The Application of the Commonwealth Relative Funding Model (1990) within the University of Sydney

Abstract

The main purpose of this paper is to describe some factors that limit the application of the Commonwealth's Relative Funding Model to a higher education institution. With appropriate adjustment, that model can be used as a base but it is imperative that it be adapted to meet local needs. Where institutions select a formula mechanism for the distribution of funds to academic devolved units, an endless variety of parameters can be used to generate an appropriate model. This paper describes the method used within the University of Sydney for the distribution of funds to academic units. The model was developed through a process involving extensive consultation with the senior staff of the University, individually and through the Vice‐Chancellor's Management Committee which acted as an excellent sounding board on policy issues and the nature and structure of the model.

Notes

∗ Dr Michael Koder is Assistant Vice‐Chanceller (Planning) and Robert Hewitt is the Dean of The Faculty of Science, both at the University of Sydney.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Robert Hewitt∗

∗ Dr Michael Koder is Assistant Vice‐Chanceller (Planning) and Robert Hewitt is the Dean of The Faculty of Science, both at the University of Sydney.