Monash Report 2024 – Goal 8

Monash University Report 2024 on the UN Sustainable Development Goals

8  DECENT WORK
    AND ECONOMIC
    GROWTH

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable
economic growth, full and productive employment
and decent work for all

Research
Education
Engagement
Operations

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2024 Publications Performance View

In 2024 Monash University researchers produced 250 publications related to SDG 8, with a mean Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) of 2.53.

What is Field-Weighted Citation Impact?

Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) refers to the ratio of the actual number of citations received by a research output and the total citations expected based on the average of the subject field. An FWCI value of 1 may be interpreted as having ‘world average impact’. Thus, a publication with an FWCI of more than 1 indicates higher than expected citations based on the global average for similar publications. As FWCI reflects citations received to date, a publication’s FWCI value may fluctuate over time.

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Improving safety at work across industries View

Safety at work is the focus of a number of Monash University researchers:

Tyrell Siew's PhD research focuses on improving the safety of food delivery riders in the gig economy by designing safer e-bikes, supported by the Brian M. Davis Industrial Design Scholarship.

Researchers have developed a blood-based biomarker to detect sleep deprivation, improving safety in critical situations.

A study led by Professor Karen Walker-Bone identified increased autoimmune disease risks among artificial stone benchtop industry workers due to silica dust exposure.

Research highlights the risk of same-level workplace falls among older female employees, emphasising the need for improved prevention strategies.

Related SDGs

Occupational health: bushfires & night shift challenges View

Monash University researchers have conducted significant studies to improve occupational health and safety, focusing on the health impacts of bushfires on first responders and the challenges faced by night shift workers:

A study led by Associate Professor Janneke Berecki-Gisolf and Professor Karen Walker-Bone from the Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health analysed compensation claims from emergency responders during major bushfires, highlighting the need for health surveillance and mental health support.

Firefighter working at night

A review by the Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food identified barriers for night shift workers in managing weight and metabolic health, calling for targeted interventions to improve their health.

Related SDGs

Companies can profit by aligning financial goals with social aims: study View

International research involving Monash University, specifically Professor Tracey Danaher from the Monash Business School Department of Marketing, has demonstrated that businesses can achieve financial success by integrating social profit orientation into their core mission. This approach involves addressing critical global issues such as climate change, poverty, and healthcare, thereby fostering societal well-being alongside generating profit.

The study, published in the Journal of Marketing, highlights that organisations with a social profit orientation benefit from enhanced reputation, trust, and stakeholder relationships, which positively impact financial performance.

The research includes examples like the Children's Cancer Institute's ZERO Childhood Cancer precision medicine program, which aims to provide personalised treatment options for children with cancer in Australia.

Read the full article in Monash News

Related SDGs

Christmas retail trends: what we’re buying, where and when View

SDG8-Res4 Retail trends

Monash Business School’s Australian Consumer and Retail Studies (ACRS) conducted annual seasonal retail research, revealing that almost two-thirds of Australian shoppers plan to make purchases during end-of-year sales events in November and December. The research highlights the growing popularity of Black Friday, which has surpassed Boxing Day as Australia's top sales event. The study also notes the impact of cost-of-living pressures and inflation on shopping behavior, with many Australians seeking bargains during these sales events.

The research provides insights into consumer sentiment, spending patterns, and preferred shopping channels, emphasising the significance of these trends in the context of economic growth and consumer behavior.

Read the full article in Monash Lens

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New study explores psychosocial risks of collaborative robots View

Professor Herman Tse and his research team from the Monash University Business School conducted a study on the psychosocial risks associated with the use of collaborative robots (cobots) in the workplace. The study highlights the potential mental health risks and job insecurity faced by workers due to the increasing use of cobots. It emphasises the importance of worker engagement and consultation in the implementation process to mitigate these risks.

Man working with a robot

The research suggests that involving employees in planning and decision-making can reduce psychosocial hazards and improve acceptance of new technologies.

Read the full article in Monash News

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Role expectations, conflicts and ambiguity of Chief Financial Officers View

Associate Professor Paul Thambar from Monash Business School conducted a study exploring the role expectations, conflicts, and ambiguities faced by Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) in various industries. The research highlights the challenges CFOs encounter in balancing controllership and business partnering roles, managing budgets, and building trust within organisations. The study also addresses the ambiguous expectations related to digital transformation and leadership, suggesting that CFOs are seen as dynamic leaders who can help organisations navigate strategic challenges.

Person looking at finance papers

The study was funded by the American Institute of CPAs and The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.

Read the full article in Monash News

Related SDGs

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Unit statistics and highlights View

In 2024, Monash offered 121 units directly related to SDG 8, with 23776 total enrolments.

Highlighted below are a few of the units at Monash related to Decent Work and Economic Growth:

ECX2141 Economics of labour markets
ECC2511 Economic growth: Causes and consequences
LAW5358 Current issues in workplace law

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Building better business leaders View

Professor Edward Buckingham and Assistant Professor Harriman Samuel Saragih from Monash University Indonesia have collaborated with pharmaceutical giant Kalbe Farma to develop a General Management Program (GMP) aimed at fostering solution-oriented leadership among Kalbe employees. This initiative, which blends academic rigour with practical application, has been recognised with the 2023 Monash Business School Dean’s Award for Industry and Communication.

The program empowers participants to become solution-centric thinkers, contributing to sustainable business growth and innovation.

Read the full article in Monash Business News

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Excellence in business education View

Monash University Indonesia and Monash Business School have undertaken various initiatives to promote economic growth and professional development:

The MBI Students Cohort 2022 Appreciation Night celebrated student achievements in the Master of Business Innovation program, emphasising quality education and future economic contributions.
Lisa Yumi's PowerTalk session focused on entrepreneurial resilience and risk management, promoting sustained economic growth and productive employment.
Monash Business School's Xi Epsilon chapter of Beta Alpha Psi excelled in global competitions, highlighting community engagement and professional development.

mbian-ilona-juwita

A business innovation competition in collaboration with Minutes of Manager aimed to empower future business leaders in Indonesia, focusing on local challenges and sustainable practices.

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Pharmaceutical Sciences Employability Program wins AFR Employability Award View

Dr Laurence Orlando, a Senior Lecturer in Pharmaceutics at Monash, has been recognised for her work on the Pharmaceutical Sciences Employability Program, which won the Employability Award in the Australian Financial Review’s Higher Education Awards.

Laurence_AFR

This program enhances student employability by integrating innovative education experiences with industry-informed events, successfully matching graduates with roles in various industries such as paints, food, agrochemicals, and cosmetics.

Read the full article in Monash Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science News

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Advancing human capital and tech adaptation in the workforce View

Monash University, Indonesia, hosted two significant events in 2024 to advance human capital development and adapt to technological changes in the workforce:

The HR Gathering 2024 focused on strengthening human capital and public sector capacities in the VUCA era, with discussions on digital readiness and agile leadership.

The 3rd International Conference of the Journal of Information Systems explored the integration of AI in accounting, emphasising the need for technological fluency and transferable skills in the profession.

Related SDGs

A rise in Australian modern slavery disclosure reporting standards View

The Monash Centre for Financial Studies, part of Monash Business School, conducted an annual assessment revealing that over half of Australia's ASX100 companies have received an A grade for their Modern Slavery reporting. This marks a significant improvement since the introduction of reporting obligations in 2020.

The report highlights that companies are increasingly taking active measures to address modern slavery in their supply chains, with many opting to work through issues rather than terminate relationships.

The report underscores improvements in governance, risk assessment, supplier due diligence, and collaboration, with the utilities and real estate sectors leading in disclosure quality.

Read the full article in Monash News

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Monash-developed case studies spotlight sustainable finance in Malaysia View

The School of Business at Monash University Malaysia, recognised for its expertise, was appointed as the knowledge partner for the Malaysian Chief Financial Officers Collective Action Program (MY CFO CAP). This initiative, a collaboration between Capital Markets Malaysia and the UN Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei, involved a team of researchers including Dr Norita Mohd Nasir, Dr Puspavathy Rassiah, Dr Ravichandran Subramaniam, Associate Professor Karren Khaw, Associate Professor Yessy Arnold Perangin Angin, and Professor Mohan Avvari.

They developed a report featuring case studies on Malaysian businesses that have adopted sustainable finance as a key part of their environmental business strategy. The report highlights the efforts of companies like Axiata Group Berhad, IOI Corporation Berhad, reNIKOLA Holdings Sdn Bhd, and Yinson Holdings Berhad in implementing sustainable finance initiatives, such as green sukuk and sustainability-linked sukuk wakalah, despite challenges like regulatory hurdles and defining transparent sustainability targets.

These efforts have led to benefits such as cost savings, access to new investor pools, and progress towards climate targets.

Read the full article at Monash Malaysia News

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Youth challenges in Australia View

Monash University's Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice (CYPEP) conducted significant research on the challenges faced by young Australians, revealing that many feel they are missing out on their youth due to financial pressures and work-study balance. Key activities include:

Dr Thuc Bao Huynh's interview on Triple J Hack discussing the 2022 Australian Youth Barometer data, highlighting the need for better support systems for youth.

A CYPEP report identifying key areas of concern such as finances, work, education, and long-term planning, calling for targeted interventions to support young people, especially post-pandemic.

Related SDGs

MUARC's ‘Respect Traffic Controllers’ campaign wins third place View

Person looking at finance papers

The National Road Safety Partnership Program (NRSPP), hosted by the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC), developed the 'Respect Traffic Controllers' campaign, which won third place at the International Safety Media Awards 2024.

The campaign aims to reduce verbal and physical abuse against traffic controllers by fostering empathy and understanding among road users. It is grounded in evidence-based research and was co-designed with industry partners. The campaign highlights the importance of creating a positive road safety culture and supports the safety and well-being of traffic controllers.

Read the full article in Monash University Accident Research Centre News

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In the face of disparity, do we need a ‘NDIS for aged care’? View

Photo of ageing woman in wheelchair

The ARC-funded project 'Addressing the Deficit in Men’s Participation in Paid Care Work' explores the challenges in the Australian Health Care and Social Assistance (HCSA) sector, particularly in aged care. The project highlights the need for systemic changes to improve working conditions and attract more men into the sector, addressing gender stereotypes and the undervaluation of care work.

The study suggests the implementation of a model similar to the NDIS for aged care to ensure adequate staffing and care quality.

Read the full article in Monash Lens

Related SDGs

Competition law principles for ‘vertical’ agreements View

Mel Marquis, Monash Law's Deputy Associate Dean (Engagement) and Senior Lecturer, along with Dr Sven Gallasch, submitted a comprehensive research report to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. The report, titled 'Vertical Agreements in the ASEAN Economic Community,' explores competition law principles for vertical agreements in ASEAN and its Member States. It provides a comparative analysis of six ASEAN countries and suggests a nuanced regulatory approach to vertical agreements, emphasising the need for legal and practical convergence across ASEAN.

ACCC session

The report advocates for a competition law enforcement model that includes clear prohibitions, safe harbours, and detailed guidelines to enhance legal certainty and predictability.

Read the full article in Monash Law News

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Monash University awarded Best Use of Technology by AHRI View

The Australian HR Institute has awarded Monash University "Best Use of Technology", thanks to the successful utilisation of strategic analytics to address gender pay gaps. Within the first year, Monash significantly reduced disparities and set ambitious pay equity targets.

The HR analytics program has provided crucial insights, as well as fostered a culture of performance, transparency, and accountability.

Learn more about the AHRI Awards 2024

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New Staff Code of Conduct policy View

Monash University has introduced a new Staff Code of Conduct policy suite to promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment. This policy outlines expectations for ethical conduct, integrity, accountability, and respect among staff, aligning with the University's core values. It includes procedures for reporting and responding to unacceptable conduct, supporting the existing Equity, Diversity and Anti-discrimination Policy, and the upcoming Sexual Harm Prevention and Response Policy.

Two staff members talking over coffee

The initiative aims to foster a positive ethical culture where staff feel valued and supported.

Read the full article in the Monash Insider

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Global staff engagement survey View

Professor Sharon Pickering, Vice-Chancellor and President of Monash University, shared the results of the 'Your Say' staff engagement survey, which had a 65% participation rate. The survey revealed high levels of pride and understanding of work contributions among staff, as well as a positive view of the University's inclusive culture. Immediate actions, such as addressing parking costs, have been taken in response to feedback.

Future steps include improving communication, collaboration, and innovation, with briefings planned for leadership and local executive leaders to discuss results and responses. The 'Your Say' survey aims to enhance Monash as a workplace, aligning with its mission of social and technological transformation.

Read the full article in the Monash Insider

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Monash University 2023 financial results View

Monash University's 2023 Annual Report, tabled in the Parliament of Victoria, highlights the financial recovery post-COVID-19, with a consolidated surplus of $33.3 million in 2023. Despite challenges such as a shortfall in international student revenue, the University's financial performance improved due to strong investment portfolio returns. However, the underlying result, excluding investment portfolio returns, shows an operating deficit of $145.3 million, indicating the need for increased student enrolments and careful expenditure management to achieve sustainable financial health.

The university remains committed to strategic investments to support its Impact 2030 goals, focusing on student experience and research excellence.

Read the full article in the Monash Insider

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Monash University reaches new enterprise agreement with NTEU View

Monash University has successfully concluded a staff ballot on a proposed enterprise agreement for its Australian campuses, with 93.27% of votes in favour, and reached a new enterprise agreement with the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) for academic and professional staff. These agreements, pending approval and endorsement, aim to enhance working conditions, promote decent work and economic growth, and reflect Monash's commitment to addressing global challenges:

The proposed enterprise agreement, once approved by the Fair Work Commission, will improve working conditions for staff.
The new agreement with the NTEU includes a 17% pay increase over four years, improved job security with 170 new full-time teaching and research positions, and enhanced leave conditions such as increased partner leave and new gender affirmation leave.

Related SDGs

Professional development enhancing work at Monash View

Monash University is enhancing management skills, recruitment processes, and inclusivity in the workplace:

The Management Essentials program and Recruitment Excellence initiative equip staff with managerial and recruitment skills.
LGBTIQA+ awareness training, in partnership with Pride in Diversity, promotes gender equality and reduces workplace inequalities.
Monash University Malaysia's employee mobility program, emphasising continuous learning and international exposure, enhances professional development and supports economic growth, earning a gold award for 'Excellence in Workforce Mobility' at the HR Excellence Awards 2023, Malaysia.