In his regular report to Senate, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the University’s priorities for the upcoming year, including an increased focus on collaboration, delivery and impact as the University moves into the second three-year phase (2026–28) of implementing its Sydney in 2032 strategy. The four top strategic priorities for this period will be lifting the student experience; ensuring collective excellence in teaching and research (see separate update below); driving service excellence across the University; and ensuring that our digital systems can meet our ambitions. 

Work will continue on other important strategic initiatives, including construction of the Sydney Biomedical Accelerator and evaluating our presence in Western Sydney. In addition, and recognising our evolving operating environment, we will maintain a focus on building trust externally and internally. 

Senate received a briefing on the progress of the University’s 2026 enrolments and preparations for Semester One, including strategies to address timetabling, room allocation and teaching requirements. Senate was also informed of work to roll out the University’s implementation of the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence, which is being overseen by Senate’s People, Culture and Safety Committee.

Senate discussed and provided feedback on an update on implementation of the continuous improvement program submitted to the Tertiary Education Quality Standards Authority (TEQSA) as part of the University’s application for reregistration as a higher education provider. Senate will receive quarterly updates throughout 2026 on progress, which is a key part of the University’s commitment to assure itself of the quality of its higher education operations and compliance with the Higher Education Standards Framework (Threshold Standards) 2021.

Senate discussed Collective Excellence 2026–28 (CE28), the University’s integrated, evidence-based strategy to achieve measurable uplift in education and research performance over the next three years. Senate commended the extensive work underpinning this strategy that aligns University-wide initiatives with locally designed faculty initiatives to drive acceleration toward our 2032 ambitions. Senate supports the intention of CE28 to deliver the step-change needed to reach top quartile performance in the Group of Eight through principles of clear accountability, collective leadership, and integrated governance.

Senate stressed the importance of supporting our staff to deliver excellent education and research. Fellows of Senate explored CE28’s goals in greater depth during an extended workshop and took the opportunity to probe some of the thinking that underpins this important piece of work in order  to deepen their understanding of it. The meeting was led by the Provost, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students) and the interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) and included faculty deans. 

Fellows of Senate visited the Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning before its meeting began. They had the opportunity to see the improvements currently under way to improve teaching and other facilities in the Wilkinson Building, and to meet with academic and professional staff from the school.

In its formal meeting, Senate also received a presentation from the Head of School and Dean and the School Manager that provided an opportunity for a wide-ranging discussion of the school’s strategies and ambition to cement its place as a leading school in built environment and design by 2032. Senate Fellows discussed with the school leadership the impact of new technologies and AI on its education and research, as well as recent improvements in Unit of Study Survey scores attributed in part to the recent recruitment of education-focused academics. Senate Fellows appreciated the thoughtful discussion on the future of education and research in the school’s disciplines that will secure sound career prospects for graduates entering rapidly changing careers.

This part of the Senate meeting was part of a rolling series of presentations that will enable Senate to discuss the strategic vision and key features of each faculty and University school and their contributions to the realisation of the Sydney in 2032 strategy, including through the Collective Excellence strategy.

Senate discussed the importance of advancement activity in creating greater opportunities for the University and those who work and study here through partnerships with our closest alumni and friends. Senate also received an update on For good: the Campaign for Sydney, including 2025 results for fundraising and alumni engagement goals. Advancement practices across the sector continue to evolve, and our Advancement team are leading new approaches to drive advocacy for the University through the cultivation of deep long-term relationships.

Senate received and discussed regular reports on work health and safety, risks, cyber security, operational and financial performance.  

Professor Tom Calma, one of Senate’s two ministerially appointed Fellows, has been appointed as an Interim Commissioner to the Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC) and has been granted a Leave of Absence from Senate until April 2026.