USQ Council
The University's governing body is the Council, led by the Chancellor. The Council contributes to the overall governance of the University by helping to set strategic directions and develop policy.
The University of Southern Queensland Act 1998 defines the functions and powers of the Council and the University, and sets limits on what the University and its authorities may do.
Terms of reference
Role
Under Sections Seven (7) to Eleven (11) of the USQ Act, the Council is established as the governing body of the University. Council is responsible for the overall governance of the University. As Council members contribute to the development of policy and strategic planning, they are expected to have a knowledge and understanding of the legislative framework within which strategy and policy may be developed and applied, in order to minimise risks.
Functions
The Council's primary responsibilities are:
- appointing, and monitoring the performance of the Vice-Chancellor, as the chief executive officer of the University
- approving the mission and strategic direction of the University; and approving the annual budget and business plan of the University
- overseeing and reviewing the management of the University and its performance
- establishing policy and procedural principles, consistent with legal requirements and community expectations
- approving and monitoring systems of control and accountability, including general overview of any controlled entities of the University
- overseeing and monitoring the assessment and management of risk across the University, including commercial undertakings
- overseeing and monitoring the academic activities of the University
- approving significant commercial activities of the University
- contributing to the enhancement of the University’s reputation and standing in the community, and assisting with fundraising initiatives.
These responsibilities may be delegated, as necessary, to appropriate Committees of the Council.
Further information on the Council statement of responsibilities is available.
Council membership
The membership of the Council includes:
- Chancellor
- Vice-Chancellor
- Chair, Academic Board
- one member of the academic staff of the University elected by members of the staff
- one member of the professional staff of the University elected by members of the staff
- one student member elected by the enrolled students of the University other than students who are members of the University staff
- five members appointed by the Governor - in- Council
- up to three members co-opted by the Council.
Further information on the USQ Council membership, Election of Elected Members of the Council and USQ Statutes are avialable in the Policy Library.
Committees of USQ Council
USQ Council is assisted in its operations by the following standing committees:
Further information on the Committees of USQ Council is available.
Meeting dates and documentation
USQ Council meets every 8 weeks at specific dates and times.
Information on the key decisions made at Council meetings are available to view on the Council Bulletins webpage.
Further information
For additional information on USQ Council please contact: