Message from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic - Renew ANU update

Dear Colleagues, 

Recently we have heard from many of you seeking an update on planning for the Academic Portfolio (DVCA) in relation to the Renew ANU program. While we are not yet able to provide a formal change proposal, I’m writing to provide an update on timing and share a high-level overview of the areas currently under review. 

Background 

Renew ANU was launched in October 2024, with the aim of reshaping the University’s structure and operating model to ensure long-term academicexcellence, financial sustainability, and alignment with the University’s national mission. Key drivers for change include: 

• Ongoing financial challenges and a need to focus on strategic priorities; 
• An inefficient, decentralised operating model, with low staff satisfaction around service quality; 
• Declining international rankings and increased global competition. 

In response, the University has already implemented a series of changes, including College realignment, service model redesign, and targeted cost savings under the Expenditure Taskforce. 

In line with the ANU Change Principles, the University is progressing a number of formal proposals to enhance effectiveness and achieve further savings. In recent weeks, change proposals have been released by the College of Science and Medicine (CoSM), College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS), and the Research and Innovation Portfolio. 

A further proposal is anticipated for the Academic Portfolio, focusing on how student services and administrative support for education are organised across central and College teams. This email outlines the key areas of focus under development. 

Review of Academic Functions Across the Institution 

Portfolio Functions 

The DVCA Portfolio is reviewing how its Divisions (Learning and Teaching, International and Future Students, University Experience, Student Administration and Academic Services, and the Office of the Dean of Students) could be reorganised to deliver high-quality, efficient services that support learning, teaching, and student success across the University. 

We are exploring a more centralised model, with clear ownership of functions, defined professional staff roles and pathways, and consistent support models across Colleges. 

As part of this exploration, the Portfolio is reviewing how resources are allocated, with an emphasis on using data to ensure services are aligned to demand and activity levels. While no decisions have been made, we acknowledge these changes may affect how some teams are structured. 

We are committed to supporting professional staff through this process, including strengthening supervision structures, building career development opportunities, and enabling lateral movement across the University.

College Functions 

Historically, Schools and Colleges have developed their own administrative structures for academic and student support, learning and teaching, and international engagement. In line with Renew ANU, we are exploring whether greater central coordination, or in some cases, ownership of these functions could lead to: 

• More consistent, equitable and efficient service delivery 
• Better support for academic activity and the student experience 
• Clearer professional pathways and improved role clarity for staff 

At this stage, no final decisions have been made. Any changes to function alignment or ownership would be carefully considered and subject to full consultation with affected teams. 

Next Steps 

We anticipate the DVCA Change Proposal will be released in late July, followed by a formal consultation period during which all staff will have the opportunity to provide feedback. 

In the meantime, if you have questions or would like to offer early suggestions, you are welcome to share feedback via Update on 'Renew ANU' and Academic Portfolio. All input will be considered as part of our ongoing planning. 

We know that many staff are seeking clarity. We are working hard to provide this as soon as possible, while also ensuring the proposal is well-considered and reflects the needs of the ANU. 

Thank you for your continued engagement and commitment throughout this period of change. 

Kind regards, 

Professor Joan Leach

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic