curtin University of Technology
Curtin in Figures
FP International Student Enrolments by Home Country
Hong Kong
Indonesia
Malaysia
Singapore
Other
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2605
1074
1386
3229
2220
2653
1032
2161
2956
3081
2924
1078
3602
2758
3668
2683
1185
4124
2443
4805
2457
1238
4263
2190
6503
2005
Awards Completions by Course Level
2001
2002
2003
2004
Doctorates (PhD)
78
49
Master by Research
Master by Coursework
944
Postgraduate/Graduate Diploma 723
Graduate Certificate
215
Bachelor Graduates
28
Bachelor Honours
460
Bachelor Pass
4929
Associate Degree/Diploma
66
109
50
1185
630
224
35
561
5072
61
153
52
1344
631
309
58
600
5751
86
146
55
1157
606
391
74
583
5791
67
Total
Staff Total FTE
Higher Education*
Vocational Education
& Training (VET)
133
40
1382
644
497
42
538
5915
90
7492
7927
8984
8870
9281
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2311
2446
2447
2906
3034
88
185
117
126
113
*Include an estimated actual casual/sessional staff FTE of 329 in 2005.
Academic and General Staff FTE
(Full Time and Factional Full Time only)
Academic
General
2001
2002
2003
2004
988
1323
1038
1408
1030
1417
1065
1512
2005
1124
1581
56
Curtin University of Technology
Curtin in Figures
Staff FTE by Gender
(Full Time and Factional Full Time only)
Female
Male
2001
2002
2003
2004
1125
1186
1254
1192
1207
1240
1285
1292
2003
2004
2005
2262
315
329
2349
356
329
Staff FTE by Employment Contract
Full Time
Factional Full Time
Casual/Sessional*
2001
2002
2055
256
379
2167
279
354
2155
292
326
2005
1327
1378
*Include an estimated actual casual/sessional staff FTE of 329 in 2005.
Staff FTE by Function
(Full Time and Factional Full Time only)
Teaching only
Research only
Teaching and Research
Other Functions
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
122
153
671
1365
102
143
735
1466
95
142
740
1470
105
157
769
1546
148
170
778
1609
57
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
CONTENTS
•
Certifications
58
•
Section A – Higher Education
60
•
•
Introduction
Section B – Vocational Education and Training
59
75
58
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
CERTIFICATION OF PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
I 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 2005.
Dr Eric Tan
Chancellor
Dated this 24th day of February, 2006.
Professor Lance Twomey
Vice-Chancellor
Dated this 24th day of February, 2006.
NB: The Auditor-General’s opinion can be seen on page 81
59
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
INTRODUCTION
Curtin’s efficiency and effectiveness Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
demonstrate the University’s progress towards meeting its outcomes in
Teaching and Learning and Research and Development. These focus primarily
on the University’s higher education operations, found in Section A. Section B
reports KPIs for Curtin’s Kalgoorlie based vocational training and education
programs (VTEC).
The KPIs are analysed as measures of effectiveness and efficiency that reflect, as
much as possible, output performance in terms of Curtin’s Teaching and
Learning and Research and Development goals.
The following diagram summarises the approach,
A1.1 Effectiveness
A1 Teaching and Learning
A1.2 Efficiency
A Higher Education
A2 Research and
Development
B Vocational Education
& Training
•
A2.2 Efficiency
B1 Effectiveness
B2 Efficiency
and the following definitions are adopted:
•
A2.1 Effectiveness
Effectiveness measures the extent to which outcomes have been
achieved
Efficiency measures the resources used to attain a certain level of output.
Targets and benchmark data (where available) are specified for the first time in
accordance with the amended Treasurer’s Instruction (TI) 904 ‘Performance
Indicators’. In line with this new instruction, targets and benchmarks are
provided for the most current year data. Trend data for the last three to four
years are also provided. These trend data are of particular use in indicating
performance in cases where the indicators are prone to significant yearly
changes attributable to small number distortion.
60
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
Ref
Name
Output/Objective
A1 Teaching and Learning (T&L)
A1.1 Effectiveness
a
b
c
A1.2 Efficiency
Employment & Study Destinations of New
First Degree Graduates
Perceived Teaching Quality – Course
Experience Questionnaire
Subject Load Pass Rate
d
Research Higher Degree Enrolments as a
Percentage of Total Enrolments
e
Teaching and Learning Expenditure per
EFTSL
Teaching and Learning Expenditure per
Successful EFTSL
Graduate Productivity Rate
f
g
Graduate Quality
Teaching Quality
Student Progress
& Achievement
Input
T&L Expenditure
T&L Expenditure
Student Progress
& Achievement
A2 Research and Development (R&D)
A2.1 Effectiveness
h
i
j
k
l
A2.2 Efficiency
m
n
o
p
Research Performance Index (RPI) Points by
Range of Research Programs
Institutional Grants Scheme (IGS): Comparison
between Curtin and all Australian Universities
All Research Funding: Comparison between
Curtin and the Averages for ATN and all
Australian Universities
Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) Funding:
Comparison between Curtin and all Australian
Universities
Number of Research Publications: Comparison
between Curtin and the Averages for ATN and
all Australian Universities
RPI Output
IGS Funding
Research Funding
Research Funding
Research Publications
Research Expenditure and RPI Points
Resource Use
Research Performance Index Points per FTE
RPI Productivity
Academic Staff
Research Funding per 10 FTE Academic Staff:
Comparison between Curtin and the Averages Comparative Research
Funding
for ATN and all Australian Universities
Research Publications per 10 FTE Academic
Staff: Comparison between Curtin and the
Averages for ATN Universities and all Australian
Universities.
Research Publications
61
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
A1 TEACHING AND LEARNING
Curtin’s Teaching and Learning goal is:
to achieve excellence in teaching and learning, developing
graduates as lifelong learners and equipping them to make a
positive contribution to society
A1.1 EFFECTIVENESS INDICATORS
Quality of Graduates
(a) Employment and Study Destinations of New First Degree Graduates
This indicator measures Curtin’s effectiveness in both assisting students to
reach their full potential and in producing graduates who are of practical value
to the community.
Table 1 uses Graduate Destination Survey (GDS) returns to summarise the
major activities of new first degree (ie bachelor, bachelor honours, and diploma)
Curtin graduates measured at 30 April in each year of the series and compares
these with the national average sourced from the Graduate Careers Australia
(GCA) (previously Graduate Career Council of Australia (GCCA)) survey.
The percentage of graduates in their ‘mode of choice’, at 84 per cent, meets the
Curtin target of 80 per cent and above. It also exceeds the benchmark of 81 per
cent that is the 2004 graduates’ ‘mode of choice’ for all Australian Universities.
This benchmark is sourced from the latest GCA report 2004.
Table 1. Employment and Study Destinations Of New First Degree Graduates1
2002 – 2005
Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents only
Activity
Full-Time Work
Full-Time Study
Not Working, Seeking FT Work
PT Work, Seeking FT Work
PT Work, Not Seeking FT Work
Not Working, Seeking PT Work
Unavailable for Work/Study
Total
% Graduates in Mode of Choice3
Curtin Target
Curtin
%
56%
21%
6%
7%
6%
1%
3%
All2
%
Curtin
%
53%
24%
5%
7%
6%
1%
4%
54%
22%
7%
8%
5%
1%
3%
2003
All2
%
Curtin
%
53%
23%
5%
8%
6%
1%
4%
55%
21%
7%
8%
6%
1%
2%
2004
All2
%
53%
23%
5%
8%
6%
1%
4%
Curtin
%
59%
20%
6%
6%
6%
1%
2%
2005
All2
%
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
n/a
82%
82%
79%
81%
79%
81%
84%
n/a
Benchmark (all Australian universities)
Total Number of Respondents
Response Rate
2002
1,630
70%
59,629 2,337 65,158
n/a
71%
n/a
2,044 64,965
61%
n/a
=>80%
81%
2,059
57%
n/a
n/a
Rounding errors may occur
1 Data are taken from the 2002 – 2005 national Graduate Destination Surveys conducted by the GCA of all graduates. In common with 90% of other
institutions Curtin supplements GCA survey data (using internal student records) by including the number of graduates who go on to further study at Curtin.
2 All refers to All Australian Universities.
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 seeing f/t work) / (total number of respondents minus those in
full-time study and those unavailable for study or work).
Notes:
• GDS data are frequencies and not means thus standard deviations are not reported.
• National data for 2005 are not yet available
• Survey data: Confidence Level = 99%; Confidence Interval = 1.86
62
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
Quality of Teaching
(b) Perceived Teaching Quality – Course Experience Questionnaire (CEQ)
The 25 item Course Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) – included with the
annual Graduate Destination Survey (GDS) conducted by the GCA and sent
to all graduates – provides outcome measures of teaching and learning
excellence. The CEQ asks graduates to rate their perceptions using six aspects
of their recently completed course: good teaching, clear goals and appropriate
standards, appropriate assessment, appropriate workload, generic skills, and
overall satisfaction. Graduates’ perceptions of the extent to which they have
developed ‘Generic Skills’, together with their ‘Overall Satisfaction’, are
fundamental to the University’s pursuit of excellence in teaching and learning.
In the years 2002 to 2005, CEQ data for all universities were analysed by the
Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) 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 with the criterion, while
at the other extreme +100 would mean complete agreement.
The percentage of broadly satisfied Curtin graduates in 2005 reaches the
historic 90 per cent average and meets the Curtin target. The sub-categories of
‘Good Teaching’ and ‘Appropriate Workload’ show considerable improvement
since 2002 although ‘Appropriate Workload’ is still below the national average.
The previously continuing decline in sub-categories ‘Clear Goals and Standards’
and ‘Appropriate Assessment’ has been reversed in 2005.
Table 2. Perceived Teaching Quality - Course Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) 2002 - 2005
Graduate assigned scores from: -100 (complete disagreement) to +100 (complete agreement)
CEQ Scle
Curtin
%
2002
All2
%
Curtin
%
2003
All2
%
Curtin
%
2004
All2
%
Good Teaching
14
15
17
17
16
17
Clear Goals and Standards
20
19
19
17
17
16
Appropriate Assessment
22
26
21
24
20
23
0
7
1
7
0
7
Generic Skills
39
36
39
36
37
36
Overall Satisfaction
36
38
36
38
34
38
93%
90%
91%
90%
89%
89%
Appropriate Workload
Percent Broad Agreement3
Overall Satisfaction
Curtin Target
Benchmark (all Australian universities)
Respondents1
Number of
Response Rate
2,123 59,482 3,221 66,893
52%
n/a 56%(2)
n/a
2,584 67,878
41%
n/a
Curtin
%
2005
20
(42.1)
20
(35.7)
21
(42.4)
3
(37.0)
37
(33.6)
37
(46.3)
90%
=>90%
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
89%
2,229
43%
All2
%
1 Since 1998, where a student has undertaken a double major they have been able to complete two Course Experience Questionnaires. Of the 2,229 Curtin
respondents to the 2005 survey, 617 provided additional information about a second field of study.
2 All refers to All Australian Universities.
3 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:
• National data for 2005 are not yet available
• In the 2003 Annual Report a new method for calculating the response rate was used, resulting in a rate of 79%. This determination was subsequently
reconsidered and a 56% response rate agreed for 2003, methodologically consistent with those for 2001 and 2002. The 2004 and 2005 rates, 41% and 43%
respectively, follow the same approach, the fall reflecting both a decline in the number of responses and an increase in the number of CEQ forms sent out.
• Bracket figures are the standard deviation for each CEQ scale.
• Survry data:Confidence Level = 99%; Confidence Interval = 2.06
n/a
n/a
63
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
The percentage also exceeds the benchmark of 89 per cent that is the
percentage of broadly satisfied graduates from all Australian Universities in
2004. This benchmark is sourced from the latest GCA report (2004).
Student Achievement and Progress
The indicator Subject Load Pass Rate measures quantity and timeliness. Sound
curriculum design, good pedagogy, appropriate assessment practices and learning support should sustain pass rates while minimising completion times.
c) Subject Load Pass Rate (SLPR)
This indicator is the percentage of assessed subject load measured as
Equivalent Full-Time Student Load (EFTSL) (previously Equivalent FullTime Student Unit (EFTSU)) in each of the 2002 to 2005 academic years for
which students were awarded a passing grade (Table 3). The SLPR has
remained steady over the last four years but has fallen short of the Curtin target
of above 88 per cent in 2005. However it does exceed the benchmark of 2004
unadjusted progress rate at 86 per cent sourced from the Student Outcome
Indicators for Learning and Teaching Performance Fund (DEST 2005) (see
notes Table 3).
Table 3. Subject Load Pass Rate (SLPR) by Branch of Learning1 2002 - 2005
Student Load Passed as a Percentage of Student Load Assessed
Branch of Learning
Humanities
Social Studies
Education
Sciences
Mathematics, Computing
Visual/Performing Arts
Engineering, Processing
Health Sciences
Admin, Business, Economics, Law
Built Environment
Agriculture, Renewable Resources
Total
Curtin Target
2002
2003
2004
85%
90%
93%
89%
82%
90%
85%
95%
89%
92%
89%
89%
86%
89%
94%
88%
82%
91%
85%
95%
89%
93%
88%
89%
87%
90%
93%
89%
83%
90%
85%
95%
86%
91%
89%
88%
Benchmark
2005
84%
87%
93%
88%
81%
90%
87%
95%
85%
87%
91%
87%
>88%
86%
1 Data are derived from the Commonwealth annual student statistical collections. The Subject Load Pass Rates presented in the table exclude Higher
Degree by Research student load.
Notes:
• Benchmark source: 2005 DEST Student Outcome Indicators for Learning and Teaching Performance Fund. The benchmark includes Commonwealth
Supported commencing bachelor degree students only.
Rounding error may occur.
Input
(d) Research Higher Degree Enrolments (Load) as a Percentage of
Total Enrolments (Load)
One of Curtin’s educational strategies consistent with its aim to raise the
University’s research profile is to increase research higher degree enrolments
equal to or greater than 5 per cent of total enrolments and EFTSL greater than
or equal to 4.5 per cent of total EFTSL. Tables 4A (enrolment) and 4B
(EFTSL) show that while the former is just below target, the latter in terms of
64
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
share of EFTSL reports a 4-year decline since 2001 and in 2005 is under the
target by 0.5 per cent. Results for enrolments equal the benchmarks of all
Australian universities but below that of all Western Australian universities and
for both benchmarks in EFTSL. Curtin ranks 21st in enrolments and 26th in
EFTSL. These rankings place Curtin in the middle or lower half of the list of
48 Australian higher education institutions for this measure (DEST, 2004).
Nevertheless, actual EFTSL rose modestly. Also noteworthy are the
continuing increase in Doctoral enrolments and the resurgence in Master
enrolments this year.
Table 4A. Research Higher Degree Enrolments by Level
And Total Research Enrolments as a Percentage of Total Curtin Enrolments: 2001 - 2005
Research Higher Degree
Masters
Doctoral
Total Research
% of Total Enrolments
% Curtin Target
% All WA Universities
% All Australian Universities
National Ranking (All Australian Universities)
2001
2002
2003
2004
251
1123
1374
4.7%
274
1213
1487
4.8%
247
1403
1650
5.1%
210
1445
1655
5.0%
Notes:
• 2002 data for Curtin’s Miri enrolments are included for the first time in the Total Enrolment denominator and so may have a deflationary
impact on the 2002 percentage compared to 2001.
• All enrolment data are for the year at 31 March.
• Benchmarks source: DEST Selected Higher Education Student Statistics 2004 for Western Australian and Australian universities.
Table 4B. Research Higher Degree EFTSL by Level
And Total Research EFTSL as a Percentage of Curtin's Total EFTSL: 2001 - 2005
Research Higher Degree
2001
2002
2003
2004
Masters
Doctoral
Total Research
% of Total EFTSL
158
726
884
4.5%
158
766
924
4.4%
110
814
924
4.2%
89
840
929
4.1%
% Curtin Target
% All WA Universities
% All Australian Universities
National Ranking (All Australian Universities)
2005
259
1495
1754
4.9%
=>5.0%
5.3%
5.0%
21
2005
126
831
957
4.0%
=>4.5%
4.9%
5.0%
26
Notes:
• 2002 data for Curtin’s Miri enrolments are included for the first time in the Total EFTSL denominator and so may have a deflationary impact on the
2002 percentage compared to 2001.
• All EFTSL data are for the year at 31 March.
• Benchmark source: DEST Selected Higher Education Student Statistics 2004 for Western Australian and Australian universities.
A1.2 EFFICIENCY INDICATORS
Teaching and Learning Expenditure
(e) Teaching and Learning Expenditure per EFTSL
(f) Teaching and Learning Expenditure per Successful EFTSL
Teaching and Learning expenditure relates to the teaching of award course
programs. The two indicators reported in Table 5A 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
65
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
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 goal have been spent. Table 5B shows the comparison after
adjusting for inflation.
It is important to note that average expenditure per EFTSL is largely
dependent upon 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 and the
Pilbara.
A slight fall in the 2005 expenditure per EFTSL and successful EFTSL place
Curtin below the target.
Table 5A. Teaching and Learning Expenditure1 at Historical Cost,
2002 - 2005
20022
Expenditure & EFTSL details
(1) Actual Expenditure ($’000)
(2) Total Taught EFTSL
(3) Successful EFTSL
2003
2004
2005
$300,532 $312,896 $325,837 $338,091
20,886 22,184 22,543 23,905
18,547 19,677 19,748 20,773
(i) Teaching and Learning Expenditure ($)/EFTSL
$14,389 $14,105 $14,454 $14,143
(ii) Teaching and Learning Expenditure ($)/Successful EFTSL
$16,204 $15,901 $16,500 $16,275
Curtin Target
Benchmark (Average WA Universities 2004)
$14,500
$16,984
Curtin Target
$16,500
1 Teaching and Learning Expenditure reported above excludes that for the Kalgoorlie VET sector. All University Expenditure is now reported: (i) on
Teaching and Learning or Research and Development, in line with the University’s goals; and (ii), consistent with the University’s Financial Operating
Statement. For these reasons, the data may differ from those shown in earlier Annual Reports.
2 Both 2002 EFTSL and Expenditure data reported in the table include, for the first time, information on Miri that may distort the time series.
Notes:
• Benchmark source: From Murdoch University’s T&L expenditure per EFTSL spreadsheet.Benchmark for T&L expenditure per successful EFTSL is
unavailable.
Table 5B. Teaching and Learning Expenditure at Constant Dollar Value
2002 - 2005
20021
Expenditure & EFTSL details
(1) Actual Expenditure ($’000)
(2) Total Taught EFTSL
(3) Successful EFTSL
2003
2004
2005
$320,919 $322,120$332,110 $338,091
20,886 22,184 22,543 23,905
18,547 19,677 19,748 20,773
(i) Teaching and Learning Expenditure ($)/EFTSL
$15,365 $14,733 $14,733 $14,143
(ii) Teaching and Learning Expenditure ($)/Successful EFTSL
$17,303 $16,588 $16,818 $16,275
Factor2
1.134358 1.161183 1.188354 1.213309
Cost Adjustment Factor/Higher Education Indexation
1 Both the 2002 EFTSL and Expenditure data reported in the table include, for the first time, information on Miri that may distort the time series.
2 Cost Adjustment Factors and Higher Education Indexation Factor in the table are extracted from Appendix 1, page 177, of DEST Higher Education
Report for 2004 – 2005 and can be used to convert historical cost figures to December 2005 price levels. From 2005 the Higher Education Indexation
Factor has replaced the Higher Education Cost Adjustment Factor (CAF) but the two factors are comparable.c.
66
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
Student Progress and Achievement
The indicator Graduate Productivity Rates provides an insight into the
efficiency with which monies directed towards the Teaching and Learning goal
have been spent.
(g) Graduate Productivity Rates
These rates show changes over time in the output of graduates for every 10
full-time equivalent staff. Table 6A 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.
In 2005, both the undergraduate and postgraduate coursework rates meet the
Curtin target of more than 57 and 20 graduates per 10 FTE academic staff.
Curtin's undergraduate rate is considerably above the benchmark of the 2003
average for Australian Technology Network (ATN)1 while the postgraduate
rate comes in below. Nonetheless both rates have increased over those in 2004
and are just short of the highest rate in the last four years achieved in 2003.
Table 6A. Undergraduate and Postgraduate Coursework Degree Productivity Rates1 , 2002 - 2005
Graduations per 10 FTE Academic Staff2
Undergraduate
Curtin Target
2002
2003
2004
56.5
62.2
52.6
Benchmark (ATN in 2003)
Postgraduate Coursework
Curtin Target
2005
60.5
>57.0
49.3
21.0
22.0
18.9
Benchmark (ATN in 2003)
20.7
>20.0
25.1
1 For each year shown (X) graduates (the numerator) are taken as those with awards approved in the period 1 January to 31 December in year X-1. Thus for
2005 there would have been 81.2 graduates for every 10 FTE teaching in the period 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2004.
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 current
and previous two years is taken.
Notes:
• Curtin Source: Student Record System S1.
• Benchmark Source: 2002-2004 DEST Selected Higher Education Student and Staff Data Collection.
Table 6B. Research Higher Degree Productivity Rate 2002 - 2005
Research Higher Degree Completions per 10 full-time equivalent Academic Staff1
2002
2003
2004
Masters
Doctoral
0.54
1.47
0.91
2.37
0.79
2.15
0.61
1.98
All Research
2.02
3.29
2.94
2.60
Curtin Target
Benchmark (ATN in 2003)
2005
>3.00
2.55
1 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.
Notes:
• Curtin Source: Graduate Studies.
• Benchmark Source: 2002-2004 DEST Selected Higher Education Student and Staff Data Collection.
Table 6B shows Postgraduate Research productivity rates with the data
disaggregated to the Master and Doctoral levels. The numerator uses
completions rather than graduations while the denominator is restricted to staff
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.
67
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
eligible to supervise research students. Due to a decrease in both Master and
Doctoral completions in 2005, the rate is below the Curtin target. On the other
hand, the rate exceeds the benchmark which is the average of the 2003 research
higher degree productivity rate for all ATN universities.
A2 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
The research funding and publications indicators presented below signal the
University’s performance in relation to Curtin’s goal
to strive for excellence in research and development, resulting in
creative solutions to significant problems.
A2.1 EFFECTIVENESS INDICATORS
Data for five performance indicators that assist in demonstrating how effectively
Curtin is meeting its Research and Development Goal are presented below.
One indicator (h) uses the University’s Research Performance Index (RPI),
which measures the quantity, quality and impact of research outputs and
outcomes; three indicators (i), (j) and (k) show the quantity of research funding;
while another indicator (l) shows research publications.
These indicators are compared to those for other universities to determine
Curtin’s relative performance. They are presented alongside averages for the
universities in the Australian Technology Network (ATN) and the broad
spectrum of Australian universities.
Research Performance Index Output
(h) Research Performance Index Points by Range of Research
Programs
This indicator uses Curtin’s RPI as a measure of research effectiveness. Curtin’s
Research and Development Committee gathers pertinent research data as one
basis for distributing research funds within the University. Annual reviews of
the RPI scheme by the University’s Research and Development Committee
have progressively made it a more effective instrument, better capturing
research excellence, scholarship and productivity rather than simply reflecting
the amount of general research activity.
The indicators carry a one-year time lag because RPI points for a given calendar
year cannot be determined until all input data have been subject to internal
verification by the Office of Research and Development. Verification
commences at the start of the year following the year in which the research
activity occurred. As such, the latest available data are for 2004.
Table 7 shows RPI points by research area for the years 2001 to 2004. The four
year trend demonstrates an overall increase in research activity, particularly in
Exploration Geophysics, Mining & Mineral Technology, Cognitive Science,&
Cognitive Ergonomics,and Information System & Technology programs.
Yearly fluctuations in RPI levels by research programs result from higher (or
lower) research performance, the commencement of new research efforts within
programs, and the phasing out of other programs.
The overall number of RPI points generated continues to improve and is
progressing towards the target despite the annual review process becoming
more stringent in recent years.As this indicator is exclusive to Curtin,
benchmarking is not possible.
68
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
Research Program
Table 7. RPI Points by Range of Research Programs 2001 - 2004
2002
Public Health & Rehabilitation
Exploration Geosciences
Cultural & Regional Studies
Education
Environmental Management
Engineering Technology
Telecommunications Research
Mining & Minerals Technology
Biomedical Science & Technology
Enterprise Effect. & Econ. Performance
Cognitive Science & Cognitive Ergonomics
Marine Science & Technology
Information Systems & Technology
Agribusiness
Total
Curtin Target
65,952
33,975
26,287
18,785
34,554
18,264
14,723
33,015
17,450
21,981
8,076
11,296
9,245
1,039
314,642
RPI Points
2003
2004
2005
59,951 66,980 56,435
40,586 46,328 50,482
27,182 30,916 37,259
24,173 42,889 35,707
35,245 39,451 36,962
17,772 19,374 21,707
10,891 12,418
8,887
27,418 31,686 50,622
21,404 17,556 19,255
18,376 35,848 36,272
8,102
9,415 16,187
11,781
9,330 14,782
13,195
9,771 22,040
2,536
2,917
5,586
318,612 374,878 412,182
450,000
Institutional Grant Scheme Allocation
(i) Institutional Grant Scheme Allocation: Comparison between Curtin
and all Australian Universities
The IGS is considered a key national research performance indicator. It was
implemented by the Commonwealth on 1 January 2002 and comprises funding
previously allocated under the Research Quantum and the Small Research
Grant Scheme. It 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. The Research Quantum was
that component of the Operating Grant used to support research activities
other than those directly linked to teaching and research training.
Table 8, providing IGS allocations by university, is ranked according to each
institution’s share of the total IGS for 2005. Curtin rose two places to 13th in
2005 and sits above the midpoint in this ordering in which the ATN universities
are identified through use of italics, the Western Australian universities with
bold type, and those with medical schools and supporting departments with the
letter ‘M’. This last group of universities have the advantage of enhanced access
to National Competitive Research Grants schemes (for example, medical
research funding through National Health & Medical Research Council).
They include the University of Western Australia, the only Western Australian
university performing at a higher level than Curtin. Curtin’s IGS allocation
should be assessed in this context.
Curtin also achieves its target in improving its national ranking from 15th in
2004 to 13th in 2005.
69
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
Table 8. Institutional Grant Scheme ($'000) Funds and Percentage Shares
2003-2005
Ranking According to % IGS Share in 2005
Rank
University
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
University of Melbourne (M)
University of Sydney (M)
University of Queensland (M)
University of New South Wales (M)
Monash University (M)
Australian National University
University of Adelaide (M)
University of Western Australia (M)
University of Tasmania (M)
University of Newcastle (M)
Flinders University of SA (M)
Griffith University
CURTIN UNIVERSITY
La Trobe University
Macquarie University
University of Wollongong
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
Queensland University of Technology
Murdoch University
University of South Australia
James Cook University
University of Technology, Sydney
Deakin University
University of New England
University of Western Sydney
Swinburne University of Technology
Victoria University of Technology
University of Canberra
Edith Cowan University
Charles Sturt University
Southern Cross University
Central Queensland University
Charles Darwin University*
University of Southern Queensland
University of Ballarat
Australian Catholic University
Australian Maritime University
University of Sunshine Coast
Melbourne College of Divinity
University of Notre Dame, Australia
Batchelor Inst Indigenous Tertiary Ed
Bond University
Total
*Formerly as Northern Territory University.
($’000)
2005
% Share
2005
% Share
2004
% Share
2003
32,772
11.3
29,973 10.3
29,052 10.0
23,782
8.2
20,921
7.2
16,668
5.7
16,311
5.6
16,254
5.6
7,201
2.5
6,592
2.3
6,574
2.3
6,409
2.2
5,888
2.0
5,864
2.0
5,839
2.0
5,569
1.9
5,231
1.8
5,082
1.7
5,027
1.7
4,663
1.6
4,017
1.4
3,970
1.4
3,828
1.3
3,592
1.2
3,438
1.2
2,176
0.7
1,962
0.7
0.6
1,766
1,698
0.6
0.5
1,484
0.5
1,336
1,209
0.4
1,153
0.4
1,096
0.4
678
0.2
651
0.2
0.1
248
0.1
186
0.1
176
98
0.0
0.0
79
78
0.0
290,591 100.0
11.0
10.2
10.2
8.6
7.1
5.6
5.6
5.6
2.6
2.4
2.4
2.3
2.0
2.1
2.1
1.9
1.7
1.7
1.6
1.7
1.4
1.4
1.1
1.3
1.2
0.7
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.4
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.2
0.1
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
10.7
9.8
10.2
9.2
6.9
6.0
5.5
5.8
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.2
1.9
2.3
2.2
1.9
1.6
1.8
1.5
1.6
1.4
1.3
1.1
1.4
1.1
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.4
0.3
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.2
0.1
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
70
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
RESEARCH FUNDING
(j) All Research Funding: Comparison between Curtin, the Average of all
ATN Universities, and National Ranking
Table 9. All Research Funding: Comparison between Curtin, the Average of all
ATN Universities and National Ranking 2002 - 2004
Source of Research Funding
Australian Competitive
Research Grants2
Other Public Sector
Research Funding2
Industry & Other Funding
for Research2
Cooperative Research
Centres Funds3
Other Sources (ie IGS &
Research Infrastructure)
Total
Curtin Target
Curtin
$’000
2002
ATN Nat. Rank Curtin
$’000
$’000
2003
ATN Nat. Rank
$’000
Curtin
$’000
4,566
4,500
21
6,277
6,303
21
7,721
7,723
20
8,558
6,415
9
9,602
7,837
10
8,752
7,515
12
9,588
6,515
11
9,528
6,725
12
10,855
7,904
12
4,443
2,242
8
4,620
2,701
11
5,145
2,958
9
6,084
5,387
17
6,733
5,852
16
7,188
6,244
16
33,239
25,05
13
36,761 29,418
12
2004
ATN Nat. Rank
$’000
39,662 32,344
13
12
1 ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities.
2 Source data: The Commonwealth's Finance and Publications Research Data Collection and made available to institutions by the Australian ViceChancellors’ Committee (AVCC).
3 CRC data are obtained for all Australian universities from the Department of Education, Science and Technology (DEST). For further information see
Table 10.
Notes:
• Except for CRC data, which are reported for financial years, financial data are for calendar year periods.
In Table 9 the indicator All Research Funding uses allocations by source to
demonstrate the level of research undertaken at Curtin in 2002, 2003, and 2004
compared with the ATN and all Australian universities’ averages. Evidence of
outcomes in relation to the Research and Development goal can be
demonstrated by Curtin’s continued overall higher performance in relation to
the ATN average. However, although the amount of funding gained by Curtin
continues to increase, its national ranking in the sector of 42 institutions remains
steady over the last three years.
(k) Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) Funding: Comparison between Curtin
and all Australian Universities
Table 10 expanding upon the Cooperative Research Centre Funding data in
Table 9, demonstrates the amount of applied collaborative research at Curtin
reflecting in particular the University’s commitment to collaboration with
external organisations in research and development, technology transfer and
innovation. Success in CRC funding is thus an expression of the University’s
strategy of ‘productive partnerships’.
Established through the Commonwealth Government’s Cooperative Research
Centres Program, CRCs link public and private sectors across Australia,
bringing together a wide range of expertise and facilities, with a focus on new
and innovative research, leading to competitive technological applications.
Commonwealth CRC funding data differ from those for the other sources
as it covers the financial rather than the calendar year.
Curtin has achieved its target of improving its national ranking from 11th in
2004 to 9th in 2005.
71
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
Table 10. DEST CRC Funding ($'000) Financial Year 2004/2005
% DEST CRC Funding Financial Years 2002/2003, 2003/2004 and 2004/2005
University Ranking According to % Share in 2004/2005
Rank
University
($’000)
04/05
% Share
04/05
% Share
03/04
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
University of Queensland
Monash University
University of Melbourne
University of Western Australia
University of Adelaide
University of Sydney
James Cook University
University of Tasmania
CURTIN UNIVERSITY
Griffith University
Australian National University
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
University of New South Wales
Queensland University of Technology
Murdoch University
Swinburne University of Technology
University of New England
Southern Cross University
University of Wollongong
University of South Australia
University of Newcastle
University of Canberra
Charles Darwin University*
Charles Sturt University
Victoria University of Technology
La Trobe University
University of Central Queensland
University of Technology, Sydney
Macquarie University
Deakin University
Flinders University of SA
Edith Cowan University
University of Southern Queensland
University of Western Sydney
Australian Catholic University
Australian Maritime College
Bond University
Institute of Advance Studies
Melbourne College of Divinity
University of Ballarat
University of Notre Dame, Australia
University of Sunshine Coast
14,637
9,211
8,817
6,942
6,193
5,492
5,438
5,200
5,145
4,914
4,034
3,659
3,601
3,411
3,263
3,083
2,938
2,562
2,513
1,997
1,429
1,340
1,287
1,190
929
916
713
579
550
505
405
10
7
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
13.0
8.2
7.8
6.1
5.5
4.9
4.8
4.6
4.6
4.4
3.6
3.2
3.2
3.0
2.9
2.7
2.6
2.3
2.2
1.8
1.3
1.2
1.1
1.1
0.8
0.8
0.6
0.5
0.5
0.4
0.4
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
13.5
8.4
7.8
7.3
5.3
4.9
4.8
4.5
4.3
4.3
4.1
4.1
3.6
2.9
2.8
2.4
2.3
1.9
1.5
1.4
1.4
1.0
0.8
0.7
0.7
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Total
*Formerly as Northern Territory University.
112,915 100.0
100.0
% Share
02/03
13.9
6.8
8.0
5.8
6.2
5.4
8.0
4.4
2.5
4.2
4.8
3.1
3.2
2.1
4.2
1.9
2.1
1.8
2.2
1.1
1.1
1.7
1.1
0.6
0.4
0.9
0.3
0.2
0.5
0.4
0.9
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
100.0
72
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS
(l) Number of Research Publications: Comparison between Curtin, the
Average of all ATN Universities, and the Average of all Australian
Universities
Research publications are considered an important measure of research
performance throughout the university 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. The number of publications
produced is a measure of the quantity and quality of research and development
underway or completed.
Table 11 gives Curtin’s relative performance in respect of the Publications
indicator over the period 2002 – 2004 against averages for the ATN and all
Australian universities. The publication rate continues to recover from the low
in 2001 of an overall total of 548.7. It also exceeds the national average in 2004
and improved significantly in relation to the average for ATN universities.
Table 11. Number of Research Publications: Comparison between Curtin, Average of all ATN
Universities and Average of all Australian Universities1 2002 - 2004
Curtin
Publication Type
Books
Book Chapters, Journal Articles
Conference Publications
Total
Curtin Target
5.0
588.6
593.6
2002
ATN2
All3
6.8 13.4
667.0 691.6
673.7
705.0
Curtin
7.0
672.3
679.3
2003
ATN2
All3
Curtin
8.5 12.4
11.8
819.2 776.7
902.1
827.7
2004
ATN2
All3
11.9
15.5
926.6 880.9
789.0 914.0 938.5 896.4
896.4
1 Source data: The Commonwealth's Finance and Publications Research Data Collection and made available to institutions by the Australian
Vice-Chancellors’ Committee (AVCC).
2 ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities.
3 All refers to the average of all Australian Universities.
A2.2 EFFICIENCY INDICATORS
Data relating to four performance indicators that show the efficiency with
which Curtin is meeting its Research and Development Goal are presented.
Two indicators: (m) Research Expenditure and Research Performance Index
(RPI) Points, and (n) the Research Performance Index Points per FTE
Academic Staff, use the University’s own Research Performance Index; the
third (o), Research Funding, is self explanatory; and the fourth (p) details
Research Publications performance.
Resource Use
(m) Research Expenditure and Research Performance Index Points
Two indicators reflect the University’s performance in respect of R&D. These
are Research Expenditure, and Curtin’s internal Research Performance Index
(RPI).
The research expenditure shown in Table 12 comprises expenditure from funds
specifically provided for research, including infrastructure funds. In line with the
University’s Goal statement, expenditure can only be on activities supporting
either the Research and Development (R&D) or Teaching and Learning
Goals. The RPI is based approximately 50 per cent on research income
(weighted to encourage performance in specific grants) and 50 per cent on
non-financial research performance indicators, such as research publications,
postgraduate completions and conference presentations. The financial aspect of
the RPI therefore has a relationship to research expenditure whilst the
73
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
non-financial aspects do not. The two indicators may therefore be expected to
change at differing rates as they are measuring different aspects of research
performance.
As RPI is exclusive to Curtin, benchmarking is not possible.
Year
Table 12. Research Expenditure at Historical and Constant Cost Levels
and Research Performance Index Points, 2001 – 2005
Actual Research Expenditure ($’000)
Cost Adjustment Factor/Higher Education Indexation Factor1
Constant Research Expenditure ($’000)
RPI Points2
2001
2002
2003
$50,916
1.108650
$55,723
314,642
$52,672
1.134358
$56,338
318,612
$59,402
1.161183
$62,069
374,878
2004
2005
$64,862 $65,822
1.188354 1.213309
$66,224 $65,822
412,182
n/a3
1 Cost Adjustment Factor/Higher Education Indexation Factor in the Table are extracted from Appendix 1, page 177, of DEST Higher Education
Report for 2004 – 2005 and can be used to convert historical cost figures to December 2005 price levels.
2.RPI points are partly determined by expenditure data. The determinants of RPI points are more fully described in the narrative accompanying Table 7.
3 n/a – not currently available
Notes:
• All University Expenditure is now reported: (i) on Teaching and Learning or Research and Development, in line with the University’s goals; and (ii),
consistently with the University’s Financial Operating Statement. For these reasons, the data may differ from those shown in earlier Annual Reports.
RPI Productivity
(n) Research Performance Index Points per FTE Academic Staff
Table 13 links RPI points and the University’s full-time equivalent (FTE)
research staff as a ratio of points per FTE academic.
These data are impacted by the capping of the amount of funding available for
distribution under the RPI scheme and the improved accuracy of staff
classification in 2004. A number of staff formerly excluded from the
denominator for this measure, are now correctly counted as contributing to
research. The downward trend evident in 2001 – 2002 has been reversed in
2003, with continuing growth in 2004 progressing towards Curtin’s target. As
RPI is exclusive to Curtin, benchmarking is not possible.
Year
Table 13. RPI Points per FTE Academic Staff1 2000 – 2004
RPI points
FTE Academics
RPI points/FTE Academic
Curtin Target
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
314,471 314,642 318,612 374,878 412,182
682
716
793
810
844
461
440
402
463
488
500
1 Academic research staff are defined as Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) academic staff from all funding sources in academic organisational units only, and
include teaching & research staff with a level of Lecturer B or above and research-only academic staff at all levels. Hourly paid academic staff are excluded.
Comparative Research Funding
(o) Research Funding per 10 FTE Academic Staff: Comparison
between Curtin, the Average of all ATN Universities, and the
National Ranking
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 spent.
Table 14 compares Curtin’s research funding performance per 10 FTE
academic staff with the averages for the ATN and all Australian universities.
Curtin's funding of $471,000 per 10 FTE remains above the ATN average and
has improved its national ranking from 20th to 17th and good progress is being
made towards the Curtin target.
74
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section A – Higher Education
Table 14. Research Funding ($’000) per 10 FTE Academic Staff: Comparison between Curtin, the
Average of all ATN Universities and the National Ranking 2002 – 20041
Source of Research Funding
Curtin
$’000
/10 FTE
Australian Competitive
Research Grants
Other Public Sector
Research Funding
Industry & Other Funding
for Research
Cooperative Research
Centre Funds
Other Sources (ie IGS, Research
Quantum & Research Infrastructure)
Total
Curtin Target
2003
2002
ATN2 Nat. Rank Curtin
ATN2 Nat. Rank
$’000
$’000
$’000
/10 FTE
/10 FTE /10 FTE
2004
Curtin ATN2 Nat. Rank
$’000
$’000
/10 FTE /10 FTE
58
58
28
77
80
27
92
93
24
108
80
13
118
96
13
104
89
15
121
83
13
118
84
14
129
96
13
56
28
8
57
32
9
61
35
11
77
69
23
83
73
21
85
75
21
420
318
18
453
365
20
471
500
388
17
1 FTE Academics are from all funding sources in academic organisational units and include the category of teaching & research staff with a level of Lecturer
B or above and research only academic staff at all levels. Hourly paid academic staff are excluded. All staff data are derived from the Commonwealth annual
statistical collections.
2 ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities.
RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS
(p) Number of Research Publications per 10 FTE Academic Staff:
Comparison between Curtin, the Average of all ATN Universities,
and the Average of all Australian Universities
Research publications per 10 full-time equivalent (FTE) academic staff at
Curtin are provided in Table 15 and compared with the publication rates for
ATN and 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 efficiency indicators (n) and (o).
Table 15 shows that in respect of the number of research publications per 10
FTE Academic staff, Curtin’s output over the last two years has increased more
rapidly than the ATN universities and the sector. However, the overall number
still remains below both the ATN and national average.
Table 15. Number of Research Publications per 10 FTE Academic Staff1: Comparison of Curtin,
Average of all ATN Universities and Average of all Australian Universities, 2002 - 2004
Publication Type
Books
Book Chapters, Journal Articles
Conference Publications
Total
Curtin Target
Curtin
2002
ATN2
0.1
0.1
0.2
0.1
7.4
7.5
8.5
8.6
8.8
9.1
8.3
8.4
All3
Curtin
2003
ATN2
All3
Curtin
0.2
0.1
10.2 10.7
10.3 10.9
10.7
10.8
0.1
11.2
2004
ATN2
0.1
All3
0.2
11.1 11.0
11.2 11.2
1 FTE Academics are from all funding sources in academic organisational units and include the category of teaching & research staff with a level of Lecturer
B or above and research only academic staff at all levels. Hourly paid academic staff are excluded.
2 ATN refers to the average of all ATN Universities.
3 All refers to the average of all Australian Universities.
75
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section B – Vocational Education and Training
Ref
Name
Output/Objective
Section B – Vocational Education and Training
B1 Effectiveness
B2 Efficiency
q
r
s
Percentage of Graduates Satisfied with Courses Graduate Satisfaction
Employment Rate of Graduates
Employability
Graduates in Further Study
Eligibility
t
Expenditure per Student Curriculum Hour
Resources Use
Curtin’s desired outcome in respect of Vocational Skills Formation and
Development is
to supply quality teaching and skills formation services to both
meet customer needs and provide education and training for
employment in the region
The indicators appearing in box above and described below assist performance
assessment.
B1 EFFECTIVENESS INDICATORS
Graduate Satisfaction
(q) Percentage of Graduates Satisfied with Courses
Table 16 covering the years 2003 – 2005 signals the extent to which Curtin met
individual student needs in terms of skills formation outcomes throough
provision of training services, and as assessed as part of a nationally conducted
Graduate Survey. In 2005 Curtin exceeded both State and national levels and
demonstrated a significant improvement on 2003.
Table 16. Graduate Satisfaction 2002 - 2005
Curtin
Number of Respondents
State
Number of Respondents
National
Number of Respondents
2002
2003
73%
(79%)
(73%)
(77%)
(77%)
(78%)
(78%)
78%
79%
2004
N/A
N/A
N/A
2005
90%
(89%)
1,558
87%
(87%)
36,068
88%
(88%)
345,012
Notes:
• 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.
• Rounding errors may occur.
• Data for 2004 were unavailable because the national surveying body switched from annual to biannual 'detailed' small area sampling. Consequently the
relevant 2004 survey returns for Curtin were deemed insufficient for reporting purposes.
• Number of respondents, response rate in percentage, sample size and standard deviation for Curtin, state and national data in 2005 are sourced from
NCVER report. Confidence level and interval are not reported.
Survey Data:
Curtin: Response rate = 99%; sample size = 423 and standard deviation = 0.8
State: Response rate = 99%; sample size = 7,089 and standard deviation = 0.9
National: Response rate = 99%; sample size = 43,004 and standard deviation = 0.8
76
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section B – Vocational Education and Training
Employability
(r) Employment Rate of Graduates
Table 17, 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 workforce.
Historically, comparative State and national data suggest that Curtin performs
significantly better in terms of employment outcomes (Table 18).
Table 17. Graduates’ Employment and Unemployment Rates 2003 - 2005
No.
Employed
105
Unemployed
16
Not in Labour Force
15
2002
%
(79%)
(10%)
(10%)
No.
159
16
19
Number of Respondents
Employed
776
Not in Labour Force
992
(72%)
(12%)
(15%)
4,085
657
772
Number of Respondents
No.
Curtin
2004
%
30,109
5,305
Not in Labour Force
5,795
(73%)
(13%)
(14%)
29,996
4,785
4,556
No.
81%
N/A
N/A
372
8%
N/A
N/A
22
10%
N/A
N/A
22
(79%)
(10%)
(10%)
73%
N/A
N/A
5,241
12%
N/A
N/A
563
14%
N/A
N/A
866
(73%)
(12%)
(13%)
N/A
N/A
32,231
12%
N/A
N/A
3,735
11%
N/A
N/A
4,347
(13%)
(11%)
%
89%
(91%)
5%
(5%)
5%
(4%)
78%
(78%)
8%
(9%)
13%
(13%)
34,211
75%
(74%)
2005
1,541
National
Unemployed
Number of Respondents
%
State
4,357
Unemployed
Employed
2003
80%
(79%)
9%
(10%)
11%
(11%)
329,118
Notes:
• 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.
• Rounding errors may occur.
• Data for 2004 were unavailable because the national surveying body switched from annual to biannual ‘detailed’ small area sampling. Consequently the
relevant 2004 survey returns for Curtin were deemed insufficient for reporting purposes.
• Numbers of respondents, response rate in percentage, and sample size for Curtin, state and national data in 2005 are sourced from NCVER report.
Confidence level and interval and standard deviation are not reported.
Survey Data:
Curtin: Response rate = 99% and sample size = 417
State: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 6,693
National: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 40,517
Eligibility
(s) Graduates in Further Study
The proportion of graduates who enrol in further study provides another measure
of effectiveness in achieving the desired outcome of meeting customer needs.
Table 18 provides these data for the period 2003 – 2005, with Curtin
benchmarked against State and National data. Note that respondents may also be
in work whilst engaging in further study. In comparing 2005 to 2003 results the
lower percentage of graduates enrolled in further study is in all likelihood a result
of the very robust WA employment market for Curtin graduates as reflected in
Table 17. The benchmarks for employment rate of graduates and graduates in
77
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
Section B – Vocational Education and Training
further study need to be considered in concert. From this prospective the very
positive employment outcomes for Curtin graduates which significantly exceed
the State and National benchmark is considered more important.
Table 18. Graduates Enrolled in Further Study 2003 - 2005
No.
Curtin
2002
44
%
(29%)
No.
2003
45
%
34%
(32%)
No.
2004
N/A
%
No.
N/A
92
Number of Respondents
2,624
(42%)
1,576
44%
(45%)
N/A
N/A
Number of Respondents
National
%
22%
(20%)
1,529
Target – Exceed State and National Percentages
State
2005
2,416
37%
(36%)
33,649
16,238
(40%)
10,729
42%
(43%)
N/A
N/A
13,415
34%
(33%)
324,042
Number of Respondents
Notes:
• 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.
• Rounding errors may occur.
• Data for 2004 were unavailable because the national surveying body switched from annual to biannual ‘detailed’ small area sampling. Consequently the
relevant 2004 survey returns for Curtin were deemed insufficient for reporting purposes.
• Numbers of respondents, response rate in percentage, and sample size for Curtin, state and national data in 2005 are sourced from NCVER report.
Confidence level and interval and standard deviation are not reported.
Survey Data:
Curtin: Response rate = 98% and sample size = 412
State: Response rate = 96% and sample size = 6,583
National: Response rate = 97% and sample size = 39,879
B2 EFFICIENCY INDICATOR
Resources Use
(t) Expenditure per Student Curriculum Hour
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 19 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.
Table 19. Expenditure per Student Curriculum Hour 2002 - 2005
2002
Total SCH
Curtin Target in SCH
Total T&L Expenditure
814,338
2003
778,501
$12,860,042 $14,065,597
2004
699,587
2005
622,379
565,388
$15,492,823 $14,497,6421
Teaching Expenditure per SCH
$9.60
$11.28
$11.29
$11.40
Non-Teaching Expenditure per SCH
$6.19
$6.76
$10.86
$11.90
Total Teaching Expenditure per SCH
$15.79
$18.04
$22.15
$23.30
1 Total T&L expenditure includes $7,404m of other non-teaching related expenditure.
Notes:
• SCH data are preliminary pending validation by Western Australian Department of Training and Employment.
• 2002 and 2003 figures include non-teaching expenditure so as to fully reflect operational efficiency.
• Total T&L expenditure for 2002 has been revised in accordance with advice from the Office of the Auditor General.
• Rounding errors may occur.
78
Curtin University of Technology
Key Performance Indicators
79
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
CONTENTS
•
Certifications
80
•
Income Statement
82
•
•
•
•
•
Auditor’s report
Balance Sheet
81
83
Statement of Changes in Equity
84
Notes to the Financial Statements
86
Cash Flow Statement
85
80
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Certifications
STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE
HON LJILJANNA RAVLICH
Minister for Education and Training
In accordance with Section 66 of the Financial Administration and Audit Act 1985, we hereby submit
for your information and presentation to Parliament, the Annual Report of Curtin University of
Technology for the financial year ended 31 December 2005.
The Annual Report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Financial
Administration and Audit Act 1985 and all other relevant written laws.
Dr Eric Tan
Chancellor
Professor Lance Twomey
Vice-Chancellor
Dated this 24th day of February 2006
CERTIFICATION OF 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 Administration and Audit Act 1985 from proper accounts and records to present fairly the
financial transactions for the financial year ended 31 December 2005 and the financial position as at
31 December 2005.
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.
Dr Eric Tan
Chancellor
Professor Lance Twomey
Vice-Chancellor
Mr David Menarry
Chief Finance Officer
Dated this 24th day of February 2006
CERTIFICATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS REQUIRED BY THE
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TRAINING
I declare that:
•
at the time of this certification there are reasonable grounds to believe that Curtin University of
Technology will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due; and
the amount of Commonwealth financial assistance expended during the financial year ended
•
31 December 2005 was for the purpose(s) for which it was provided and complied with applicable
legislation, contracts, agreements and program guidelines in making expenditure.
Dr Eric Tan
Chancellor
Professor Lance Twomey
Vice-Chancellor
Dated this 24th day of February 2006
81
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Auditor-General’s Statement
82
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Income Statement for the year ended 31 December 2005
Note
REVENUE FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Australian Government financial assistance
Australian Government grants
5
HECS-HELP – Australian Government payments 5
FEE-HELP
5
State and Local Government financial assistance
6
HECS-HELP – Student payments
Fees and charges
7
Investment income
8
Royalties, trademarks and licences
9
Consultancy and contracts
10
Other revenue
11
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
155,616
47,094
11,722
15,454
13,348
133,961
7,876
5,826
17,130
34,143
139,354
51,392
11,640
16,371
11,871
121,085
5,986
5,692
19,899
34,126
155,616
47,094
11,722
15,454
13,348
133,961
7,839
5,826
17,130
34,078
139,354
51,392
11,640
16,371
11,871
121,085
5,986
5,692
18,275
35,721
442,170
417,416
442,068
417,387
(618)
1,524
(618)
1,524
441,552
418,940
441,450
418,911
12(a) 247,308
13
26,102
14
16,524
1,918
15
16
(1,161)
17 128,294
229,096
24,681
15,591
2,064
4,308
129,168
247,223
26,102
16,532
1,918
(1,167)
128,275
228,652
24,681
15,632
2,064
4,304
129,538
418,985
404,908
418,883
404,871
(618)
1,524
(618)
1,524
418,367
406,432
418,265
406,395
23,185
12,508
23,185
12,516
Deferred Government superannuation contributions
Total Revenue From Continuing Operations
EXPENSES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Employee benefits
Depreciation expense
Repairs and maintenance
Borrowing costs
Bad and doubtful debts
Other expenses
Deferred employee benefits for superannuation
Total Expenses From Continuing Operations
Net Operating Result For the Year
12(b)
The Income Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
83
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2005
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Inventories
Other financial assets
Restricted other financial assets
Other non financial assets
Total Current Assets
Non-current assets
Receivables
Other financial assets
Property, plant and equipment
Total Non-Current Assets
Note
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
21
23
26
Total Assets
27
28
29
30
Non-current liabilities
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions
28
29
Total Non-Current Liabilities
Net Assets
Total Equity
31
31
30,688
206
35,634
1,826
33
31,580
11,183
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
29,235
83
22,979
1,575
33
36,719
13,394
30,486
206
35,838
1,823
33
31,580
11,171
104,039
111,150
104,018
111,137
70,982
62,999
516,046
71,370
20,626
511,780
70,982
63,049
516,046
71,370
20,676
511,780
650,027
603,776
650,077
754,095
714,963
4,002
639
50,822
62,020
2,448
2,715
37,433
54,180
4,002
639
50,822
62,050
2,486
2,715
37,433
54,180
714,926
603,826
117,483
96,776
117,513
96,814
25,546
86,491
26,185
90,604
25,546
86,491
26,185
90,604
112,037
229,520
Total Liabilities
EQUITY
Reserves
Retained surplus
29,256
83
22,979
1,575
33
36,719
13,394
754,066
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions
Other liabilities
Total Current Liabilities
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
116,789
213,565
112,037
116,789
501,360
229,550
524,546
501,361
524,545
4,187
520,359
3,837
497,524
4,187
520,358
524,546
The Balance Sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
501,361
524,545
213,603
3,837
497,523
501,360
84
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Statement of Changes in Equity for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
At 1 January 2004
Operating result for the year
Transferred from retained earnings
Transferred to retained earnings
At 31 December 2004
Note
44
31
Operating result for the year
Transferred from retained earnings
Transferred to retained earnings
At 31 December 2005
University
At 1 January 2004
Operating result for the year
Transferred from retained earnings
Transferred to retained earnings
At 31 December 2004
31
44
31
Operating result for the year
Transferred from retained earnings
Transferred to retained earnings
At 31 December 2005
31
Other
Reserves
$’000
Retained
Earnings
$’000
Total
Equity
$’000
4,496
2,860
(3,519)
484,357
12,508
(2,860)
3,519
488,853
12,508
-
3,837
497,524
501,361
443
(93)
23,185
(443)
93
23,185
-
4,187
520,359
524,546
4,496
2,860
(3,519)
484,348
12,516
(2,860)
3,519
488,844
12,516
-
443
(93)
23,185
(443)
93
23,185
-
3,837
4,187
497,523
520,358
The Statement of Changes in Equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
501,360
524,545
85
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Cash Flow Statement for the year ended 31 December 2005
Note
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts
Australian Government
CGS and Other DEST Grants
45.1
Higher Education Loan Programs
45.2
Scholarships
45.3
DEST Research
45.4
ARC grants – Discovery
45.5(a)
ARC grants – Linkages
45.5(b)
Other Government Grants
HECS-HELP – Student payments
OS-HELP
Fees and charges
Royalties, trademarks and licences
Consultancy and contracts
Interest received
Dividends received
Distributions received
Other
Payments
Payments to employees
Payments to suppliers
Interest and other costs of finance paid
Net cash provided by operating activities
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
118,761
62,016
3,633
19,240
3,136
2,778
15,292
13,348
800
142,405
5,826
17,130
5,285
107
1,283
34,190
(250,486)
(130,217)
(1,918)
40(b)
62,609
95,448
61,852
2,989
19,629
2,567
2,765
14,784
11,871
107,264
4,741
17,927
5,132
27
723
33,401
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
118,761
62,016
3,633
19,240
3,136
2,778
15,292
13,348
800
142,632
5,826
17,130
5,278
107
1,283
34,120
95,448
61,852
2,989
19,629
2,567
2,765
14,784
11,871
105,771
4,741
16,303
5,132
27
723
34,503
(241,259) (250,396)
(123,630) (130,246)
(2,064)
(1,918)
14,167
62,820
(240,713)
(121,994)
(2,064)
14,334
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Payment for property, plant and equipment
Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment
Payment for investments
(30,795)
204
(46,312)
(20,584)
479
(6,900)
(30,795)
204
(46,342)
(20,634)
504
(6,920)
Net cash used in investing activities
(76,903)
(27,005)
(76,933)
(27,050)
(2,715)
(664)
(664)
(2,715)
(2,715)
(599)
(599)
15,454
16,371
15,454
16,371
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Repayment of borrowings
Net cash used in financing activities
CASH FLOWS FROM STATE GOVERNMENT
Financial assistance
(2,715)
Net cash provided by State Government
15,454
16,371
15,454
16,371
Net increase(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
(1,555)
30,894
2,869
28,025
(1,374)
30,692
3,056
27,636
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 40(a)
29,339
The Cash Flow Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
30,894
29,318
30,692
86
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Note
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
Contents
Page
Revenue
Australian Government financial assistance including HECS-HELP and other
Australian Government loan programs
State and Local Government financial assistance
Fees and charges
Investment income
Royalties, trademarks and licences
Consultancy and contracts
Other revenue
99
100
100
100
101
101
101
Summary of significant accounting policies
Financial risk management
Critical accounting estimates and judgements
Disaggregated information
Expenses
Employee benefits
Depreciation expense
Repairs and maintenance
Borrowing costs
Bad and doubtful debts
Other expenses
Net loss on disposal of non-current assets
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Inventories
Other financial assets
Restricted other financial assets
Other non financial assets
Property, plant and equipment
Liabilities
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions
Other liabilities
Equity
Reserves and retained surplus
Financial instruments
Remuneration of members of the accountable authority and senior officers
Remuneration of auditors
Contingent liabilities and contingent assets
Commitments for expenditure
Defined benefit superannuation plans
Subsidiaries
Events occurring after reporting date
Reconciliation of operating result from ordinary activities to net cash inflow from
operating activities
Non-cash financing and investing activities
Explanatory statement
Related parties
Explanation of transition to Australian equivalents to IFRS
Acquittal of Commonwealth Government financial assistance
87
93
93
94
101
102
102
102
102
103
103
104
104
104
104
105
106
106
107
110
110
111
112
113
114
116
117
117
118
119
124
124
124
125
125
126
128
133
87
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
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. The financial report includes separate financial statements for the University and the
consolidated entity consisting of the University and its subsidiaries.
(a) Basis of Preparation
This general purpose financial report has been prepared in accordance with Australian
equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), other authoritative
pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board, Urgent Issues Group
Consensus Views, the requirements of the Department of Education, Science and Training
and the Financial Administration and Audit Act 1985 including the Treasurer’s Instructions
that are Western Australian State legislative provisions.
COMPLIANCE WITH AIFRS
Australian Accounting Standards include Australian equivalents (AIFRS) to International
Financial Reporting Standards. Compliance with AIFRS ensures that the consolidated
entity and the University’s financial statements and notes comply with International Financial
Reporting Standards (IFRS).
APPLICATION OF AASB 1 FIRST TIME ADOPTION OF AUSTRALIAN EQUIVALENTS
TO INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS
These financial statements are the first consolidated entity financial statements to be
prepared in accordance with AIFRS. AASB 1 First time Adoption of Australian Equivalents
to International Financial Reporting Standards has been applied in preparing these financial
statements.
Financial statements of the consolidated entity until 31 December 2004 had been prepared in
accordance with previous Australian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (AGAAP).
AGAAP differs in certain respects from AIFRS. When preparing the consolidated entity’s
2005 financial statements, management has amended certain accounting, valuation and
consolidation methods applied in the AGAAP financial statements to comply with AIFRS.
The comparative figures in respect of 2004 were restated to reflect these adjustments.
Reconciliations and descriptions of the effect of transition from previous AGAAP to AIFRS
on the consolidated entity’s and University’s equity are given in note 44.
EARLY ADOPTION OF STANDARD
The consolidated entity has elected to apply AASB 119 “Employee Benefits” (issued in
December 2004) to the annual reporting period beginning 1 January 2005. This includes
applying AASB 119 to the comparatives in accordance with AASB 108 “Accounting Policies,
Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors.”
HISTORICAL COST CONVENTION
These financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting using the
historical cost convention. However, financial assets and liabilities are valued at fair value
through profit or loss.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with AIFRS requires the use of certain
critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the
process of applying the consolidated entity’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 3.
The financial report is presented in Australian dollars and all values are rounded to the
nearest thousand dollars ($’000).
(b) Principles of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared by combining the financial
statements of all entities that comprise the consolidated entity, being the University (the
parent entity) and its controlled entities, in accordance with AASB 127 “Consolidated and
Separate Financial Statements” and modified by Treasurer’s Instruction 1105. A list of
controlled entities appears in note 38.
88
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
The consolidated financial statements include the information and results of each controlled
entity from the date on which the University obtains control and until such time as the
University ceases to control the entities.
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, all inter-entity balances and transactions,
arising within the consolidated entity are eliminated in full.
Accounting policies of the subsidiaries have been changed on consolidation where necessary
to ensure consistency with the accounting policies adopted by the University and prepared
using the same reporting period.
(c) Revenue recognition
Revenue from the sale of goods and disposal of other assets and the rendering of services is
recognised when the consolidated entity has passed control and the significant risks and
rewards of ownership have passed to the buyer of the goods or other assets or has provided
the service to the customer.
GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Government financial assistance received in advance is deferred in accordance with AASB
1004 “Contributions”.
Grant contributions from both the Commonwealth Government and Western Australia
State Government for financial assistance for operational purposes or the acquisition of
non-current assets are recognised as revenue when the consolidated entity obtains control
over the asset comprising the contributions. When the consolidated entity does not have
control of the contribution or does not have the right to receive the contribution or has not
fulfilled grant conditions, the grant contribution is treated as deferred income.
OTHER CONTRIBUTIONS REVENUE
Donations, gifts and other non-reciprocal contributions are recognised as revenue when the
consolidated entity obtains control over the assets comprising the contributions. Control is
normally obtained upon their receipt.
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.
SPONSORED RESEARCH
Research grant contributions from various sources of sponsored research, including
corporations, foundations, Commonwealth, State and local government research institutes
are recognised as revenue when the consolidated entity obtains control over the asset
comprising the contributions. When the consolidated entity does not have control of the
contribution, does not have the right to receive the contribution or has not fulfilled grant
conditions, the grant contribution is treated as deferred income.
(d) Acquisition and disposal of assets
In accordance with AASB 116 “Property, Plant & Equipment”, all property, plant and
equipment is shown at cost, less subsequent depreciation and impairment. Cost includes
expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items. Subsequent costs are
included in the asset carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only
when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the
entity and the cost of the item can be measured reliably.
This constitutes a change in policy from prior years where the consolidated entity valued
land, buildings and works of art at fair value. Valuations occurred every 3 years. In accordance
with AASB 1 “First-time Adoption of Australian Equivalents to International Financial
Reporting Standards”, deemed cost may be used where, on first time implementation of
AIFRS, the asset was previously recognised at fair value but will be recognised on the cost
basis in future.
All other repairs and maintenance expenditures are charged to the Income Statement during
the financial period in which they are incurred.
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.
89
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
(e) 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
Not depreciated
• Buildings
50 years
• Leasehold land and improvements
99 years (life of lease)
• Computing equipment
3 years
• Other equipment and furniture
8 years
• Motor vehicles
5 years
• Leased plant and equipment
8 years
• Works of art
Not depreciated
Land and works of art controlled by the consolidated entity are classified as non-current
assets. They are anticipated to have indeterminate useful lives. Their service potential has not,
in any material sense, been consumed during the reporting period. As such, no amount for
depreciation is recognised.
Assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each
balance sheet date.
A class of asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if
the class of asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amount
(see note 1(f)).
LIBRARY COLLECTIONS
All the universities within Western Australia have jointly adopted the approach that the total
cost of the last three years’ acquisition of library books would 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.
NON-CURRENT ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
In accordance with AASB 5 “Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued
Operations”, non-current assets classified as ‘held for sale’ are measured at the lower of
carrying amount, and fair value less costs to sell. Non-current assets are classified as ‘held for
sale’’ if their carrying amount will be recovered through a sale transaction rather than through
continuing use. This condition is regarded as met only when the sale is highly probable and
the asset is available for immediate sale in its present condition.
(f) Impairment of property, plant and equipment
In accordance with AASB 136 “Impairment of Assets”, at each reporting date, the
consolidated entity reviews the carrying amounts of each class of asset within property, plant
and equipment to determine whether there is any indication that those asset classes have
suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the class
of asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss. Where the asset
does not generate cash flows that are independent from other assets, the consolidated entity
estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.
Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing
value in use, the depreciated replacement cost is used where the future economic benefits of
the consolidated entity’s assets are not primarily dependent on the assets ability to generate
net cash inflows.
If the recoverable amount of a class of asset is estimated to be less than its carrying amount,
the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is
recognised as an expense to the Income Statement immediately.
90
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
(g) Leases
In accordance with AASB 117 “Leases”, leased assets classified as finance leases are
recognised as assets. The amount initially brought to account is the present value of
minimum lease payments.
A finance lease is one which effectively transfers from the lessor to the lessee substantially all
the risks and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased property.
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.
(h) Cash and cash equivalents
For the purpose of the Cash Flow Statement, cash and cash equivalents includes cash at
bank, cash on hand and short-term deposits with an original maturity of three months or less.
Foreign currency deposits and overseas bank accounts are expressed in their Australian dollar
equivalent as at balance date using the average of buy and sell rates available at the close of
business.
(i) 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
valued on a weighted average cost basis.
(j) 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, with the exception of unfunded superannuation (see below) are recognised at the
nominal amounts receivable.
Collectability of receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be
uncollectible are written off as bad debts. An allowance for doubtful debts is raised where
some doubt as to collection exists.
Existing arrangements provide for the Commonwealth to reimburse the University on an
emerging cost basis for payments made to employees of the State Superannuation Schemes.
A receivable is recognised in the Balance Sheet equivalent to the respective liability. The
liability and equivalent receivable are measured actuarially. Refer note (n).
(k) Investments
In accordance with AASB 139 “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement”,
investments other than unlisted shares are classified as either held-for-trading or
available-for-sale and are measured at subsequent reporting dates at fair value. Where
securities are held for trading purposes, gains and losses arising from changes in fair value are
included in the Income Statement for the period. 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 included in 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 is recognised when it is earned (ie on an accrued basis).
Details of financial instruments are provided in note 32.
(l) Payables
Payables, including accruals (expenses not yet billed), are recognised when the consolidated
entity becomes obliged to make future payments as a result of a purchase of assets or services.
Payables are generally settled with a 30 day term.
91
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
(m) Interest bearing liabilities
Bank loans and other interest bearing liabilities are recorded at an amount equal to the net
proceeds received. 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.
(n) Employee benefits
Employee entitlements are accounted for in accordance with AASB 119 “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 increases (for example enterprise
bargaining agreements).
LONG SERVICE LEAVE
Long service leave entitlements owing to employees are based on actuarial valuations by an
independent valuer, Barton Consultancy.
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.
Consideration is given, when assessing expected future payments, to expected future wage
and salary levels, experience of employee departures and periods of service. Expected future
payments are discounted using market yields at the reporting date on national government
bonds with terms to maturity and currency that match, as closely as possible, the estimated
future cash outflows.
SUPERANNUATION
The consolidated entity 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.
The defined benefit scheme provides a defined lump sum benefit to scheme members based
on years of service and final average salary. A defined benefit liability is inclued 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 the 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 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.
UNFUNDED SUPERANNUATION
An arrangement exists between the Australian Government and the State Government to
meet the unfunded liability for the consolidated entity’s beneficiaries of the State
Superannuation Schemes on an emerging cost basis. This arrangement is evidenced by the
State Grants (General Revenue) Amendment Act 1987, Higher Education Funding Act 1988
and subsequent amending legislation. Accordingly 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 consolidated entity and its controlled entities.
92
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
ACCRUED OR PREPAID SALARIES
(o)
(p)
(q)
(r)
(s)
(t)
Accrued salaries represent the amount due to staff but unpaid at the end of the financial year,
as the end of the last pay period for that financial year does not always coincide with the end
of the financial year. The consolidated entity considers that the 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.
Employee benefits on-costs
Annual leave and long service leave on-costs are not included as employee benefit costs but
recognised and disclosed within the Balance Sheet separately.
Foreign currency translation
Transactions denominated in a foreign currency are translated at the rates in existence at the
dates of the transactions. Foreign currency receivables and payables at reporting date are
translated at exchange rates current at reporting date. Exchange gains and losses are brought
to account in the Income Statement.
Reserves
Reserves are created for funds that are retained and set aside for expenditure on specified
items in future years.
Endowment and trust funds
Endowments are received by the University to fund research activities, scholarships,
donations, prizes and lectures. Being restricted investments, these funds are not available to
the University for general expenditure. However, to the extent that the University has direct
control over the funds, they are included within revenue in the Income Statement and within
restricted assets in the Balance Sheet. Control is normally obtained upon receipt.
When the consolidated entity does not have control of the contribution or does not have the
right to receive the contribution or has not fulfilled the grant conditions, the grant
contribution is treated as deferred income.
Amenities and services fee
The University is required by Western Australian State legislation to charge students an
annual amenities and services fee. That portion of the fee collected from Curtin Student
Guild members is passed on to the Student Guild (an entity separate to the University) after
deducting an amount to cover University administrative charges. The portion of the fee
collected from non-Student Guild members is applied by the University for the benefit of
students on amenities and services such as social, cultural and sporting activities, student
welfare and advocacy.
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:
• Where the GST incurred on a purchase of goods and services is not recoverable from the
taxation authority, in which case the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition
or as part of the expense item as applicable; and
• Receivables and payables are stated with the amount of GST included.
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.
93
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
FRINGE BENEFIT TAX
The University is liable to pay Fringe Benefits Tax, and it is included in ‘Other Expenses’’ in
the Income Statement.
(u) Comparative figures
Comparative figures are, where appropriate, reclassified so as to be comparable with the
figures presented in the current financial year.
2
FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT
The consolidated entity’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks. The financial risks
include market risk, credit risk, liquidity risk, and cashflow interest rate risk.
(a) Market risk
The consolidated entity has exposure to movements in interest rates and foreign exchange
rates. For example, movements in interest rates and foreign exchange rates can affect the fair
value of the University’s investments. In order to mitigate this risk the University engages the
services of reputable and experienced fund managers together with a recognised investment
consultancy. The performance of the investment portfolio is reviewed regularly.
Foreign exchange risk is managed for the University’s other transactions in the drafting of
contracts and in the forward purchase of currency where necessary.
(b) Credit risk
The consolidated entity has exposure to the financial loss that would be experienced were a
counterparty to default. The consolidated entity has adopted the policy of only dealing with
creditworthy counterparties where this is possible.
(c) Liquidity risk
The consolidated entity maintains sufficient cash and marketable securities in order to
manage liquidity risk.
(d) Cash flow interest rate risk
The majority of consolidated entity’s borrowings are currently at fixed rates of interest in
order to manage the effect of adverse interest rate movements.
3
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS
Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are 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 estimation
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 include:
• Allowances for doubtful debts – (refer notes 1(j) and 21).
• Deferred Government superannuation contribution/Deferred employee benefits for
superannuation – (refer notes 1(j) and 1(n))
• Discount rates used in estimating provisions – discount rates are based on market yields
on government bonds.
• Estimating useful life of key assets – the useful life reflects the consumption of the key
assets future economic benefits (refer note 1(e)).
(b) Critical judgements in applying the entity’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:
• Estimating useful life of key assets
• Impairment of assets
DISAGGREGATED INFORMATION
Net operating result for the year
Total expenses from continuing operations
Deferred employee benefits for superannuation
Expenses from continuing operations
Employee benefits
Depreciation expense
Repairs and maintenance
Borrowing costs
Bad and doubtful debts
Other expenses
Total revenue from continuing operations
Deferred Government superannuation contributions
Revenue from continuing operations
Australian Government financial assistance
Australian Government grants
HECS-HELP – Australian Government payments
FEE-HELP
State and Local Government financial assistance
HECS-HELP - Student payments
Fees and charges
Investment income
Royalties, trademarks and licences
Consultancy and contracts
Other revenue
Income Statement
(a) Industry – Dual Sector Providers [University]
4
22,868
403,917
(615)
404,532
239,906
24,868
16,199
1,545
(1,167)
123,181
426,785
(615)
427,400
155,477
47,094
11,722
4,927
13,348
133,192
7,774
5,826
17,130
30,910
$’000
Higher Education
317
14,348
(3)
14,351
7,317
1,234
333
373
5,094
14,665
(3)
14,668
139
10,527
769
65
3,168
$’000
2005
VET
23,185
418,265
(618)
418,883
247,223
26,102
16,532
1,918
(1,167)
128,275
441,450
(618)
442,068
155,616
47,094
11,722
15,454
13,348
133,961
7,839
5,826
17,130
34,078
$’000
Total University
13,231
390,585
980
389,605
221,123
23,357
15,243
1,606
4,302
123,974
403,816
980
402,836
139,346
51,392
11,640
6,112
11,871
120,305
5,952
5,692
18,275
32,251
$’000
Higher Education
(715)
15,810
544
15,266
7,529
1,324
389
458
2
5,564
15,095
544
14,551
8
10,259
780
34
3,470
$’000
2004
VET
12,516
406,395
1,524
404,871
228,652
24,681
15,632
2,064
4,304
129,538
418,911
1,524
417,387
139,354
51,392
11,640
16,371
11,871
121,085
5,986
5,692
18,275
35,721
Total
University
$’000
94
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Total Current Liabilities
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions
Other liabilities
115,224
3,995
164
50,265
60,800
721,914
613,929
Total Assets
Total Non-Current Assets
70,442
63,049
480,438
107,985
33,646
83
22,557
1,564
33
36,719
13,383
$'000
Higher Education
Non-current assets
Receivables
Other financial assets
Property, plant and equipment
Total Current Assets
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Inventories
Other financial assets
Restricted other financial assets
Other non financial assets
Balance Sheet
2,289
7
475
557
1,250
32,181
36,148
540
35,608
(3,967)
(4,411)
422
11
11
$'000
2005
VET
117,513
4,002
639
50,822
62,050
754,095
650,077
70,982
63,049
516,046
104,018
29,235
83
22,979
1,575
33
36,719
13,394
$'000
Total University
95,588
2,304
2,255
36,960
54,069
683,548
566,394
70,826
20,676
474,892
117,154
36,812
206
35,572
1,789
33
31,580
11,162
$'000
Higher Education
1,226
182
460
473
111
31,415
37,432
544
36,888
(6,017)
(6,326)
266
34
9
$'000
2004
VET
96,814
2,486
2,715
37,433
54,180
714,963
603,826
71,370
20,676
511,780
111,137
30,486
206
35,838
1,823
33
31,580
11,171
Total
University
$'000
95
Financial Statements
Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
At 31 December 2005
4,187
443
(93)
3,837
Operating result for the year
Transferred from retained earnings
Transferred to retained earnings
At 31 December 2004
4,496
2,860
(3,519)
At 1 January 2004
Operating result for the year
Transferred from retained earnings
Transferred to retained earnings
Statement of Changes in Equity
496,089
22,868
(443)
93
473,571
459,681
13,231
(2,860)
3,519
500,276
22,868
-
477,408
464,177
13,231
-
Total Equity
$'000
HIGHER EDUCATION
Retained earnings
$'000
Other reserves
$'000
24,269
24,269
4,187
496,089
500,276
EQUITY
Reserves
Retained surplus
Total Equity
7,912
24,269
500,276
221,638
Net Assets
Total Liabilities
4,990
633
5,623
2005
VET
20,556
85,858
106,414
Higher Education
Non-current liabilities
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions
Total Non-Current Liabilities
Balance Sheet
-
-
-
-
Other reserves
$'000
4,187
520,358
524,545
524,545
229,550
25,546
86,491
112,037
Total University
7,463
24,269
317
-
23,952
24,269
317
-
23,952
24,667
(715)
-
Total Equity
$'000
VET
Retained earnings
$'000
24,667
(715)
-
23,952
23,952
23,952
5,465
772
6,237
2004
VET
3,837
473,571
477,408
447,408
206,140
20,720
89,832
110,552
Higher Education
524,545
23,185
-
501,360
488,844
12,516
-
UNIVERSITY
Total Equity
$'000
3,837
497,523
501,360
501,360
213,603
26,185
90,604
116,789
Total
University
96
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
(30,561)
204
(46,342)
Net cash used in investing activities
(77,167)
(234)
(234)
-
(8,491)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Payment for property, plant and equipment
Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment
Payment for investments
71,311
(8,368)
(4,866)
(373)
(242,028)
(125,380)
(1,545)
Net cash provided by operating activities
139
1,721
65
3,191
$'000
2005
VET
118,761
62,016
3,633
19,240
3,136
2,778
15,153
13,348
800
140,911
5,826
17,130
5,213
107
1,283
30,929
$'000
Higher Education
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts
Australian Government
CGS and Other DEST Grants
Higher Education Loan Programs
Scholarships
DEST Research
ARC grants – Discovery
ARC grants – Linkages
Other Government Grants
HECS-HELP – Student payments
OS-HELP
Fees and charges
Royalties, trademarks and licences
Consultancy and contracts
Interest received
Dividends received
Distributions received
Other
Payments
Payments to employees
Payments to suppliers
Interest and other costs of finance paid
Cash Flow Statement
(76,933)
(30,795)
204
(46,342)
62,820
(250,396)
(130,246)
(1,918)
118,761
62,016
3,633
19,240
3,136
2,778
15,292
13,348
800
142,632
5,826
17,130
5,278
107
1,283
34,120
$'000
Total University
(27,108)
(20,634)
446
(6,920)
23,520
(232,604)
(117,051)
(1,606)
95,448
61,852
2,989
19,629
2,567
2,765
14,776
11,871
104,959
4,741
16,303
5,098
27
723
31,033
$'000
Higher Education
58
58
-
(9,186)
(8,109)
(4,943)
(458)
8
812
34
3,470
$'000
2004
VET
(27,050)
(20,634)
504
(6,920)
14,334
(240,713)
(121,994)
(2,064)
95,448
61,852
2,989
19,629
2,567
2,765
14,784
11,871
105,771
4,741
16,303
5,132
27
723
34,503
Total
University
$'000
97
Financial Statements
Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Australia
Asia
Other
Geographical [Consolidated]
(b) Geographical – [Consolidated]
420,078
21,129
345
441,552
2005
$'000
Revenue
397,226
21,641
73
418,940
2004
$'000
15,979
6,951
255
23,185
2005
$'000
Results
10,856
1,652
12,508
2004
$'000
37,018
749,273
4,433
360
754,066
2005
$'000
(6,326)
33,729
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
29,318
685
(7,011)
2,371
34,647
(1,374)
30,692
1,915
(6,326)
(3,289)
37,018
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents held
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
(4,411)
10,259
6,112
15,454
10,259
(446)
11,100
6,112
(153)
(446)
$'000
2004
VET
4,354
15,454
(2,715)
(153)
$'000
Higher Education
Net cash provided by State Government
11,100
(460)
(2,715)
$'000
Total University
4,354
(2,255)
Net cash used in financing activities
(460)
$'000
2005
VET
CASH FLOWS FROM STATE GOVERNMENT
Financial assistance
(2,255)
$'000
Higher Education
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Repayment of borrowings
Cash Flow Statement
Assets
710,246
4,645
35
714,926
2004
$'000
30,692
3,056
27,636
16,371
16,371
(599)
(599)
Total
University
$'000
98
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
99
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Note
5
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
including HECS-HELP and other Australian Government loan programs
(a) Commonwealth Grants Scheme and
Other Grants
Commonwealth Grants Scheme
Indigenous Support Fund
Workplace Reform Program
Superannuation Program
Capital Development Pool
Innovation Program – HEIMS
Innovation Program – Teaching Awards
Equity Program
Student Disability Education Support
45.1
Total Commonwealth Grants Scheme and
Other Grants
(b) Higher Education Loan Programs
HECS-HELP
FEE-HELP
(c) Scholarships
45.3
Australian Postgraduate Awards
International Postgraduate Research Scholarships
Commonwealth Education Costs Scholarships
Commonwealth Accommodation Scholarships
Total Scholarships
Total Linkages
83,897
1,714
2,474
5,540
2,549
250
40
142
14
111,871
96,620
111,871
96,620
47,094
11,722
58,816
51,392
11,640
63,032
47,094
11,722
58,816
51,392
11,640
63,032
1,765
159
604
856
1,938
459
204
388
1,765
159
604
856
1,938
459
204
388
3,384
2,989
3,384
2,989
5,888
11,676
1,676
5,624
11,341
1,100
1,564
5,888
11,676
1,676
5,624
11,341
1,100
1,564
19,240
19,629
19,240
19,629
3,136
-
2,572
(5)
3,136
-
2,572
(5)
45.5(a)
Total Discovery
(ii) Linkages
Special Research Initiatives
Infrastructure
International
Projects
101,427
1,773
1,442
6,719
70
440
-
45.4
Total DEST – Research Grants
(e) Australian Research Council
(i) Discovery
Project
Fellowships
83,897
1,714
2,474
5,540
2,549
250
40
142
14
45.2
Total Higher Education Loan Programs
(d) DEST – Research
Institutional Grants Scheme
Research Training Scheme
Systemic Infrastructure Initiative
Research Infrastructure Block Grants
101,427
1,773
1,442
6,719
70
440
-
3,136
2,567
3,136
2,567
26
304
10
2,438
546
122
2,097
26
304
10
2,438
546
122
2,097
45.5(b)
2,778
2,765
2,778
2,765
100
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
(f) Other Australian Government financial assistance
Other (includes Cooperative Research Centre funding)
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
15,207
15,207
Total Australian Government Financial Assistance 214,432
Reconciliation
Australian Government grants [a+c+d+e+f]
HECS-HELP – Australian Government payments
Other Australian Government loan programs
Total Australian Government Financial Assistance
6
155,616
47,094
11,722
214,432
10,140
5,314
Total State and Local Government Financial Assistance 15,454
202,386
214,432
202,386
139,354
51,392
11,640
155,616
47,094
11,722
139,354
51,392
11,640
202,386
214,432
202,386
9,980
6,391
10,140
5,314
9,980
6,391
16,371
15,454
16,371
96,360
5,875
6,912
13
108,217
4,777
7,069
2
96,360
5,875
6,912
13
FEES AND CHARGES
Course Fees and Charges
Fee-paying overseas students
Continuing education
Fee-paying domestic postgraduate students
Fee-paying domestic undergraduate students
Total Course Fees and Charges
Other Fees and Charges
Amenities and service fees
Examination fees
Late fees
Library fines
Parking fees
Registration fees
Consumable fees
Ancillary fees
Student accommodation
Other fees and charges
Total Other Fees and Charges
Total Fees and Charges
8
14,784
STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
WA Department of Training
WA Government – other
7
14,784
108,217
4,777
7,069
2
120,065
109,160
120,065
109,160
2,564
1,351
390
133
1,407
602
262
375
5,160
1,652
2,332
1,183
337
132
1,350
852
246
(30)
4,852
671
2,564
1,351
390
133
1,407
602
262
375
5,160
1,652
2,332
1,183
337
132
1,350
852
246
(30)
4,852
671
13,896
11,925
13,896
11,925
133,961
121,085
133,961
121,085
107
1,283
1,201
5,285
27
723
517
456
4,263
107
1,283
1,171
5,278
27
723
517
456
4,263
INVESTMENT INCOME
Dividends from investment shares
Distributions from managed funds
Unrealised movement in value of investments
Realised movement in value of investments sold
Interest received
Total Investment Income
7,876
5,986
7,839
5,986
101
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
9
ROYALTIES, TRADEMARKS AND LICENCES
Royalties
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
5,826
5,692
5,826
5,692
6,360
10,770
6,040
13,859
6,360
10,770
4,362
13,913
10 CONSULTANCY AND CONTRACTS
Research
Consultancy
Contracts
Total Consultancy and Contracts
11
17,130
19,899
17,130
18,275
13,157
2,911
1,827
3,870
3,764
2,508
473
767
161
1,104
563
3,038
12,843
3,879
2,146
4,276
5,026
2,156
213
378
121
593
2,495
13,046
2,911
1,827
3,916
3,764
2,508
473
767
161
1,104
563
3,038
12,476
3,879
2,097
4,412
5,747
2,857
213
378
143
593
2,926
OTHER REVENUE
Trading income – sale of goods
Donations
Rental income
Sundry income from Australian businesses
Sundry income from Australian non-profit organisations
Sundry income from overseas sources
Insurance claims
Staff salary recoveries
Proceeds from sale of minor equipment
Conference income
Exchange rate gains
Other
Total Other Revenue
34,143
34,126
34,078
35,721
100,278
94,959
100,278
94,959
18,725
2,932
8,148
18,099
2,864
7,307
18,725
2,932
8,148
18,099
2,864
7,307
12 EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
(a) Employee Benefits
Academic
Salaries
Contribution to funded superannuation and
pension schemes
Long service leave
Annual leave
Total Academic
Non-academic
Salaries
Contribution to funded superannuation and
pension schemes
Long service leave
Annual leave
Total Non-academic
Total Academic and Non-academic
Employee Benefits
(b) Unfunded Superannuation
Deferred employee benefits for unfunded
superannuation schemes
130,083
123,229
130,083
123,229
91,969
82,244
91,891
81,815
15,212
2,625
7,419
13,848
3,426
6,349
15,205
2,625
7,419
13,818
3,426
6,364
117,225
105,867
117,140
105,423
247,308
229,096
247,223
228,652
(618)
1,524
(618)
1,524
102
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
13,455
47
3,319
4,565
269
(19)
4,466
13,455
47
3,319
4,565
269
(19)
4,466
13 DEPRECIATION EXPENSE
Buildings
Leasehold land and improvements
Computing equipment
Other equipment and furniture
Motor vehicles
Leased plant and equipment
Library collections
Total Depreciation Expense
10,649
278
4,441
4,209
238
94
4,772
10,649
278
4,441
4,209
238
94
4,772
26,102
24,681
26,102
24,681
9,827
3,259
3,438
10,683
2,412
2,496
9,827
3,261
3,444
10,682
2,412
2,538
14 REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE
Property
Minor new works
Grounds maintenance
Total Repairs and Maintenance
15 BORROWING COSTS
Interest paid
16,524
15,591
16,532
15,632
1,918
2,064
1,918
2,064
1,573
(2,734)
1,871
2,437
1,567
(2,734)
1,864
2,440
16 BAD AND DOUBTFUL DEBTS
Bad debts written off
Movement in allowance for doubtful debts
Total Bad and Doubtful Debts
(1,161)
4,308
(1,167)
4,304
103
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
17 OTHER EXPENSES
Payroll tax
Workers’ compensation
Scholarships, grants and prizes
Non-capitalised equipment
Advertising, marketing and promotional expenses
Telecommunications
Travel
Staff development and training
Inventory used and sold
Lease and rental expenses
Net foreign exchange loss
Contract work
Amenities and service expense
Offshore partner fee share
Utilities and cleaning
Fees and commissions
Books
Computer peripherals and parts
Consumables
Net loss on disposal of non-current assets (note 18)
Hospitality
Postage and courier
Subscriptions
Publications
Staff recruitment
Graduations
Financial assistance provided/research support
Security
Insurance
Occupational health safety and welfare
Other
Total Other Expenses
12,649
424
14,673
1,272
3,473
1,778
12,839
3,507
6,676
3,476
17,167
2,315
6,004
3,954
4,947
602
9,931
10,272
223
860
1,436
3,582
912
567
1,103
1,029
139
2,098
143
243
128,294
13,353
652
11,087
732
2,408
1,760
13,594
3,397
7,945
3,417
224
14,725
2,104
6,929
4,428
6,471
899
11,113
11,345
593
865
1,416
2,473
1,015
450
699
1,228
204
1,719
111
1,812
129,168
12,644
424
14,673
1,300
3,469
1,775
12,839
3,507
6,626
3,478
17,175
2,315
6,004
3,972
4,903
602
9,931
10,294
223
865
1,436
3,582
912
567
1,107
1,029
139
2,098
143
243
13,340
650
11,087
738
2,394
1,750
13,592
3,396
8,396
3,417
224
14,784
2,104
6,929
4,464
6,462
899
10,991
11,349
568
875
1,416
2,473
1,015
450
701
1,228
200
1,719
110
1,817
128,275
129,538
1,072
18 NET LOSS ON DISPOSAL OF NON-CURRENT ASSETS
Carrying amount for Disposal of Non-current Assets
Property, plant and equipment
Proceeds from Disposal of Non-current Assets
Property, plant and equipment
Net Loss on Disposal of Non-current Assets
427
1,072
427
204
479
204
223
593
223
504
568
104
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
19 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash on hand
Deposit at call
Cash at bank
Total Cash and Cash Equivalents
49
1,166
28,041
29,256
44
2,646
27,998
49
1,166
28,020
43
2,646
27,797
30,688
29,235
30,486
206
83
206
(a) Cash at bank and on hand
Cash on hand is non-interest bearing and cash at bank is at variable rates (refer to note 32).
(b) Deposit at call
The deposit is interest bearing at a variable interest rate (refer to note 32).
20 RESTRICTED CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash at bank
83
Cash at bank is at variable interest rates (refer to note 32). The funds represent donations for research
and scholarships.
21 RECEIVABLES
Current
Student receivables1
Less: Allowance for doubtful receivables
8,033
(4,000)
General receivables
Less: Allowance for doubtful receivables
Deferred government contribution for superannuation
4,033
24,757
(7,724)
17,033
8,033
(4,000)
24,757
(7,724)
4,033
17,033
17,391
(3,920)
15,826
(2,930)
17,391
(3,920)
16,030
(2,930)
13,471
12,896
13,471
13,100
5,475
5,705
5,475
5,705
Total Current
22,979
35,634
22,979
35,838
Non-Current
Deferred government contribution for superannuation
70,982
71,370
70,982
71,370
Total Receivables
1
93,961
107,004
93,961
107,208
1,205
1,375
1,205
1,372
188
182
152
299
188
182
152
299
Student receivables as at 31 December 2005 included student 2006 fees in advance totaling $5.656 million
[2004: $18.098 million].
22 INVENTORIES
Inventories held for resale:
Merchandise (at cost)
Inventories not held for resale:
General stores (at cost)
Farming stores (at current replacement cost)
Total inventories not held for resale
Total Inventories
370
1,575
451
1,826
370
1,575
451
1,823
105
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
23 OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS
Current
Interest bearing loans advanced
Sundry loans
33
33
33
33
Total Current Other Financial Assets
33
33
33
33
Non-Current
Unrestricted investments
Listed Securities – Shares (at fair value)
83
77
83
77
61,465
447
-
13,209
6,505
447
-
61,465
447
30
13,209
6,505
447
30
Unlisted Securities
- Funds under management (at fair value)
- Fixed deposits (at fair value)
- Equity shares (at cost)
- Shares in controlled entities (at cost)
Total Unlisted Securities
61,912
20,161
61,942
20,191
Other investments
Other
300
-
300
-
Interest bearing loans advanced
Sundry loans
354
388
354
388
Non-interest bearing loans advanced
Sundry loans
Wholly-owned controlled entities
350
-
-
350
20
20
Total Non-Current Unrestricted Investments
Total Non-interest Bearing Loans Advanced
Total Non-Current Other Financial Assets
Total Other Financial Assets
61,995
350
62,999
63,032
20,238
-
20,626
20,659
62,025
370
63,049
63,082
20,268
20
20,676
20,709
Changes in fair value of other financial assets at fair value are recorded in Investment Income in the Income
Statement.
106
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
24 RESTRICTED OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS
Funds under management
- Research activities
- Donations and prizes
- Trusts
Total Funds Under Management
Fixed deposits
- Research activities
- Donations and prizes
- Trusts
Total Fixed Deposits
Total Restricted Other Financial Assets
19,687
13,517
3,515
-
19,687
13,517
3,515
-
36,719
-
36,719
-
-
15,970
13,077
2,533
-
15,970
13,077
2,533
-
31,580
6,932
6,462
36,719
31,580
-
36,719
31,580
6,668
4,515
6,932
6,462
6,656
4,515
31,580
25 OTHER NON FINANCIAL ASSETS
Current
Prepayments
Accrued income
Total Other Non Financial Assets
13,394
11,183
13,394
11,171
107
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
26 PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Land1
At cost
Buildings
At cost
Accumulated depreciation
82,346
82,436
82,346
409,231
(45,357)
402,337
(31,921)
409,231
(45,357)
402,337
(31,921)
363,874
370,416
363,874
370,416
4,654
(658)
4,654
(611)
4,043
4,654
(658)
3,996
4,654
(611)
11,792
5,002
11,792
5,002
Computing equipment
At cost
Accumulated depreciation and impairment
35,048
(28,358)
31,073
(28,690)
35,048
(28,358)
31,073
(28,690)
Other equipment and furniture
At cost
Accumulated depreciation and impairment
65,423
(44,473)
62,343
(42,088)
65,423
(44,473)
62,343
(42,088)
Motor vehicles
At cost
Accumulated depreciation and impairment
2,144
(1,371)
1,889
(1,156)
2,144
(1,371)
1,889
(1,156)
-
2,346
(288)
-
2,346
(288)
Leasehold land and improvements
At cost
Accumulated depreciation
Work in progress
Capital projects (at cost)
Leased plant and equipment
At cost
Accumulated depreciation
Library collections
At cost
Depreciation
Works of art
At cost
Total Property, Plant and Equipment
1
82,436
3,996
6,690
20,950
773
2,383
20,255
733
6,690
20,950
773
4,043
2,383
20,255
733
-
2,058
-
2,058
20,331
(4,467)
15,864
20,072
(4,772)
15,300
20,331
(4,467)
15,864
20,072
(4,772)
15,300
9,671
9,244
9,671
9,244
516,046
511,780
516,046
511,780
Part of the site upon which the University is located, namely the Bentley campus, Western Australia, is held in
trust, in perpetuity.
82,346
90
-
University
Carrying amount at start of year
Additions
Cost of disposals
Accumulated depreciation on disposals
Cost of write-offs during the year
Accumulated depreciation on write-offs
Transfers in/(out)
Depreciation expense
Carrying amount at end of year
82,436
363,874
370,416
2,996
(291)
18
4,190
(13,455)
363,874
370,416
2,996
(291)
18
4,190
(13,455)
82,346
90
-
Consolidated
Carrying amount at start of year
Additions
Cost of disposals
Accumulated depreciation on disposals
Cost of write-offs during the year
Accumulated depreciation on write-offs
Transfers in/(out)
Depreciation expense
82,436
$’000
$’000
Carrying amount at end of year
Buildings
Land
2005
3,996
4,043
(47)
3,996
4,043
(47)
11,792
5,002
11,116
(4,326)
-
11,792
5,002
11,116
(4,326)
-
Leasehold
Work in
land and
progress
improvements
$’000
$’000
6,690
2,383
5,491
(3,312)
3,351
2,096
(3,319)
6,690
2,383
5,491
(3,312)
3,351
2,096
(3,319)
$’000
Computing
equipment
20,950
20,255
5,225
(2,494)
2,353
176
(4,565)
20,950
20,255
5,225
(2,494)
2,353
176
(4,565)
Other
equipment
and furniture
$’000
773
733
337
(82)
54
(269)
773
733
337
(82)
54
(269)
$’000
Motor
vehicles
-
2,058
63
(87)
83
(2,136)
19
-
2,058
63
(87)
83
(2,136)
19
Leased
plant and
equipment
$’000
15,864
15,300
5,030
(4,466)
15,864
15,300
5,030
(4,466)
$’000
Library
collections
9,671
9,244
444
(17)
-
9,671
9,244
444
(17)
-
$’000
Works
of art
516,046
511,780
30,792
(6,283)
5,859
(26,102)
516,046
511,780
30,792
(6,283)
5,859
(26,102)
$’000
Total
Reconciliations – Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of property, plant and equipment at the beginning and end of the current financial year are set out below.
108
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
82,391
(45)
-
82,346
University
Carrying amount at start of year
Additions
Cost of disposals
Accumulated depreciation on disposals
Cost of write-offs during the year
Accumulated depreciation on write-offs
Transfers in/(out)
Depreciation expense
Carrying amount at end of year
370,416
374,929
2,266
3,870
(10,649)
370,416
374,929
2,266
3,870
(10,649)
82,391
(45)
-
Consolidated
Carrying amount at start of year
Additions
Cost of disposals
Accumulated depreciation on disposals
Cost of write-offs during the year
Accumulated depreciation on write-offs
Transfers in/(out)
Depreciation expense
82,346
$’000
$’000
Carrying amount at end of year
Buildings
Land
2004
4,043
4,321
(278)
4,043
4,321
(278)
5,002
2,935
5,937
(3,870)
-
5,002
2,935
5,937
(3,870)
-
Leasehold
Work in
land and
progress
improvements
$’000
$’000
2,383
5,533
1,343
(6,269)
6,217
(4,441)
2,383
5,533
1,343
(6,269)
6,217
(4,441)
$’000
Computing
equipment
20,255
20,295
4,714
(2,673)
2,130
(6)
4
(4,209)
20,255
20,333
4,676
(2,711)
2,168
(6)
4
(4,209)
Other
equipment
and furniture
$’000
733
1,003
398
(467)
37
(238)
733
1,003
398
(467)
37
(238)
$’000
Motor
vehicles
2,058
33
2,119
(7)
7
(94)
2,058
33
2,119
(7)
7
(94)
Leased
plant and
equipment
$’000
15,300
15,606
4,466
(4,772)
15,300
15,606
4,466
(4,772)
$’000
Library
collections
9,244
8,541
710
(2)
(5)
-
9,244
8,541
710
(2)
(5)
-
$’000
Works
of art
511,780
515,587
21,953
(9,463)
8,391
(11)
4
(24,681)
511,780
515,625
21,915
(9,501)
8,429
(11)
4
(24,681)
$’000
Total
109
Financial Statements
Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
110
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
4,002
2,448
4,002
2,486
639
2,096
619
639
2,096
619
27 PAYABLES
Current
Trade payables
28 INTEREST BEARING LIABILITIES
Current
Finance lease liabilities1
Treasury loans2
Total Current
639
2,715
639
2,715
Non-Current
Treasury loans2
25,546
26,185
25,546
26,185
Total Borrowings
26,185
28,900
26,185
28,900
1 Finance Lease Liabilities
Finance lease liabilities are effectively secured as the rights to the leased assets revert to the lessor in the
event of default.
Assets pledged as security
The carrying amounts of non-current assets pledged as security are:
Finance lease
Finance Lease Liabilities
Sun Microsystems Finance
- one principal and interest repayment
2,096
Principal
Principal
outstanding outstanding
2005
2004
$'000
$'000
-
-
2,096
Interest
rate
Maturity
date
1%
Jan 2005
Average
Interest
rate
Maturity
date
2,096
Treasury Loans
The University has the following loans with the WA Treasury Corporation:
2
Treasury Loans
Capital works
– quarterly principal and variable rate interest repayments
Vickery house
– quarterly principal and variable rate interest repayments
Muresk campus housing
– fixed rate interest only quarterly repayments with the loan
principal to be repaid at date of maturity
Bentley campus housing
– fixed rate interest only quarterly repayments with the loan
principal to be repaid at date of maturity
Kalgoorlie Arts Centre
– quarterly principal and variable rate interest repayments
Total Treasury Loans
Principal
Principal
outstanding outstanding
2005
2004
$'000
$'000
388
421
6.68%
15 Oct 2017
1,482
1,608
6.71%
15 Oct 2017
2,050
2,050
6.50%
15 July 2018
16,800
16,800
7.05%
15 Jan 2018
5,465
5,925
6.60%
15 Oct 2014
26,185
26,804
111
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Note
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
Financing facilities available
At reporting date, the following financing facilities had been negotiated and were available:
Total facilities:
- Treasury Loans
Facilities used at reporting date:
- Treasury Loans
Facilities unused at reporting date:
- Treasury Loans
38,850
38,850
38,850
38,850
26,185
26,804
26,185
26,804
12,665
12,046
12,665
12,046
19,597
19,801
15,569
14,680
19,597
19,801
15,569
14,680
5,475
125
5,705
154
5,475
125
5,705
154
29 PROVISIONS
Current
Employee benefits provisions
Annual leave
Long service leave
Superannuation
Deferred benefits for superannuation
Other University pension funds
Total Employee Benefits Provisions
37(a)
Other provisions
Employment on-costs
Redundancy costs
Total Other Provisions
Total Employee Benefits Provisions
Other provisions
Employment on-costs
Total Non-Current Provisions
Total Provisions
36,108
44,998
36,108
2,167
3,657
1,325
-
2,167
3,657
1,325
-
5,824
Total Current Provisions
Non-Current
Employee benefits provisions
Long service leave
Superannuation
Deferred benefits for superannuation
Other University pension funds
44,998
37(a)
1,325
5,824
1,325
50,822
37,433
50,822
37,433
12,280
15,261
12,280
15,261
70,982
2,554
71,370
2,596
70,982
2,554
71,370
2,596
85,816
89,227
85,816
89,227
675
1,377
675
1,377
86,491
137,313
90,604
128,037
86,491
137,313
90,604
128,037
112
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
Movements in Other Provisions
Movements in each class of provisions during the financial year, other than employee benefits,
are set out below:
EMPLOYMENT ON-COSTS PROVISION
Balance at beginning of year
Additional/(reduction) in provisions recognised
Reductions arising from payments
Balance at end of year
2,702
954
(814)
2,842
4,199
(433)
(1,064)
REDUNDANCY COSTS PROVISION
Balance at beginning of year
Additional provisions recognised
3,657
Balance at end of year
2,702
2,702
954
(814)
2,842
4,199
(433)
(1,064)
-
3,657
-
2,702
3,657
-
3,657
-
22,297
16,521
19,687
3,515
27,389
8,288
15,970
2,533
22,297
16,551
19,687
3,515
27,389
8,288
15,970
2,533
30 OTHER LIABILITIES
Current
Income received in advance1
Accrued expenses
Research activities
Trusts
Total Other Liabilities
62,020
54,180
62,050
1 Income received in advance as at 31 December 2005 included student 2006 fees totaling $5.656 million [2004: $18.098 million].
54,180
113
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Note
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
550
3,637
550
3,637
31 RESERVES AND RETAINED SURPLUS
Reserves
Bookshop grants
Bookshop future development
General
31(a)
31(b)
31(c)
Retained surplus
31(d) 520,359
497,524
-
79
Total Reserves
4,187
79
550
3,208
3,837
4,187
520,358
79
550
3,208
3,837
497,523
(a) Bookshop grants
The Bookshop Grants Reserve is used to provide grants for the purchase of textbooks and other reading
material.
MOVEMENT IN RESERVE
Balance at beginning of year
79
211
79
210
Transfer to reserve
2
3
(79)
(134)
(79)
(134)
Transfer from reserve
Balance at end of year
-
79
(b) Bookshop future development
The Bookshop Future Development Reserve is used to fund special projects or other capital spending
undertaken by the Bookshop.
MOVEMENT IN RESERVE
Balance at beginning of year
550
550
550
550
Transfer to reserve
Transfer from reserve
Balance at end of year
550
550
550
550
(c) General
The General Reserve represents funding set aside for the ongoing development of University infrastructure
and special initiatives.
MOVEMENT IN RESERVE
3,208
3,579
3,208
3,579
Balance at beginning of year
Transfer to reserve
443
2,858
443
2,858
(3,229)
(14)
(3,229)
(14)
Transfer from reserve
Balance at end of year
(d) Retained surplus
Balance at beginning of year
Net operating result
Transfers to reserves
Transfers from reserves
Balance at end of year
3,637
3,208
3,637
3,208
497,524
23,185
(443)
93
484,357
12,508
(2,860)
3,519
497,523
23,185
(443)
93
484,348
12,516
(2,860)
3,519
520,359
497,524
520,358
497,523
6.9%
-
Financial Liabilities
Payables
Borrowings
Employee benefits
Other liabilities
1 Funds under management represent investments in unit based funds.
Total Financial Liabilities
203,335
4,002
137,313
62,020
161,123
83
447
350
300
59,471
-
6.7%
-
Total Financial Assets
49
93,961
6,462
$’000
Noninterest
bearing
4.5%
4.5%
-
Weighted
Average
Effective
Interest
Rate %
Financial Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Accrued income
Unrestricted investments:
- Listed securities
- Unlisted securities
- Interest bearing loans advanced
- Non-interest bearing loans advanced
- Pre-seed funds
- Funds under management1
Restricted investments
2005
Interest rate risk exposure
32 FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
7,335
7,335
-
66,396
387
36,719
29,207
83
-
$’000
Variable
interest
rate
-
-
1,994
1,994
-
-
$’000
Less than
1 year
-
-
-
-
-
$’000
-
-
-
-
-
$’000
-
-
-
-
-
$’000
-
-
-
-
-
$’000
FIXED INTEREST RATE MATURITY
1 to 2
2 to 3
3 to 4
4 to 5
years
years
years
years
18,850
18,850
-
-
-
-
$’000
More than
5 years
229,520
4.002
26,185
137,313
62,020
229,513
83
447
387
350
300
61,465
36,719
29,256
83
93,961
6,462
$’000
Total
114
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
7.1%
-
Financial Liabilities
Payables
Borrowings
Employee benefits
Other liabilities
1 Funds under management represent investments in unit based funds.
Total Financial Liabilities
184,665
2,448
128,037
54,180
125,502
77
447
13,415
-
7.5%
5.5%
5.5%
Total Financial Assets
44
107,004
4,515
$’000
Noninterest
bearing
5.3%
5.3%
-
Weighted
Average
Effective
Interest
Rate %
Financial Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Accrued income
Unrestricted investments:
- Listed securities
- Unlisted securities
- Interest bearing loans advanced
- Funds under management1
- Fixed deposits
Restricted investments
2004
10,050
10,050
-
36,952
421
4,605
1,076
30,644
206
-
$’000
Variable
interest
rate
-
-
32,198
1,694
30,504
-
$’000
Less than
1 year
-
-
-
-
-
$’000
-
-
-
-
-
$’000
-
-
-
-
-
$’000
-
-
-
-
-
$’000
INTEREST RATE RISK EXPOSURE
1 to 2
2 to 3
3 to 4
4 to 5
years
years
years
years
18,850
18,850
-
-
-
-
$’000
More than
5 years
213,565
2,448
28,900
128,037
54,180
194,652
77
447
421
13,415
6,299
31,580
30,688
206
107,004
4,515
$’000
Total
115
Financial Statements
Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
116
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
33 REMUNERATION OF MEMBERS OF THE ACCOUNTABLE
AUTHORITY AND SENIOR OFFICERS
33.1 Remuneration of Members of the Accountable Authority
Names of persons who were members of the accountable authority
For the purposes of the Financial Administration and Audit Act 1985, the University Council is the
Accountable Authority of the University.
The University’s Council members are:
Chancellor
Member Elected by Full-time Salaried
Dr Eric Tan
(General) Staff
Ms Lyn Marks (appointed 1/4/05)
Members Appointed by Governor in Council
Ms Georgina Carnegie
Co-opted Members
Mr Don Humphreys
Dr George Chan Hong Nam
Dr Ruth Shean
Ms Michele Dolin, Pro-Chancellor
Ms Zelinda Bafile
Dr Brian Hewitt
Dr David Karpin
Members who are members of bodies that
Mr Wayne Zekulich
represent the interests of the University in
places other than the University’s principal
Member Nominated by the Minister for
campus
Education and Training
Adjunct Professor Peter Browne, nominee of the
Ms Norma Jeffery (resigned 24/8/05)
Board, Muresk Institute
Mr John Cowdell (appointed 25/8/05)
Member who is a member of the Academic
Member who is the Chief Executive Officer
Board elected by and from the Academic
Professor Lance Twomey, Vice-Chancellor
Board
Members Elected by Full-time (Academic)
Associate Professor Doug Yorke
Staff
Members Elected by Curtin Student Guild
Associate Professor David Charnock
Council (no longer applicable)
Dr Malcolm Innes-Brown (term expired 31/03/2005)
Mr Patrick Gorman (position ceased 13/8/2005)
Dr Jan Sinclair-Jones (appointed 1/4/05)
Ms Tanya Vernon (position ceased 13/8/2005)
Subsidiaries
The subsidiaries’ (refer to note 38) directors are:
Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd
Curtin Consultancy Services Ltd
IPOM Pty Ltd
Ms Llesa Hawke
Mr Conrad Crisafulli
Mr Conrad Crisafulli
Professor Peter Lilly
Professor Barney Glover
Ms Gem Cheong
Consolidated
2004
2005
Number
Number
University
2004
2005
Number
Number
1,730
942
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 or as Directors. 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 are:
19
14
18
14
Nil – $10,000
$10,001 – $20,000
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
$20,001 – $30,000
1
$40,001 – $50,000
$50,001 – $60,000
1
1
1
1
2
2
$60,001 – $70,000
1
1
1
$70,001 – $80,000
$110,001 – $120,000
1
1
1
1
1
$140,001 – $150,000
1
1
$150,001 – $160,000
$160,001 – $170,000
3
1
1
$170,001 – $180,000
$210,001 – $220,000
1
1
1
1
$450,001 – $460,000
1
1
$470,001 – $480,000
Aggregate Remuneration of Members of the
Accountable Authority ($’000)
1,468
874
117
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
Number
Number
University
2005
2004
Number Number
33.2 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 are:
$40,001 – $50,000
1
1
$60,001 – $70,000
1
1
$80,001 – $90,000
1
1
$100,001 – $110,000
2
1
$120,001 – $130,000
1
1
$130,001 – $140,000
1
$140,001 – $150,000
3
3
$150,001 – $160,000
3
3
$160,001 – $170,000
1
1
1
1
$180,001 – $190,000
1
1
$190,001 – $200,000
2
3
2
3
$200,001 – $210,000
2
1
2
1
$210,001 – $220,000
2
2
2
2
$220,001 – $230,000
1
3
1
3
$260,001 – $270,000
1
1
$420,001 – $430,000
1
1
Aggregate Remuneration of Senior Officers ($’000)
3,153
3,018
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
2,956
2,847
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
34 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:
(a) Auditor of the parent entity
Auditing the financial report
160
154
160
150
(b) Other auditors
Other audit services
48
34
48
34
Total Remuneration of Auditors
208
188
208
184
35 CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND CONTINGENT ASSETS
Contingent Liabilities
[1] 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 consolidated entity.
[2] 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
[1] Inheritance Properties
As at 31 December 2005, the University expects to receive approximately $1 million from the proceeds of
sale of properties bequested to the University. The amount will be a restricted asset to be used in
accordance with the bequest by the deceased.
118
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
36 COMMITMENTS FOR EXPENDITURE
(a) Capital expenditure commitments
Capital expenditure commitments, being contracted future capital expenditure additional to the amounts
reported in the financial statements, are payable as follows:
Within one year
20,332
1,755
20,332
1,755
After one year but not more than five years
1,394
1,394
Total Capital Expenditure Commitments
21,726
1,755
21,726
1,755
The capital commitments include amounts for:
Buildings
21,726
1,755
21,726
1,755
(b) Non-cancellable operating lease commitments
Commitments in relation to leases contracted for at the reporting date but not recognised as liabilities, are
payable as follows:
Within one year
4,235
4,969
4,235
4,969
After one year but not more than five years
3,153
4,567
3,153
4,567
More than five years
26,034
25,218
26,034
25,218
Total Non-cancellable Operating Lease Commitments 33,422
34,754
33,422
34,754
Representing:
Non-cancellable operating leases
33,422
34,754
33,422
34,754
(c) Finance lease commitments
Finance lease commitments are payable as follows:
Within one year
-
2,306
-
2,306
Minimum lease payments
Future finance charges
-
2,306
(210)
-
2,306
(210)
Total Lease Liability
-
2,096
-
2,096
-
2,096
-
2,096
(d) Other expenditure commitments
Commitments in relation to purchase orders, are payable as follows:
Within one year
9,474
10,452
9,474
10,452
Finance lease liability on equipment capitalised
Current
These commitments are all inclusive of GST.
119
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
37 DEFINED BENEFIT SUPERANNUATION PLANS
(a) Curtin University of Technology Superannuation Scheme 1968-1993
A group of employees are entitled, on retirement, death or disablement, to defined benefits under the Curtin
University of Technology Superannuation Scheme. The Scheme provides pension benefits. All members of
the Supplementary Pension have now retired, and either currently receive a pension or may be entitled to
receive a pension at a future date under certain circumstances. The Scheme is closed to new members. The
Scheme is a regulated superannuation plan. The University meets the benefits directly as they fall due.
Reconciliation of the Present Value of the Defined Benefit Obligation
Present value of defined benefit obligations at beginning of the year
Current service cost
Interest cost
Actuarial loss/(gain)
Benefits paid
Present value of defined benefit obligations at end of the year
2005
$’000
2004
$’000
2,804
117
14
(194)
3,006
133
(147)
(187)
2,741
2,805
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
Benefits paid
55
250
(243)
80
250
(275)
Reconciliation of the Assets and Liabilities Recognised in the Balance Sheet
Present value of defined benefit obligation
Fair value of scheme assets
2,741
62
2,805
55
Fair value of Scheme assets at end of the year
62
55
Net liability
2,679
2,750
Liability recognised in the Balance Sheet as:
Current
Non-current
125
2,554
154
2,596
2,679
2,750
Expense Recognised in Income Statement
Interest cost
Actuarial loss/(gain)
117
14
133
(147)
Superannuation expense/(benefit)
131
(14)
Scheme Assets
There are no assets other than of the cash amounts held within the University which are held in a separately
identifiable account.
Principal Actuarial Assumptions Used
Discount rate
Expected salary increase rate
Expected rate of inflation
Expected pension increase rate
2005
2004
5.3% pa
4.0% pa
3.0% pa
4.0% pa
5.4% pa
4.0% pa
3.0% pa
4.0% pa
The discount rate is based on the yield at the relevant date of Government bonds with a term consistent
with the term of the liability. The decrement rates used (eg mortality and retirement rates) are based on
those used at the last actuarial valuation for the Schemes.
120
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Historical Information
Present value of defined benefit obligation
Fair value of Scheme assets
Deficit in scheme
2005
$’000
2004
$’000
2,741
62
2,805
55
2,679
2,750
Experience adjustments (gain)/loss – scheme assets
Experience adjustments (gain)/loss – scheme liabilities
(16)
(184)
The experience adjustment for Scheme liabilities represents the actuarial loss/(gain) due to a change in the
liabilities arising from the Scheme’s experience (eg membership movements, unit entitlements) but excludes
the effect of the changes in assumptions (eg movements in the bond rate).
Expected Contributions
Expected employer contributions
2006
$’000
250
Funding arrangements for employer contributions
(i) Deficit
The following is a summary of the most recent financial position of the Pension Scheme calculated in
accordance with AAS 25 “Financial Reporting by Superannuation Plans”.
2005
$’000
Accrued benefits
Net market value of scheme assets
Net deficit
2,741
62
2,679
(ii) Contribution recommendations
Employer contributions are made to meet the cost of the benefits as they fall due.
(iii) Funding method
The funding method used by Curtin is the Pay-As-You-Go method. This method affects the timing of the
cost to Curtin.
(iv) Economic assumptions
Employer contributions are made to meet the cost of the benefits as they fall due.
Nature of asset/liability
The consolidated entity has recognised a liability in the balance sheet under Provisions in respect of its
defined benefit superannuation arrangements. The consolidated entity has no legal obligation to settle this
liability with an immediate contribution or additional one off contributions. The consolidated entity intends
to continue to meet the cost of the benefits as they fall due.
(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 State Share of the pension benefit, which is employer-financed,
cannot be commuted to a lump sum benefit.
Some former Pension Scheme members have transferred to the GESB Gold State 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 during any deferral period after leaving public
sector employment.
121
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
The following disclosures are in respect of the employer-financed benefits only.
Reconciliation of the Present Value of the Defined Benefit Obligation
Present value of defined benefit obligations at beginning of the year
Current service cost
Interest cost
Actuarial loss
Benefits paid
Present value of defined benefit obligations at end of the year
2005
$’000
2004
$’000
77,075
38
3,933
1,116
(5,705)
75,553
41
4,080
3,966
(6,565)
76,457
77,075
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
Benefits paid
5,705
(5,705)
6,565
(6,565)
Reconciliation of the Assets and Liabilities Recognised in the Balance Sheet
Present value of defined benefit obligations
Fair value of the scheme assets
76,457
-
77,075
-
Fair value of Scheme assets at end of the year
-
-
Net deficit
76,457
77,075
Net deficit is recognised as a liability in the Balance Sheet as follows:
Current
Non-current
5,475
70,982
5,705
71,370
Expense Recognised in Income Statement
Service cost
Interest cost
Actuarial loss
76,457
77,075
38
3,933
1,116
43
4,080
3,966
5,087
Superannuation expense/(benefit)
8,087
Scheme Assets
There are no assets in the Pension Scheme to support the State Share of the Benefit or in the Gold State
Scheme for current employees to support the transferred benefits. Hence, there is
• No fair value of Scheme assets
• No asset allocation of Scheme assets
• No assets used by the employer
• No expected return of Scheme assets
• No actual return on Scheme assets.
Principal Actuarial Assumptions Used
Discount rate (active members)
Discount rate (pensioners)
Expected salary increase rate
Expected pension increase rate
2005
2004
2003
5.27% pa
5.27% pa
4.50% pa
2.50% pa
5.33% pa
5.33% pa
4.50% pa
2.50% pa
5.66% pa
5.66% pa
4.50% pa
2.50% pa
The discount rate is based on the 10 year Government bond rate at the relevant date. The decrement rates
used (eg mortality and retirement rates) are based on those used at the last actuarial valuation for the
Schemes.
122
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Historical Information
Present value of defined benefit obligation
Fair value of Scheme assets
Deficit in scheme
Experience adjustments (gain)/loss – scheme assets
Experience adjustments (gain)/loss – scheme liabilities
2005
$’000
2004
$’000
76,457
-
77,075
-
76,457
77,075
686
1,635
The experience adjustment for Scheme liabilities represents the actuarial loss/(gain) due to a change in the
liabilities arising from the Scheme’s experience (eg membership movements, unit entitlements) but excludes
the effect of the changes in assumptions (eg movements in the bond rate).
2006
$’000
Expected Contributions
Expected employer contributions
6,577
Funding arrangements for employer contributions
(i) Deficit
The following is a summary of the most recent financial position of the Pension Scheme calculated in
accordance with AAS 25 “Financial Reporting by Superannuation Plans”. Note that the figures below
relate to the Pension Scheme as a whole and are therefore not restricted to employees of the consolidat
ed entity.
30 June 2005
$’000
Accrued benefits
Net market value of scheme assets
Net deficit
2,465,759
106,688
2,359,071
(ii) Contribution recommendations
Curtin is contributing as required to pay benefits, when they fall due.
(iii) Funding method
The funding method used by Curtin and other agencies, whose employees are members of the Pension
Scheme, is the Pay-As-You-Go method. This method affects the timing of the cost to Curtin.
(iv) Economic assumptions
The economic assumptions adopted for the last actuarial review as at 30 June 2005 of the Scheme were:
Expected rate of return on assets (discount rate)
7.50% pa
4.50% pa
Expected salary increase rate
Nature of asset/liability
The consolidated entity has recognised a liability in the balance sheet under Provisions in respect of its
defined benefit superannuation arrangements. The GESB does not impose a legal liability on the
consolidated entity to cover any deficit that exists in the Scheme.
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 21).
The recognition of both the asset and the liability consequently does not affect the year end net asset
position of the consolidated entity.
123
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
(c) Unisuper Defined Benefit Plan
Scheme information
The Unisuper Defined Benefit Plan (DBP) is a multi-employer defined benefit superannuation plan.
However, sufficient information is not available to account for the benefits provided by the DBP as a
defined benefit plan. This is because the DBP exposes the participating employers to actuarial risks
associated with the current and former employees of all the other participating employers, with the result
that there is no consistent and reliable basis for allocating the obligation, plan assets and cost to
participating employers.
Consequently, the University has adopted the multi-employer provisions of paragraph 30 of AASB 119
Employee Benefits and accounted for the plan as if it were a defined contribution plan. Employer
contributions of $33.687 million [2004: $31.697 million] were therefore charged as an expense under
employee benefits (note 12) as they fall due.
Surplus or Deficit
As at 30 June 2005 there is no funding surplus or deficit which currently affects, or is expected to affect, the
amount of future contributions payable by the University as a participating employer to the DBP.
Historically, any surplus in the DBP has been used to improve members’ benefits and has not affected the
amount of participating employers’ contributions.
As at 30 June 2005 the assets of the DBP in aggregate were estimated to be $230 million or 103.4% [2004:
93.6%] in excess of vested benefits. Vested benefits are benefits which are not conditional upon continued
membership (or any factor other than leaving the service of the participating institution) and include the
value of CPI indexed pensions being provided by the DBP.
As at 30 June 2005 the assets of the DBP in aggregate were estimated to be $1,543 million or 128.3% [2004:
110.0%] in excess of accrued benefits. The accrued benefits have been calculated as the present value of
expected future benefit payments to members and CPI indexed pensioners that arise from membership of
DBP up to the reporting date.
Defined Benefit Obligation
The vested benefit and accrued benefit liabilities were determined as at 31 December 2002 by the Fund’s
actuary using the following actuarial demographic assumptions:
Vested Benefits
Gross of tax investment return
Net of tax investment return
Consumer Price Index
Inflationary salary increases
Accrued Benefits
7.0% pa
6.5% pa
2.5% pa
3.5% pa
9.1% pa
8.6% pa
2.5% pa
3.5% pa
Additional promotional salary increases are assumed to apply based on past experience.
Value of Scheme Assets
Assets have been included at their net market value, ie allowing for realisation costs.
Implications for the University
Clause 34 of the Unisuper Trust Deed outlines the process that Unisuper Ltd must undertake (including
employer notifications and notice periods) in order to request additional contributions from employers if the
Unisuper assets are considered by the Trustee to be insufficient to provide benefits payable under the Deed.
At least four years notice that such a request may be made is required. If such a request was agreed to by
employers then members must also contribute additional contributions equal to one-half of the rate at which
their employer is prepared to contribute. If employers do not agree to increase contributions, the Trustee
must reduce benefits on a fair and equitable basis. The Trustee notified employers during 2003 that such a
request may be made in the future but it considered this was unlikely at that time.
124
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
38 SUBSIDIARIES
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets, liabilities and results of the following
subsidiaries in accordance with the accounting policy described in note 1(b):
Country of
Incorporation
Name of Entity
University
Curtin University of Technology
Class of
shares
Equity holding
2005
2004
Australia
Controlled Subsidiary
Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd (ACN 009 332 334) 1
Curtin Consultancy Services Ltd (ACN 008 751 175) 2
IPOM Pty Ltd (ACN 114 526 420) 3
Australia
Australia
Australia
Ordinary shares 100% 100%
Ordinary shares 100% 100%
Ordinary shares 100%
-
Non-controlled Subsidiary
Numbers Investments Pty Ltd (ACN 069 361 235) 1
Australia
Ordinary shares 100% 100%
1 During 2005, Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd documented a plan for the voluntary winding up of the company. After the transfer of operations to
the parent entity, the relevant documents will be lodged with the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC).
2 During 2005, Curtin Consultancy Services Ltd lodged an application with the ASIC for the deregistration of the company. ASIC accepted the
application on 15 November 2005 and deregistration occurred on 22 January 2006.
3 IPOM Pty Ltd was incorporated on 31 May 2005.
1 The company is the trustee of the Curtin University of Technology Superannuation Scheme.
39 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.
Consolidated
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
Note
University
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
40 NOTES TO THE CASH FLOW STATEMENT
(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
19
29,256
30,688
29,235
30,486
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
20
83
206
83
206
Balance as per Cash Flow Statement
29,339
30,894
29,318
(b) Reconciliation of operating result from ordinary activities to net cash inflow from
operating activities
Net operating result
23,185
12,508
23,185
26,102
24,681
26,102
Depreciation expense
Movement in allowance for doubtful receivables
(2,734)
2,437
(2,734)
Net loss on disposal of non-current assets
223
593
223
Unrealised (gains)/losses
(1,201)
(293)
(1,171)
749
2,285
2,285
Other non-cash items
Financial assistance receipts from WA Government
(15,454)
(16,371)
(15,454)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
13,697
(18,388)
13,493
(Increase)/decrease in receivables
(Increase)/decrease in inventories
251
493
248
(Increase)/decrease in other current assets
(2,211)
942
(2,223)
Increase/(decrease) in payables
1,554
(1,214)
1,516
9,276
5,152
9,276
Increase/(decrease) in provisions
7,840
2,878
7,870
Increase/(decrease) in other current liabilities
Net Cash provided by Operating Activities
62,609
14,167
62,820
30,692
12,516
24,681
2,440
568
(293)
761
(16,371)
(19,889)
489
2,304
(1,099)
5,234
2,993
14,334
125
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
41 NON-CASH FINANCING AND INVESTING ACTIVITIES
During the financial year, there were no assets/liabilities transferred/assumed from other Universities or
government agencies and therefore not reflected in the Cash Flow Statement.
The consolidated entity has both operating and finance leased assets. These are accounted for in accordance
with note 1(g) “Leases”. During 2004, the consolidated entity entered into a finance lease for the purchase of
computer equipment $2.096 million which did not result in any cash flows during that year but affected the
assets and liabilities recognised in the financial statements. In January 2005, this lease was paid out (refer to
note 28).
42 EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
(i) Significant variances between current year actual and prior year actual revenues and
expenditures
Note Category
Revenue
[1] Australian Government grants
[2] HECS-HELP Student payments
[3] Fees and Charges
[4]Investment income
[5] Consultancy and contract research
[6] Deferred Government superannuation contributions
Expenses
[7] Bad and doubtful debts
[6] Deferred employee benefits for superannuation
Note Commentary
Consolidated
2004
Actual
$’000
2005
Actual
$’000
$’000
Variance
%
155,616
13,348
133,961
7,876
17,130
(618)
139,354
11,871
121,085
5,986
19,899
1,524
16,262
1,477
12,876
1,890
(2,769)
(2,142)
12%
12%
11%
32%
(14%)
(140%)
(1,161)
(618)
4,308
1,524
(5,469)
(2,142)
(130%)
(140%)
[1] Australian Government grants – This variance reflects the impact to Curtin of the Commonwealth’s
funding model changes for the Commonwealth Supported students in 2005.
[2] HECS-HELP Student payments – This variance reflects the impact to Curtin of the Commonwealth’s
funding model changes for the Commonwealth Supported students in 2005.
[3] Fees and Charges – The variance reflects a combination of new students and fee increases.
[4]Investment income – The increase in investment income is due to the larger cash pool being available for
investment combined with increases in the market value of the University’s investments.
[5] Consultancy and contract research – This variance reflects the timing of reciprocal research grants
received, a significant part of which in 2005 was received shortly before year end and consequently those
amounts unspent were deferred.
[6] Deferred Government superannuation contributions and deferred employee benefits for superannuation
– This reflects a reduction in the liability for State Superannuation Schemes, with a corresponding
reduction in the offsetting receivable amount from the Commonwealth Government.
[7] Bad and doubtful debts – The University reduced the student receivables allowance for doubtful debts by
$3.724 million. This was offset by debt write-offs of $1.573 million and an increase in the allowance for
general debts of $0.990 million.
126
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
(ii) Significant variations between budgeted and actual results for the financial year
Note Category
Revenue
[1] HECS-HELP Australian Government payments
[1] HECS-HELP Student payments
[2] FEE-HELP
[2] Fees and charges
[3] Investment income
[4]Consultancy and contract research
[5] Deferred Government superannuation contributions
Expenses
[6] Depreciation expense
[7] Bad and doubtful debts
[5] Deferred employee benefits for superannuation
Consolidated
2004
Actual
$’000
2005
Actual
$’000
$’000
Variance
%
47,094
13,348
11,722
133,961
7,876
17,130
(618)
65,730
257
140,401
4,161
15,198
6,100
(18,636)
13,348
11,465
(6,440)
3,715
1,932
(6,718)
(28%)
4,461%
(5%)
89%
13%
(110%)
26,102
(1,161)
(618)
21,424
157
6,100
4,678
(1,318)
(6,718)
22%
(839%)
(110%)
Note Commentary
[1] HECS-HELP Student Payments are not budgeted separately to HECS-HELP Australian
Government Payments because it is impracticable to do so. In considering both revenue categories
together there is no significant variance to budget.
[2] FEE-HELP revenues are not budgeted separately to Fees and Charges because it is impracticable to do
so. In considering both revenue categories together there is no significant variance to budget.
[3] Investment income – The increase in investment income is due to the larger cash pool being available for
investment combined with increases in the market value of the University's investments.
[4]The University achieved better than budgeted Consultancy and Contract Research revenues due to a
strong performance in achieving new grants and consultancies.
[5] These amounts reflect movements in the University's liability for State Superannuation Schemes and the
equivalent offsetting receivable from the Commonwealth Government. Actual movements are affected by
actuarial assessments, which are not readily able to be budgeted accurately.
[6] The 2005 actual depreciation expense reflects changes from the implementation of International Financial
Reporting Standards and some changes in depreciation rates, which were not built into the budgeted
expense.
[7] Bad and doubtful debts – The University reduced the student receivables allowance for doubtful debts by
$3.724 million. This was offset by debt write-offs of $1.573 million and an increase in the allowance for
general debts of $0.990 million. The net impact of the release of the allowance was not budgeted for.
43 RELATED PARTIES
1. Transactions with specified accountable authority and senior officers
1.1 Accountable authority and senior officers’ remuneration and retirement benefits
Details of remuneration and retirement benefits are disclosed in note 33 to the financial statements.
1.2 Other transactions with specified accountable authority and senior officers
University Council members, or their related entities, conduct transactions with the consolidated entity 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 consolidated entity 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:
127
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Related party
2005
$’000
2004
$’000
Peter Browne Consulting 1
Neuromonics Ltd 2
Curtin Student Guild 3
102
2,851
91
54
2,631
Revenue
Curtin (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd 4
Curtin Student Guild 3
1,977
1,124
1,586
608
Receivable at 31 December
Curtin (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd 4
Curtin Student Guild 3
861
66
3,110
272
9
4
Transaction Type
Purchase consulting services
Purchase of shares
Purchases
Payable at 31 December
Curtin Student Guild 3
1 Fees charged to the consolidated entity during the year for consultancy services provided by a related party, Peter Browne Consulting, of which
Adjunct Prof. Peter Browne is the principal, totalled $101,643 [2004: $90,818]. There was no outstanding balance at reporting date [2004: $nil].
2 Preference shares purchased in a related party, Neuromonics Ltd totalled $nil [2004: $54,000]. The consolidated entity has a minority
shareholding in Neuromonics Ltd. Professor Barney Glover, a Senior Officer of the University, is a Director and holds 7,103 [2004: 5,000] ‘A’
Preference Shares in Neuromonics Ltd. Mr Conrad Crisafulli, a Director of Curtin Consultancy Services Ltd prior to its deregistration on
22 January 2006, is a Director of Neuromonics Ltd and holds 138,635 [2004: 134,429] ‘A’ Preference Shares and 331,875 [2004: 331,875] Ordinary
shares.
3 Purchases from the Curtin Student Guild, a related party, aggregated $2.851 million [2004: $2.631 million]. At reporting date $9,043 [2004:
$3,847] remained outstanding. Sales of $1.124 million [2004: $608,410] were made during the year. At reporting date $65,890 remained
outstanding [2004: $272,198].
4 Mr David Menarry and Professor Graham Lodwick, both Senior Officers of the University at year end, are Directors of Curtin (Malaysia) Sdn
Bhd. Professor Graham Lodwick retired from the University on 31 December 2005. This company is a party to an agreement with the
consolidated entity regarding operation of the Curtin Sarawak campus. Revenue earned during the year by the University from Curtin
(Malaysia) Sdn Bhd totalled $1.977 million [2004: $1.586 million]. At reporting date $861,003 [2004: $3.11 million] formed part of receivables.
2. Transactions within the wholly-owned group
Curtin University of Technology is the ultimate parent entity. The following transactions within the
wholly-owned group occurred during the year:
Revenue
Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd
Curtin Consultancy Services Ltd
61
-
116
2,659
Expenses
Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd
Curtin Consultancy Services Ltd
123
-
222
113
Receivable at 31 December
Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd1
Curtin Consultancy Services Ltd
20
-
111
242
Payable at 31 December
Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd
Curtin Consultancy Services Ltd
-
30
21
Revenue
Sales of $61,451 [2004: $115,981] were made during the year to Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd. At reporting
date $nil [2004: $110,537] formed part of the parent entity’s general receivables.
Sales of $nil [2004: $2.659 million] were made during the year to Curtin Consultancy Services Ltd. At
reporting date $nil [2004: $242,221] formed part of the parent entity’s general receivables.
Expenses
Purchases from Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd made under normal commercial terms and conditions for
the period aggregated $122,560 [2004: $221,737]. At reporting date $nil [2004: $29,651] remained payable,
forming part of the balance of the parent entity's trade payables.
Purchases from Curtin Consultancy Services Ltd made under normal commercial terms and conditions for
the period aggregated $nil [2004: $112,820]. At reporting date $nil [2004: $20,983] remained payable,
forming part of the balance of the parent entity’s trade payables.
1 Loan
Curtin University of Technology has provided an interest free loan to Uniservices Kalgoorlie Pty Ltd
totaling $20,000 [2004: $20,000] with no fixed repayment date. There were no repayments during the year
[2004: $nil] (refer to note 23).
128
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
44 EXPLANATION OF TRANSITION TO AUSTRALIAN
EQUIVALENTS TO IFRS
(a) This note provides a reconciliation of equity reported under previous Australian Generally Accepted
Accounting Principles (AGAAP) to equity under Australian equivalents to IFRS.
(i) At the date of transition to AIFRS: 1 January 2004
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Receivables1
Inventories
Other financial assets
Restricted other financial assets
Other non financial assets
Total Current Assets
Non-current assets
Receivables1
Other financial assets
Property, plant and equipment2
Total Non-Current Assets
Total Assets
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions3
Other liabilities4
Total Current Liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions3
Total Non-Current Liabilities
Previous
AGAAP
1 Jan 2004
$’000
28,025
22,262
2,319
9,210
34,309
12,125
28,025
23,643
2,319
9,210
34,309
12,125
27,636
20,968
2,312
9,240
34,309
13,475
UNIVERSITY
Effect of
transition
AIFRS
to AIFRS
1 Jan 2004
$’000
$’000
1,381
-
27,636
22,349
2,312
9,240
34,309
13,475
1,381
109,631
107,940
1,381
109,321
61,852
1,715
525,583
7,136
(9,958)
68,988
1,715
515,625
61,852
1,715
525,545
7,136
(9,958)
68,988
1,715
515,587
589,150
(2,822)
586,328
589,112
(2,822)
586,290
3,662
601
37,365
31,528
1,381
19,774
3,662
601
38,746
51,302
3,585
536
37,283
31,413
1,381
19,774
3,585
536
38,664
51,187
697,400
(1,441)
695,959
697,052
(1,441)
695,611
73,156
21,155
94,311
72,817
21,155
93,972
26,867
78,581
7,347
26,867
85,928
26,867
78,581
7,347
26,867
85,928
105,448
178,604
EQUITY
Reserves5
Retained surplus6
518,796
101,162
417,634
Total Equity
1,381
-
Previous
AGAAP
1 Jan 2004
$’000
108,250
Total Liabilities
Net Assets
CONSOLIDATED
Effect of
transition
AIFRS
to AIFRS
1 Jan 2004
$’000
$’000
518,796
7,347
112,795
28,502
105,448
(29,943)
207,106
488,853
178,265
(96,666)
66,723
4,496
484,357
(29,943)
488,853
7,347
112,795
518,787
28,502
(29,943)
206,767
101,162
417,625
(96,666)
66,723
4,496
484,348
518,787
(29,943)
488,844
488,844
129
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
(ii) At the end of the last reporting period under previous AGAAP: 31 December 2004
Previous
AGAAP
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
Receivables1
Inventories
Other financial assets
Restricted other financial assets
Other non financial assets
Total Current Assets
Non-current assets
Receivables1
Other financial assets
Property, plant and equipment2
Total Non-Current Assets
Total Assets
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions3
Other liabilities4
Total Current Liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Interest bearing liabilities
Provisions3
Total Non-Current Liabilities
$’000
CONSOLIDATED
Effect of
transition
to AIFRS
$’000
$’000
AIFRS
$’000
-
30,688
30,486
-
30,486
206
35,329
1,826
33
31,580
11,183
305
-
206
35,634
1,826
33
31,580
11,183
206
35,533
1,823
33
31,580
11,171
305
-
206
35,838
1,823
33
31,580
11,171
110,845
305
111,150
110,832
305
111,137
64,736
20,626
603,671
6,634
(91,891)
71,370
20,626
511,780
64,736
20,676
603,671
6,634
(91,891)
71,370
20,676
511,780
689,033
799,878
(85,257)
(84,952)
603,776
689,083
2,448
2,715
37,128
37,355
305
16,825
2,448
2,715
37,433
54,180
714,926
799,915
(85,257)
(84,952)
603,826
2,486
2,715
37,128
37,355
305
16,825
2,486
2,715
37,433
54,180
714,963
79,646
17,130
96,776
79,684
17,130
96,814
26,185
83,835
6,769
26,185
90,604
26,185
83,835
6,769
26,185
90,604
110,020
6,769
116,789
110,020
6,769
116,789
610,212 (108,851)
501,361
610,211 (108,851)
501,360
189,666
23,899
EQUITY
Reserves5
Retained surplus6
180,063
430,149
(176,226)
67,375
Total Equity
$’000
UNIVERSITY
Effect of
transition
to AIFRS
$’000
30,688
Total Liabilities
Net Assets
AIFRS
Previous
AGAAP
610,212 (108,851)
213,565
3,837
497,524
501,361
189,704
23,899
180,064
430,147
(176,227)
67,376
610,211 (108,851)
213,603
3,837
497,523
501,360
130
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
(b)Reconciliation of net operating result for the year ended 31 December 2004
Previous
AGAAP
$’000
Revenue from continuing operations
Australian Government financial
assistance
Australian Government grants 139,354
HECS-HELP – Australian
Government payments
51,392
FEE-HELP
11,640
State and Local Government
financial assistance
16,371
HECS-HELP – Student payments
11,871
Fees and charges
121,085
Investment income
5,986
Royalties, trademarks and licences
5,692
Consultancy and contracts4
17,927
33,628
Other revenue4,7
CONSOLIDATED
Effect of
transition
to AIFRS
$’000
AIFRS
$’000
Previous
AGAAP
$’000
UNIVERSITY
Effect of
transition
to AIFRS
$’000
AIFRS
$’000
-
139,354
139,354
-
139,354
-
51,392
11,640
51,392
11,640
-
51,392
11,640
1,972
498
16,371
11,871
121,085
5,986
5,692
19,899
34,126
16,371
11,871
121,085
5,986
5,692
16,303
35,248
1,972
473
16,371
11,871
121,085
5,986
5,692
18,275
35,721
414,946
2,470
417,416
414,942
2,445
417,387
Deferred Government superannuation
3,102
contributions1
(1,578)
1,524
3,102
(1,578)
1,524
892
418,940
418,044
867
418,911
(14,081)
2,375
13,524
229,096
24,681
15,591
2,064
4,308
129,168
242,718
22,306
15,632
2,064
4,304
116,055
(14,066)
2,375
13,483
1,792
228,652
24,681
15,632
2,064
4,304
129,538
404,871
Total revenue from continuing
operations
418,048
Expenses from continuing operations
Employee benefits3,8
243,177
2
22,306
Depreciation expense
Repairs and maintenance
15,591
Borrowing costs
2,064
Bad and doubtful debts
4,308
7,8
Other expenses
115,644
403,090
Deferred employee benefits for
superannuation3
3,102
Total expenses from continuing
operations
406,192
Net operating result for the year 11,856
1,818
404,908
403,079
(1,578)
1,524
3,102
(1,578)
1,524
240
406,432
406,181
214
406,395
652
12,508
11,863
653
12,516
(c) Reconciliation of cash flow statement for the year ended 31 December 2004
The adoption of AIFRS has not resulted in any material adjustments to the cash flow statement.
(d) Notes to the reconciliation
1 Receivables
As a result of the transition to AIFRS, an increase in liabilities under the new AASB 119 “Employee
Benefits” in respect of the WA Government Employees Superannuation Board defined benefit
superannuation obligations gives rise to an off-setting receivable from the Commonwealth Government.
There is no impact to net assets for the consolidated entity and University.
ADJUSTMENTS TO OPENING BALANCE SHEET (1 JANUARY 2004)
Receivables have increased by $8.517 million in respect to the Commonwealth Government as a result of
the increase in the WA Government Employees Superannuation Board defined benefit superannuation
obligations.
131
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
ADJUSTMENTS TO 31 DECEMBER 2004 BALANCE SHEET
Receivables have increased by $6.939 million in respect to the Commonwealth Government as a result of
the increase in the WA Government Employees Superannuation Board defined benefit superannuation
obligations. This comprises the adjustment as at 1 January 2004, $8.517 million less $1.578 million
reduction in the liability as at 31 December 2004.
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2004
Deferred Government superannuation contributions has reduced income by $1.578 million as a result in
the reduction of the amount receivable from the Commonwealth Government.
2 Property, Plant and Equipment
Under the new AASB 136 “Impairment of Assets”, non-current assets are subject to assessment for
impairment. Impairment must be measured for classes of non-current assets with indications of impairment.
Impairment is measured by comparing the class of assets' recoverable amount with its carrying amount. The
class of asset is considered impaired if the recoverable amount is less than the class of assets carrying value.
ADJUSTMENTS TO OPENING BALANCE SHEET (1 JANUARY 2004)
Property, plant and equipment has reduced by $9.958 million after the assessment for impairment.
ADJUSTMENTS TO 31 DECEMBER 2004 BALANCE SHEET
Property, plant and equipment has reduced by $91.891 million. This comprises the adjustment as at 1
January 2004, $9.958 million and the reversal of the 31 December 2004 asset revaluations under which the
previous Australian GAAP of $79.558 million, plus the additional depreciation of $2.375 million as a result
of the 1 January 2004 impairment adjustment.
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2004
Depreciation expense increased by $2.375 million as a result of a result of the 1 January 2004 impairment.
Provisions
Under the new AASB 119 “Employee Benefits”, the net position of each defined benefit superannuation
scheme must be recognised as an asset or liability, as applicable. Movements in the carrying amount of this
liability or asset will be recognised as a revenue or expense and are likely to result in increased earnings
volatility.
3
ADJUSTMENTS TO OPENING BALANCE SHEET (1 JANUARY 2004)
Provisions have increased by $8.728 million. This is a result of $8.517 million for the WA Government
Employees Superannuation Board defined benefit superannuation (see 1 above, offset by the equivalent
receivable from the Commonwealth Government) and $0.211 million for the Curtin University of
Technology Superannuation Schemes. The consolidated entity’s and University’s net assets as at
1 January 2004 reduced by $0.211 million.
ADJUSTMENTS TO 31 DECEMBER 2004 BALANCE SHEET
Provisions have increased by $7.074 million. This comprises the adjustment as at 1 January 2004, $8.728
million, less $1.578 million reduction in the liability as at 31 December 2004 for the WA Government
Employees Superannuation Board defined benefit superannuation and a reduction of $0.076 million for
the Curtin University of Technology Superannuation Schemes.
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2004
Deferred employee benefits for superannuation has reduced expenditure by $1.578 million as a result in
the reduction of the defined benefit superannuation obligations to the WA Government Employees
Superannuation Board and $0.076 million for the Curtin University of Technology Superannuation
Schemes.
4 Other Liabilities
Under AASB 118 “Revenue”, where the consolidated entity or University receives grants for research
activities or student sponsorships, and the donor has a specific interest and receives contractual outcomes in
exchange for the income, this is classified as a reciprocal transfer. Thus, any unspent grants are treated as a
deferred income liability.
ADJUSTMENTS TO OPENING BALANCE SHEET (1 JANUARY 2004)
Other liabilities have increased by $19.774 million in respect of revenues received and unspent as at
31 December 2003.
ADJUSTMENTS TO 31 DECEMBER 2004 BALANCE SHEET
Other liabilities have increased by $16.825 million as revenues received and unspent as at 31 December
2004. This comprises the adjustment as at 1 January 2004, $19.774 million less $2.949 million in the
reduction of the deferred income liability as at 31 December 2004.
132
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2004
An increase in Consultancy and contracts of $1.972 million and Other revenue of $0.977 million has
occurred as a result in the reduction of the deferred income liability.
5 Reserves
AASB 1 “First Time Adoption of Australian Equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards”
provides the option of recognising non-current assets at either cost/deemed cost or fair value. Deemed cost
may be used where, on first time implementation, the non-current asset was previously recognised at fair
value, but will be recognised on the deemed cost basis in future. The standard permits the use of the
previously recognised fair value as the deemed cost. As the consolidated entity has adopted to recognise
non-current assets on the deemed cost basis, the amount in the Asset Revaluation Reserve as at 1 January
2004 has been transferred to Retained Earnings.
ADJUSTMENTS TO OPENING BALANCE SHEET (1 JANUARY 2004)
Reserves have reduced by $96.666 million due to the Asset Revaluation Reserve transferred to Retained
Earnings. There is no impact on the consolidated entity’s or University’s opening net assets as at 1 January
2004.
ADJUSTMENTS TO 31 DECEMBER 2004 BALANCE SHEET
Reserves have reduced by $176.226 million. This comprises the adjustment as at 1 January 2004, $96.666
million in addition to the reversal of the 2004 asset revaluations $79.558 million. This resulted in the
consolidated entity’s and University’s net asset position being reduced by $79.558 million.
6 Retained Earnings
Reconciliation of movement in retained surplus:
Receivables
Property, plant and equipment
Provisions
Other liabilities
Reserves
Net movement
1 January 2004 31 December 2004
$’000
$’000
8,517
(9,958)
(8,728)
(19,774)
96,666
66,723
6,939
(91,891)
(7,074)
(16,825)
176,226
67,375
Net loss on disposal of non-current assets (AASB 116)
Under AGAAP the disposal of non-current assets is disclosed on the gross basis. That is, the proceeds of
disposal are revenue and the carrying amounts of assets disposed of are expense. The disposal of non-current
assets is disclosed on the net basis (gains or losses) under IFRS.
7
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2004
Consolidated entity – The carrying amounts of assets disposed of was previously recognised as expense.
This has been derecognised ($1.072 million). The proceeds of disposal of non-current assets was
previously recognised as income. This has been derecognised ($0.479 million). A loss on the disposal of
non-current assets of $0.593 million has been recognised as an expense.
Parent entity – The carrying amounts of assets disposed of was previously recognised as expense. This
has been derecognised ($1.072 million). The proceeds of disposal of non-current assets was previously
recognised as income. This has been derecognised ($0.504 million). A loss on the disposal of non-current
assets of $0.568 million has been recognised as an expense.
8 Employee benefits (AASB 119)
Employment on-costs are not included in employee benefits under AGAAP or IFRS. However, under
AGAAP employee benefits and on-costs are disclosed together on the face of the Income Statement as
Employee benefits. Under IFRS employee benefits will be the equivalent item disclosed on the face.
On-costs are transferred to other expenses.
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2004
Consolidated entity – Employment on-costs have been reclassified from employee benefits payments to
other expenses ($14.005 million).
Parent entity – Employment on-costs have been reclassified from employee benefits payments to other
expenses ($13.990 million).
101,427
(101,427)
-
Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year
Total revenue including accrual revenue
Less expenses including accrual expenses
Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period
83,897
(83,897)
-
84,320
(423)
83,897
95,448
868
96,316
96,316
(95,808)
508
118,761
(6,890)
111,871
508
112,379
(112,290)
(89)
5,540
(5,540)
-
6,719
(6,719)
-
Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year
Total revenue including accrual revenue
Less expenses including accrual expenses
Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period
2004
$’000
5,749
(209)
5,540
Total
1,714
(1,714)
-
1,714
1,714
6,492
227
6,719
2005
$’000
1,773
(1,773)
-
1,773
1,773
Indigenous Support
Fund
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
Financial assistance received in CASH during the
reporting period
Net accrual adjustments
Revenue for the period
Superannuation Program
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
107,000
(5,573)
101,427
Commonwealth Grants
Scheme
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
[Consolidated]
Financial assistance received in CASH during the
reporting period
Net accrual adjustments
Revenue for the period
45.1DEST – CGS and Other DEST Grants
440
(440)
-
484
(44)
440
142
(142)
-
142
142
2004
$’000
Equity Programs
2005
$’000
45 ACQUITTAL OF COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
1,442
(1,442)
-
1,442
1,442
2,474
(2,474)
-
2,474
2,474
Workplace Reform
Program
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
508
578
(489)
89
1,570
(1,500)
70
2,549
(2,041)
508
1,049
1,500
2,549
Capital
Development Pool
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
133
Financial Statements
Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period
Less expenses including accrual expenses
Total revenue including accrual revenue
Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year
Revenue for the period
Net accrual adjustments
Financial assistance received in CASH during the
reporting period
45.3 Scholarships
Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period
Less expenses including accrual expenses
Total revenue including accrual revenue
Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year
Revenue for the period
Financial assistance received in CASH during the
reporting period
Net accrual adjustments
45.2 Higher Education Loan Programs
172
(1,917)
2,089
324
1,765
-
1,765
2005
$'000
324
(1,789)
2,113
175
1,938
-
1,938
2004
$'000
-
(51,392)
-
51,392
51,392
50,284
1,108
Australian Postgraduate
Awards
-
(47,094)
-
47,094
47,094
48,966
(1,872)
HECS-HELP
(Australian Government
payments only)
2005
2004
$’000
$’000
-
(11,640)
-
11,640
11,640
11,568
72
2004
$’000
(306)
(510)
204
45
159
-
159
45
(481)
526
67
459
-
459
International Postgraduate
Research
Scholarships
2005
2004
$'000
$'000
-
(11,722)
-
11,722
11,722
12,250
(528)
2005
$’000
FEE-HELP
-
-
-
-
-
-
2004
$’000
8
(605)
613
9
604
(39)
643
9
(195)
204
-
204
-
204
Commonwealth
Education Costs
Scholarships
2005
2004
$'000
$'000
-
-
-
-
-
800
(800)
2005
$’000
OS-HELP
-
(63,032)
-
63,032
63,032
61,852
1,180
2004
$’000
24
(856)
880
24
856
(210)
1,066
24
(364)
388
-
388
-
388
Commonwealth
Accommodation
Scholarships
2005
2004
$'000
$'000
-
(58,816)
-
58,816
58,816
62,016
(3,200)
2005
$’000
Total
(102)
(3,888)
3,786
402
3,384
(249)
3,633
2005
$'000
2004
$'000
402
(2,829)
3,231
242
2,989
-
2,989
Total
134
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Total revenue including accrual revenue
Less expenses including accrual expenses
Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period
2,327
(2,679)
(352)
(809)
3,136
Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year
Revenue for the period
3,136
-
2005
$'000
1,392
(2,201)
(809)
(1,180)
2,572
2,572
-
2004
$'000
-
-
5,624
(5,624)
5,624
-
5,624
Projects
-
-
5,888
(5,888)
5,888
5,888
-
Institutional Grants
Scheme
2005
2004
$'000
$'000
Financial assistance received in CASH during the
reporting period
Net accrual adjustments
45.5 Australian Research Council Grants
(a) Discovery
Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period
Total revenue including accrual revenue
Less expenses including accrual expenses
Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year
Revenue for the period
Financial assistance received in CASH during the
reporting period
Net accrual adjustments
45.4 DEST Research
20
20
20
-
-
2005
$'000
23
(3)
20
28
(5)
(5)
-
2004
$'000
-
-
11,341
(11,341)
11,341
11,341
-
Fellowships
-
-
11,676
(11,676)
11,676
11,676
-
Research Training
Scheme
2005
2004
$'000
$'000
(13)
-
1,100
(1,113)
1,100
1,100
-
(535)
(535)
(535)
-
-
(535)
(535)
(535)
-
-
Indigenous Researchers
Development
2005
2004
$'000
$'000
(13)
(13)
(13)
-
-
-
1,812
(2,679)
(867)
(1,324)
3,136
3,136
-
2005
$'000
871
426
2,102
(1,231)
1,676
1,676
-
880
(2,204)
(1,324)
2,567
2,567
-
2004
$'000
(1,687)
Total
426
456
2,020
(1,594)
1,564
1,564
-
Systemic
Research Infrastructure
Infrastructure Initiative
Block Grants
2005
2004
2005
2004
$'000
$'000
$'000
$'000
858
413
19,653
(18,795)
19,240
19,240
-
2005
$'000
413
456
20,085
(19,672)
19,629
2004
$'000
19,629
-
Total
135
Financial Statements
Curtin University of Technology
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005
Surplus / (deficit) for reporting period
Total revenue including accrual revenue
Less expenses including accrual expenses
Surplus / (deficit) from the previous year
Revenue for the period
Financial assistance received in CASH during the
reporting period
Net accrual adjustments
(b) Linkages
26
-
26
-
26
26
-
-
439
439
(439)
-
-
Special Research
Initiatives
2005
2004
$'000
$'000
1,602
1,373
1,677
(75)
304
304
-
2005
$'000
1,373
1,876
2,422
(1,049)
546
546
-
2004
$'000
Infrastructure
57
58
68
(11)
10
10
-
58
20
142
(84)
122
122
-
1,890
1,424
3,862
(1,972)
2,438
2,438
-
International Research
Exchange
2005
2004
2005
$'000
$'000
$'000
1,424
611
2,708
(1,284)
2,097
2,097
-
2004
$'000
Projects
3,575
2,855
5,633
(2,058)
2,778
2,778
-
2005
$'000
Total
2,855
5,711
(2,856)
2,946
2,765
2,765
-
2004
$'000
136
Curtin University of Technology
Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2005