Australian National University (Academic Board) Statute 2017

Overview

The Australian National University (Academic Board) Statute 2017 was enacted to facilitate the establishment of the Academic Board within the Australian National University. This statute was developed under the authority granted by the Australian National University Act 1991, specifically section 50, which empowers the university to create and administer its governance structure. The primary purpose of this statute is to formalise the establishment of the Academic Board and to allow for the creation of rules and orders that will effectively implement and give effect to the statute. The statute was thoroughly reviewed and approved by the Council of the University on 1 December 2017, following a recommendation from the Academic Board. This legislative action was designed to ensure that the university's academic governance aligns with its overarching objectives and policies.

Scope and Application

The Australian National University (Academic Board) Statute 2017 is an instrument made under the authority of the Australian National University Act 1991. It serves to formalise the establishment of the Academic Board and to empower it with the necessary rules and orders to carry out its functions effectively. The statute applies specifically to the Australian National University, impacting its governance structure by providing a framework for academic oversight and decision-making through the Academic Board. The reach of this statute is confined to the Commonwealth, operating within the legislative and administrative jurisdiction of the Australian National University. It is noteworthy that the statute does not incorporate any external documents by reference and was subject to internal approval processes, including consideration and endorsement by the Council of the University following a recommendation from the Academic Board. This legislative instrument facilitates the governance of academic affairs within the university by establishing a formal structure for academic board operations.

Key Provisions

The Australian National University (Academic Board) Statute 2017, as referenced in section 50 of the Australian National University Act 1991, establishes the framework for the Academic Board of the Australian National University (section 1). This Statute allows for the creation and implementation of the Academic Board, whose primary function is to oversee academic matters within the university (section 2). It also enables the Academic Board to draft and enact Rules and Orders necessary to give effect to the Statute (section 2). The Statute imposes several obligations on the Academic Board and the University. The Academic Board is tasked with ensuring the quality of academic programs and the integrity of academic standards within the institution (section 3). It is responsible for making decisions on academic policies and procedures, including the establishment of degree programs and the setting of academic criteria (section 4). The University, through the Council, is required to provide necessary support and resources to enable the Academic Board to function effectively (section 5). Furthermore, the Statute mandates that the Academic Board report its activities and decisions to the Council and, where appropriate, to other stakeholders (section 6). Breaches of the obligations set out in the Statute may have legal consequences. While specific offences and penalties are not detailed in the Statute itself, the overarching framework of the Australian National University Act 1991 provides for disciplinary actions and potential legal repercussions for non-compliance with statutory requirements (section 7). For example, failure to adhere to the academic standards or policies set by the Academic Board could lead to disciplinary measures against students or staff, as outlined in the University's rules and regulations (section 8). Additionally, any actions that contravene the Statute may be subject to review by the University Council or other relevant authorities, potentially resulting in further administrative or legal consequences (section 9).