Academic Development and Outside Studies Program

Summary:

All continuing and fixed term academic employees will be eligible to apply for an initial Academic Development and Outside Studies Program (ADOSP) period which can be taken after a minimum qualifying period of three (3) years continuous* academic employment (excluding casual appointments).  A minimum period of three (3) years will normally intervene between periods of ADOSP.

* During a period of employment, continuity of service is not broken through absence from work (including illness or injury) on paid or unpaid leave approved by the University.  Where fixed term employees have a break between contracts, continuity of service is not broken when the break does not exceed 90 days.

Continuing and fixed term academic employees serving a probationary period will not be eligible to take ADOSP until confirmation of employment is received from the Executive Director, Human Resources at the conclusion of the probation period.

The program may be undertaken either within Australia or overseas.  A substantial part of the program is expected to be taken away from the University. The maximum period of ADOSP will be six (6) months and the minimum period three (3) months.  ADOSP undertaken in Semester 3 is limited to a maximum of four (4) months (November to February only). 

The University provides a financial contribution towards an employee's ADOSP program, but such financial assistance is not expected or intended to cover all the costs incurred.

Applications are required in advance and are to be submitted in the equivalent semester of the year preceding the anticipated period of ADOSP (eg applications will be due in Semester 1 of the current year for ADOSP commencing Semester 1 of the following year).  Applications to undertake ADOSP in Semester 3 (maximum of November to February), must be submitted in the same period as applications to undertake ADOSP in Semester 2.  Applications for ADOSP will be made on the appropriate form "Application to Undertake Academic Development and Outside Studies Program" and be in accordance with University and Faculty procedures.

ADOSP is a privilege and is not granted as a right, and therefore applications may be approved, deferred or declined by the relevant approval authorities.

Related policy and procedure:

Academic Development and Outside Studies Program 

HR Contact:

Rachael Millett, Manager (Organisational Development)

Some principles and common questions:

ADOSP approved programs must have a clear benefit to not only the individual but also the University.

Can travel be arranged through the Corporate Travel Office?

No, all travel arrangements must be organised by the individual.

Can the financial allowances be broken up over the period of time (instead of one lump sum)?

Yes, the Remuneration and Systems team in Human Resources can assist with how this can be achieved.

Swine Flu has broken out in Mongolia where the ADOSP was approved – Can the location be changed?

Yes, all ADOSP programs can be altered after approval as long as the outcomes indicated in the original application can still be achieved. A ‘Variation to ADOSP’ will need to be completed in these circumstances.