Flinders University is currently consulting with staff on two separate change proposals - one affecting the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (CHASS), and the other affecting the College of Science and Engineering (CSE).
Together, these changes would represent a significant strategic investment in the future, improving the experience and outcomes for our students and meeting the wider needs of society at large. They will enhance collaboration across disciplines to address industry needs, and expand research and innovation that supports industry and government priorities.
To improve collaboration and enhance outcomes in the arts and humanities, the University has proposed the close integration of specific disciplines from the humanities, arts and social sciences suite with complementary disciplines in other areas to create new synergies and greater opportunities for students.
This change would allow Flinders to reshape how these disciplines are taught and studied, with a sharper focus on careers, creativity, and impact.
The proposal also includes investment in a new Flinders Academy of Creative Arts, and an Indigenous Studies Academy to strengthen opportunities in creativity, culture, and Indigenous knowledge.
If adopted, a small number of management and administrative support positions would be affected, but there would be no reduction in academic staffing and there will be no closure of any existing teaching programmes as a result of these changes.
A separate proposal for CSE involves an uplift in specialist teaching capability in disciplines of growing student demand, while also realigning college research around areas of strength and national need including AI, digital forensics, cyber security, maritime defence, advanced manufacturing, climate resilience and sustainability.
The proposal would affect around 30 academic positions that may be disestablished but includes the creation of a greater number of new academic positions. If adopted, this would see overall academic staff numbers in CSE increase from 132 to 143. No disciplines or programs would be affected by this change.
These proposals are not driven by cost-saving objectives. Rather, they reflect a strategic investment in the long-term future of the disciplines concerned, ensuring our students are prepared for the future, and our research delivers measurable impact.
No decisions have been made on proceeding with these proposed changes. In line with our Enterprise Agreement, the University is now consulting with staff and inviting feedback on the proposals.
Should any changes proceed, they would be phased in by 2026 to ensure continuity for students and staff ahead of the new academic year.
