Changes reflect staff feedback, aim to reduce costs, streamline operations and position University for long-term success
The University of Wollongong today released its Revised Change Proposal for UOW Operations, beginning the next stage of workplace change consultation after extensive feedback on the Draft Change Proposal released in March.
"I am deeply grateful for the thoughtful feedback and engagement we've received across our University community. This is a difficult process, but the feedback from staff has helped shape a proposal that responds to current challenges while positioning us for sustainable growth and impact," Vice-Chancellor and President Professor G.Q. Max Lu said.
The Revised Change Proposal represents a substantial evolution from the earlier proposal, shaped by more than 2,600 feedback submissions that were reviewed and considered, and staff workshops that were attended by over 700 people.
The proposal responds to UOW's need to reduce recurrent costs by about $30 million to ensure long-term sustainability and to improve the effectiveness of services and operations. It projects a reduction of 100-124 full time equivalent positions, generating annual savings of between $17-22 million (compared to 155-185 FTE and $22-26 million annually in the earlier proposal). The University will aim to meet the remaining savings targets through reductions in non-salary spending.
These figures may change as consultations continue, including in the Research portfolio. A Revised Change Proposal for Research services will be released separately on 4 August.
UOW is committed to supporting affected employees with access to counselling, career transition support, and financial advice.
Key changes to the previous proposal include:
- Fewer senior (level 10) roles across the organisation
- Retention of executive and administrative support within divisions
- All core Library services and functions maintained, with updates to delivery, resourcing and structures
- Strengthened academic support for accreditation and curriculum management
Strategic elements retained to drive UOW's future success:
- New Provost position for unified faculty leadership and driving academic performance
- Consolidation from four faculties to three for improved efficiency and synergies
- Enhanced Office of the Vice-Chancellor for strategic coordination and governance
- Implementation of shared corporate services across the University
- Reconfigured academic and student support services using a hub and spoke model
A priority for the revised change to UOW Operations is to support UOW's Vision 2035 and Strategic Plan 2030 by a model that drives future growth, boosts efficiency and enhances academic and corporate services.
Consultation on the Revised Change Plan is open until Monday 4 August with the Final Change Plan scheduled for release on 25 August. UOW is undertaking a genuine consultation process, and no final decisions have been made. Implementation will be staged over a period of time, allowing time for careful transition and ongoing consultation.
