Policy Framework

Purpose

The Monash Policy Framework provides a basis for developing and maintaining the suite of Monash policies, procedures, guidelines and related documents, both at a whole of university and local levels as appropriate. The Framework is designed to:

1. Ensure a clear and consistent governance and management approach is adopted in the development of all University policies and procedures which enables improved compliance with relevant legislative and regulatory requirements.
2. Enable efficient and effective decision making, which incorporates quality assurance and risk management practices, where appropriate.
3. Establish clear accountabilities and delegated authorities for individual roles and groups.

Categories

The Policy Framework fits within the broader governance framework of the University that starts with the Monash University Act. Where documents conflict in the hierarchy, the highest relevant document takes precedence.

There are three categories of documents within the Policy Framework: Policies, Procedures and Guidelines. Policies and procedures are mandatory and apply to the University as a whole. Guidelines apply to the University as a whole, to specific faculties or to off-shore campuses.

Policies

A Policy is a concise, formal and mandatory statement of principle(s) which outlines the University’s position on key academic or operational matters. It is a high-level statement which informs staff and students of the principles to be applied by key decision makers.  It specifies responsibilities and accountability for the procedures which underpin it.

It supports the University’s strategic priorities and therefore should change infrequently – reviewed once every five years, or as required by external agencies. Policies apply to the University as a whole unless specified otherwise.

Procedures

A Procedure sets out the mandatory processes, practices and/or actions required to implement and comply with one or more policies.  It is a concise statement that outlines clear instructions, processes and/or business rules.  It specifies roles and responsibilities for action and decision making, and may refer to supporting guidelines.  It enables the monitoring of policy implementation.

It is informed by best practice but for stability should change infrequently – potentially reviewed every three years.  Procedures apply to the University as a whole unless specified otherwise. Where there is a need to elaborate on a university procedure at the faculty level or at an offshore location, additional material may be included within a Schedule to the relevant University Procedure.

Guidelines

A Guideline assists the implementation and compliance with one or more Policies or Procedures.  It provides flexible ‘good practice’ options and recommendations.  Guidelines may apply university-wide or be developed by faculties or campuses for local application.  There may be a multitude of guidelines for any one Procedure to target different audiences, but each must be consistent with the relevant Procedures. Guidelines are informed by experience and best practice and can be changed as often as needed – potentially reviewed once a year.

Classification of Documents

Every Policy, Procedure and Guideline is classified as either a) Academic quality and standards; or b) Operational.

The classifications are defined as:

Academic quality and standards

Provides for the maintenance of quality standards for education and research, and the accreditation and reaccreditation of education programs of the University.

Operational

Supports the management and administration of the University, including education and research operations.

The classification determines the appropriate endorsement and approval pathway.  Each classification consists of several sub-areas, as follows: