Frequently asked questions on the Operational Sustainability Initiative

UTS has released proposed changes designed to support the university in delivering its core purpose of high-quality education and research while ensuring financial stability.

These frequently asked questions relate to a proposed change to the academic workforce that is currently under consultation. No final decisions have been made.

The information below outlines what is being considered, what we know now, and how we will support you if the proposed changes go ahead. We will continue to update you as new information becomes available.

More information for UTS students  

What is the change proposal and what changes are being proposed?

UTS is focused on achieving a financially sustainable future where students can continue to get the quality of education they expect. The change proposal is an effort to help UTS become stronger and more sustainable into the future and a summary of the plan can be found here.

What is the timeline for the Academic Change Proposal?

The Academic Change Proposal was released on Wednesday 17 September for all UTS staff to have their input and consult about the proposed changes. It will be open for consultation for 4 weeks. After that time, final decisions will be made, and the change plan will be implemented. The consultation and implementation periods will mean that changes are not immediate. We anticipate changes starting to be implemented from the beginning of the 2026 Academic year

When will I find out if my PhD will be affected by the proposed changes? 

If your studies and/or supervisor has been affected in the final change implementation, you will be contacted to inform you of the changes and the potential options available to you. As the circumstances for every HDR student will is different, this will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Please check your UTS email address during this time as this will be our main form of communication with you.

What happens if my principal supervisor is affected by the change proposal?    

You have a co-supervisor on your supervisory panel who will support you through this process. If your principal supervisor is affected, the university will make every endeavour to finalise your new panel, including a new principal supervisor, by the end of this implementation process.

How will I be informed of any proposed changes to my supervisory panel?  

If your supervisory panel is affected in the final change implementation, you will be contacted, and the university will work with you to ensure there is minimal impact on your studies. This will be handled on a case-by-case basis, depending on circumstances. If your supervisory panel is affected in the final change implementation, you will be contacted, and the university will work with you to ensure there is minimal impact on your studies. This will be handled on a case-by-case basis, depending on circumstances.

I have never engaged with my co-supervisor.  How will I be supported through this process?

Having a supervisory panel with a principal and co-supervisor is intended to create continuity for HDR students even through unexpected circumstances. Your co-supervisor will step in to support you.

If my entire panel of supervisors is affected by proposed changes, how soon would a new panel be effective in avoiding loss of time in my candidature?

In the unlikely event your entire panel of supervisors is affected, you will be contacted with information about interim supervisory support until a new panel can be appointed. After the final change implementation, theuniversity will work with you to support you through the process of establishing a new panel. This will be managed on a case-by-case basis.

If my candidature time is impacted, how will I be supported? 

The university has processes to manage candidature – including asking for extension and other procedures. Impacts after the implementation period will be managed according to the student rules.

Will there be one-on-one support or advising sessions? Who can I talk to about how this affects me personally?

You can contact your Associate Dean (Research) or Responsible Academic Officer to find out more about the changes and how they may impact you. You can contact Student Services for support and counselling to help you through the change process.

I am currently supported by the supervisor for stipend support and if my supervisor is impacted, what would this mean for my stipend?  

This will be considered on a case-by-case basis and will depend on the source of the funding. The university if required will underwrite the stipend support.

I am currently under examination and if my supervisor is impacted how will I receive support to finalise the examination outcome through to conferral?  

Your faculty will provide support throughout this time to help see you through the final step in your candidature. You co-supervisor will see you through to your final submission.

I am currently on leave of absence, what will happen when I return from leave to my studies?  

If your supervisory panel has been affected in these changes, you will be contacted after the consultation period to advise next steps. Please update your contact details via My Student Admin (MSA) and periodically check your UTS student email account for all student communication.

Will the proposed changes affect the quality of professional services provided to HDR students? 

No. The proposed changes are designed to improve the student experience and uphold the quality and future-focus of teaching and delivery of professional services at UTS. 

What if I want to give feedback as a student?

We are undertaking a consultation process with staff as some UTS staff members’ employment may be affected. Student feedback is also important. We've created a form for you to provide feedback on both proposals. If you have specific questions, please email studentfeedback@uts.edu.au. We’ll respond to the most commonly asked questions and share answers with the wider student community.