UON SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

SSAF 2018 STUDENT SURVEY REPORT

Student Services and Amenities Fees

CONTENTS Executive Summary 4 SSAF 2018 STUDENT SURVEY REPORT Introduction 6 Relationship of this SSAF Survey to the SFUN 2016 Survey How the SSAF 2017 Student Survey informed priorities and decisions for 2017

8 10

Methodology Survey Design 12 Changes in this 2018 Survey from the SSAF 2017 Survey Response Rates Data Analysis and Reporting 16 Understanding the data tables 18 How this Survey and Report will be used in the 2017 SSAF decision-making 20 SURVEY PART A: RANKING OF SSAF ALLOWABLE CATEGORIES 22 SURVEY PART B: SERVICES AND PRIORITIES FOR FUNDING IN 2018

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Theme 1: Student Support Services 26 Summary: Student Support Services Recommendations Theme 2: Student Recreation and Sport 34 Summary: Student Recreation and Sport Recommendations Theme 3: Student Social and Cultural Activities Summary: Student Social and Cultural Activities Recommendations

37

Theme 4: Campus Amenity Projects for Students Summary: Campus Amenity Projects for Students Recommendations

41

Open Comments 46 GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS ARISING FROM OPEN COMMENTS

48

APPENDIX A: PART B OF THE SSAF SURVEY

50

Document History 54

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Since the introduction of the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) in 2012, the University of Newcastle (UON) has undertaken extensive, annual consultation with students to identify key priority areas for expenditure in the delivery of services and amenity for students.

4 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

This is the second year a survey has been undertaken, and in determining priorities for SSAF funding in 2018 the survey results will complement other consultation processes with students. A total of 4109 students responded to the survey this year, and 2994 last year.

The SSAF legislation contains 19 ‘allowable’ categories of expenditure. The top 5 categories that students identified by order of priority are: 1. Helping students obtain employment or advice on careers; 2. Helping students develop skills for study, by means other than undertaking courses of study in which they are enrolled; 3. Promoting the health or welfare of students; 4. Helping students with their financial affairs; and 5. Providing food or drink to students on a campus of the higher education provider

Thirty-five services were identified in the survey, grouped around three themes, and students were asked to identify which ones should receive funding in 2018. Each of the 35 services aligns with one or more of the 19 allowable SSAF categories in the legislation.

The top three services in each of the three themes as identified by students, in order of priority are:

STUDENT SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES: 1. Social and Cultural on-campus events 2. Free weekly on-campus BBQ or similar 3. Extended hours for on-campus food and beverage services

STUDENT RECREATION AND SPORT: 1. On-campus student gym (discounted student membership) 2. Social sport, health and fitness activities 3. Non-competitive sports and recreation clubs

Nine Campus Amenity Projects were identified in the survey. The top amenity project which students indicated a preference for was the Shortland Union Bakehouse outdoor area upgrade.

Students could also provide feedback in an Open Comments section. Students made many suggestions for new services, or the need for improvement in access to or scope of existing services. Where relevant, these comments and suggestions are reflected in this report.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES: 1. Student Counselling 2. Health Promotion and Wellbeing 3. Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS)

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INTRODUCTION SSAF CONSULTATION AT THE UON

In October 2011, the Australian Parliament passed legislation allowing Universities to charge a compulsory fee for student services and amenities of a non-academic nature. Universities may allocate revenue from the fee to projects and services across 19 allowable categories (as defined in the legislation1 ), including health and welfare, careers, employment and counselling services, advocacy, sport, student clubs and recreation. Universities may also allocate revenue to the construction or upgrade of nonacademic amenities and infrastructure such as sporting or recreation facilities, or student social spaces that support delivery of the services.

The legislation and guidelines require the University to establish consultation mechanisms with students including elected student representatives, to consider how the fee revenue is to be used. The consultation mechanisms should provide students with an opportunity to comment upon and have input into the proposed priorities for services and amenity.

The University of Newcastle has a genuine commitment to broad consultation with students and to responding to student feedback and comment.

With the introduction of the SSAF the University established comprehensive processes for consultation and engagement with elected student representatives and representatives of student entities and associations to enable discussion, input and comment on priorities.

In 2012, the University established two key consultation groups: the SSAF Student Consultative Group (SSAFSCG) and shortly thereafter the SSAF Entities Consultative Group (SSAFECG), with the membership across both including

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elected student representatives from the four studentbased or associated on-campus entities. These are: • Central Coast Campus Union Ltd ( ‘Yourimbah’) • Newcastle University Postgraduate Students Association (‘NUPSA’) • Newcastle University Sport (‘NUsport’) • Newcastle University Students Association (‘NUSA’) Whilst these processes were effective and provided for input from elected student representatives, there was direct overlap in membership between the two consultative groups, and they often did not reach out to the broader student population across all student interests, cohorts and all campuses or locations. Recognising this, the SSAF Student Survey was introduced in 2016 to provide an opportunity for all students eligible to pay the fee, to have direct input into identifying the priorities and projects to be supported with SSAF revenue in the subsequent year. The response rates achieved across both years the survey has now been conducted, are an indication of the level of student interest in being directly engaged in the consultation process.

In early 2017 the University established a peak student advisory body – the Student Advisory Council (SAC) which reports to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic). The SAC comprises elected and other student members across all major student cohorts, campuses and student groups within the University, with a student as chair. The SAC will advise the DVC(A) on the potential uses of SSAF funds in 2018 that align with the student lifecycle and priorities for student support, consistent with the Guidelines and complementing the priorities identified in this survey.

The University also consults directly with elected student and other representatives from each of the four studentbased or associated on-campus entities listed above.

In addition to consultation with the above groups, the University seeks input from internal service areas responsible for delivery of key services to students, particularly professional services. This includes Student Central, the University Health Service, Counselling Services, Library, UON Global, Centre for Teaching & Learning Dean of Students and other areas.

The University also relies upon other major surveys and student feedback through such forums as the commencing student and continuing student surveys, Student Feedback on the University of Newcastle (SFUN) survey, workshops and focus group sessions. The SFUN, conducted every two years, is the most comprehensive of these for consideration of students’ experience with services and thus can directly inform priorities relative to the SSAF. This is the second year that a dedicated SSAF survey has formed part of the consultation process with students. It has enabled the University to obtain direct comment and feedback from across all student cohorts, campuses and study modes, at a comprehensive level, to inform decisionmaking on service delivery and provision of non-academic amenity for students in 2018, and beyond.

Together with formal engagement through the elected student representatives on the SAC, consultation with the student entities and discussions with internal service providers, the University has a substantial evidence-base on which to make informed decisions in use of SSAF revenue aligned with student needs and priorities.

1 Higher Education Legislation Support Act 2003, including Student Services, Amenities, Representation and Advocacy Guidelines

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RELATIONSHIP OF THIS SSAF 2018 SURVEY TO THE SFUN 2016 SURVEY

8 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

Conducted in Semester 1, 2016, the SFUN survey contained 254 unique questions focused primarily on non-academic aspects of the university experience for students. The SFUN is administered every two years, and the total number of respondents to the SFUN survey in 2016 was 5814, or 18.3% of total enrolled students. The SFUN survey will next be conducted in 2018.

Given its focus on non-academic aspects of UON student life, many of the findings and issues reported in the SFUN are of direct relevance to the identification and setting of priorities for SSAF. Consequently, the SSAF 2018 Survey was designed so as not to duplicate the focus of the SFUN. Where complementarity exists and may potentially inform priority-setting, it has been discussed in context within this report.

At the general level, the SFUN 2016 survey identified that just over 60% of students understood the purpose of the SSAF, compared to 40% in 2012. Around 40% understood what SSAF is delivering for students, and about one quarter

knew how to provide comment into SSAF projects.

Across each of the direct SSAF questions asked in the SFUN since 2012, there has been an improvement in student understanding through each subsequent iteration of the SFUN. In open comments to the SFUN, many students who studied via distance or online expressed their frustration and lack of understanding as to why they were charged the SSAF. Similar views were expressed in the open comments to the SSAF 2017 Student Survey, and likewise in this SSAF 2018 Student Survey. There is further discussion of this issue elsewhere in this Report, but it is important to note here that as a direct outcome of the SFUN 2016 and SSAF 2017 Surveys, a reduced SSAF fee was introduced in 2017 for students studying solely online or solely by distance.

The graph below includes the most recent SFUN data (2016).

Note that a new question was introduced in 2014 and another in 2016.

Graph 1: Percentage of students who ‘agree’ in response to SSAF-related questions in SFUN % Agreed 70 65 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 2012

2014

2016

I understand the purpose of SSAF

I understand the payment options for SSAF

I know if I am eligible for SA-HELP to cover SSAF

I know how to provide comment into SSAF projects

I know what SSAF is delivering for students

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HOW THE SSAF 2017 STUDENT SURVEY INFORMED PRIORITIES AND DECISIONS FOR 2017 EXPENDITURE The allocation of SSAF revenue in 2017 was informed by the priorities and preferences identified by students in the SSAF 2017 Survey conducted in mid-2016, in addition to consultation with relevant student groups and service delivery areas. Overwhelmingly, students expressed their preference for SSAF revenue to be used in delivery of professional services, with the top five being:

In Open Comments to the 2017 Survey (and also reflected in comments in this 2018 Survey), students expressed a desire to see a greater diversity of food options and improved amenity on the Hunter Side of the Callaghan campus. Two projects have recently been completed which seek to address this student preference: Park on the Hill and the Hunter Cafeteria outdoor area upgrade.

1. Student Counselling

Students also told us that extended hours for food and beverage outlets was a high priority, particularly for those at Ourimbah campus. In Semester 1, 2017, a trial project is underway to provide extended hours for the Blue Gum CafĂŠ at Ourimbah, to test demand and obtain student feedback on this service, and determine viability on an ongoing basis.

2. Health Promotion and Wellbeing 3. Careers Counselling and Advice 4. Employment Support Services 5. Financial services Students also indicated their top priority for campus amenity (capital works) was the outdoor area adjacent to the new Auchmuty Learning Lounge (level 3) at Callaghan campus. That project is currently in planning and will be delivered in 2017.

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Students at several smaller locations, particularly those on year-long clinical placements at regional hospitals or HDR students at Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) at the John Hunter Hospital campus (JHH), provided valuable feedback and comments through the survey. In response, direct funding has been provided to the UON Department

of Rural Health (UONDRH) and NUPSA, for activities at regional health locations and the HMRI. Funding for student lockers at JHH was also supported in direct response to student feedback.

Students told us that they did not strongly support continued SSAF funding for several activities or services, and this was discontinued or reduced in 2017. This included the Elite Athlete Program (which is now supported with funding from other sources), some reduction in funds for student media and artistic activity, and removal of funding for honoraria for presidents of student associations.

However, it can be noted that in response to a direct request from the Newcastle University Students Association (NUSA), additional funding is being provided over a 2-year period to support employment of a professional manager for that organisation.

to fund on-campus services or amenity, representing a perception of inequity in paying of the fee, as they did not access those services or amenity at the same level as oncampus students. As a direct result of that feedback, the University Council approved a reduced fee applicable to those students whose mode of study is solely online or by distance (30% of the full fee).

Based on feedback to last year’s survey, the Ourimbah campus now has a monthly Welcome Dinner which is a community-based event facilitated by international and domestic students. This provides students with an opportunity to meet with community members and to make friends in the area. This is a partnership between UON Global and a not-for-profit entity (Joining the Dots).

A similar project also runs at Sydney campus.

Notably, students who study off-campus either online or by distance, told us in open comments to the 2017 Survey that they felt the SSAF revenue was used mostly

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METHODOLOGY SURVEY DESIGN The Survey was drafted by the SSAF office and administered online in April-May 2017 to all applicable UON students (i.e. only those students who are required to pay the fee).

The survey was managed by the UON Strategy, Planning & Performance (SPP) team.

In 2016, the purpose of the survey was discussed with the SSAF Student Consultative Group (SSAFSCG) and the SSAF Entities Consultative Group (SSAFECG). These groups have now been disestablished with the formation of the Student Advisory Council (SAC) in May 2017.

The four student-based or associated entities (NUPSA, NUSA, NUsport, Yourimbah) were consulted during the design of this SSAF 2018 Survey, and were also provided with the key data tables and an opportunity to provide input into the report.

Wherever possible, ‘what’ is to be delivered (i.e. the service) was emphasised, and not ‘who’ delivers it (i.e. an association, entity or internal UON service area).

In Part A of the Survey, students were asked several general questions to elicit demographic data. Other non-identifying demographic and enrolment information was drawn automatically from the UON’s Student System.

A second section in Part A asked students to select one category only from the 19 allowable categories for SSAF expenditure2 that they considered the most important to receive SSAF funding in 2018.

In Part B of the Survey, students were asked to indicate their priorities regarding whether particular services or projects should receive SSAF funding in 2018. The services or projects were grouped into four themes (sections) in the survey: 1. Student Support Services (17 services/projects) 2. Student Recreation and Sport (6 services/projects) 3. Student Social and Cultural Activities (9 services/ projects) 4. Campus Amenity Projects for Students (9 projects)

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At the end of the survey, students were given an opportunity for Open Comments, where they could offer feedback or provide further information or ideas for services and projects.

Against each of the first three themes in Part B, students were asked to select by order of preference their top 8, 3 or 4 preferences, respectively. For Campus Amenity Projects, students were asked to identify only one preference. Across the first 3 themes in Part B, students were able to select fewer preferences than the maximum possible.

For all four themes, students could also select ‘none of the above’, as their sole preference, or as one of their preferences.

A copy of the Part B themes, service descriptions and project options is included at Appendix A.

CHANGES IN THIS 2018 SURVEY FROM THE SSAF 2017 SURVEY The SSAF 2017 Survey was conducted in mid-2016. In that survey, students were asked to indicate whether services or projects in Part B should receive SSAF funding in 2017, by indicating YES, NO or NOT SURE. Students could choose to answer YES, NO, or NOT SURE to all services in each theme. In doing so, such responses provided no indication of the importance of any single service or project to the individual student, relative to others in that theme. The lack of any indication of importance or priority was noted in subsequent review of last year’s survey.

The Survey Design was changed in this SSAF 2018 Survey, and students were asked to number (rank) their selections within each theme, with 1 being their most preferred. Relative weightings were then applied across the preferences chosen by students, to better reflect the importance students attached to their selections.

There is further discussion of this in the section on SSAF 2018 Survey data analysis methodology, below.

RESPONSE RATE The Survey was launched on Monday 24 April, 2017 and closed on Sunday 14 May, 2017. It was sent to 26,741 students enrolled at UON as at 19 April, 2017 who are eligible to pay the SSAF fee. The total number of respondents to the Survey this year was 4109, or 15.4%. In the previous Survey, 2994 students responded, representing a response rate of 10% (2016 enrolments).

Three reminders were sent to students. The effect of the reminders produced the following pattern of responses:

Graph 2: Responses to the SSAF Survey

Of the 4109 students who responded, 3070 were undergraduate (74.7%) and 1039 post-graduate3 (25.3%).

2909 were enrolled at Callaghan campus, 446 at Ourimbah campus, 395 were enrolled online, 179 in Newcastle City, 60 at Sydney campus, 59 at Port Macquarie campus and 64 ‘other’.

Continuing students represented 63% of responses and commencing students 37%.

2 As defined in the legislation 3 Higher degree by research (HDR) and post-graduate by coursework (PGCW)

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RESPONSE BY CAMPUS 11% 10% 4% 4% 71%

CALLAGHAN

OURIMBAH

ONLINE

NEWCASTLE CITY

SYDNEY, PORT MACQUARIE AND OTHER

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RESPONSES BY GENDER

RESPONSES BY FACULTY

RESPONSES BY ACADEMIC LEVEL 10%

17% 16% 37%

15%

13% 28%

63%

75% 26%

MALE

FEMALE

FEDUA

DIVCA

FSCI

FEBE

FBUSL

UGRD

RSCH

PGCW

KEY FEDUA = FACULTY OF EDUCATION AND ARTS

UGRD = UNDERGRADUATE

DIVCA =

RSCH = RESEARCH

FSCI = FACULTY OF SCIENCE

PGCW = POSTGRADUATE COURSEWORK

FEBE = FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT FBUSL = FACULTY OF BUSINESS AND LAW

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DATA ANALYSIS AND REPORTING Demographic and enrolment data was obtained from the survey instrument and student enrolment database, which assists in identifying any differences or preferences for particular services across student cohorts or campuses. Analysis was conducted overall and by academic level (undergraduate; postgraduate), commencing status and main campus of study (including online/distance).

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In Part A, students were asked to select ONE ONLY from the 19 SSAF categories listed, being the most important to them to receive SSAF funding in 2018. 4106 students selected one category only as their most important and the results are shown in Table 2.

Analysis of the Part A responses and all four Part B responses included a review of students’ academic level and campus. Where any material variations were identified these have been discussed in the detail within this Report.

In Part B, services or projects were grouped under four themes (NB: the individual services or projects in each theme are listed at Appendix A):

Analysis of Part A and B included all respondents who expressed preferences for one or more of the options (services) listed. Across the Part B themes 1, 2 and 3 above, 96.6% of students expressed a preference by selecting up to 8, 3 or 4 of the services listed against those themes, respectively.

Most students who selected ‘none of the above’ did so as their first and only preference. However, some also selected ‘none of the above’ AND other options within a theme up to and including the maximum number of preferences possible. All of these responses were included in the analysis.

In the data analysis across themes 1, 2 and 3 in Part B, a weighting formula was applied to reflect the order of preference in individual student responses, and to determine a ranking of all options or services against that theme.

1. STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES 2. STUDENT RECREATION AND SPORT 3. STUDENT SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES 4. STUDENT CAMPUS AMENITY PROJECTS Students were asked to indicate up to 8, 3, 4 or 1 services or project respectively against each of the four themes above, to indicate whether it should receive funding from the 2018 SSAF, with ‘1’ being their most preferred. Students could also select ‘none of the above’ against each of the themes either as their sole preference, or as any one of their preferences.

For Campus Amenity Works, no weighting was necessary as students could select only one option (i.e. project) within the options listed, including ‘none of the above’.

An open text response was available at the end of the Survey where students could enter comment and ideas for services or projects.

Table 1: Number of Preferences Selected

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

STUDENT RECREATION AND SPORT

SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITY

CAMPUS AMENITY PROJECTS

8

3

4

1

Number of students who selected 1 or more preferences

3988

3970

3969

4106

Number of students who selected the maximum preferences available

3211

3250

3087

4106

% who selected maximum available

80.5%

81.9%

77.8%

100.0%

Maximum preferences available

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UNDERSTANDING THE DATA TABLES The data tables may raise some questions for you, and the following discussion and Q&A may therefore assist in understanding them.

Tables 4 through 9, apart from the service descriptor, contain three other columns: • Ranking • Weighted Score • % of all preferences The numerical Ranking is based on the number of students who chose that service as one of their preferences, and the importance students attached to it.

The Weighted Score is calculated on three elements: 1. The preference as selected by the student (i.e., 1st 2nd, 3rd and so on); 2. A ‘weighting’ value applied to that selection to reflect the individual student’s order of preference; and 3. The number of students who selected the service as any preference

WEIGHTED SCORE FORMULA: The weighted score assigns a value to a students’ preference (with the 1st preference being given the highest value).

These values are then summed (for each item) to give an overall weighted sum. The weighted sums are then scaled, with the item with the highest sum assigned a weighted score of 10; and the item with the lowest sum assigned a value of zero. All other items are then assigned a score proportionate to the value between zero and ten.

Weighted Sum (WS) = SUM(N Preference * Weight) Weighted Score = (10 * WS) (MAX(WS)−MIN(WS)) The column showing ‘% of all preferences’ shows the percentage of ALL students who selected that service as ANY preference within their response.

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Q. WHY DO TABLES 4-9 SHOW ‘% OF ALL PREFERENCES’ RATHER THAN ‘% OF FIRST PREFERENCES’?

A. The ‘% of all preferences’ provides an indication of overall interest in a particular service. The ‘% of first preferences’ is important, but does not illustrate the value of subsequent preferences which are relevant. The % of all preferences provides a reasonable comparison of priorities across the three services themes, particularly when viewed in conjunction with the weighted score.

Q. WHY ARE SOME SERVICES WITH A HIGHER ‘% OF ALL PREFERENCES’, RANKED BELOW ONES WITH A LESSER PERCENTAGE? A. The weighted score, and therefore the ranking, reflects students’ order of preference in the responses. Whilst more students may have selected a particular service as any one of their preferences, if the order of preference was lower, then the weighting applied is also lower, leading to a lower weighted score and potentially, a lower overall ranking.

Conversely, fewer students may have selected another service, but given it higher preferences, which would then lead to a higher weighted score and thus, a higher ranking.

The weighted score, ranking and % of all preferences, read together, therefore provide a comprehensive view of student preferences and priorities.

Where relevant, the % of students who chose a service as their first preference, is discussed within the body of the report.

Q. WHY DOES ‘NONE OF THE ABOVE’ RANK HIGHER THAN SOME ACTUAL SERVICES OR PROJECTS? A. Students could select ‘none of the above’ as one of their preferences under any of the four sections, or it could be their first (and only) preference. In most cases, students who selected ‘None of the above’, did so as their first preference. As a first preference, it receives the same weighting as any ‘service’ selected as a first preference.

If more students chose ‘none of the above’ than other services in that section, it would generate a higher weighted score, and hence a higher ranking.

Q. WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF LARGE (OR SMALL) STEP-GAPS IN THE WEIGHTED SCORES? A. Surveys may identify very small or very large differences in student preferences (i.e. importance) across a range of services, but this may not be reflected accurately when the responses are reported using consecutive numerical rankings (i.e. 1-2-3-4 and so on), or even with the ‘% of student preferences’. A large jump in weighted scores between two consecutively ranked services, gives a strong indication of significant preference for one service over the next-ranked service than the numerical ranking might otherwise suggest, and conversely for a very small differential in weighted scores.

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HOW THE SURVEY REPORT WILL BE USED IN THE 2018 SSAF DECISIONMAKING 20 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

Student preferences, issues and comments identified in the survey will inform decision-making for delivery of services and amenity projects in 2018 and prioritisation of SSAF revenue to support that delivery.

Where one of the 19 SSAF ‘allowable’ categories has been identified by students as a high priority in Part A, and a particular service or project in Part B has also been highly ranked by students relative to other services in that theme, the University will prioritise funding for that service accordingly.

The response data in Table 4 through Table 9, provide a clear representation of student preferences and support for continued delivery of most services. Even where direct preferences may indicate lower support, other factors such as size of cohort, campus location and so on, may also inform decisions. For this reason, the weighted score, percentage of student preferences or outright ranking is useful, but not the only determinant in decisions.

Table 10 provides an indication of student preferences for campus amenity, as indicated by the rankings identified for each project.

Student associations and entities, and internal services’ units involved in the delivery of services funded through SSAF revenue, have been provided with the relevant data in this report and a copy of the report itself, to assist in developing service delivery strategies and plans for 2018 that address the needs and preferences identified by students and as discussed herein.

The Student Advisory Council (SAC) is also invited to provide advice to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor on potential uses of SSAF funds that align with the student lifecycle and priority support categories, and student members of the SAC are provided a copy of this report, for consideration and to inform that advice.

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SURVEY PART A: RANKING OF SSAF ALLOWABLE CATEGORIES

Within the SSAF legislation, the Australian Government has defined 19 allowable categories for expenditure of SSAF revenue. Students were asked to select the single category that they considered the most important to receive SSAF funding in 2018. The wording of the categories in the survey and in Table 2 below is as it is in the legislation.

Overwhelmingly, the single most important category was ‘helping students obtain employment or advice on careers’, ranked first by all student cohorts.

Of the next five highest ranked categories (2 through 6), three showed some variation across particular student cohorts or campuses (see Table 3: Key variations). Across the remaining rankings (other than ranking 8) either the variation itself or the number of responses by cohort or campus, was not significant.

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Table 2: Ranking of 19 allowable SSAF spending areas (where 1 is most important) N = 4106

OVERALL RANKING

% OF STUDENT SUPPORT

RANKING OF SSAF ALLOWABLE CATEGORIES

1

Helping students obtain employment or advice on careers

20.6%

2

Helping students develop skills for study, by means other than undertaking courses of study in which they are enrolled

14.6%

3

Promoting the health or welfare of students

12.6%

4

Helping students with their financial affairs

10.2%ª

5

Providing food or drink to students on a campus of the higher education provider

7.9%b

6

Advocating students’ interests in matters arising under the higher education provider’s rules (however described)

7.0%C

7

Providing libraries and reading rooms (other than those provided for academic purposes) for students

6.4%

8

Helping meet the specific needs of overseas students relating to their welfare, accommodation and employment

5.5%d

9

Caring for children of students

3.9%

10

Supporting a sporting or other recreational activity by students

2.2%

11

Giving students information to help them in their orientation

1.9%

12

Supporting the administration of a club most of whose members are students

1.7%

13

Advising on matters arising under the higher education provider’s rules (however described)

1.5%

14

Helping students secure accommodation

1.3%

15

Supporting an artistic activity by students

1.2%

16

Providing legal services to students

0.6%

17

Supporting the production and dissemination to students of media whose content is provided by students

0.5%

18

Helping students obtain insurance against personal accidents

0.3%

19

Supporting debating by students

0.2%

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Table 3: Key variations by cohort

UNDERGRADUATE RANK BY COHORT

POSTGRADUATE RANK BY COHORT

ONLINE

RANK BY COHORT

SYDNEY

RANK BY CAMPUS

a Financial affairs

11.4%

4

6.4%

6

8.4%

5

5.0%

5

b Food or drink

9.3%

5

3.8%

9

1.3%

11

0.0%

-

c Advocating

6.1%

7

9.7%

5

14.4%

3

0.0%

-

d Overseas students

3.5%

8

11.2%

4

2.8%

10

26.7%

2

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CHILD CARE SERVICES In Part A of the Survey, ‘Caring for children of students’ was identified as the most important category for SSAF spending by 3.9% of students, ranking ninth out of the 19 categories overall. In addition, all students were asked the following question, with a YES/NO response: “Are you a parent or carer who requires access to on-campus child care services, such as occasional care during exam times or similar?”

A total of 135 students (3.3%) responded YES, they are parents or carer-givers and require on-campus child care.

In the SFUN 2016, 5.4% of students indicated that they utilise childcare facilities, either on-campus or off-campus.

In Open Comments to this survey, a number of students raised matters concerning the provision of child care services, most particularly a need for occasional care or care for school-age children during exam periods. There were also several comments related to the cost of child

care services, both on- and off-campus, and suggestions for on-campus OOSH (out of school hours) or crèche-type services in the library.

In seeking to address these issues – and acknowledging that concerns have been raised in other surveys and forums – the University has met with the current provider of on-campus child care services (with three centres at Callaghan and one at Ourimbah) to discuss child care services for students in particular. Consultants have also been engaged to review services across the sector more generally, with a view to identifying whether options exist to focus SSAF funds in support of alternative service delivery options at UON. Further work is required before a suite of strategies can be identified and implemented. The results of this survey and other discussions will inform decisions. Opportunities for students to be involved through consultation will be available, either directly or via key student representative bodies such as the SAC or on-campus student associations.

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SURVEY PART B: SERVICES AND PRIORITIES FOR FUNDING IN 2018 THEME 1: STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

There were 17 services identified under this theme of Student Support Services, plus the option to choose ‘none of the above’. Students could select up to eight services from the options and rank them in order of preference.

Student selections in order of preference/ranking can be seen in the table below. A total of 3988 students expressed preference for one or more services/options in this theme.

121 students who responded to the survey did not select any preferences in this theme.

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Table 4: Ranking of Student Support Services (where 1 is most preferred) N = 3988

OVERALL RANKING

RANKING OF SSAF ALLOWABLE CATEGORIES

WEIGHTED SCORE

% OF ALL PREFERENCES

10.00

71.0%

Health promotion and wellbeing

9.36

68.4%

3

Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS)

8.95

64.3%

4

Careers counselling and advice

7.38

61.0%

5

Employment support services

7.02

58.6%

6

Expand existing financial emergency support services for student facing short-term financial hardship

6.87

58.6%

7

Advocacy services including the Office of Student Advocacy

6.21

49.2%

8

Emergency food support for students in need

5.57

50.3%

9

Financial counselling, budgeting workshops and support

3.94

40.4%

10

Postgraduate student networking and workshops

3.00

26.9%

11

Volunteering

2.91

31.9%

12

Library Study Rovers

2.86

29.9%

13

Social program during student orientation

2.73

30.6%

14

Accommodation advice and assistance particularly offcampus accommodation

2.51

30.8%

15

Legal counselling and support for students including on-campus UON Legal Centre Clinics

2.33

28.9%

16

Membership fees for national student bodies

0.47

10.9%

17

None of the above

0.05

5.1%

18

Honoraria for elected student presidents or elected office holders of student associations and/or entities

0.0

6.0%

1

Student counselling

2

The University of Newcastle | 27

Several of the services were identified as potentially having greater significance or relevance to particular student cohorts or campuses, and the responses are identified in the tables below: Note that Online and Sydney campus students are predominantly postgraduate, so they will also be reflected in the aggregated ‘Postgraduate’ cohort.

Table 5: Advocacy Services – additional analysis

UNDERGRADUATE

POSTGRADUATE

ONLINE

SYDNEY

9.6%

15.0%

20.6%

16.3%

FIRST PREFERENCES

Table 6: Careers and Employment Services – additional analysis for Sydney campus

SERVICE

% OF ALL PREFERENCES

% FIRST PREFERENCES

RANKING BY THIS COHORT

CAREERS COUNSELLING AND ADVICE

61.2%

16.3%

2

EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT SERVICES

71.4%

18.4%

1

28 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

Table 7: Skills for study – additional analysis

UNDERGRADUATE

POSTGRADUATE

ONLINE

% of all preferences

% first preference

Ranking

% of all preferences

% first preference

Ranking

% of all preferences

% first preference

Ranking

PASS

72.2%

18.1%

1

40.5%

5.0%

8

35.9%

5.5%

9

PG & HDR WORKSHOPS

17.1%

0.6%

15

56.7%

15.4%

3

38.0%

7.4%

7

The University of Newcastle | 29

SUMMARY STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Within the top five ranked student support services, students showed a strong preference for counselling, health, careers and employment, and skills for study. The first four of these mirror the top four student support services identified in last year’s survey. Students ranked PASS study sessions as their third highest priority this year, up from sixth last year.

Between 58.6% and 71.0% of all students selected the top five services as one of their preferences in this section. In addition, all of these highly ranked services align directly with the three highest ranked SSAF categories as identified in Part A, where almost half of all students identified them as the most important SSAF spending areas.

The high ranking of these particular services also reflect issues identified by students in the 2016 SFUN Survey as areas of major importance to them, including concerns with stress, physical and emotional well-being, careers and employment advice services.

Student counselling, and health and wellbeing services, were the first and second highest ranked services in this section, attracting 28.5% of all first preference selections by students, and with around 70% of all students selecting either (or both) as any one of their preferences. The tight clustering of the weighted scores also indicates that these options were regularly included as student’s top preferences.

Advice on careers and assistance with employment services were also highly ranked at 4 and 5, again echoing Part A ‘Helping students obtain employment or advice on careers’ which was ranked the highest priority of all 19 SSAF allowable categories in that Part of the survey. Volunteering, (ranked 11) is also linked to the employment and careers category, and was supported at a slightly lower level in first preferences and across all preferences.

Sydney-based students identified Careers Counselling and Advice and Employment Support Services as a high priority, with around twice as many selecting these services as their first preference, relative to students overall (see Table 6).

Open comments identified in the SFUN 2016 survey and last year’s SSAF Survey indicated a need to improve promotion and awareness amongst students of how to access student support services. In this year’s SSAF survey, there were fewer issues or concerns of this nature identified in open comments. Nonetheless, ensuring information is available for students about how and where to access support services will remain a key priority.

30 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

All cohorts and major campuses identified assistance with development of ‘skills for study’, as the second highest priority in Part A. When the results for PASS sessions (ranked 3) and postgraduate student networking and workshops (ranked 10) are considered, a similar high priority is evident in this section for services related to this same SSAF category. Note that the ranking in Table 4 reflects the preferences of all student cohorts.

To provide greater clarity of preferences, the responses were filtered for the relevant cohort (see Table 7). For undergraduate students, the provision of PASS sessions was selected as the first preference by 18.1% of students – more than any other service in first preferences – and it was also ranked as the highest priority for that cohort when weighted scores were applied.

For postgraduate students, 15.4% chose ‘Postgraduate student networking and workshops’ as their first preference more than any other single support service by that cohort and it ranked third in overall postgraduate student service priorities when weighted scores were applied.

By contrast, the Online student cohort (which is overwhelmingly postgraduate), gave this service a much lower ranking (7), compared to the postgraduate cohort as a whole, with only half as many choosing it as their first preference (7.4%). However, the Online cohort identified ‘Helping students develop skills for study’ as their secondhighest priority within the 19 approved SSAF categories in Part A – the same as all other cohorts. The gap in ranking between the general SSAF category and the specific service in this theme may indicate a need (for the University) to investigate the relevance and availability of existing study skills support services to Online students, with the view to aligning or targeting more specifically to the needs of that cohort.

The need for ongoing financial and other assistance to students in hardship was recognised in the priority given by students to expanded financial emergency support (6), and to a lesser extent, emergency food support for students in need (8). Just over half of all students selected these two services as one of their preferences. Both of these services sit under the SSAF category of ‘Promoting the health or welfare of students’ which was the third highest priority supported by students in Part A. The delivery of financial counselling, budgeting workshops and support ranked ninth in this theme. However, students ranked ‘Helping students with their financial affairs’ as

their fourth highest priority in the 19 SSAF approved categories in Part A, perhaps indicating a need to review the current services provided to ensure they meet student needs and expectations.

The provision of professional advocacy services to students was the seventh highest preference in this and last year’s survey. For postgraduate, online and Sydney-campus students, it was much more important with a higher number of students choosing it as their first preference relative to undergraduates or students overall (see Table 5). ‘Advocating students’ interests’ also was highly supported overall in Part A, ranking sixth of all SSAF categories.

For the services ranked at 11 to 15, reasonable support was identified for most across the lesser preferences expressed in student responses (i.e. 2, 3 and so on). Around 30% of all students chose these services as one of their preferences, indicating that whilst they may not be the highest priority, they are still valued by a significant number of students.

First preferences across this group of services were all less than 2%.

As with the SSAF Survey last year, a social program associated with Orientation was not identified as a high priority by all students. There was a slightly higher preference expressed by commencing students with 35.1% selecting it as one of their preferences compared to 30.6% overall, and as occurred in 2016 the First Semester Orientation Survey this year revealed solid support and satisfaction from Commencing Students for orientation activities.

The two lowest-ranked services – Membership fees for national student bodies and Honoraria – with overall preferences at 10.9% or less and first preferences of 0.6% or less, indicate relatively low levels of student support for these.

In this section as a whole, 5.1% of students selected ‘None of the above’ as one of their preferences, with 1.3% of all students choosing it as their first preference.

121 students responded to the survey but made no selection of any preferences in this section. However, it cannot be concluded that the intent for these students is “None of the above”, and as such they were excluded from the analysis.

The University of Newcastle | 31

RECOMMENDATIONS The University must continue to communicate the outcomes of surveys and actions taken as a result of issues and priorities identified by students, in allocation of SSAF revenue for delivery of services and amenity.

The University will continue to prioritise funding support for health and welfare, and careers and employment services, reflecting the preferences of students identified in the survey. As required under the relevant Guidelines, delivery of such services will be by trained and qualified professional staff.

Continued attention must be given to the (online) counselling service, given the importance attached to this service particularly by Online students. However, this service is equally important to students on clinical placement or practicums and to those students who may not be able to attend in person, and promotion of the service must therefore reach out to all relevant students.

The University should continue to focus employment support services on strategies that enhance employability options for students and which assist students to gain employment whilst studying. Further investigation should occur with students at the Sydney campus, to identify the

32 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

particular needs and issues given the high priority on employment and careers identified by those students in the survey.

Given the pattern of responses across cohorts and in Open Comments, the University needs to better promote the availability of existing online tools, webinars and other resources, such as Career Hub and Interview Stream, and encourage students to make use of these.

The University will continue to prioritise study skills support, through the delivery of PASS sessions for undergraduate students and courses and workshops tailored to the needs of postgraduate students.

The University will continue to prioritise funding for professional advocacy services, and will consult with postgraduate students in particular to understand the needs of this cohort, given the higher priority identified by Online, Sydney and postgraduate students in general.

The University should look to accelerate implementation of the recommendations identified in the financial wellbeing project, which aims to identify gaps in financial support and assistance for students, highlight actions that can be taken to provide additional support whilst improving processes

and enhancing frontline services for students facing financial difficulties.

The University will look to expand financial emergency support services and food support for students facing short-term financial hardship, including existing and new strategies where appropriate, including those delivered through student associations.

The University should look to accelerate implementation of the recommendations identified in the financial wellbeing project, which aims to identify gaps in financial support and assistance for students, highlight actions that can be taken to provide additional support whilst improving processes and enhancing frontline services for students facing financial difficulties.

The University will engage with the on-campus student associations involved in delivering financial workshops in 2017, to review existing strategies to ensure these reflect student priorities and needs.

libraries after-hours or 24 x 7. Student satisfaction with these services should also be reviewed, as perceptions of quality of service may influence the level of support for this service.

Whilst not reflected proportionally in the responses, with the relocation of a significant number of Callaghan-based students into the Newcastle CBD campus from mid-2017, the University will need to monitor, assess access to and demand for student support services in the CBD to ensure alignment of funds to support that delivery and preferences identified by those students. The University should engage directly with students from these cohorts as part of the consultation process.

Based on the low levels of student support relative to all other services, the University should only consider support for national student bodies and honoraria on a case by case basis.

The University should identify and ensure a closer alignment between Library Study Rovers and the priorities and needs of students for this service support, particularly in facilitating access and support for students in the

The University of Newcastle | 33

THEME 2: STUDENT RECREATION AND SPORT There were six services identified in this theme of Student Recreation and Sport, plus the option for students to select ‘none of the above’. Students could select up to three services from the options and rank them in order of preference.

Student priorities in order of preference/ranking can be seen in the table below. A total of 3970 students expressed preference for one or more services/options in this theme.

139 students who responded to the survey, did not select any preferences in this theme.

Table 8: Ranking of Student Recreation and Sport (where 1 is most preferred) N = 3970

RANKING

STUDENT RECREATION AND SPORT

WEIGHTED SCORE

% OF ALL PREFERENCES

1

On-campus student gyms discounted student membership

10.0

73.8%

2

Recreational and social sport

4.52

50.4%

3

UON non-competitive sport and physical recreation clubs

2.53

36.9%

4

Inter-university sports events

1.99

32.6%

5

UON student sporting teams

1.92

32.5%

6

Sport health and fitness at regional locations

1.51

30.5%

7

None of the above

0.0

11.7%

34 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

SUMMARY STUDENT RECREATION AND SPORT

In Part A of the survey, 2.2% of students identified sport or other recreational activity as the most important category for SSAF funding support in 2018, ranking it tenth overall, a similar result to last year.

In analysis of responses to this section, the most significant observation was the overwhelming number of students who selected ‘On-campus student gyms’ as their first preference (49.9%). 73.8% of all students selected this as one of their preferences. There were some variations at regional locations, in particular Port Macquarie, with only 16.4% selecting it as their first preference, ranking it their third priority overall. For students at Ourimbah campus 60.7% selected this as their first preference and 81.8% as any preference overall, ranking it clearly as their first priority.

In the SFUN 2016 survey, around half of students at Callaghan had not heard of or not used sports facilities on campus.

Of those that had, 75.7% were satisfied. In open comments to the SFUN 2016, students identified cost of student membership at the Forum as a barrier, whilst others felt that their contribution to SSAF should entitle free access. Similar comments were made in open comments to this and last year’s SSAF surveys. This highlights a need for the University and NUsport – the operator of the Forum – to communicate more clearly to students that SSAF funding (in the form of the membership subsidy) represents a relatively small proportion of the overall operating costs of the Forum.

The SFUN 2016 identified that almost 70% of students at Ourimbah campus had not heard of or not used sports facilities on the campus, and of those that had, 58.3% were satisfied. Changes in the operation of the Ourimbah on-campus gym – ‘Your Gym’ – were made for 2017 and will be monitored for their impact on student access and satisfaction in the next SFUN. The second priority – and consistently so across all cohorts and campuses – was ‘Social sport, health and fitness’, with 14.3% of first preferences and 50.4% of all preferences with students overall.

The emphasis in student preferences for recreation and sport appears to reflect strong interest in recreational, social or non-competitive sporting or physical activities, with noncompetitive sport and physical recreation clubs supported by at least one third of all students.

Support was just slightly less so for participation in formal or competitive sporting activities and teams (or sports clubs),

or participation by UON students in inter-university sports events, with at least 30% of all students identifying these as one of their preferences.

Support for the services ranked 3, 4 and 5 was relatively even across all three, with first preference selections ranging from 8.3% to 6.8%, and selection as any preference ranging from 36.9% to 32.5%.

Whilst ‘Sport, health and fitness at regional locations’ was the lowest ranked service in this section, it was the first preference for students at Port Macquarie, with 41.8% choosing it.

Across all services the preferences of Ourimbah students showed little significant variation to students overall.

A cohort of Newcastle city-based students were identified in the survey, with their preferences aligning with those of students overall.

Sydney-based students showed a similar pattern in responses, but with a slightly higher priority for sport or recreational activities that allow them to participate locally (i.e. ‘Sport, health and fitness at regional locations’ ranked six overall, but four by Sydney students). The term ‘regional locations’ may be confusing for Sydney students and will be addressed in future iterations of the survey.

In this section as a whole, 11.7% of students selected ‘none of the above’ as one of their preferences, and 7.8% chose it as their first preference. Amongst Online and Port Macquarie students, more than twice as many chose ‘none of the above’ as their first preference.

In open comments, students at campuses other than Callaghan and to a lesser extent, Ourimbah, noted the lack of access to on-campus or discounted gym memberships, or other sporting facilities more generally at those campuses.

As identified in last year’s survey, online students expressed frustration at not having access to the facilities and services represented by the on-campus gyms, whilst still being required to contribute by way of the SSAF fee. Again, it should be noted here that the SSAF fee for students studying solely online was reduced in 2017 to 30% of the full fee, in response to similar feedback in previous years.

139 students responded to the survey but made no selection of any preferences in this section. However, it cannot be concluded that the intent for these students is “None of the above”, and as such they were excluded from the analysis.

The University of Newcastle | 35

RECOMMENDATIONS The University’s associated sports partners – NUsport and Yourimbah – should look to opportunities which align student health and wellbeing with social or recreational sport or other physical activity, and should ensure that services funded through SSAF revenue, align with the priorities identified by students in this survey.

With the relocation of a significant number of Callaghanbased students into the Newcastle CBD campus in mid2017, the University and NUsport will need to monitor and potentially review access by students to gym facilities at both locations to ensure alignment of funding to support demand where it occurs. The relocation may also require adjustment in priorities across other services.

For UON Sydney campus students in particular, the University should increase awareness of existing SSAF-funded social sporting activities including badminton court hire and swimming lessons at King George V Sports Centre. Based on student feedback, a sporting equipment loans desk was established in partnership with NUsport to provide free equipment for all students at Sydney, and this service too should be actively promoted.

36 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

At the Callaghan campus, UON Global in collaboration with the Student Communications team should work towards increasing student knowledge of the GOALSS free programs at Callaghan campus for all students, including opportunities to participate in soccer and badminton every week.

The University should continue its efforts to improve access to recreational or sport facilities and services for students at regional campuses, Sydney campus or other locations where such facilities or access are not currently available or supported.

It is recommended that future iterations of the SFUN and this SSAF survey should clearly identify the link between NUsport and the Forum facilities, to ensure accuracy in student awareness and satisfaction responses. NUsport is the entity responsible for the provision and management of sport and physical recreation facilities and services, including ‘The Forum’ (the Callaghan on-campus facility) and ‘The Forum Harbourside’ (the Newcastle CBD facility).

THEME 3: STUDENT SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES There were nine services identified in this theme of Student Social and Cultural Activities, plus the option for students to select ‘none of the above’. Students could select up to four services from the options and rank them in order of preference.

Student priorities in order of preference/ranking can be seen in the table below. A total of 3969 students expressed preference for one or more services/options in this theme.

140 students who responded to the survey, did not make any selections in this theme.

Table 9: Ranking of Student Social and Cultural Activities (where 1 is most preferred) N = 3969

RANKING

SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITY

WEIGHTED SCORE

% OF ALL PREFERENCES

1

Cultural Awakenings, Autonomy Festival and other on-campus events

10.0

66.6%

2

Free weekly on-campus BBQ or other food event

8.87

57.7%

3

Extended hours for on-campus food and beverage services

7.42

51.8%

4

Student clubs and club events

4.79

41.1%

5

End of year formal celebrations and awards

4.30

39.6%

6

Social and recreational activities at regional locations

2.73

27.8%

7

Student media and publications

2.16

24.2%

8

Artistic activities and events such as Create 2308 and Create 2258

2.13

23.0%

9

None of the above

0.31

6.8%

10

Student debating competitions

0.0

6.1%

The University of Newcastle | 37

SUMMARY

STUDENT SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES The first three highest-ranked services in this section were supported with more than 50% of all students selecting them as one of their preferences, and with first preferences ranging from 27.6% (1) to 17% (3) across the three services.

The emphasis in the first two highest-ranked services is on on-campus events that bring students together in social activities, and which provide opportunity to meet and engage with other students. The value of such events was clearly identified in the SFUN 2016 survey, which identified that a significant proportion of students valued activities which enabled them to meet other students, have fun, listen to music and participate in ‘the friendly vibe’ of such events. These were key aspects of why students said they participate in and value social, cultural or other on-campus events, in addition to the ‘free-food’ often associated with those activities.

The SFUN 2016 identified high participation in and high satisfaction levels for students who engage in such events.

Overall, around 50% of students had attended or participated in such an event, but this was just 33% at Ourimbah campus.

Around 85% of students who attended or participated indicated they were satisfied, but this was slightly less so at Port Macquarie.

In Part A of this Survey, students identified the provision of food and drink on campus as their fifth highest priority, with 7.9% of students selecting this category. This was somewhat lower than last year, where 13.2% of students rated this as their third highest preference.

The importance of food and beverage services across all campuses and locations was also identified in open comments to the Survey, and in the preference shown by 51.8% of all students for extended hours for on-campus food and beverage services. This was a more significant issue at Ourimbah campus, relative to Callaghan or any other campus, where 28.2% of students selected this as their first preference and 66.4% of all preferences, more than any other service in this section for Ourimbah students.

Open comments to this Survey and the SFUN 2016 Survey identify the cost of food and availability of a range of healthy

38 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

food options (including dietary specific such as gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, halal) as key concerns for many students, including lack of access to on-campus food services, particularly after 2pm or 3pm on some campuses. Some students also expressed a desire for a greater variety of food options (such as burgers and access to groceries on campus).

Support for student clubs ranked twelfth in the SSAF categories in Part A, with 1.7% of students selecting it – a slightly lower result than last year’s SSAF Survey. It ranked fourth in this section with 41.1% of all students selecting it as one of their preferences, and 8.4% as their first preference.

Perhaps reflecting the overall scale of the campus, strongest support for clubs came from Callaghan based students, with 9.2% selecting it as their first preference. At Ourimbah campus only 3.9% of students identified support for clubs as their first preference, and only 1.8% at Port Macquarie.

In the SFUN 2016 Survey, just over 25% of students indicated they were a member of a club or society in 2016.

Open Comments to this and last year’s Survey identify some ongoing uncertainty amongst many students in how to establish a new club, and slightly less so in terms of accessing funds to support events and activities for an existing club.

Formal recognition of student engagement and participation in a range of on-campus activities, including sports, volunteering, and clubs, was well supported with 39.6% of students overall selecting ‘End of year formal celebrations and events’ as one of their preferences, and 7.2% as their first preference. However, for Online, Sydney and Port Macquarie students, up to twice as many students selected this as their first preference. In open comments, many students across the regional locations or smaller campuses saw this as an important opportunity to bring students together to celebrate the year and their successes. A desire to see functions or events that brought online students together, was also identified in open comments.

Social and recreational activities at regional locations ranked sixth overall, but again was given a much higher preference by Online, Sydney and Port Macquarie students.

Comments from some regional students noted the difficulties for mature-age students and student-parents, to commit to regular activities, such as sporting teams or recreational clubs, with a preference for one-off semester or annual events.

Student media and artistic activities were supported by slightly less than a quarter of all students, ranking seventh and eighth respectively in this section. Roughly 4% or less of all students selected these services as their first preference.

The relatively lower ranking in this section mirrors that in Part A, where artistic activity and student media were selected by 1.2% and 0.5% of students respectively as their most preferred SSAF category to receive funding.

The SFUN 2016 Survey identified that the majority of students at Callaghan campus (57.4%) and Ourimbah campus (74.9%) had not heard of or used (i.e. read or accessed) OPUS or YAK student magazines. Of those who had heard of and had read either OPUS or YAK, 51.5% (Callaghan) and 40.9% (Ourimbah) were ‘satisfied’.

Support for student debating was 6.1% across all preferences, with 1.2% of first preferences in this section and 0.2% in Part A. In this section as a whole, 6.8% of students selected ‘None of the above’ as one of their preferences, with 4.1% choosing it as their first preference.

140 students responded to the survey but made no selection of any preferences in this section. However, it cannot be concluded that the intent for these students is “None of the above”, and as such they were excluded from the analysis.

The University of Newcastle | 39

RECOMMENDATIONS The University will continue to prioritise SSAF funding support for major on-campus events that provide students with opportunity for social and cultural engagement, including end of year celebrations. This will include events and celebrations organised by student associations and bodies.

In response to feedback on the survey results, in particular relating to the experience of international students, the University should consider separating Cultural from Social activities or events in future iterations of the SSAF survey.

Cultural activities such as Harmony Day and Cultural Awakenings are important to celebrate diversity on campus for all students, whilst events such as Autonomy Week have an equally important, but different focus. Understanding student preferences for either or both activities may provide greater clarity to inform future decision-making and priorities.

Weekly (or other) on-campus events that provide free or discounted food options for students along with opportunity for social engagement, will continue to be supported.

Where clear student demand and support exists, the University will continue to engage with its on-campus food and beverage service providers, to encourage them to deliver enhanced services on campus, including extended opening hours, healthy food options or greater variety in food options. Competitive processes in lease renewal or other formal approaches should be used to ensure such services most closely align with student demand and preferences.

40 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

The University and Yourimbah should review the first semester 2017 extended hours trial of Blue Gum Café at the Ourimbah campus to identify potential for this on an ongoing basis and similar services at other locations.

Support for student-run clubs and funding support for club activities will continue.

Given issues identified in open comments in this and last year’s SSAF surveys, the University and the three student associations in particular, need to improve awareness of and information available to students on the following: • how to establish a club • the purpose of clubs • the responsibilities of student club executive members to initiate, plan for and oversight the activity of their club The University, working with the student associations and NUsport, should continue to provide an information stall at the Cultural Awakenings event, providing information on student clubs. This could be targeted more directly to address international student (and other) feedback on lack of awareness around how to set-up new clubs.

Funding of student media and student artistic activities will continue to be provided, reflecting the preferences of students as identified in this survey.

Funding to support student debating competitions should be considered on a case by case basis, given the relatively low levels of student support identified in this section, and overall in Part A.

THEME 4: CAMPUS AMENITY PROJECTS FOR STUDENTS There were nine projects identified in this theme of Campus Amenity Projects for Students, and the option for students to select ‘none of the above’. In this theme, students could select only one preference from the options.

Student preferences in ranking order can be seen in the table below. There were three students who responded to the survey, but who did not make any selection under this theme. A total of 4106 expressed a preference and are included in the analysis.

Table 10: Ranking of Campus Amenity Projects for Students (where 1 is most preferred) N = 4106

RANKING

% OF ALL PREFERENCES

CAMPUS AMENITY PROJECT

1

Shortland Union Bakehouse seating area upgrade and improvement of pedestrian access (Callaghan)

27.3%

2

None of the above

15.4%

3

Park on the Hill – install additional solar shade structure (Callaghan)

13.5%

4

Ourimbah retail courtyard covered area seating upgrade

9.8%

5

The Forum - opening up of the courtyard between The Forum and HPE to increase external social and informal learning spaces (Callaghan)

8.4%

6

Architecture and Built Environment - improve social amenity of external precinct, providing informal learning spaces (Callaghan)

7.7%

7

Newcastle Conservatorium entry level and informal seating (Newcastle CBD campus)

6.1%

8

Engineering shade structure to Corlette Fountain Courtyard

4.3%

9

Engineering covered bike store

4.3%

10

Ourimbah covered bike store

3.1%

The University of Newcastle | 41

SUMMARY

CAMPUS AMENITY PROJECTS FOR STUDENTS Campus amenity projects are identified by Infrastructure and Facilities Services (IFS) in line with the campus master plans for Callaghan, Newcastle CBD, Sydney, Ourimbah and other locations owned or managed by the University. The individual projects may arise out of consultations with service groups or student associations, or through campus consultative groups that include students as members.

Campus Amenity projects may align with one or more of the SSAF ‘allowable’ categories under the legislation (identified in Part A). Generally, sporting and recreational facilities, or those that complement the provision of food and drink services and health and welfare facilities, would comprise the majority of projects that would be eligible for funding.

The preferences expressed by students in this section will be considered by the University in the context of works planned for 2018 and beyond. Consideration will also be had to the overall rankings given by students to the 19 ‘allowable’ categories of SSAF expenditure and the preferences for particular services in other sections of Part B of the Survey.

Ranking Campus Amenity Project % of student support 1 Shortland Union Bakehouse seating area upgrade and improvement of pedestrian access (Callaghan) 27.3% 2 None of the above 15.4% 3 Park on the Hill – install additional solar shade structure (Callaghan) 13.5% 4 Ourimbah retail courtyard covered area seating upgrade 9.8% 5 The Forum - opening up of the courtyard between The Forum and HPE to increase external social and informal learning spaces (Callaghan) 8.4% 6 Architecture and Built Environment - improve social amenity of external precinct, providing informal learning spaces (Callaghan) 7.7% 7 Newcastle Conservatorium entry level and informal seating (Newcastle CBD campus) 6.1%

42 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

8 Engineering shade structure to Corlette Fountain Courtyard 4.3% 9 Engineering covered bike store 4.3% 10 Ourimbah covered bike store 3.1% It should be noted that whilst students may not prioritise a particular project for funding support through SSAF, it may still be progressed by the University using other sources of capital funding, if deemed important under the overall campus master plan.

Of the nine projects identified for possible SSAF funding in 2018, six were located at Callaghan campus, two at Ourimbah campus, and one in the Newcastle CBD (Newcastle Conservatorium of Music). There were no projects identified at Sydney or Port Macquarie campuses for 2018.

Minor works projects funded through SSAF were not included in this section. Such projects generally involve (relatively) small amounts of funding and may include replacement of outdoor furniture, sheltered areas or upgrade to sitting areas at any campus, or they may be small, internal refurbishment of a student recreation, or association facility or similar. Such works or furniture are not classified as capital works and consequently are not identified here. Projects such as these are funded out of a general ‘minor works’ allocation in the overall SSAF budget, and this would generally range from $100,000 to $250,000 depending on the year, University-wide.

For Callaghan students and undergraduates as a whole, the Shortland Union – Bakehouse project was the highest priority identified, with support of 35.7% and 31.6% of those cohorts respectively – slightly more so than all students at 27.3% overall. Support from postgraduate students for this project was less than half that of undergraduates, at 14.5%, although this was still the second highest preference for that cohort.

In this Campus Amenity section, 15.4% of students selected ‘None of the above’ as their preference, making it the

second highest ranked preference of students overall.

However, of those who did select ‘none of the above’, 38% were Online or from Sydney and Port Macquarie campuses, or locations other than those where projects were proposed (i.e. Callaghan, Ourimbah and Newcastle CBD). These cohorts collectively account for only 14% of all students who responded to the survey, potentially indicating an overrepresentation in this preference. Such a result suggests that ‘none of the above’ may have been selected by some students at campuses where there were no local projects identified, or in the case of online students, that campusbased amenity projects are of little or no interest to them.

As with selection of this preference across other sections in the survey, this may also indicate that some students do not support SSAF expenditure on ANY campus amenity projects (or on any services), or do not support payment of the SSAF. Several comments to this end were made in the Open Comments section of the Survey. Finally, such a selection may simply mean that there were no projects listed this year of particular interest to some students.

Commencing students comprised 37% of all respondents to the survey, and their preferences generally mirror those of students as a whole throughout this section. However, slightly fewer selected ‘none of the above’ in this section (12.9%).

Reflecting the selection of ‘none of the above’ as a preference, several students also queried why SSAF revenue was being used at all to construct non-academic campus amenity and facilities, and why this was not paid for out of other (i.e. non-SSAF) revenue. The relevant legislation makes specific reference to examples of expenditure, including expenditure on infrastructure,4 for the purposes of providing the approved services under the Act. This apparent gap in student understanding highlights a need for the University to inform students of the allowable purposes for SSAF expenditure, which includes expenditure on services and amenity (infrastructure).

In open comments, many students requested additional facilities be installed in spaces provided on campus for students to heat and prepare food – the ‘Survival Stations’ – including requests from several students for sandwich makers.

Many students also made comments regarding the maintenance, cleanliness or otherwise of campus facilities, particularly toilets, albeit that these are matters that do not come within the approved use of SSAF revenue.

4 Section 19-38 subsection (4)

Undergraduate support for campus amenity projects was strongest for projects at Callaghan campus.

For postgraduate students, the highest preference was for ‘None of the above’, receiving 23.7%. support, but 38.7% of Online and 38.3% of Sydney students also selected this option. Both of these cohorts would reflect in the aggregated postgraduate cohort as well.

Across all remaining options, postgraduate and undergraduate preferences closely align with those of students overall, with one variation being the Ourimbah retail courtyard project which was ranked first preference for students at that campus, and ninth preference by postgraduate students.

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RECOMMENDATIONS Reflecting the strong preference shown by students, the University will consider the Shortland Union Bakehouse upgrade as the top priority for SSAF capital (amenity) funding in 2018.

The preferences of Ourimbah campus students will be considered in plans for a major upgrade of the student support and commercial facilities surrounding the quad.

The University should ensure that its consultation and engagement with students at smaller regional or other locations, identifies and addresses amenity needs at those campuses, and wherever possible, should identify potential projects in future surveys.

The University should ensure that information available to students clearly communicates that investment of SSAF revenue in campus amenity (i.e. capital works and

44 | SSAF 2018 Student Survey Report

infrastructure) is permissible under the Act for works that enhance the social, cultural, sporting and wellbeing enrichment of the student cohort.

The University should provide relevant examples of amenity that have previously been funded in whole or in part through SSAF or similar student fee revenue, including the Forum facility, Shortland Union, Bar on the Hill and Park on the Hill, student survival stations and kitchens, outdoor social seating and sheltered spaces, the NUSA kitchen and many others.

In response to the many small amenity projects or items identified in Open Comments to this survey, in future iterations the University should also include options for students to prioritise minor amenity projects relevant to their campus or location.

“THE UNIVERSITY

WILL CONSIDER THE SHORTLAND UNION BAKEHOUSE UPGRADE AS THE TOP PRIORITY FOR SSAF CAPITAL (AMENITY) FUNDING IN 2018.”

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OPEN COMMENTS This year, 1241 students made suggestions in Open Comments (748 in 2016). In their comments, students identified a range of positive ideas, emphasised the importance of existing services, suggested improvements, or raised concerns with particular services or with being required to pay the SSAF fee.

A small number of students suggested that SSAF revenue should not be used to fund campus amenity or infrastructure at all – that this was the responsibility of the University to fund from ‘other sources’ – whilst many others expressed a wish to see more expenditure on improvements to campus amenity.

The most common theme in open comments related to campus infrastructure and amenity, with 502 comments ranging from general suggestions for new amenity, to lighting and campus safety, car parking or travel options, cleaning and maintenance or upgrade of existing facilities.

Many of these suggestions or themes are discussed in more detail below.

There were many comments related to campus lighting, security and safety (48), and general issues of facility maintenance, condition or cleanliness (62). These are not SSAF-related matters (i.e. they do not fall within the ‘allowable’ categories for SSAF expenditure under the legislation), but they are nonetheless important issues for students and will be referred to the relevant internal service areas for attention.

In addition, many students who do not attend a campus and/ or who are studying online objected at being required to pay the fee. It is therefore worth noting here that in response to similar concerns raised by this cohort in 2016, the University approved a reduced SSAF fee payable by students whose mode of study is solely online or by distance, and this came into effect from the beginning of 2017. This reduction in the SSAF fee payable will potentially apply to more than 3000 students in 2017. The reduced fee is set at 30% of the full fee, a rate that recognises that all students, including those who are off-campus or online, still have access to key services such as counselling and advocacy, should they require them.

Several students commented on the needs of students with a disability, and requested services or facilities that more directly supported this group in non-academic, social or recreational activities.

There were many comments from students regarding the lack of food and beverage services within the Engineering Precinct at Callaghan campus. There were also more general comments regarding the external facilities and environment of this precinct, and a request for some upgrade to make it more amenable and attractive for students.

A number of international students commented on a desire for ‘clubs for international students’, as did several matureage students.

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In a similar context, many students at the Callaghan campus in particular though not exclusively, expressed concerns related to car parking and travel options (271).

Again, neither of these are specifically matters that come within the allowable purposes for SSAF expenditure but are nonetheless important matters for the University to address. The mosquito issue at Callaghan was once again a significant concern for many students as it was in last year’s survey, albeit a challenging one to resolve.

A number of students requested that rather than spending SSAF revenue on any of the campus amenity projects identified, the funds should be spent on upgrade to many of the teaching spaces, lecture theatres or similar facilities on campus. Whilst noting the genuine concern of these students in such feedback, it indicates more work must be done (by the University) to better inform students of the allowable purposes for use of SSAF revenue. Those purposes do not include use of SSAF revenue on core academic facilities such as lecture theatres, tutorial rooms or similar.

Funding for works on such facilities must come from other (i.e. non-SSAF) sources.

There were many suggestions (121) in open comments for smaller amenity projects that would be compliant with the SSAF ‘approved’ categories. Those that are of a ‘minor works’ nature, will be considered for funding in 2018, including:

• a shelter at the Warrabrook Station to provide wet weather cover • a ‘sleep room’ or ‘private area’ for students who feel unwell, or where they can rest

5 Hunter Medical Research Institute, a joint institute of the University and Hunter New England Local Health District (NSW Health) located on the campus of John Hunter Hospital (JHH), Newcastle

• additional facilities at student kitchens and ‘survival stations’ • special amenity for students with a disability • more power and data points in social spaces A number of students asked for more PASS sessions and funding for other student support services, and for less to be spent on ‘free food’.

A number of students expressed a desire for increased SSAF funding support for special-interest groups, clubs and societies. A smaller number expressed a desire not to have to fund ‘student unions’, ‘political agenda student groups’ or ‘student activist bodies’ whose views they ‘do not agree with’.

Several students commented that many services and activities are focused strongly on first year students, rather than the broader student population, including lack of activities appropriate for mature-age students.

There were a number of direct comments from postgraduate students based at the HMRI5, and several from Health and Medicine students on clinical placement, particularly but not exclusively at the John Hunter Hospital. Most related to a lack of direct access to services, activities and amenity which they felt were available primarily at the Callaghan campus.

“DEDICATED PEER MENTORING PROGRAMMES TO ENHANCE THE TRANSITION TO UNIVERSITY LIFE AND STUDY FOR NEWLY COMMENCING STUDENTS.”

Several 4th and 5th year medical students – and similarly for final year students across many allied health disciplines – commented that they do not attend any campus in those final year(s) and hence perceive little direct benefit from SSAF. Some students commented on the need or desire for cafeteria facilities in the UON City Campus. This may be addressed with the opening of NewSpace in Semester 2, 2017.

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GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS ARISING FROM OPEN COMMENTS As was identified in last year’s survey, the University needs to better inform students of the allowable purposes of the SSAF, and that this relates only to expenditure on non-academic services and amenity (infrastructure). The University should provide examples of allowable expenditure under the 19 categories, but also of projects or activity that would not be allowable, such as expenditure on academic facilities or parking infrastructure, to assist students’ understanding.

To this end, key, non-SSAF concerns with particular services identified by students in open comments to this survey, need to be communicated to the relevant UON service division managers for follow-up and attention. In particular, this includes concerns related to parking, campus lighting and security, and general cleanliness and presentation of facilities.

The University needs to communicate clearly the reduced SSAF fee (30% of the full fee, introduced in 2017) charged to those students enrolled solely online or solely by distance, relative to the fee charged to part-time or full-time students.

The reduced fee is not applicable to students whose enrolment includes any on-campus courses during the relevant period/semester.

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In addition, the University needs to target and deliver relevant services and more clearly communicate access and availability of these to the needs of online or off-campus students.

The University needs to enhance its focus on delivering relevant services to students at regional campuses or other locations, to deliver maximum equity of access and participation in non-academic services and activities funded through the SSAF. The University needs to consider ways to improve communication to all students on upcoming events and activities, and also look at raising awareness of how students can access existing services such as counselling, health and welfare support, and other student support services. Such communication concerns were also raised in comments to the 2016 SSAF Survey as an issue requiring attention.

There has been considerable recent investment in food and beverage facilities at the Callaghan campus, in particular Park on the Hill and Hunter Building Cafeteria – both accessible within a few hundred metres of the Engineering Precinct.

The University should monitor whether these facilities meet

the expectations and needs of students in the Engineering Precinct or whether a need exists to look at services or amenity more directly located in that area.

Similar to open comments in last year’s survey, the University needs to ensure that information on how to establish a student club, and the purposes of such clubs, is clearly available to all students, including international and matureage students. The emphasis in such information needs to be on enabling and assisting students to establish a club, noting that these must be student-led and student-initiated.

Relevant student associations must also take a lead in this process.

“THE UNIVERSITY NEEDS TO CONSIDER WAYS TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION TO ALL STUDENTS ON UPCOMING EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES”

As recommended under Theme 4 (Campus Amenity Projects for Students), and in response to the many small amenity projects or items identified in Open Comments to this survey, in future iterations the University should also include options for students to select the minor amenity projects they prefer.

Projects for consideration in future SSAF surveys would be identified in consultation with student entities, through the Student Advisory Council (SAC), or in interaction students have with internal service providers.

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APPENDIX A: PART B OF THE SSAF SURVEY THE FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF THE SERVICES QUESTIONS (I.E. OPTIONS) IN PART B OF THE SURVEY. For each of the services or activities listed in this PART of the Survey, students were asked to number their selections in order of preference, if they think it should receive funding from the 2018 SSAF. Students were also able to select ‘none of the above’ in any of the 4 themes (sections) in this part of the survey.

1 . STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES From the Student Support Services listed below, please indicate the 8 most important that you think should receive funding from the 2018 SSAF. Please number selections from 1 to 8, 1 being your most preferred. Please provide at least one preference and make sure that each choice is unique.

(NB: these are not presented in any order of priority or preference).

Student Advocacy – continue the provision of advocacy services for all students, including advice & support in matters that arise under the UON’s academic rules & policies (includes the Office of Student Advocacy) Student Counselling – continue the provision of confidential counselling services for all students, including the online counselling service Health Promotion and Wellbeing – continue the provision of student health promotion and services such as sexual health awareness, mental health support, alcohol and other drug counselling and awareness, stress management, and similar activities coordinated through the Healthy University Steering Committee and Working Groups (the Committee and Working Groups include student representatives) Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) – continue the provision of PASS Sessions where senior students conduct study groups across a range of disciplines and study areas (includes Online PASS)

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Postgraduate & HDR student workshops – continue support sessions targeted to the needs of PG/HDR students, including lunch-time events, workshops and other sessions Study Rovers – continue the provision of Study Rovers to support students with a range of information access, IT and other matters within the UON libraries, particularly evenings and weekends Social Program during Orientation – continue to provide a range of activities during orientation week that assist commencing students to learn about campus social life, clubs, services and provide Careers Counselling and Advice – continue the provision of access to careers counsellors to assist students with planning their career after graduation (includes specialist careers counselling and support for international students) Employment Support Services – continue the provision of employment advisory services to students to help gain employment whilst studying (including employment advice for international students and access to work-related short courses e.g. Barista and waiting staff, RSA, RCG and similar training) Volunteering – continue support for students to gain experience and employment opportunities through volunteering

Financial Services – continue the provision of financial counselling, budgeting workshops and support for students Emergency food support for students in need – continue access to services which support students-in-need and those facing short-term emergency events, with provision of food vouchers, the ‘Hungry Students’ initiative or similar Students in financial hardship – expand existing financial emergency support services (Eg. Safety net grants or loans) to support students facing acute (short-term) financial hardship Accommodation advice and assistance – continue to provide assistance to students with accessing accommodation, particularly off-campus accommodation Honoraria for elected student representatives – provide funding support (i.e. honoraria payments) for elected student presidents or elected office-holders of student associations and/or entities Membership fees for national student bodies – provide funding support to student associations for membership of national student unions or similar None of the above

Legal Services – continue the provision of legal counselling and support for students, including the UON Legal Centre clinics on campus

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2 . SPORTS AND RECREATION

3 . SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITY

For each Sport and Recreation activity listed below, please select up to 3 activities that you think should receive funding from the 2018 SSAF. Please number selections from 1 to 3, 1 being your most preferred. Please provide at least one preference and make sure that each choice is unique.

For each Social and Cultural activity listed below, please select up to 4 activities that you think should receive funding from the 2018 SSAF. Please number selections from 1 to 4, 1 being your most preferred. Please provide at least one preference and make sure that each choice is unique.

On-campus student gyms – continue the provision of discounted student membership for the Forum gym and facilities, Callaghan and Newcastle (including ‘Harbourside’) and the Ourimbah campus gym (‘Your Gym’)

Social and cultural on-campus events – continue support for major on-campus social- or cultural-theme events such as Cultural Awakenings, Harmony Week, Autonomy Festival, Day on the Quad and similar events, including free BBQ or other food service as part of the event

Inter-university sports events – continue the provision of support for UON students to participate in state and national inter-university sports events (e.g. Australian University Games, National Indigenous Games, Eastern University Games and similar events) UON student competitive sports clubs – continue the provision of support to UON competitive sports clubs to participate in on-campus or local sports competitions (eg. rugby, cricket, hockey etc) UON non-competitive sports and physical recreation clubs – continue support for UON student involvement in registered non-competitive sport and physical recreation clubs (eg. Rock climbing, mountaineering, scuba diving etc) Social sport, health and fitness – continue to provide support for weekly or other informal sport, exercise and fitness activities on campus, coordinated by NUsport or Yourimbah Sport, health and fitness at regional locations – provide support for students in regional locations or smaller campuses to participate in sport, health and fitness activities None of the above

Social and Recreational activities at regional locations – continue direct support for social, cultural and recreational activities at smaller campuses and regional locations Free weekly on-campus BBQ – continue the provision of a weekly or similar on-campus BBQ or food activity delivered through student associations or Student Central Extended hours for on-campus food and beverage services – provide support so that some existing food and beverage services are able to stay open to coincide with student demand and social or recreational activities Student Clubs and club activities – continue support for registered, student-run social and cultural clubs, including funds to support club social activities and events Student Debating – provide funding to support student debates, including inter-university and law ‘moot’ debates Artistic Activities and Events – continue the support for student involvement in on-campus artistic activities and events, such as Create 2308 (Callaghan) and Create 2258 (Ourimbah) or similar art competitions, and operation of the student exhibition space in Newcastle CBD (‘Watt Space’) Student Media and Publications – continue support for students to produce and publish student magazines/ newsletters, including new media platforms and social media End of year formal celebrations and awards – continue to support campus-wide or University-wide end of year events through Student Central, student associations and NUsport (eg. Campus Life awards, award dinners or similar end-ofyear events) None of the above

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4. CAMPUS AMENITY For the Campus Amenity projects listed below, please indicate your preference for the one you think should receive funding from the 2018 SSAF. (NB: these are not presented in any order of priority or preference).

Shortland Union - Bakehouse seating area upgrade and improvement of pedestrian access (Callaghan campus) Newcastle Conservatorium entry level and informal seating (Newcastle CBD campus) Ourimbah retail courtyard covered area seating upgrade to provide informal learning spaces (old Sails area) (Ourimbah campus) Park on the Hill- Install additional solar shade structure.

(Callaghan campus) Ourimbah Covered Bike Store – provide secure bike storage and locker facilities. (Ourimbah campus) Architecture and Built Environment – improve social amenity of external precinct, providing informal learning spaces. (Callaghan campus) Engineering Shade Structure to Corlette Fountain Courtyard – provide shade structure to seating area, to improve student social and recreational spaces (Callaghan campus) The Forum, opening up of the courtyard between The Forum and HPE to increase external social and informal learning spaces. (Callaghan campus) Engineering Covered Bike Store – provide secure bike storage in the Engineering precinct with weather protection. (Callaghan campus) None of the above

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THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE

SSAF 2018 STUDENT SURVEY REPORT Published June 2017

DOCUMENT HISTORY Survey Sponsor Professor Liz Burd Pro Vice-Chancellor Learning and Teaching Survey Report written by Trevor Gerdsen Director Regional Campuses Survey management and data tables Stephanie Pease Strategy Planning and Performance Survey Report edited by Stephanie Pease (SPP) Survey Report designed by

Jackie Brock UON Visual Communication Design student Sources of data/information

Strategy Planning and Performance

- Respondents to SSAF 2018 Survey,

April-May 2017 - SFUN 2016 Report

- SSAF 2017 Student Survey Report

- 2017 Student Feedback on Orientation

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[INSERT TRIM NUMBER] I CRICOS Provider 00109J

SSAF 2018 STUDENT SURVEY REPORT