Revised change proposal outlines fewer job losses, aims to boost efficiency and research impact
The University of Wollongong (UOW) today released to staff its transformation plan for research, part of a larger Revised Change Proposal for UOW Operations. It follows extensive consultation on the initial Draft Change Proposal released in March.
"The Revised Change Proposal has evolved considerably. It recommends a proposed structure and operating model for research and innovation to ensure the University is future-fit to achieve strategic research goals and help to deliver our 2035 Vision," Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Max Lu said.
Other streams of the new organisational plan for UOW Operations were announced in July. The research and innovation stream was held back to allow additional consultation and feedback.
Including the research stream, the whole restructuring plan now projects a reduction of between 85 and 118 full-time equivalent positions and annual savings of $15 and $20 million This compares to the anticipated outcome of the initial plan released in March with a forecast reduction of 155-185 FTE positions (around $22-26 million savings annually). The new figures may change again as consultation continues.
A priority for the operational changes is to support UOW's Vision 2035 and Strategic Plan 2030 by boosting efficiency and enhancing academic and corporate services. The changes in the research and innovation areas respond to current financial realities while building capacity for future research growth and impact.
Key changes:
- New portfolio structure: Renamed "Research and Innovation" to align with strategic focus, and will comprise four divisions: School of Graduate Research and Research Culture, Research Services, Research Partnerships and Innovation, and Research Platforms.
- Enhanced governance and academic oversight: Research ethics, integrity and compliance moved to the School of Graduate Research and Research Culture under a new Dean position to strengthen research foundations.
- Integrated support: Faculty support and central funding teams unified under one manager for cohesive end-to-end case management.
- Retained functions: Research Partnerships and Innovation Division combines iAccelerate and former Innovation and Commercial Research Unit functions to drive growth. Commercial contract research remains within the portfolio.
The revised proposal for changes to research and innovation is open to feedback from staff and their representatives until 18 August. The Final Change Plan is scheduled for release on 25 August. UOW is undertaking a genuine consultation process, and no final decisions have been made. Changes will be implemented gradually, allowing time for careful transition and ongoing consultation.
UOW is committed to supporting affected employees with access to counselling, career transition support, and financial advice.
