University Colleges and Halls of Residence

Changing codes of acceptable social behaviour and interpersonal relationships, old structures not fit for modern governance requirements, and increasing competition, are all on the agenda for the Boards and Executives of Australian University Colleges and Halls of Residence.

From the Broderick Review to the #MeToo Campaign, and through COVID and the disappearance of international students – it is an unprecedented time of upheaval, change and a need for strong stakeholder engagement supporting modern leadership.

H/Advisors APA has assisted a number of residences across Australia to better understand, engage with, and lead their stakeholders from a period of tradition and ‘old school’ governance, to a modern operational regime. This issues rich environment has proven to be an opportunity for some, such as the two examples below where H/Advisors APA made a contribution:

• A Sydney-based University College required management around a range of issues which contributed to the calling of the Broderick Review, whilst simultaneously changing its governance from alumni-driven to more representative of the stakeholder audience. This required a thorough understanding of stakeholders, the development of factual and clear messaging, media management and government relations.

• A South Australian-based University College required assistance for the new Chair and the Master to ‘turn the ship’ in terms of culture, acceptable behaviours and modern governance. APA was able to assist with the development of a long-term strategy and timeline for engagement and change.

Both University Colleges have been successful in their efforts and are strong competitors in the modern University College space.