Flinders University has bucked the national trend to post a strong result during a challenging period, with the tabling of the 2022 Annual Report in Parliament reporting a $16.3 million operating surplus.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling said it was an extraordinary year on almost any measure - performance forged ahead with unparalleled momentum in research growth, combined with outstanding results in education and student experience.
"Consolidating our position as a university of choice for students seeking an exceptional learning experience, Flinders University is proud to be South Australia's number one university for student experience - reflecting our authentic focus on student achievement and wellbeing," Professor Stirling said.
Flinders was named South Australia's number one university for student experience by the Good University Guide, and number one in Australia for postgraduate employment for 2021-22 according to the commonwealth's QILT assessment.
"Our education credentials are aptly matched by our research capabilities, with our total annual research income rising strongly to over $114 million, representing a remarkable 39% increase on the previous year.
"It is part of a five-year trajectory which has seen an increase in research income of 140% and the fastest growth rate in the nation."
While the university sector has been severely impacted by the pandemic, Flinders has maintained staff numbers and has managed to remain in a strong financial position.
This has been critical in enabling the University to confidently pursue strategic expansion, including a new city campus in Adelaide's Festival Plaza to be completed this year, and a $280 million Health and Medical Research Building at Bedford Park which is on track for completion early in 2024.
Professor Stirling said total revenue for 2022 was in line with 2021, with a welcome post-pandemic recovery in international students. While Australian government and domestic student income eased slightly, Flinders supported its heightened activity in teaching and research with increased expenditure.
"Flinders' successes are testament to the hard work, dedication and professionalism of our staff, whose steadfast commitment to our mission and passion for serving our students and the community has underpinned these results - and I thank them for their efforts," Professor Stirling said.
Professor Stirling also paid tribute to retiring Chancellor Mr Stephen Gerlach AM, with 2022 being Mr Gerlach's final annual report.
Mr Gerlach's contributions over the past 13 years will be celebrated at a farewell event on September 1.
