Establishes the University of the Sunshine Coast as a corporate body and sets out its functions, powers and governance. The Act defines council composition and officer roles (chancellor, vice‑chancellor), creates an academic board and student guild, and gives the university powers to contract, hold and invest property, commercialise research, and control campus traffic and conduct. It also creates election, appointment, removal and disclosure rules for council members and officers, and requires the university to apply revenue to university purposes.
This Act creates the University of the Sunshine Coast as a corporate entity, sets out its purposes and powers, establishes its governing council and membership classes, and prescribes governance, finance, property and conduct rules for the university, connected bodies and persons authorised to act on university land.
Mechanically the Act does the following (selective list, with primary sections):
Establishes the university as a body corporate with a seal and capacity to sue and be sued (s 4). The university is given express functions including teaching, research, awarding higher education qualifications and commercial exploitation of university resources (s 5). It has the general powers of an individual and may act outside Queensland and Australia (s 6).
Creates a council as the governing body of the university, gives the council power to manage staff, affairs, property and finances, and obliges it to act to promote the university’s interests (ss 7-11, 9, 10). The council may delegate many powers (s 11) but may not delegate the power “to make an election policy” or “to adopt the university’s annual budget” (s 11(2)).
Specifies council composition and terms: official members (chancellor, vice‑chancellor, chairperson of the academic board), appointed members (Governor in Council appointment), elected members drawn from staff and students, and additional members appointed by council (ss 12-20, 14-16). Rules address casual vacancies, election procedure and minimum constitution thresholds (ss 17, 20A-21, 26AA-26AC).
Imposes member duties (act honestly, exercise reasonable skill, disclose conflicts and not misuse position), and creates internal removal mechanisms (s 26A, s 26B). The council may remove members if at least 12 members are satisfied the member breached duties or conduct obligations (s 26B).
Current sections
Direct links to the current provisions in University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998.
157
pt.1
Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1
Short title
sec.1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998 .
sec.2
Commencement
sec.2 Commencement
This Act (other than parts 9 and 10 ) commences on a day to be fixed by proclamation.
sec.3
Definitions
sec.3 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 2 defines particular words used in this Act.
pt.2
The university and its council
The university and its council
pt.2-div.1
University establishment and general functions and powers
University establishment and general functions and powers
sec.4
Establishment of university
sec.4 Establishment of university
The University of the Sunshine Coast is established.
The university—
is a body corporate; and
has a seal; and
may sue and be sued in its corporate name.
(sec.4-ssec.1) The University of the Sunshine Coast is established.
(sec.4-ssec.2) The university— is a body corporate; and has a seal; and may sue and be sued in its corporate name.
(a) is a body corporate; and
(b) has a seal; and
(c) may sue and be sued in its corporate name.
sec.5
Functions of university
sec.5 Functions of university
The university’s functions are—
to provide education at university standard; and
to provide facilities for, and encourage, study and research; and
to encourage the advancement and development of knowledge, and its application to government, industry, commerce and the community; and
to provide courses of study or instruction, at the levels of achievement the council considers appropriate, to meet the needs of the community; and
to confer higher education awards; and
to disseminate knowledge and promote scholarship; and
to provide facilities and resources for the wellbeing of the university’s staff, students and other persons undertaking courses at the university; and
to exploit commercially, for the university’s benefit, a facility or resource of the university, including, for example, study, research or knowledge, or the practical application of study, research or knowledge, belonging to the university, whether alone or with someone else; and
to perform other functions given to the university under this Act or another Act.
(a) to provide education at university standard; and
(b) to provide facilities for, and encourage, study and research; and
(c) to encourage the advancement and development of knowledge, and its application to government, industry, commerce and the community; and
(d) to provide courses of study or instruction, at the levels of achievement the council considers appropriate, to meet the needs of the community; and
(e) to confer higher education awards; and
(f) to disseminate knowledge and promote scholarship; and
(g) to provide facilities and resources for the wellbeing of the university’s staff, students and other persons undertaking courses at the university; and
(h) to exploit commercially, for the university’s benefit, a facility or resource of the university, including, for example, study, research or knowledge, or the practical application of study, research or knowledge, belonging to the university, whether alone or with someone else; and
(i) to perform other functions given to the university under this Act or another Act.
sec.6
General powers of university
sec.6 General powers of university
The university has all the powers of an individual and may, for example—
enter into contracts; and
acquire, hold, dispose of, and deal with property; and
appoint agents and attorneys; and
engage consultants; and
fix charges, and other terms, for services and other facilities it supplies; and
do anything else necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.
Without limiting subsection (1) , the university has the powers given to it under this Act or another Act.
The university may exercise its powers inside or outside Queensland.
Without limiting subsection (3) , the university may exercise its powers outside Australia.
(sec.6-ssec.1) The university has all the powers of an individual and may, for example— enter into contracts; and acquire, hold, dispose of, and deal with property; and appoint agents and attorneys; and engage consultants; and fix charges, and other terms, for services and other facilities it supplies; and do anything else necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.
(sec.6-ssec.2) Without limiting subsection (1) , the university has the powers given to it under this Act or another Act.
(sec.6-ssec.3) The university may exercise its powers inside or outside Queensland.
(sec.6-ssec.4) Without limiting subsection (3) , the university may exercise its powers outside Australia.
(a) enter into contracts; and
(b) acquire, hold, dispose of, and deal with property; and
(c) appoint agents and attorneys; and
(d) engage consultants; and
(e) fix charges, and other terms, for services and other facilities it supplies; and
(f) do anything else necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.
pt.2-div.2
Council establishment and general functions and powers
Council establishment and general functions and powers
sec.7
Establishment of council
sec.7 Establishment of council
The council of the university is established.
sec.8
Functions of council
sec.8 Functions of council
The council is the university’s governing body.
The council has the functions conferred on it under this Act or another Act.
(sec.8-ssec.1) The council is the university’s governing body.
(sec.8-ssec.2) The council has the functions conferred on it under this Act or another Act.
sec.9
Powers of council
sec.9 Powers of council
The council may do anything necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.
Without limiting subsection (1) , the council has the powers given to it under this Act or another Act and, in particular, may—
appoint the university’s staff; and
manage and control the university’s affairs and property; and
manage and control the university’s finances.
(sec.9-ssec.1) The council may do anything necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.
(sec.9-ssec.2) Without limiting subsection (1) , the council has the powers given to it under this Act or another Act and, in particular, may— appoint the university’s staff; and manage and control the university’s affairs and property; and manage and control the university’s finances.
(a) appoint the university’s staff; and
(b) manage and control the university’s affairs and property; and
(c) manage and control the university’s finances.
sec.10
Council to promote university’s interests
sec.10 Council to promote university’s interests
The council must act in the way that appears to it most likely to promote the university’s interests.
sec.11
Delegation
sec.11 Delegation
The council may delegate its powers under this Act to—
an appropriately qualified member of the council; or
an appropriately qualified committee that includes 1 or more members of the council; or
an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
However, the council may not delegate its power—
to make an election policy; or
to adopt the university’s annual budget.
A delegation of a power under subsection (1) to the vice-chancellor may permit the subdelegation of the power to an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
s 11 amd 2005 No. 18 s 140 ; 2017 No. 36 ss 84 , 154
(sec.11-ssec.1) The council may delegate its powers under this Act to— an appropriately qualified member of the council; or an appropriately qualified committee that includes 1 or more members of the council; or an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
(sec.11-ssec.2) However, the council may not delegate its power— to make an election policy; or to adopt the university’s annual budget.
(sec.11-ssec.3) A delegation of a power under subsection (1) to the vice-chancellor may permit the subdelegation of the power to an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
(a) an appropriately qualified member of the council; or
(b) an appropriately qualified committee that includes 1 or more members of the council; or
(c) an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
(a) to make an election policy; or
(b) to adopt the university’s annual budget.
pt.2-div.3
Council membership
Council membership
sec.12
Membership of council
sec.12 Membership of council
The council consists of official members, appointed members, elected members and additional members.
s 12 sub 2005 No. 18 s 141
sec.13
Official members
sec.13 Official members
There are 3 official members.
The official members are—
the chancellor; and
the vice-chancellor; and
the chairperson of the academic board.
s 13 sub 2005 No. 18 s 141
(sec.13-ssec.1) There are 3 official members.
(sec.13-ssec.2) The official members are— the chancellor; and the vice-chancellor; and the chairperson of the academic board.
(a) the chancellor; and
(b) the vice-chancellor; and
(c) the chairperson of the academic board.
sec.14
Appointed members
sec.14 Appointed members
There are 6 appointed members.
The Governor in Council is to appoint the appointed members.
s 14 amd 2005 No. 18 s 142
(sec.14-ssec.1) There are 6 appointed members.
(sec.14-ssec.2) The Governor in Council is to appoint the appointed members.
sec.15
Elected members
sec.15 Elected members
There are 5 elected members.
The elected members are—
2 members of the university’s full-time and part-time academic staff; and
1 member of the university’s full-time and part-time general staff; and
2 students, other than persons eligible for membership under paragraph (a) or (b) .
Each elected member is to be elected at a council election.
s 15 amd 2002 No. 75 s 71 ; 2005 No. 18 s 143 ; 2017 No. 36 s 155
(sec.15-ssec.1) There are 5 elected members.
(sec.15-ssec.2) The elected members are— 2 members of the university’s full-time and part-time academic staff; and 1 member of the university’s full-time and part-time general staff; and 2 students, other than persons eligible for membership under paragraph (a) or (b) .
(sec.15-ssec.3) Each elected member is to be elected at a council election.
(a) 2 members of the university’s full-time and part-time academic staff; and
(b) 1 member of the university’s full-time and part-time general staff; and
(c) 2 students, other than persons eligible for membership under paragraph (a) or (b) .
sec.16
Additional members
sec.16 Additional members
There are 4 additional members.
The council must appoint the additional members.
The council must appoint at least 1 graduate of the university as an additional member.
An additional member must not be a student or a member of the university’s academic staff or general staff.
s 16 sub 2005 No. 18 s 144
(sec.16-ssec.1) There are 4 additional members.
(sec.16-ssec.2) The council must appoint the additional members.
(sec.16-ssec.3) The council must appoint at least 1 graduate of the university as an additional member.
(sec.16-ssec.4) An additional member must not be a student or a member of the university’s academic staff or general staff.
sec.17
When council is taken to be properly constituted
sec.17 When council is taken to be properly constituted
The council is taken to be properly constituted when it has 11 or more members, whether they be additional, appointed, elected or official members.
s 17 amd 2005 No. 18 s 145
sec.18
Appointed member’s term of office
sec.18 Appointed member’s term of office
An appointed member is to be appointed for a term of not more than 4 years.
s 18 amd 2005 No. 18 s 146
sec.19
Elected member’s term of office
sec.19 Elected member’s term of office
An elected member mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) or (b) holds office for 4 years.
An elected member mentioned in section 15 (2) (c) holds office for 2 years.
An elected member’s term of office starts—
if the member is re-elected—the day after the day when the member’s previous term of office ends; or
if paragraph (a) does not apply—the day after the day when the term of office of the member’s predecessor ends.
s 19 amd 2005 No. 18 s 147
(sec.19-ssec.1) An elected member mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) or (b) holds office for 4 years.
(sec.19-ssec.2) An elected member mentioned in section 15 (2) (c) holds office for 2 years.
(sec.19-ssec.3) An elected member’s term of office starts— if the member is re-elected—the day after the day when the member’s previous term of office ends; or if paragraph (a) does not apply—the day after the day when the term of office of the member’s predecessor ends.
(a) if the member is re-elected—the day after the day when the member’s previous term of office ends; or
(b) if paragraph (a) does not apply—the day after the day when the term of office of the member’s predecessor ends.
sec.20
Additional member’s term of office
sec.20 Additional member’s term of office
An additional member is to be appointed for a term of not more than 4 years decided by the council.
s 20 sub 2005 No. 18 s 148
sec.20A
Dealing with casual vacancy in office of an elected member
sec.20A Dealing with casual vacancy in office of an elected member
This section applies if a casual vacancy arises in the office of an elected member.
If the elected member was elected at a council election, the council must appoint to the office the one person, if any, who—
was a candidate for the office in the council election; and
was not elected; and
received the highest number of votes of all the candidates who were not elected; and
is eligible, under this Act, to be a member; and
is willing to be, and available to perform the functions of, a member.
Subsection (4) applies if—
the elected member was not elected at a council election; or
no-one is eligible for appointment under subsection (2) .
A person is to be elected to the office at a council election.
Despite subsection (4) , if the elected member was a student, the council may appoint a student to the office.
A person appointed under subsection (2) or (5) is taken, other than for subsection (2) or (3) (a) , to have been elected at a council election.
s 20A ins 2002 No. 75 s 72
amd 2005 No. 18 s 149 ; 2017 No. 36 s 156
(sec.20A-ssec.1) This section applies if a casual vacancy arises in the office of an elected member.
(sec.20A-ssec.2) If the elected member was elected at a council election, the council must appoint to the office the one person, if any, who— was a candidate for the office in the council election; and was not elected; and received the highest number of votes of all the candidates who were not elected; and is eligible, under this Act, to be a member; and is willing to be, and available to perform the functions of, a member.
(sec.20A-ssec.3) Subsection (4) applies if— the elected member was not elected at a council election; or no-one is eligible for appointment under subsection (2) .
(sec.20A-ssec.4) A person is to be elected to the office at a council election.
(sec.20A-ssec.5) Despite subsection (4) , if the elected member was a student, the council may appoint a student to the office.
(sec.20A-ssec.6) A person appointed under subsection (2) or (5) is taken, other than for subsection (2) or (3) (a) , to have been elected at a council election.
(a) was a candidate for the office in the council election; and
(b) was not elected; and
(c) received the highest number of votes of all the candidates who were not elected; and
(d) is eligible, under this Act, to be a member; and
(e) is willing to be, and available to perform the functions of, a member.
(a) the elected member was not elected at a council election; or
(b) no-one is eligible for appointment under subsection (2) .
sec.21
Failure to elect elected members
sec.21 Failure to elect elected members
This section applies if, by the end of the relevant day—
insufficient persons are elected for a class of elected members mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) or (c) (each a relevant class ) to comply with section 15 (2) ; or
a person is not elected for a class of elected members mentioned in section 15 (2) (b) (also a relevant class ).
The Minister may appoint, as elected members for the relevant class, the number of persons required to comply with section 15 (2) .
The council may, if asked by the Minister, nominate a person for appointment under subsection (2) .
A person appointed under subsection (2) is taken, other than for section 20A (2) or (3) (a) , to have been elected at a council election for the relevant class.
This section applies to the periodic election of members and an election required because of a casual vacancy.
In this section—
relevant day , in relation to a relevant class, means the last day of the period notified under the election policy for the holding of a council election for an elected member of the relevant class.
s 21 amd 2002 No. 75 s 73 ; 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch
sub 2017 No. 36 s 157
(sec.21-ssec.1) This section applies if, by the end of the relevant day— insufficient persons are elected for a class of elected members mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) or (c) (each a relevant class ) to comply with section 15 (2) ; or a person is not elected for a class of elected members mentioned in section 15 (2) (b) (also a relevant class ).
(sec.21-ssec.2) The Minister may appoint, as elected members for the relevant class, the number of persons required to comply with section 15 (2) .
(sec.21-ssec.3) The council may, if asked by the Minister, nominate a person for appointment under subsection (2) .
(sec.21-ssec.4) A person appointed under subsection (2) is taken, other than for section 20A (2) or (3) (a) , to have been elected at a council election for the relevant class.
(sec.21-ssec.5) This section applies to the periodic election of members and an election required because of a casual vacancy.
(sec.21-ssec.6) In this section— relevant day , in relation to a relevant class, means the last day of the period notified under the election policy for the holding of a council election for an elected member of the relevant class.
(a) insufficient persons are elected for a class of elected members mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) or (c) (each a relevant class ) to comply with section 15 (2) ; or
(b) a person is not elected for a class of elected members mentioned in section 15 (2) (b) (also a relevant class ).
sec.22
Casual vacancies
sec.22 Casual vacancies
A person appointed or elected to fill a casual vacancy in the office of a member is appointed or elected for the balance of the term of office of the person’s predecessor.
s 22 amd 2002 No. 75 s 74 sch ; 2005 No. 18 s 150
sec.23
Ineligibility for membership of council
sec.23 Ineligibility for membership of council
A person is not eligible to become an additional, appointed or elected member if—
the person is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or
the person has a conviction for an indictable offence, other than an offence in relation to which the person is not eligible under paragraph (a) .
Also, a person is not eligible to be appointed or elected as an additional, appointed or elected member if the person’s appointment or election as the member would result in the person being a member for more than 12 years, whether continuously or not.
Subsection (2) does not apply to a person if a majority of members agree the person may be appointed or elected as an additional, appointed or elected member.
Subsection (1) (b) is subject to sections 25 and 26 .
s 23 sub 2005 No. 18 s 151
amd 2017 No. 36 s 85
(sec.23-ssec.1) A person is not eligible to become an additional, appointed or elected member if— the person is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or the person has a conviction for an indictable offence, other than an offence in relation to which the person is not eligible under paragraph (a) .
(sec.23-ssec.2) Also, a person is not eligible to be appointed or elected as an additional, appointed or elected member if the person’s appointment or election as the member would result in the person being a member for more than 12 years, whether continuously or not.
(sec.23-ssec.3) Subsection (2) does not apply to a person if a majority of members agree the person may be appointed or elected as an additional, appointed or elected member.
(sec.23-ssec.4) Subsection (1) (b) is subject to sections 25 and 26 .
(a) the person is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or
(b) the person has a conviction for an indictable offence, other than an offence in relation to which the person is not eligible under paragraph (a) .
sec.24
Vacation of office
sec.24 Vacation of office
The office of an additional, appointed or elected member becomes vacant if—
the member dies; or
for an elected member of a class mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) to (c) —
if the election policy in effect when the member was elected included nomination requirements for the class—the member ceases to meet the nomination requirements under the policy; or
otherwise—the member ceases to be an eligible person for the class; or
An elected member of a class mentioned in section 15 (2) (c) ceases to be a student.
for an additional member—the member becomes a student or a member of the academic staff or general staff of the university; or
the member is absent without the council’s leave and without reasonable excuse from every meeting of the council in a period of 6 months; or
the member becomes an official member; or
the member resigns from office by signed notice—
if the member is an appointed member—given to the Minister; or
if the member is an elected or additional member—given to the vice-chancellor; or
the member is removed from office under section 26B ; or
the member is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or
the member is convicted of an indictable offence, other than an offence in relation to which the member’s office becomes vacant under paragraph (h) .
See section 64D for the requirement to disclose a matter mentioned in paragraph (h) or (i) .
Subsection (1) (i) is subject to sections 25 and 26 .
A resignation takes effect on the day the notice of resignation is given to the Minister or the vice-chancellor or, if a later day of effect is stated in the notice, the later day.
In this section—
nomination requirements means requirements for eligibility to be nominated as a candidate in a council election.
s 24 amd 2005 No. 18 s 152 ; 2017 No. 36 ss 86 , 158
(sec.24-ssec.1) The office of an additional, appointed or elected member becomes vacant if— the member dies; or for an elected member of a class mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) to (c) — if the election policy in effect when the member was elected included nomination requirements for the class—the member ceases to meet the nomination requirements under the policy; or otherwise—the member ceases to be an eligible person for the class; or An elected member of a class mentioned in section 15 (2) (c) ceases to be a student. for an additional member—the member becomes a student or a member of the academic staff or general staff of the university; or the member is absent without the council’s leave and without reasonable excuse from every meeting of the council in a period of 6 months; or the member becomes an official member; or the member resigns from office by signed notice— if the member is an appointed member—given to the Minister; or if the member is an elected or additional member—given to the vice-chancellor; or the member is removed from office under section 26B ; or the member is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or the member is convicted of an indictable offence, other than an offence in relation to which the member’s office becomes vacant under paragraph (h) . See section 64D for the requirement to disclose a matter mentioned in paragraph (h) or (i) .
(sec.24-ssec.2) Subsection (1) (i) is subject to sections 25 and 26 .
(sec.24-ssec.3) A resignation takes effect on the day the notice of resignation is given to the Minister or the vice-chancellor or, if a later day of effect is stated in the notice, the later day.
(sec.24-ssec.4) In this section— nomination requirements means requirements for eligibility to be nominated as a candidate in a council election.
(a) the member dies; or
(b) for an elected member of a class mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) to (c) — (i) if the election policy in effect when the member was elected included nomination requirements for the class—the member ceases to meet the nomination requirements under the policy; or (ii) otherwise—the member ceases to be an eligible person for the class; or Example— An elected member of a class mentioned in section 15 (2) (c) ceases to be a student.
(i) if the election policy in effect when the member was elected included nomination requirements for the class—the member ceases to meet the nomination requirements under the policy; or
(ii) otherwise—the member ceases to be an eligible person for the class; or Example— An elected member of a class mentioned in section 15 (2) (c) ceases to be a student.
(c) for an additional member—the member becomes a student or a member of the academic staff or general staff of the university; or
(d) the member is absent without the council’s leave and without reasonable excuse from every meeting of the council in a period of 6 months; or
(e) the member becomes an official member; or
(f) the member resigns from office by signed notice— (i) if the member is an appointed member—given to the Minister; or (ii) if the member is an elected or additional member—given to the vice-chancellor; or
(i) if the member is an appointed member—given to the Minister; or
(ii) if the member is an elected or additional member—given to the vice-chancellor; or
(g) the member is removed from office under section 26B ; or
(h) the member is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or
(i) the member is convicted of an indictable offence, other than an offence in relation to which the member’s office becomes vacant under paragraph (h) .
(i) if the election policy in effect when the member was elected included nomination requirements for the class—the member ceases to meet the nomination requirements under the policy; or
(ii) otherwise—the member ceases to be an eligible person for the class; or Example— An elected member of a class mentioned in section 15 (2) (c) ceases to be a student.
(i) if the member is an appointed member—given to the Minister; or
(ii) if the member is an elected or additional member—given to the vice-chancellor; or
sec.25
Discretion where appointed member convicted of indictable offence
sec.25 Discretion where appointed member convicted of indictable offence
If the Minister considers it would be reasonable, having regard to the circumstances of the indictable offence mentioned in section 23 (1) (b) or 24 (1) (i) of which a person has been convicted, the Minister may—
if the person was an appointed member when convicted—give notice to the chancellor and the person that the person is restored as an appointed member, and may be subsequently reappointed, despite the conviction; or
otherwise—give written approval for the person to become an appointed member despite the conviction.
On the day the chancellor receives a notice under subsection (1) (a) —
the person is restored as an appointed member; and
if another person has been appointed to fill the vacancy—the other person’s appointment ends.
If a person is restored as an appointed member under subsection (2) , the person’s term of office as a member ends when it would have ended if the person had not been convicted of the offence.
s 25 amd 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch ; 2017 No. 36 s 165 s ch 1 pt 2
(sec.25-ssec.1) If the Minister considers it would be reasonable, having regard to the circumstances of the indictable offence mentioned in section 23 (1) (b) or 24 (1) (i) of which a person has been convicted, the Minister may— if the person was an appointed member when convicted—give notice to the chancellor and the person that the person is restored as an appointed member, and may be subsequently reappointed, despite the conviction; or otherwise—give written approval for the person to become an appointed member despite the conviction.
(sec.25-ssec.2) On the day the chancellor receives a notice under subsection (1) (a) — the person is restored as an appointed member; and if another person has been appointed to fill the vacancy—the other person’s appointment ends.
(sec.25-ssec.3) If a person is restored as an appointed member under subsection (2) , the person’s term of office as a member ends when it would have ended if the person had not been convicted of the offence.
(a) if the person was an appointed member when convicted—give notice to the chancellor and the person that the person is restored as an appointed member, and may be subsequently reappointed, despite the conviction; or
(b) otherwise—give written approval for the person to become an appointed member despite the conviction.
(a) the person is restored as an appointed member; and
(b) if another person has been appointed to fill the vacancy—the other person’s appointment ends.
sec.26
Discretion where additional or elected member convicted of indictable offence
sec.26 Discretion where additional or elected member convicted of indictable offence
If the council considers it would be reasonable, having regard to the circumstances of the indictable offence mentioned in section 23 (1) (b) or 24 (1) (i) of which a person has been convicted, the council may—
if the person was an additional or elected member when convicted—give notice to the person that the person is restored as an additional or elected member, and may be subsequently reappointed or re-elected, despite the conviction; or
otherwise—give written approval for the person to become an additional or elected member despite the conviction.
On the day the person receives the notice under subsection (1) (a) —
the person is restored as an additional or elected member; and
if another person has been appointed or elected to fill the vacancy—the other person’s membership of the council ends.
If a person is restored as an additional or elected member under subsection (2) , the person’s term of office as a member ends when it would have ended if the person had not been convicted of the offence.
s 26 amd 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch ; 2017 No. 36 s 165 s ch 1 pt 2
(sec.26-ssec.1) If the council considers it would be reasonable, having regard to the circumstances of the indictable offence mentioned in section 23 (1) (b) or 24 (1) (i) of which a person has been convicted, the council may— if the person was an additional or elected member when convicted—give notice to the person that the person is restored as an additional or elected member, and may be subsequently reappointed or re-elected, despite the conviction; or otherwise—give written approval for the person to become an additional or elected member despite the conviction.
(sec.26-ssec.2) On the day the person receives the notice under subsection (1) (a) — the person is restored as an additional or elected member; and if another person has been appointed or elected to fill the vacancy—the other person’s membership of the council ends.
(sec.26-ssec.3) If a person is restored as an additional or elected member under subsection (2) , the person’s term of office as a member ends when it would have ended if the person had not been convicted of the offence.
(a) if the person was an additional or elected member when convicted—give notice to the person that the person is restored as an additional or elected member, and may be subsequently reappointed or re-elected, despite the conviction; or
(b) otherwise—give written approval for the person to become an additional or elected member despite the conviction.
(a) the person is restored as an additional or elected member; and
(b) if another person has been appointed or elected to fill the vacancy—the other person’s membership of the council ends.
pt.2-div.3A
Council elections
Council elections
sec.26AA
Election policy
sec.26AA Election policy
The council must—
make a policy (an election policy ) about the conduct of elections required under sections 15 and 20A ; and
publish the election policy on the university’s website.
The election policy must include—
provisions to ensure the integrity and security of the voting system; and
without limiting paragraph (a) , provisions to ensure—
only persons who are eligible to vote may vote; and
a person can not vote more than once in an election; and
voting is done by secret ballot; and
a person is not improperly influenced in voting; and
provisions stating the procedure for voting, including the procedure for issuing ballots; and
provisions about—
notifying the period during which an election is to be held; and
nominating candidates, including calling for and making nominations, and fixing the day by which nominations must be made; and
publishing the results of an election, including the day by which the results must be published; and
making and resolving complaints.
Also, the election policy may include provisions stating requirements for—
eligibility to be nominated as a candidate for a particular class of elected members; and
eligibility to vote, including eligibility to vote for a particular class of elected members.
The election policy takes effect on the day it is published on the university’s website or any later day stated in the policy.
s 26AA ins 2017 No. 36 s 159
(sec.26AA-ssec.1) The council must— make a policy (an election policy ) about the conduct of elections required under sections 15 and 20A ; and publish the election policy on the university’s website.
(sec.26AA-ssec.2) The election policy must include— provisions to ensure the integrity and security of the voting system; and without limiting paragraph (a) , provisions to ensure— only persons who are eligible to vote may vote; and a person can not vote more than once in an election; and voting is done by secret ballot; and a person is not improperly influenced in voting; and provisions stating the procedure for voting, including the procedure for issuing ballots; and provisions about— notifying the period during which an election is to be held; and nominating candidates, including calling for and making nominations, and fixing the day by which nominations must be made; and publishing the results of an election, including the day by which the results must be published; and making and resolving complaints.
(sec.26AA-ssec.3) Also, the election policy may include provisions stating requirements for— eligibility to be nominated as a candidate for a particular class of elected members; and eligibility to vote, including eligibility to vote for a particular class of elected members.
(sec.26AA-ssec.4) The election policy takes effect on the day it is published on the university’s website or any later day stated in the policy.
(a) make a policy (an election policy ) about the conduct of elections required under sections 15 and 20A ; and
(b) publish the election policy on the university’s website.
(a) provisions to ensure the integrity and security of the voting system; and
(b) without limiting paragraph (a) , provisions to ensure— (i) only persons who are eligible to vote may vote; and (ii) a person can not vote more than once in an election; and (iii) voting is done by secret ballot; and (iv) a person is not improperly influenced in voting; and
(i) only persons who are eligible to vote may vote; and
(ii) a person can not vote more than once in an election; and
(iii) voting is done by secret ballot; and
(iv) a person is not improperly influenced in voting; and
(c) provisions stating the procedure for voting, including the procedure for issuing ballots; and
(d) provisions about— (i) notifying the period during which an election is to be held; and (ii) nominating candidates, including calling for and making nominations, and fixing the day by which nominations must be made; and (iii) publishing the results of an election, including the day by which the results must be published; and (iv) making and resolving complaints.
(i) notifying the period during which an election is to be held; and
(ii) nominating candidates, including calling for and making nominations, and fixing the day by which nominations must be made; and
(iii) publishing the results of an election, including the day by which the results must be published; and
(iv) making and resolving complaints.
(i) only persons who are eligible to vote may vote; and
(ii) a person can not vote more than once in an election; and
(iii) voting is done by secret ballot; and
(iv) a person is not improperly influenced in voting; and
(i) notifying the period during which an election is to be held; and
(ii) nominating candidates, including calling for and making nominations, and fixing the day by which nominations must be made; and
(iii) publishing the results of an election, including the day by which the results must be published; and
(iv) making and resolving complaints.
(a) eligibility to be nominated as a candidate for a particular class of elected members; and
(b) eligibility to vote, including eligibility to vote for a particular class of elected members.
sec.26AB
Conduct of election
sec.26AB Conduct of election
An election required under section 15 or 20A must be held under the election policy.
s 26AB ins 2017 No. 36 s 159
sec.26AC
Eligibility to vote
sec.26AC Eligibility to vote
A person is eligible to vote in an election for a class of elected members mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) to (c) only if the person—
is an eligible person for the class of elected members; and
otherwise meets any requirements under the election policy for eligibility to vote.
s 26AC ins 2017 No. 36 s 159
(a) is an eligible person for the class of elected members; and
(b) otherwise meets any requirements under the election policy for eligibility to vote.
pt.2-div.4
Members’ function, and removing additional, appointed and elected members from office
Members’ function, and removing additional, appointed and elected members from office
sec.26A
Member’s function, and obligations about function
sec.26A Member’s function, and obligations about function
A member has the function of ensuring the council performs its functions and exercises its powers appropriately, effectively and efficiently.
In performing the function, a member—
must act honestly and in the best interests of the university; and
must exercise reasonable skill, care and diligence; and
must disclose to the council any conflict that may arise between the member’s personal interests and the interests of the university; and
must not make improper use of his or her position as a member, or of information acquired because of his or her position as a member, to gain, directly or indirectly, an advantage for the member or another person.
s 26A ins 2005 No. 18 s 153
(sec.26A-ssec.1) A member has the function of ensuring the council performs its functions and exercises its powers appropriately, effectively and efficiently.
(sec.26A-ssec.2) In performing the function, a member— must act honestly and in the best interests of the university; and must exercise reasonable skill, care and diligence; and must disclose to the council any conflict that may arise between the member’s personal interests and the interests of the university; and must not make improper use of his or her position as a member, or of information acquired because of his or her position as a member, to gain, directly or indirectly, an advantage for the member or another person.
(a) must act honestly and in the best interests of the university; and
(b) must exercise reasonable skill, care and diligence; and
(c) must disclose to the council any conflict that may arise between the member’s personal interests and the interests of the university; and
(d) must not make improper use of his or her position as a member, or of information acquired because of his or her position as a member, to gain, directly or indirectly, an advantage for the member or another person.
sec.26B
Council may remove member from office
sec.26B Council may remove member from office
The council may remove an additional, appointed or elected member from office if at least 12 members are satisfied the member has not complied with—
section 26A (2) ; or
a conduct obligation.
If the council decides to remove a member from office under subsection (1) , the council must as soon as practicable—
give the member notice of the decision and the reasons for it; and
if the member is an appointed member—give the Minister a copy of the notice.
If the council gives a member a notice under subsection (2) (a) , the member’s term of office ends on the later of the following—
the day the member receives the notice;
the day, if any, stated in the notice for that purpose.
The council’s power to remove an appointed member from office under this section does not limit the Governor in Council’s powers under the Acts Interpretation Act 1954 , section 25 (1) (b) (i) or (iii) .
s 26B ins 2005 No. 18 s 153
(sec.26B-ssec.1) The council may remove an additional, appointed or elected member from office if at least 12 members are satisfied the member has not complied with— section 26A (2) ; or a conduct obligation.
(sec.26B-ssec.2) If the council decides to remove a member from office under subsection (1) , the council must as soon as practicable— give the member notice of the decision and the reasons for it; and if the member is an appointed member—give the Minister a copy of the notice.
(sec.26B-ssec.3) If the council gives a member a notice under subsection (2) (a) , the member’s term of office ends on the later of the following— the day the member receives the notice; the day, if any, stated in the notice for that purpose.
(sec.26B-ssec.4) The council’s power to remove an appointed member from office under this section does not limit the Governor in Council’s powers under the Acts Interpretation Act 1954 , section 25 (1) (b) (i) or (iii) .
(a) section 26A (2) ; or
(b) a conduct obligation.
(a) give the member notice of the decision and the reasons for it; and
(b) if the member is an appointed member—give the Minister a copy of the notice.
(a) the day the member receives the notice;
(b) the day, if any, stated in the notice for that purpose.
pt.2-div.5
Extending terms of office
Extending terms of office
sec.26C
Minister may extend terms of office
sec.26C Minister may extend terms of office
The Minister may, by notice given to the council, extend the terms of office of the additional, appointed and elected members for not more than 1 year if the Minister is satisfied the extension—
is in the best interests of the university; and
is necessary for the council to perform its functions and exercise its powers appropriately, effectively and efficiently.
If the Minister acts under subsection (1) , the Minister must extend, by the same amount, the terms of office of all additional, appointed and elected members.
The extension applies only to members holding office when the notice is given under subsection (1) .
This section—
does not allow the Minister to extend the terms of office of the members for more than 1 year by again acting under subsection (1) ; and
applies despite sections 18 , 19 (1) and (2) and 20 .
s 26C ins 2005 No. 18 s 153
(sec.26C-ssec.1) The Minister may, by notice given to the council, extend the terms of office of the additional, appointed and elected members for not more than 1 year if the Minister is satisfied the extension— is in the best interests of the university; and is necessary for the council to perform its functions and exercise its powers appropriately, effectively and efficiently.
(sec.26C-ssec.2) If the Minister acts under subsection (1) , the Minister must extend, by the same amount, the terms of office of all additional, appointed and elected members.
(sec.26C-ssec.3) The extension applies only to members holding office when the notice is given under subsection (1) .
(sec.26C-ssec.4) This section— does not allow the Minister to extend the terms of office of the members for more than 1 year by again acting under subsection (1) ; and applies despite sections 18 , 19 (1) and (2) and 20 .
(a) is in the best interests of the university; and
(b) is necessary for the council to perform its functions and exercise its powers appropriately, effectively and efficiently.
(a) does not allow the Minister to extend the terms of office of the members for more than 1 year by again acting under subsection (1) ; and
(b) applies despite sections 18 , 19 (1) and (2) and 20 .
pt.2-div.6
Meetings of the council
Meetings of the council
sec.27
Who is to preside at meetings
sec.27 Who is to preside at meetings
The chancellor must preside at meetings of the council.
However, if the chancellor and deputy chancellor are both absent from a meeting of the council or the offices are vacant, the members present must elect a member to preside at the meeting.
Section 31 (4) states when the deputy chancellor is to act as chancellor.
(sec.27-ssec.1) The chancellor must preside at meetings of the council.
(sec.27-ssec.2) However, if the chancellor and deputy chancellor are both absent from a meeting of the council or the offices are vacant, the members present must elect a member to preside at the meeting. Section 31 (4) states when the deputy chancellor is to act as chancellor.
sec.28
Quorum
sec.28 Quorum
A quorum exists at a meeting of the council if at least half its members are present.
sec.29
Conduct of meetings
sec.29 Conduct of meetings
The council may otherwise regulate its proceedings as it considers appropriate.
pt.3
Certain officers of the university
Certain officers of the university
sec.30
Chancellor
sec.30 Chancellor
There is to be a chancellor of the university.
The council must elect a chancellor whenever there is a vacancy in the office.
The person elected need not be a member.
The person elected must not be a student or a member of the university’s academic staff or general staff.
The chancellor holds office for the term, not longer than 5 years, fixed by the council.
s 30 amd 2005 No. 18 s 154
(sec.30-ssec.1) There is to be a chancellor of the university.
(sec.30-ssec.2) The council must elect a chancellor whenever there is a vacancy in the office.
(sec.30-ssec.3) The person elected need not be a member.
(sec.30-ssec.4) The person elected must not be a student or a member of the university’s academic staff or general staff.
(sec.30-ssec.5) The chancellor holds office for the term, not longer than 5 years, fixed by the council.
sec.31
Deputy chancellor
sec.31 Deputy chancellor
There is to be a deputy chancellor of the university.
The council must elect a member as deputy chancellor whenever there is a vacancy in the office.
The deputy chancellor holds office for the term, not longer than 4 years, fixed by the council.
The deputy chancellor is to act as chancellor—
during a vacancy in the office of chancellor; and
during all periods when the chancellor is absent from duty or, for another reason, can not perform the functions of the office.
s 31 amd 2005 No. 18 s 155 ; 2017 No. 36 s 87
(sec.31-ssec.1) There is to be a deputy chancellor of the university.
(sec.31-ssec.2) The council must elect a member as deputy chancellor whenever there is a vacancy in the office.
(sec.31-ssec.3) The deputy chancellor holds office for the term, not longer than 4 years, fixed by the council.
(sec.31-ssec.4) The deputy chancellor is to act as chancellor— during a vacancy in the office of chancellor; and during all periods when the chancellor is absent from duty or, for another reason, can not perform the functions of the office.
(a) during a vacancy in the office of chancellor; and
(b) during all periods when the chancellor is absent from duty or, for another reason, can not perform the functions of the office.
sec.32
Vice-chancellor
sec.32 Vice-chancellor
There is to be a vice-chancellor of the university.
The council must appoint a vice-chancellor whenever there is a vacancy in the office.
The terms of appointment are as decided by the council.
The vice-chancellor is the chief executive officer of the university and may exercise the powers and perform the functions conferred on the vice-chancellor by this Act or another Act or the council.
The vice-chancellor may delegate powers of the vice-chancellor under this or another Act to an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
See also section 11 (3) in relation to the subdelegation by the vice-chancellor of a power delegated by the council.
s 32 amd 2017 No. 36 s 88
(sec.32-ssec.1) There is to be a vice-chancellor of the university.
(sec.32-ssec.2) The council must appoint a vice-chancellor whenever there is a vacancy in the office.
(sec.32-ssec.3) The terms of appointment are as decided by the council.
(sec.32-ssec.4) The vice-chancellor is the chief executive officer of the university and may exercise the powers and perform the functions conferred on the vice-chancellor by this Act or another Act or the council.
(sec.32-ssec.5) The vice-chancellor may delegate powers of the vice-chancellor under this or another Act to an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff. See also section 11 (3) in relation to the subdelegation by the vice-chancellor of a power delegated by the council.
sec.33
Section sec.33
s 33 om 2005 No. 18 s 156
pt.4
Bodies connected with the university
Bodies connected with the university
pt.4-div.1
Student guild
Student guild
sec.34
Establishment of student guild
sec.34 Establishment of student guild
The University of the Sunshine Coast Student Guild is established.
The student guild—
is a body corporate with perpetual succession; and
has a common seal; and
may sue and be sued in its corporate name.
(sec.34-ssec.1) The University of the Sunshine Coast Student Guild is established.
(sec.34-ssec.2) The student guild— is a body corporate with perpetual succession; and has a common seal; and may sue and be sued in its corporate name.
(a) is a body corporate with perpetual succession; and
(b) has a common seal; and
(c) may sue and be sued in its corporate name.
sec.35
Composition
sec.35 Composition
The persons who are eligible to be members of the student guild are—
students; and
persons eligible for membership under the student guild’s constitution.
(a) students; and
(b) persons eligible for membership under the student guild’s constitution.
sec.36
Functions and powers
sec.36 Functions and powers
The student guild has the functions and powers stated in its constitution.
The student guild also has the functions and powers decided by the council.
However, the student guild is not the employee or agent of the council.
(sec.36-ssec.1) The student guild has the functions and powers stated in its constitution.
(sec.36-ssec.2) The student guild also has the functions and powers decided by the council.
(sec.36-ssec.3) However, the student guild is not the employee or agent of the council.
sec.37
General powers
sec.37 General powers
Without limiting section 36 , the student guild has all the powers of an individual, including, for example, the power to acquire, hold, dispose of, and deal with, property.
sec.38
Constitution
sec.38 Constitution
The student guild must have a written constitution.
The student guild’s constitution, and each amendment of the constitution, must be submitted to the council for its approval.
The constitution or amendment has no effect until approved by the council.
(sec.38-ssec.1) The student guild must have a written constitution.
(sec.38-ssec.2) The student guild’s constitution, and each amendment of the constitution, must be submitted to the council for its approval.
(sec.38-ssec.3) The constitution or amendment has no effect until approved by the council.
pt.4-div.2
sec.39
Section sec.39
s 39 om 2017 No. 36 s 160
pt.4-div.3
Academic board
Academic board
sec.40
Establishment of academic board
sec.40 Establishment of academic board
An academic board of the university is established.
The council must decide the membership of the academic board.
The academic board must—
advise the council about teaching, scholarship and research matters concerning the university; and
formulate proposals for the academic policies of the university; and
monitor the academic activities of the university’s faculties; and
promote and encourage scholarship and research at the university.
(sec.40-ssec.1) An academic board of the university is established.
(sec.40-ssec.2) The council must decide the membership of the academic board.
(sec.40-ssec.3) The academic board must— advise the council about teaching, scholarship and research matters concerning the university; and formulate proposals for the academic policies of the university; and monitor the academic activities of the university’s faculties; and promote and encourage scholarship and research at the university.
(a) advise the council about teaching, scholarship and research matters concerning the university; and
(b) formulate proposals for the academic policies of the university; and
(c) monitor the academic activities of the university’s faculties; and
(d) promote and encourage scholarship and research at the university.
sec.40A
Chairperson of academic board
sec.40A Chairperson of academic board
There is to be a chairperson of the academic board.
The council must decide who is the chairperson.
The chairperson holds office for the term, not longer than 3 years, decided by the council.
s 40A (prev s 40AA) ins 2005 No. 18 s 157
renum 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch
(sec.40A-ssec.1) There is to be a chairperson of the academic board.
(sec.40A-ssec.2) The council must decide who is the chairperson.
(sec.40A-ssec.3) The chairperson holds office for the term, not longer than 3 years, decided by the council.
pt.4-div.4
Application of Corporations legislation to bodies
Application of Corporations legislation to bodies
sec.40B
Excluded matters for Corporations legislation
sec.40B Excluded matters for Corporations legislation
The academic board is declared to be an excluded matter for the Corporations Act , section 5F , in relation to parts 5.7 and 5 .7B of that Act.
The student guild is declared to be an excluded matter for the Corporations Act , section 5F , in relation to the provisions of that Act for which a statutory body within the meaning of the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 is declared to be an excluded matter under section 13A of that Act.
Corporations Act , part 2D .1 (Duties and powers), part 2D .6 (Disqualification from managing corporations), chapter 2K (Charges), chapter 2L (Debentures), part 5.7 (Winding up bodies other than companies), part 5.7 B (Recovering property or compensation for the benefit of creditors of insolvent company), part 5.9 (Miscellaneous) and part 5B .2 (Registrable bodies)
s 40B (prev s 40A) ins 2001 No. 45 s 29 sch 3
amd 2005 No. 18 s 158
renum 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch
amd 2017 No. 36 s 161
(sec.40B-ssec.1) The academic board is declared to be an excluded matter for the Corporations Act , section 5F , in relation to parts 5.7 and 5 .7B of that Act.
(sec.40B-ssec.2) The student guild is declared to be an excluded matter for the Corporations Act , section 5F , in relation to the provisions of that Act for which a statutory body within the meaning of the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 is declared to be an excluded matter under section 13A of that Act. Corporations Act , part 2D .1 (Duties and powers), part 2D .6 (Disqualification from managing corporations), chapter 2K (Charges), chapter 2L (Debentures), part 5.7 (Winding up bodies other than companies), part 5.7 B (Recovering property or compensation for the benefit of creditors of insolvent company), part 5.9 (Miscellaneous) and part 5B .2 (Registrable bodies)
pt.4A
Matters relating to offices of chancellor, deputy chancellor, vice-chancellor and chairperson
Matters relating to offices of chancellor, deputy chancellor, vice-chancellor and chairperson
sec.40C
Disqualification from office
sec.40C Disqualification from office
A person can not become, or continue as, the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson if—
the person is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or
subject to subsections (2) to (4) , the person has a conviction for an indictable offence other than an offence in relation to which the person is disqualified from office under paragraph (a) .
See section 64D for the requirement to disclose the disqualification or conviction.
If the council considers it would be reasonable, having regard to the circumstances of the indictable offence mentioned in subsection (1) (b) of which the person has been convicted, the council may—
if the person was the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson when convicted—give notice to the person that the person—
is restored as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson; and
may be later re-elected or reappointed, despite the conviction; or
otherwise—give written approval for the person to become the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson despite the conviction.
On the day the person receives a notice under subsection (2) (a) —
the person is restored as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson; and
if another person has been elected or appointed to fill the vacancy—the other person’s term of office ends.
If a person is restored as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson under subsection (3) , the person’s term of office as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson ends when it would have ended if the person had not been convicted of the offence.
s 40C ins 2005 No. 18 s 159
amd 2017 No. 36 s 89
(sec.40C-ssec.1) A person can not become, or continue as, the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson if— the person is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or subject to subsections (2) to (4) , the person has a conviction for an indictable offence other than an offence in relation to which the person is disqualified from office under paragraph (a) . See section 64D for the requirement to disclose the disqualification or conviction.
(sec.40C-ssec.2) If the council considers it would be reasonable, having regard to the circumstances of the indictable offence mentioned in subsection (1) (b) of which the person has been convicted, the council may— if the person was the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson when convicted—give notice to the person that the person— is restored as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson; and may be later re-elected or reappointed, despite the conviction; or otherwise—give written approval for the person to become the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson despite the conviction.
(sec.40C-ssec.3) On the day the person receives a notice under subsection (2) (a) — the person is restored as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson; and if another person has been elected or appointed to fill the vacancy—the other person’s term of office ends.
(sec.40C-ssec.4) If a person is restored as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson under subsection (3) , the person’s term of office as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson ends when it would have ended if the person had not been convicted of the offence.
(a) the person is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or
(b) subject to subsections (2) to (4) , the person has a conviction for an indictable offence other than an offence in relation to which the person is disqualified from office under paragraph (a) .
(a) if the person was the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson when convicted—give notice to the person that the person— (i) is restored as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson; and (ii) may be later re-elected or reappointed, despite the conviction; or
(i) is restored as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson; and
(ii) may be later re-elected or reappointed, despite the conviction; or
(b) otherwise—give written approval for the person to become the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson despite the conviction.
(i) is restored as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson; and
(ii) may be later re-elected or reappointed, despite the conviction; or
(a) the person is restored as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson; and
(b) if another person has been elected or appointed to fill the vacancy—the other person’s term of office ends.
sec.40D
Council may remove chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson from office
sec.40D Council may remove chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson from office
The council may remove the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson from office if at least 12 members are satisfied the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson has not complied with—
section 26A (2) ; or
a conduct obligation.
If the council decides to remove the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson from office under subsection (1) , the council must as soon as practicable give the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson notice of the decision and the reasons for it.
The chancellor’s, vice-chancellor’s or chairperson’s term of office ends on the later of the following—
the day he or she receives the notice;
the day, if any, stated in the notice for that purpose.
s 40D ins 2005 No. 18 s 159
(sec.40D-ssec.1) The council may remove the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson from office if at least 12 members are satisfied the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson has not complied with— section 26A (2) ; or a conduct obligation.
(sec.40D-ssec.2) If the council decides to remove the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson from office under subsection (1) , the council must as soon as practicable give the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson notice of the decision and the reasons for it.
(sec.40D-ssec.3) The chancellor’s, vice-chancellor’s or chairperson’s term of office ends on the later of the following— the day he or she receives the notice; the day, if any, stated in the notice for that purpose.
(a) section 26A (2) ; or
(b) a conduct obligation.
(a) the day he or she receives the notice;
(b) the day, if any, stated in the notice for that purpose.
sec.40E
Particular matters about removal of vice-chancellor
sec.40E Particular matters about removal of vice-chancellor
The council may remove the vice-chancellor from office under section 40D despite the vice-chancellor’s terms of appointment.
If the council removes the vice-chancellor from office under section 40D —
the removal does not affect the vice-chancellor’s right to claim compensation or other entitlements under his or her terms of appointment applying when the appointment ends; and
the vice-chancellor may only claim compensation and other entitlements under his or her terms of appointment as if—
the appointment had been ended as permitted under the terms of appointment; or
his or her term of office had ended.
s 40E ins 2005 No. 18 s 159
(sec.40E-ssec.1) The council may remove the vice-chancellor from office under section 40D despite the vice-chancellor’s terms of appointment.
(sec.40E-ssec.2) If the council removes the vice-chancellor from office under section 40D — the removal does not affect the vice-chancellor’s right to claim compensation or other entitlements under his or her terms of appointment applying when the appointment ends; and the vice-chancellor may only claim compensation and other entitlements under his or her terms of appointment as if— the appointment had been ended as permitted under the terms of appointment; or his or her term of office had ended.
(a) the removal does not affect the vice-chancellor’s right to claim compensation or other entitlements under his or her terms of appointment applying when the appointment ends; and
(b) the vice-chancellor may only claim compensation and other entitlements under his or her terms of appointment as if— (i) the appointment had been ended as permitted under the terms of appointment; or (ii) his or her term of office had ended.
(i) the appointment had been ended as permitted under the terms of appointment; or
(ii) his or her term of office had ended.
(i) the appointment had been ended as permitted under the terms of appointment; or
(ii) his or her term of office had ended.
sec.40F
Vacation of office
sec.40F Vacation of office
The office of the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson becomes vacant if he or she—
can not continue as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson under section 40C ; or
is removed from office under section 40D .
The office of the deputy chancellor becomes vacant if his or her office as a member becomes vacant under section 24 or he or she otherwise stops being a member.
s 40F ins 2005 No. 18 s 159
(sec.40F-ssec.1) The office of the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson becomes vacant if he or she— can not continue as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson under section 40C ; or is removed from office under section 40D .
(sec.40F-ssec.2) The office of the deputy chancellor becomes vacant if his or her office as a member becomes vacant under section 24 or he or she otherwise stops being a member.
(a) can not continue as the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson under section 40C ; or
(b) is removed from office under section 40D .
pt.5
Property and finance
Property and finance
pt.5-div.1
Property held on trust or conditions
Property held on trust or conditions
sec.41
Definition for div 1
sec.41 Definition for div 1
In this division—
property includes income from property and a part or residue of the property.
sec.42
University may carry out conditions of gift etc.
sec.42 University may carry out conditions of gift etc.
The university may agree to and carry out any conditions of a gift, grant, bequest or devise of property to the university.
sec.43
Amendment of terms of trusts and gifts
sec.43 Amendment of terms of trusts and gifts
This section applies if—
property is held by the university on terms requiring the property to be used for a particular purpose (the donor’s purpose ); and
the council is satisfied—
the donor’s purpose—
has been wholly or substantially achieved; or
no longer exists; or
has been adequately provided for in another way; or
is uncertain, can not be identified, or is insufficiently defined; or
becomes impossible, impractical or inexpedient to carry out; or
the property is inadequate for the donor’s purpose.
The council may prepare a scheme (the proposed scheme ) for the use of the property for another purpose (the designated purpose ).
(sec.43-ssec.1) This section applies if— property is held by the university on terms requiring the property to be used for a particular purpose (the donor’s purpose ); and the council is satisfied— the donor’s purpose— has been wholly or substantially achieved; or no longer exists; or has been adequately provided for in another way; or is uncertain, can not be identified, or is insufficiently defined; or becomes impossible, impractical or inexpedient to carry out; or the property is inadequate for the donor’s purpose.
(sec.43-ssec.2) The council may prepare a scheme (the proposed scheme ) for the use of the property for another purpose (the designated purpose ).
(a) property is held by the university on terms requiring the property to be used for a particular purpose (the donor’s purpose ); and
(b) the council is satisfied— (i) the donor’s purpose— (A) has been wholly or substantially achieved; or (B) no longer exists; or (C) has been adequately provided for in another way; or (D) is uncertain, can not be identified, or is insufficiently defined; or (E) becomes impossible, impractical or inexpedient to carry out; or (ii) the property is inadequate for the donor’s purpose.
(i) the donor’s purpose— (A) has been wholly or substantially achieved; or (B) no longer exists; or (C) has been adequately provided for in another way; or (D) is uncertain, can not be identified, or is insufficiently defined; or (E) becomes impossible, impractical or inexpedient to carry out; or
(A) has been wholly or substantially achieved; or
(B) no longer exists; or
(C) has been adequately provided for in another way; or
(D) is uncertain, can not be identified, or is insufficiently defined; or
(E) becomes impossible, impractical or inexpedient to carry out; or
(ii) the property is inadequate for the donor’s purpose.
(i) the donor’s purpose— (A) has been wholly or substantially achieved; or (B) no longer exists; or (C) has been adequately provided for in another way; or (D) is uncertain, can not be identified, or is insufficiently defined; or (E) becomes impossible, impractical or inexpedient to carry out; or
(A) has been wholly or substantially achieved; or
(B) no longer exists; or
(C) has been adequately provided for in another way; or
(D) is uncertain, can not be identified, or is insufficiently defined; or
(E) becomes impossible, impractical or inexpedient to carry out; or
(ii) the property is inadequate for the donor’s purpose.
(A) has been wholly or substantially achieved; or
(B) no longer exists; or
(C) has been adequately provided for in another way; or
(D) is uncertain, can not be identified, or is insufficiently defined; or
(E) becomes impossible, impractical or inexpedient to carry out; or
sec.44
Selection of designated purpose
sec.44 Selection of designated purpose
In selecting the designated purpose, the council must prefer a purpose that—
is as similar as practicable to the donor’s purpose; and
can practically and conveniently be achieved.
However, the proposed scheme is not invalid merely because another designated purpose may have been more properly selected under subsection (1) .
(sec.44-ssec.1) In selecting the designated purpose, the council must prefer a purpose that— is as similar as practicable to the donor’s purpose; and can practically and conveniently be achieved.
(sec.44-ssec.2) However, the proposed scheme is not invalid merely because another designated purpose may have been more properly selected under subsection (1) .
(a) is as similar as practicable to the donor’s purpose; and
(b) can practically and conveniently be achieved.
sec.45
Approval of proposed scheme
sec.45 Approval of proposed scheme
A proposed scheme is of no effect until it is approved by the Governor in Council and the approval is notified in the gazette.
On approval, the proposed scheme becomes an approved scheme.
So far as is practicable, the university must give a copy of the approved scheme to the donor of the property the subject of the scheme.
Also, the university must without charge give a copy of the approved scheme to anyone else who asks for it.
(sec.45-ssec.1) A proposed scheme is of no effect until it is approved by the Governor in Council and the approval is notified in the gazette.
(sec.45-ssec.2) On approval, the proposed scheme becomes an approved scheme.
(sec.45-ssec.3) So far as is practicable, the university must give a copy of the approved scheme to the donor of the property the subject of the scheme.
(sec.45-ssec.4) Also, the university must without charge give a copy of the approved scheme to anyone else who asks for it.
sec.46
Property to be held for designated purpose
sec.46 Property to be held for designated purpose
Property to which the approved scheme applies is to be held by the university for the property’s designated purpose instead of the donor’s purpose.
sec.47
Certain persons to be given notice of scheme
sec.47 Certain persons to be given notice of scheme
If the approved scheme applies to land, the university must, as soon as practicable after the scheme is set up, give a copy of the scheme to the registrar of titles.
sec.48
Amendment of scheme
sec.48 Amendment of scheme
The council may amend the approved scheme.
Sections 43 to 47 apply to the amendment of the approved scheme as if a reference to the donor’s purpose were a reference to the designated purpose of the approved scheme that is to be amended.
(sec.48-ssec.1) The council may amend the approved scheme.
(sec.48-ssec.2) Sections 43 to 47 apply to the amendment of the approved scheme as if a reference to the donor’s purpose were a reference to the designated purpose of the approved scheme that is to be amended.
sec.49
University’s powers under other laws not limited
sec.49 University’s powers under other laws not limited
This division does not limit the university’s powers and rights under any other law about property held on trust by the university.
pt.5-div.2
Dealing with State land by council
Dealing with State land by council
sec.50
Application of Land Act 1994
sec.50 Application of Land Act 1994
State land is held and may be disposed of under the Land Act 1994 .
However, the university may grant an interest in State land only by way of lease.
Also, the lease must not be for more than 25 years.
(sec.50-ssec.1) State land is held and may be disposed of under the Land Act 1994 .
(sec.50-ssec.2) However, the university may grant an interest in State land only by way of lease.
(sec.50-ssec.3) Also, the lease must not be for more than 25 years.
pt.5-div.3
Finance
Finance
sec.51
University is statutory body under the Financial Accountability Act 2009
sec.51 University is statutory body under the Financial Accountability Act 2009
To remove doubt, it is declared that the university is a statutory body under the Financial Accountability Act 2009 .
s 51 amd 2009 No. 9 s 136 sch 1
sec.52
University is statutory body under the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982
sec.52 University is statutory body under the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982
Under the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 , the university is a statutory body.
The Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 , part 2B sets out the way in which the university’s powers under this Act are affected by the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 .
(sec.52-ssec.1) Under the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 , the university is a statutory body.
(sec.52-ssec.2) The Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 , part 2B sets out the way in which the university’s powers under this Act are affected by the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 .
sec.53
Trust funds
sec.53 Trust funds
The university may establish or administer trust funds.
sec.54
Investment common fund
sec.54 Investment common fund
The university may establish an investment common fund for the collective investment of trust funds or other amounts held by it.
The university may add amounts to or withdraw amounts from the investment common fund, without incurring any liability for breach of trust.
The university must periodically distribute the income of the investment common fund among each of the funds forming the investment common fund (a component fund ) having regard to the share of each component fund in the investment common fund.
Despite subsection (3) , if a component fund consists of an amount received for use for a stated purpose and the amount can not or will not be used for the purpose immediately, income attributable to the share of the amount in the investment common fund may be paid into the general funds of the university if the income is not needed immediately for the stated purpose.
Also, despite subsection (3) , the university may—
add a part of the income of the investment common fund to the fund’s capital; or
use a part of the income to establish or augment another fund to make provision against capital depreciation or reduction of income.
(sec.54-ssec.1) The university may establish an investment common fund for the collective investment of trust funds or other amounts held by it.
(sec.54-ssec.2) The university may add amounts to or withdraw amounts from the investment common fund, without incurring any liability for breach of trust.
(sec.54-ssec.3) The university must periodically distribute the income of the investment common fund among each of the funds forming the investment common fund (a component fund ) having regard to the share of each component fund in the investment common fund.
(sec.54-ssec.4) Despite subsection (3) , if a component fund consists of an amount received for use for a stated purpose and the amount can not or will not be used for the purpose immediately, income attributable to the share of the amount in the investment common fund may be paid into the general funds of the university if the income is not needed immediately for the stated purpose.
(sec.54-ssec.5) Also, despite subsection (3) , the university may— add a part of the income of the investment common fund to the fund’s capital; or use a part of the income to establish or augment another fund to make provision against capital depreciation or reduction of income.
(a) add a part of the income of the investment common fund to the fund’s capital; or
(b) use a part of the income to establish or augment another fund to make provision against capital depreciation or reduction of income.
sec.55
Application of revenue
sec.55 Application of revenue
Subject to the terms of a relevant trust, amounts received by the university from any source are to be applied solely to university purposes.
To remove doubt, it is declared that each of the following is a university purpose—
enabling a student or staff member, or former student or staff member, of the university to undertake study or research at the university or elsewhere;
the advancement of learning generally;
helping a body affiliated or associated with the university.
(sec.55-ssec.1) Subject to the terms of a relevant trust, amounts received by the university from any source are to be applied solely to university purposes.
(sec.55-ssec.2) To remove doubt, it is declared that each of the following is a university purpose— enabling a student or staff member, or former student or staff member, of the university to undertake study or research at the university or elsewhere; the advancement of learning generally; helping a body affiliated or associated with the university.
(a) enabling a student or staff member, or former student or staff member, of the university to undertake study or research at the university or elsewhere;
(b) the advancement of learning generally;
(c) helping a body affiliated or associated with the university.
sec.56
Financial review
sec.56 Financial review
The council must, in each year, adopt a budget for the university for the next year.
In framing the budget the council need not take account of amounts mentioned in subsection (4) .
The council must control its spending as nearly as possible within the limits of the adopted budget.
The council must undertake an annual review of—
amounts available, or expected to be available, to the university by way of bequest, donation or special grant; and
the spending of the amounts.
(sec.56-ssec.1) The council must, in each year, adopt a budget for the university for the next year.
(sec.56-ssec.2) In framing the budget the council need not take account of amounts mentioned in subsection (4) .
(sec.56-ssec.3) The council must control its spending as nearly as possible within the limits of the adopted budget.
(sec.56-ssec.4) The council must undertake an annual review of— amounts available, or expected to be available, to the university by way of bequest, donation or special grant; and the spending of the amounts.
(a) amounts available, or expected to be available, to the university by way of bequest, donation or special grant; and
(b) the spending of the amounts.
sec.57
University’s financial year
sec.57 University’s financial year
The university’s financial year is a calendar year.
pt.6
sec.58
Section sec.58
s 58 amd 2005 No. 18 s 160 ; 2017 No. 36 s 90
om 2017 No. 36 s 162
sec.59
Section sec.59
s 59 om 2017 No. 36 s 162
sec.60
Section sec.60
s 60 om 2017 No. 36 s 162
sec.61
Section sec.61
s 61 om 2017 No. 36 s 162
sec.62
Section sec.62
s 62 om 2017 No. 36 s 162
pt.7
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous
sec.63
Forming and taking part in corporations
sec.63 Forming and taking part in corporations
The university may be a member of, form, take part in forming or manage a corporation whose objects include any of the following—
making available facilities for study, research or education;
providing teaching, research, development, consultancy or other services for public or private entities;
helping or engaging in the development or promotion of the university’s research or the application or use of the results of the research;
preparing, publishing, distributing or licensing the use of literary or artistic work, audio or audiovisual material or computer software;
exploiting commercially a facility or resource of the university, including, for example, study, research or knowledge, or the practical application of study, research or knowledge, developed by or belonging to the university, whether alone or with someone else;
seeking or encouraging gifts to the university or for the university’s purposes;
another object, consistent with this Act, that the council considers is appropriate in the circumstances.
The university, or a corporation managed by the university or of which the university is a member, may enter into an agreement or arrangement with a corporation whose objects include an object mentioned in subsection (1) for achieving the object.
This section applies despite the Corporations Act .
s 63 amd 2001 No. 45 s 29 sch s 2 – 3 ; 2005 No. 18 s 161
(sec.63-ssec.1) The university may be a member of, form, take part in forming or manage a corporation whose objects include any of the following— making available facilities for study, research or education; providing teaching, research, development, consultancy or other services for public or private entities; helping or engaging in the development or promotion of the university’s research or the application or use of the results of the research; preparing, publishing, distributing or licensing the use of literary or artistic work, audio or audiovisual material or computer software; exploiting commercially a facility or resource of the university, including, for example, study, research or knowledge, or the practical application of study, research or knowledge, developed by or belonging to the university, whether alone or with someone else; seeking or encouraging gifts to the university or for the university’s purposes; another object, consistent with this Act, that the council considers is appropriate in the circumstances.
(sec.63-ssec.2) The university, or a corporation managed by the university or of which the university is a member, may enter into an agreement or arrangement with a corporation whose objects include an object mentioned in subsection (1) for achieving the object.
(sec.63-ssec.3) This section applies despite the Corporations Act .
(a) making available facilities for study, research or education;
(b) providing teaching, research, development, consultancy or other services for public or private entities;
(c) helping or engaging in the development or promotion of the university’s research or the application or use of the results of the research;
(d) preparing, publishing, distributing or licensing the use of literary or artistic work, audio or audiovisual material or computer software;
(e) exploiting commercially a facility or resource of the university, including, for example, study, research or knowledge, or the practical application of study, research or knowledge, developed by or belonging to the university, whether alone or with someone else;
(f) seeking or encouraging gifts to the university or for the university’s purposes;
(g) another object, consistent with this Act, that the council considers is appropriate in the circumstances.
sec.64
Use of facilities and staff
sec.64 Use of facilities and staff
The university may enter into a contract or other arrangement with an entity for the use of the university’s facilities and the provision of services by the university’s staff.
sec.64A
Protection from liability
sec.64A Protection from liability
A member is not civilly liable to someone for an act done, or omission made, honestly and without negligence under this Act.
If subsection (1) prevents a civil liability attaching to a member, the liability attaches instead to the university.
s 64A ins 2005 No. 18 s 162
(sec.64A-ssec.1) A member is not civilly liable to someone for an act done, or omission made, honestly and without negligence under this Act.
(sec.64A-ssec.2) If subsection (1) prevents a civil liability attaching to a member, the liability attaches instead to the university.
sec.64B
Report about person’s criminal history
sec.64B Report about person’s criminal history
To decide whether to recommend to the Governor in Council a person for appointment under section 14 (2) as an appointed member, the Minister may ask the commissioner of the police service for—
a written report about the person’s criminal history; and
a brief description of the circumstances of a conviction mentioned in the criminal history.
To decide whether a person is eligible to be the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson, or an elected or additional member, the council may ask the commissioner of the police service for—
a written report about the person’s criminal history; and
a brief description of the circumstances of a conviction mentioned in the criminal history.
The commissioner of the police service must comply with a request under subsection (1) or (2) .
However, the Minister or council may make a request about a person under subsection (1) or (2) only if the person has given the Minister or council written consent for the request.
The duty imposed on the commissioner of the police service to comply with the request applies only to information in the commissioner’s possession or to which the commissioner has access.
The Minister or council must ensure that a report given to the Minister or council under this section is destroyed as soon as practicable after it is no longer needed for the purpose for which it was requested.
In this section—
criminal history , of a person, means the person’s criminal history as defined under the Criminal Law (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act 1986 , other than spent convictions.
s 64B ins 2005 No. 18 s 162
(sec.64B-ssec.1) To decide whether to recommend to the Governor in Council a person for appointment under section 14 (2) as an appointed member, the Minister may ask the commissioner of the police service for— a written report about the person’s criminal history; and a brief description of the circumstances of a conviction mentioned in the criminal history.
(sec.64B-ssec.2) To decide whether a person is eligible to be the chancellor, vice-chancellor or chairperson, or an elected or additional member, the council may ask the commissioner of the police service for— a written report about the person’s criminal history; and a brief description of the circumstances of a conviction mentioned in the criminal history.
(sec.64B-ssec.3) The commissioner of the police service must comply with a request under subsection (1) or (2) .
(sec.64B-ssec.4) However, the Minister or council may make a request about a person under subsection (1) or (2) only if the person has given the Minister or council written consent for the request.
(sec.64B-ssec.5) The duty imposed on the commissioner of the police service to comply with the request applies only to information in the commissioner’s possession or to which the commissioner has access.
(sec.64B-ssec.6) The Minister or council must ensure that a report given to the Minister or council under this section is destroyed as soon as practicable after it is no longer needed for the purpose for which it was requested.
(sec.64B-ssec.7) In this section— criminal history , of a person, means the person’s criminal history as defined under the Criminal Law (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act 1986 , other than spent convictions.
(a) a written report about the person’s criminal history; and
(b) a brief description of the circumstances of a conviction mentioned in the criminal history.
(a) a written report about the person’s criminal history; and
(b) a brief description of the circumstances of a conviction mentioned in the criminal history.
sec.64C
Delegation by Minister
sec.64C Delegation by Minister
The Minister may delegate the Minister’s power under section 64B (1) to an appropriately qualified officer of the department.
s 64C ins 2005 No. 18 s 162
sec.64D
Requirement to disclose particular matters
sec.64D Requirement to disclose particular matters
This section applies if a person who is a member—
is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or
is convicted of an indictable offence mentioned in section 24 (1) (i) or 40C (1) (b) .
The person must, unless the person has a reasonable excuse, immediately give notice of the disqualification or conviction to—
if the person is the chancellor when disqualified or convicted—the vice-chancellor; or
if the person is an appointed member when disqualified or convicted—the Minister; or
otherwise—the chancellor.
Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
The notice must include the following information—
if the notice is of the person’s disqualification—
the existence of the disqualification; and
when the disqualification took effect; and
sufficient details to identify the grounds for the disqualification;
if the notice is of the person’s conviction—
the existence of the conviction; and
when the offence was committed; and
sufficient details to identify the offence; and
the sentence imposed on the person.
The Minister, chancellor or vice-chancellor must ensure a notice given to the Minister, chancellor or vice-chancellor under this section is destroyed as soon as practicable after it is no longer needed for the purposes of this Act.
s 64D ins 2017 No. 36 s 91
amd 2017 No. 36 s 165 s ch 1 pt 2
(sec.64D-ssec.1) This section applies if a person who is a member— is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or is convicted of an indictable offence mentioned in section 24 (1) (i) or 40C (1) (b) .
(sec.64D-ssec.2) The person must, unless the person has a reasonable excuse, immediately give notice of the disqualification or conviction to— if the person is the chancellor when disqualified or convicted—the vice-chancellor; or if the person is an appointed member when disqualified or convicted—the Minister; or otherwise—the chancellor. Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
(sec.64D-ssec.3) The notice must include the following information— if the notice is of the person’s disqualification— the existence of the disqualification; and when the disqualification took effect; and sufficient details to identify the grounds for the disqualification; if the notice is of the person’s conviction— the existence of the conviction; and when the offence was committed; and sufficient details to identify the offence; and the sentence imposed on the person.
(sec.64D-ssec.4) The Minister, chancellor or vice-chancellor must ensure a notice given to the Minister, chancellor or vice-chancellor under this section is destroyed as soon as practicable after it is no longer needed for the purposes of this Act.
(a) is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act , part 2D .6; or
(b) is convicted of an indictable offence mentioned in section 24 (1) (i) or 40C (1) (b) .
(a) if the person is the chancellor when disqualified or convicted—the vice-chancellor; or
(b) if the person is an appointed member when disqualified or convicted—the Minister; or
(c) otherwise—the chancellor.
(a) if the notice is of the person’s disqualification— (i) the existence of the disqualification; and (ii) when the disqualification took effect; and (iii) sufficient details to identify the grounds for the disqualification;
(i) the existence of the disqualification; and
(ii) when the disqualification took effect; and
(iii) sufficient details to identify the grounds for the disqualification;
(b) if the notice is of the person’s conviction— (i) the existence of the conviction; and (ii) when the offence was committed; and (iii) sufficient details to identify the offence; and (iv) the sentence imposed on the person.
(i) the existence of the conviction; and
(ii) when the offence was committed; and
(iii) sufficient details to identify the offence; and
(iv) the sentence imposed on the person.
(i) the existence of the disqualification; and
(ii) when the disqualification took effect; and
(iii) sufficient details to identify the grounds for the disqualification;
(i) the existence of the conviction; and
(ii) when the offence was committed; and
(iii) sufficient details to identify the offence; and
(iv) the sentence imposed on the person.
sec.64E
Restrictions on disclosing protected information
sec.64E Restrictions on disclosing protected information
This section applies to a person who possesses protected information because the person is or was—
the Minister; or
a member; or
a person involved in the administration of this Act, including, for example, as a public service employee; or
a person helping the Minister, the council or a member to perform a function under this Act, including by providing administrative or other support.
The person must not, directly or indirectly, disclose the protected information to another person unless the disclosure is permitted under subsection (3) or (4) .
Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
The person may disclose the protected information to another person—
to the extent necessary to perform the person’s functions under this Act; or
if the disclosure is authorised under an Act; or
if the disclosure is otherwise required or permitted by law; or
if the person to whom the information relates consents to the disclosure; or
if the disclosure is in a form that does not identify the person to whom the information relates; or
if the information is, or has been, lawfully accessible to the public.
Also, without limiting subsection (3) , the Minister, chancellor or vice-chancellor may disclose the protected information to any of the following to the extent necessary for the proper performance of the council’s functions—
the council;
a committee of the council;
a member;
another person.
In this section—
function includes power.
perform , a function, includes exercise a power.
protected information means—
a report, or information contained in a report, given under section 64B ; or
a notice, or information contained in a notice, given under section 64D .
s 64E ins 2017 No. 36 s 91
(sec.64E-ssec.1) This section applies to a person who possesses protected information because the person is or was— the Minister; or a member; or a person involved in the administration of this Act, including, for example, as a public service employee; or a person helping the Minister, the council or a member to perform a function under this Act, including by providing administrative or other support.
(sec.64E-ssec.2) The person must not, directly or indirectly, disclose the protected information to another person unless the disclosure is permitted under subsection (3) or (4) . Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
(sec.64E-ssec.3) The person may disclose the protected information to another person— to the extent necessary to perform the person’s functions under this Act; or if the disclosure is authorised under an Act; or if the disclosure is otherwise required or permitted by law; or if the person to whom the information relates consents to the disclosure; or if the disclosure is in a form that does not identify the person to whom the information relates; or if the information is, or has been, lawfully accessible to the public.
(sec.64E-ssec.4) Also, without limiting subsection (3) , the Minister, chancellor or vice-chancellor may disclose the protected information to any of the following to the extent necessary for the proper performance of the council’s functions— the council; a committee of the council; a member; another person.
(sec.64E-ssec.5) In this section— function includes power. perform , a function, includes exercise a power. protected information means— a report, or information contained in a report, given under section 64B ; or a notice, or information contained in a notice, given under section 64D .
(a) the Minister; or
(b) a member; or
(c) a person involved in the administration of this Act, including, for example, as a public service employee; or
(d) a person helping the Minister, the council or a member to perform a function under this Act, including by providing administrative or other support.
(a) to the extent necessary to perform the person’s functions under this Act; or
(b) if the disclosure is authorised under an Act; or
(c) if the disclosure is otherwise required or permitted by law; or
(d) if the person to whom the information relates consents to the disclosure; or
(e) if the disclosure is in a form that does not identify the person to whom the information relates; or
(f) if the information is, or has been, lawfully accessible to the public.
(a) the council;
(b) a committee of the council;
(c) a member;
(d) another person.
(a) a report, or information contained in a report, given under section 64B ; or
(b) a notice, or information contained in a notice, given under section 64D .
sec.65
Control of traffic and conduct on university land
sec.65 Control of traffic and conduct on university land
Schedule 1 has effect.
sec.66
Proceedings for certain offences
sec.66 Proceedings for certain offences
A proceeding for an offence against schedule 1 , section 4 (3) , 6 (2) , 7 (2) , 12 or 13 (3) may be taken in a summary way under the Justices Act 1886 .
sec.67
Regulation-making power
sec.67 Regulation-making power
The Governor in Council may make regulations under this Act.
pt.8
Repeal and transitional provisions
Repeal and transitional provisions
pt.8-div.1
Repeal provision, and transitional provisions for Act No. 47 of 1998
Repeal provision, and transitional provisions for Act No. 47 of 1998
sec.68
Definitions for div 1
sec.68 Definitions for div 1
In this division—
additional member means a member of the previous council appointed under section 18(2) of the repealed Act.
appointed member means an appointed member, under the repealed Act, of the previous council.
commencing day means the day the provision in which the term is used commences.
s 68 def commencing day sub 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch
continuing corporation , for a former corporation, means—
for the university college—the university established under section 4; or
for the union—the student guild established under section 34.
elected member means an elected member, under the repealed Act, of the previous council.
former corporation means the university college or union.
official member means an official member, under the repealed Act, of the previous council.
previous council means the council of the university college under the repealed Act.
QUT means the Queensland University of Technology.
repealed Act means the Sunshine Coast University College Act 1994 .
union means the Sunshine Coast University College Student Union established under the repealed Act.
university college means the Sunshine Coast University College established under the repealed Act.
s 68 amd 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch
(a) for the university college—the university established under section 4; or
(b) for the union—the student guild established under section 34.
sec.69
Repeal
sec.69 Repeal
The Sunshine Coast University College Act 1994 is repealed.
sec.70
Continuation of university college and union
sec.70 Continuation of university college and union
The university college is continued as the university established under section 4.
The union is continued as the student guild established under section 34.
(sec.70-ssec.1) The university college is continued as the university established under section 4.
(sec.70-ssec.2) The union is continued as the student guild established under section 34.
sec.71
Assets and liabilities
sec.71 Assets and liabilities
On the commencing day—
the assets and liabilities of a former corporation continue to be the assets and liabilities of the continuing corporation for the former corporation; and
any property that, immediately before the commencing day, was held in trust by a former corporation continues to be held by the continuing corporation for the former corporation on the same trusts.
(a) the assets and liabilities of a former corporation continue to be the assets and liabilities of the continuing corporation for the former corporation; and
(b) any property that, immediately before the commencing day, was held in trust by a former corporation continues to be held by the continuing corporation for the former corporation on the same trusts.
sec.72
Contracts
sec.72 Contracts
Any contracts entered into by or on behalf of a former corporation and all guarantees, undertakings and securities given by or on behalf of or to a former corporation, in force immediately before the commencing day, are taken to have been entered into or given by or to the continuing corporation for the former corporation and may be enforced against or by the continuing corporation.
sec.73
Proceedings
sec.73 Proceedings
A proceeding that could have been started or continued by or against a former corporation before the commencing day may be started or continued by or against the continuing corporation for the former corporation.
sec.74
Chancellor, deputy chancellor and vice-chancellor
sec.74 Chancellor, deputy chancellor and vice-chancellor
This section applies to a person who, immediately before the commencing day, held office as the chancellor, deputy chancellor or vice-chancellor of the university college.
On the commencing day, the person is taken to hold office as chancellor, deputy chancellor or vice-chancellor of the university until the end of the person’s term of office or earlier vacating office.
(sec.74-ssec.1) This section applies to a person who, immediately before the commencing day, held office as the chancellor, deputy chancellor or vice-chancellor of the university college.
(sec.74-ssec.2) On the commencing day, the person is taken to hold office as chancellor, deputy chancellor or vice-chancellor of the university until the end of the person’s term of office or earlier vacating office.
sec.75
Membership of council
sec.75 Membership of council
The council consists of—
the official members; and
the additional, appointed and elected members holding office immediately before the commencing day.
An additional, appointed or elected member holds office as a member of the council until 30 June 1999 or earlier vacating office.
For subsections (1) and (2), part 2, division 3 (other than section 22) of the repealed Act (the provisions ), and any definitions relevant to the provisions, continue to have effect.
Part 2, division 3 of the repealed Act deals with the constitution of, and disqualification from office and vacancies of members of, the council.
This section has effect despite the repeal of the repealed Act.
This section ceases to have effect on 30 June 1999.
s 75 ceases to have effect 30 June 1999 (see s 75(5))
(sec.75-ssec.1) The council consists of— the official members; and the additional, appointed and elected members holding office immediately before the commencing day.
(sec.75-ssec.2) An additional, appointed or elected member holds office as a member of the council until 30 June 1999 or earlier vacating office.
(sec.75-ssec.3) For subsections (1) and (2), part 2, division 3 (other than section 22) of the repealed Act (the provisions ), and any definitions relevant to the provisions, continue to have effect. Part 2, division 3 of the repealed Act deals with the constitution of, and disqualification from office and vacancies of members of, the council.
(sec.75-ssec.4) This section has effect despite the repeal of the repealed Act.
(sec.75-ssec.5) This section ceases to have effect on 30 June 1999.
(a) the official members; and
(b) the additional, appointed and elected members holding office immediately before the commencing day.
sec.76
Staff’s rights and entitlements
sec.76 Staff’s rights and entitlements
This section applies to a person who immediately before the commencing day was a staff member of a former corporation.
On the commencing day, the person is taken to be employed by the continuing corporation for the former corporation on the same conditions on which the person was employed by the former corporation.
In addition, the person—
keeps all rights accrued or accruing to the person as a staff member of the former corporation; and
is entitled to receive long service, recreation and sick leave and any similar entitlements accrued or accruing to the person as a staff member of the former corporation.
(sec.76-ssec.1) This section applies to a person who immediately before the commencing day was a staff member of a former corporation.
(sec.76-ssec.2) On the commencing day, the person is taken to be employed by the continuing corporation for the former corporation on the same conditions on which the person was employed by the former corporation.
(sec.76-ssec.3) In addition, the person— keeps all rights accrued or accruing to the person as a staff member of the former corporation; and is entitled to receive long service, recreation and sick leave and any similar entitlements accrued or accruing to the person as a staff member of the former corporation.
(a) keeps all rights accrued or accruing to the person as a staff member of the former corporation; and
(b) is entitled to receive long service, recreation and sick leave and any similar entitlements accrued or accruing to the person as a staff member of the former corporation.
sec.77
University college statutes and rules
sec.77 University college statutes and rules
An existing instrument (to the extent that it is consistent with this Act) continues in force under this Act.
However, the instrument expires 1 year after the commencing day, unless sooner repealed.
In this section—
existing instrument means a university college statute or rule made under the repealed Act and in force immediately before the commencing day.
(sec.77-ssec.1) An existing instrument (to the extent that it is consistent with this Act) continues in force under this Act.
(sec.77-ssec.2) However, the instrument expires 1 year after the commencing day, unless sooner repealed.
(sec.77-ssec.3) In this section— existing instrument means a university college statute or rule made under the repealed Act and in force immediately before the commencing day.
sec.78
Convocation
sec.78 Convocation
The convocation established under the repealed Act and in existence immediately before the commencing day is taken to be the convocation established under this Act.
sec.79
Union’s constitution
sec.79 Union’s constitution
The union’s constitution in force immediately before the commencing day continues in force as the student guild’s constitution under this Act.
sec.80
Affiliation with QUT
sec.80 Affiliation with QUT
On the commencing day, the affiliation agreement entered into under the repealed Act between the university college and QUT is terminated.
The university is not affiliated with QUT.
(sec.80-ssec.1) On the commencing day, the affiliation agreement entered into under the repealed Act between the university college and QUT is terminated.
(sec.80-ssec.2) The university is not affiliated with QUT.
sec.81
Funding arrangements
sec.81 Funding arrangements
This section applies to an amount received by QUT from the Commonwealth, after the commencing day but before 1 July 1999, for operating, capital and research purposes.
QUT must pay to the university the proportion of the amount agreed between QUT and the university.
If, within 3 months after QUT receives the amount from the Commonwealth, QUT and the university can not agree on the proportion, the Minister may decide the proportion.
If the Minister acts under subsection (3), QUT must pay the proportion of the amount decided by the Minister to the university.
(sec.81-ssec.1) This section applies to an amount received by QUT from the Commonwealth, after the commencing day but before 1 July 1999, for operating, capital and research purposes.
(sec.81-ssec.2) QUT must pay to the university the proportion of the amount agreed between QUT and the university.
(sec.81-ssec.3) If, within 3 months after QUT receives the amount from the Commonwealth, QUT and the university can not agree on the proportion, the Minister may decide the proportion.
(sec.81-ssec.4) If the Minister acts under subsection (3), QUT must pay the proportion of the amount decided by the Minister to the university.
sec.82
References to repealed Act or former corporation
sec.82 References to repealed Act or former corporation
In an Act or document, a reference to the Sunshine Coast University College Act 1994 may, if the context permits, be taken to be a reference to this Act.
A reference in an Act or document to a former corporation may, if the context permits, be taken to be a reference to the continuing corporation for the former corporation.
(sec.82-ssec.1) In an Act or document, a reference to the Sunshine Coast University College Act 1994 may, if the context permits, be taken to be a reference to this Act.
(sec.82-ssec.2) A reference in an Act or document to a former corporation may, if the context permits, be taken to be a reference to the continuing corporation for the former corporation.
pt.8-div.2
Transitional provisions for the University Legislation Amendment Act 2005
Transitional provisions for the University Legislation Amendment Act 2005
sec.83
Definitions for div 2
sec.83 Definitions for div 2
In this division—
commencement means the commencement of the provision in which the term is used.
new additional members see section 89.
new appointed members see section 85(2).
pre-amended Act means this Act as in force before the commencement of the University Legislation Amendment Act 2005 , part 8 .
s 83 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
sec.84
Continuation of official members
sec.84 Continuation of official members
Despite section 13, a person who was an official member under section 13(c) or (e) of the pre-amended Act continues as an official member until the new appointed members’ terms of office start.
s 84 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
sec.85
Appointment of new appointed members
sec.85 Appointment of new appointed members
The Minister must, within 1 year after the commencement, recommend to the Governor in Council 6 persons for appointment, under section 14(2), as appointed members.
The Governor in Council may appoint the persons as appointed members (the new appointed members ).
s 85 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
(sec.85-ssec.1) The Minister must, within 1 year after the commencement, recommend to the Governor in Council 6 persons for appointment, under section 14(2), as appointed members.
(sec.85-ssec.2) The Governor in Council may appoint the persons as appointed members (the new appointed members ).
sec.86
Continuation, and term of office, of appointed members
sec.86 Continuation, and term of office, of appointed members
This section applies to a person who was an appointed member immediately before the commencement.
Despite section 14(1), the person continues as an appointed member until—
the person’s term of office ends under subsection (3); or
the person’s office sooner becomes vacant.
Despite section 18, the person’s term of office ends when the new appointed members’ terms of office start.
s 86 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
(sec.86-ssec.1) This section applies to a person who was an appointed member immediately before the commencement.
(sec.86-ssec.2) Despite section 14(1), the person continues as an appointed member until— the person’s term of office ends under subsection (3); or the person’s office sooner becomes vacant.
(sec.86-ssec.3) Despite section 18, the person’s term of office ends when the new appointed members’ terms of office start.
(a) the person’s term of office ends under subsection (3); or
(b) the person’s office sooner becomes vacant.
sec.87
Continuation of elected members
sec.87 Continuation of elected members
This section applies to a person who was an elected member immediately before the commencement.
Despite section 15(1) and (2), the person continues as an elected member until—
the person’s term of office ends under section 88; or
the person’s office sooner becomes vacant.
Despite section 19(1) and (2), the person’s term of office is 3 years.
s 87 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
(sec.87-ssec.1) This section applies to a person who was an elected member immediately before the commencement.
(sec.87-ssec.2) Despite section 15(1) and (2), the person continues as an elected member until— the person’s term of office ends under section 88; or the person’s office sooner becomes vacant.
(sec.87-ssec.3) Despite section 19(1) and (2), the person’s term of office is 3 years.
(a) the person’s term of office ends under section 88; or
(b) the person’s office sooner becomes vacant.
sec.88
Ballot, and term of office, for elected members
sec.88 Ballot, and term of office, for elected members
At least 14 days before the new appointed members are appointed, a ballot under section 15(3) of the post-amended Act must be conducted for elected members.
Subsection (3) applies to a person who, immediately before the ballot is conducted, is an elected member mentioned in section 15(2)(a) of the pre-amended Act.
The person’s term of office ends when the elected members mentioned in section 15(2)(a) of the post-amended Act are elected under the ballot.
Subsection (5) applies to a person who, immediately before the ballot is conducted, is an elected member mentioned in section 15(2)(b) of the pre-amended Act.
The person’s term of office ends when the elected member who is the member’s successor is elected under the ballot.
Subsection (7) applies to a person who, immediately before the ballot is conducted, is an elected member mentioned in section 15(2)(c) of the pre-amended Act.
The person’s term of office ends when the elected members mentioned in section 15(2)(c) of the post-amended Act are elected under the ballot.
Subsection (9) applies to a person who, immediately before the ballot is conducted, is an elected member mentioned in section 15(2)(d) of the pre-amended Act.
The person’s term of office ends when the new additional members’ terms of office start.
A person is taken to be elected under the ballot when the new appointed members’ terms of office start.
Despite section 19(3), the term of office of a person elected under the ballot starts when the new appointed members’ terms of office start.
Subsections (3), (5), (7) and (9) apply despite section 87(3).
In this section—
post-amended Act means this Act as in force after the commencement of the University Legislation Amendment Act 2005 , part 8 .
s 88 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
(sec.88-ssec.1) At least 14 days before the new appointed members are appointed, a ballot under section 15(3) of the post-amended Act must be conducted for elected members.
(sec.88-ssec.2) Subsection (3) applies to a person who, immediately before the ballot is conducted, is an elected member mentioned in section 15(2)(a) of the pre-amended Act.
(sec.88-ssec.3) The person’s term of office ends when the elected members mentioned in section 15(2)(a) of the post-amended Act are elected under the ballot.
(sec.88-ssec.4) Subsection (5) applies to a person who, immediately before the ballot is conducted, is an elected member mentioned in section 15(2)(b) of the pre-amended Act.
(sec.88-ssec.5) The person’s term of office ends when the elected member who is the member’s successor is elected under the ballot.
(sec.88-ssec.6) Subsection (7) applies to a person who, immediately before the ballot is conducted, is an elected member mentioned in section 15(2)(c) of the pre-amended Act.
(sec.88-ssec.7) The person’s term of office ends when the elected members mentioned in section 15(2)(c) of the post-amended Act are elected under the ballot.
(sec.88-ssec.8) Subsection (9) applies to a person who, immediately before the ballot is conducted, is an elected member mentioned in section 15(2)(d) of the pre-amended Act.
(sec.88-ssec.9) The person’s term of office ends when the new additional members’ terms of office start.
(sec.88-ssec.10) A person is taken to be elected under the ballot when the new appointed members’ terms of office start.
(sec.88-ssec.11) Despite section 19(3), the term of office of a person elected under the ballot starts when the new appointed members’ terms of office start.
(sec.88-ssec.12) Subsections (3), (5), (7) and (9) apply despite section 87(3).
(sec.88-ssec.13) In this section— post-amended Act means this Act as in force after the commencement of the University Legislation Amendment Act 2005 , part 8 .
sec.89
Appointment of new additional members
sec.89 Appointment of new additional members
The council must, within 1 year after the commencement, appoint 4 persons as additional members (the new additional members ) under section 16.
s 89 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
sec.90
Continuation, and term of office, of additional members
sec.90 Continuation, and term of office, of additional members
A person who was an additional member immediately before the commencement continues as an additional member until—
the person’s term of office ends under subsection (2); or
the person’s office sooner becomes vacant.
Despite section 20, the person’s term of office ends when the new additional members’ terms of office start.
s 90 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
(sec.90-ssec.1) A person who was an additional member immediately before the commencement continues as an additional member until— the person’s term of office ends under subsection (2); or the person’s office sooner becomes vacant.
(sec.90-ssec.2) Despite section 20, the person’s term of office ends when the new additional members’ terms of office start.
(a) the person’s term of office ends under subsection (2); or
(b) the person’s office sooner becomes vacant.
sec.91
Council need not include additional members
sec.91 Council need not include additional members
Despite section 12, the council need not include additional members before the new additional members’ terms of office start.
s 91 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
sec.92
Dealing with casual vacancy in office of elected member
sec.92 Dealing with casual vacancy in office of elected member
This section applies if a casual vacancy arises in the office of an elected member after the commencement and before the ballot mentioned in section 88(1) is conducted.
For appointing or electing a person to the office, the pre-amended Act continues to apply as if the University Legislation Amendment Act 2005 , part 8 , had not commenced.
s 92 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
(sec.92-ssec.1) This section applies if a casual vacancy arises in the office of an elected member after the commencement and before the ballot mentioned in section 88(1) is conducted.
(sec.92-ssec.2) For appointing or electing a person to the office, the pre-amended Act continues to apply as if the University Legislation Amendment Act 2005 , part 8 , had not commenced.
sec.93
Constitution of council
sec.93 Constitution of council
This section applies until the new appointed members’ terms of office start.
Despite section 17, the council is taken to be properly constituted when it has 12 or more members, whether they be additional, appointed, elected or official members.
s 93 ins 2005 No. 18 s 163
(sec.93-ssec.1) This section applies until the new appointed members’ terms of office start.
(sec.93-ssec.2) Despite section 17, the council is taken to be properly constituted when it has 12 or more members, whether they be additional, appointed, elected or official members.
pt.8-div.3
Transitional provisions for University Legislation Amendment Act 2017
Transitional provisions for University Legislation Amendment Act 2017
sec.94
Definition for division
sec.94 Definition for division
In this division—
previous , for a provision of this Act, means the provision as in force from time to time before the commencement.
s 94 ins 2017 No. 36 s 163
sec.95
Particular references to council election
sec.95 Particular references to council election
A reference in the following provisions to a council election includes a reference to a ballot under previous section 15(3)—
section 20A(2) and (3)(a);
schedule 2, definition elected member , paragraph (a).
s 95 ins 2017 No. 36 s 163
(a) section 20A(2) and (3)(a);
(b) schedule 2, definition elected member , paragraph (a).
sec.96
Repeal of university statutes
sec.96 Repeal of university statutes
This section applies to a university statute made under previous section 58 or previous section 59 that was in force immediately before the commencement.
To remove any doubt, it is declared that, on the commencement, the university statute is repealed.
s 96 ins 2017 No. 36 s 163
(sec.96-ssec.1) This section applies to a university statute made under previous section 58 or previous section 59 that was in force immediately before the commencement.
(sec.96-ssec.2) To remove any doubt, it is declared that, on the commencement, the university statute is repealed.
sec.97
Existing reviews under repealed parking statute
sec.97 Existing reviews under repealed parking statute
This section applies if an application for a review under the repealed parking statute was made, but not decided, before the commencement.
The review may be heard, or continue to be heard, and dealt with under the repealed parking statute as if the statute were still in force.
In this section—
repealed parking statute means a university statute made under previous section 59.
s 97 ins 2017 No. 36 s 163
(sec.97-ssec.1) This section applies if an application for a review under the repealed parking statute was made, but not decided, before the commencement.
(sec.97-ssec.2) The review may be heard, or continue to be heard, and dealt with under the repealed parking statute as if the statute were still in force.
(sec.97-ssec.3) In this section— repealed parking statute means a university statute made under previous section 59.
sch.1-pt.1
Authorised persons
Authorised persons
sch.1-sec.1
Appointment
sch.1-sec.1 Appointment
The vice-chancellor may, in writing, appoint a person who the vice-chancellor is satisfied has the necessary training, or knowledge and experience, to be an authorised person under this Act.
sch.1-sec.2
Limitation of authorised person’s powers
sch.1-sec.2 Limitation of authorised person’s powers
The powers of an authorised person may be limited—
under a condition of appointment; or
by notice of the vice-chancellor given to the authorised person.
Notice under subsection (1) (b) may be given orally, but must be confirmed in writing as soon as possible.
sch 1 s 2 amd 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch
(sch.1-sec.2-ssec.1) The powers of an authorised person may be limited— under a condition of appointment; or by notice of the vice-chancellor given to the authorised person.
(sch.1-sec.2-ssec.2) Notice under subsection (1) (b) may be given orally, but must be confirmed in writing as soon as possible.
(a) under a condition of appointment; or
(b) by notice of the vice-chancellor given to the authorised person.
sch.1-sec.3
Terms of appointment
sch.1-sec.3 Terms of appointment
An authorised person holds office on the conditions stated in the instrument of appointment.
An authorised person—
if the appointment provides for a term of appointment—ceases to hold office as an authorised person at the end of the term; and
may resign by signed notice given to the vice-chancellor.
(sch.1-sec.3-ssec.1) An authorised person holds office on the conditions stated in the instrument of appointment.
(sch.1-sec.3-ssec.2) An authorised person— if the appointment provides for a term of appointment—ceases to hold office as an authorised person at the end of the term; and may resign by signed notice given to the vice-chancellor.
(a) if the appointment provides for a term of appointment—ceases to hold office as an authorised person at the end of the term; and
(b) may resign by signed notice given to the vice-chancellor.
sch.1-sec.4
Identity cards
sch.1-sec.4 Identity cards
The vice-chancellor must give an identity card to each authorised person.
The identity card must—
contain a recent photograph of the authorised person; and
be in a form approved by the vice-chancellor; and
be signed by the authorised person.
A person who ceases to be an authorised person must, as soon as practicable, return the person’s identity card to the vice-chancellor, unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not returning it.
Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —10 penalty units.
(sch.1-sec.4-ssec.1) The vice-chancellor must give an identity card to each authorised person.
(sch.1-sec.4-ssec.2) The identity card must— contain a recent photograph of the authorised person; and be in a form approved by the vice-chancellor; and be signed by the authorised person.
(sch.1-sec.4-ssec.3) A person who ceases to be an authorised person must, as soon as practicable, return the person’s identity card to the vice-chancellor, unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not returning it. Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —10 penalty units.
(a) contain a recent photograph of the authorised person; and
(b) be in a form approved by the vice-chancellor; and
(c) be signed by the authorised person.
sch.1-sec.5
Proof of authority
sch.1-sec.5 Proof of authority
An authorised person may exercise a power under this Act in relation to someone else only if the authorised person—
first produces his or her identity card for inspection by the other person; or
has his or her identity card displayed so that it is clearly visible.
If, for any reason, it is not practicable to comply with subsection (1) , the authorised person must produce the identity card for inspection by the person at the first reasonable opportunity.
If subsection (2) is relevant and is complied with by an authorised person, the exercise of a power in relation to someone else by the authorised person is not invalid merely because of subsection (1) .
(sch.1-sec.5-ssec.1) An authorised person may exercise a power under this Act in relation to someone else only if the authorised person— first produces his or her identity card for inspection by the other person; or has his or her identity card displayed so that it is clearly visible.
(sch.1-sec.5-ssec.2) If, for any reason, it is not practicable to comply with subsection (1) , the authorised person must produce the identity card for inspection by the person at the first reasonable opportunity.
(sch.1-sec.5-ssec.3) If subsection (2) is relevant and is complied with by an authorised person, the exercise of a power in relation to someone else by the authorised person is not invalid merely because of subsection (1) .
(a) first produces his or her identity card for inspection by the other person; or
(b) has his or her identity card displayed so that it is clearly visible.
sch.1-pt.2
Traffic control
Traffic control
sch.1-sec.6
Persons authorised to control traffic on university’s land
sch.1-sec.6 Persons authorised to control traffic on university’s land
An authorised person may control traffic on the university’s land and, for this purpose, may give directions to persons on the land.
A person must not fail to comply with a direction given under subsection (1) , unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not complying with it.
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —10 penalty units.
(sch.1-sec.6-ssec.1) An authorised person may control traffic on the university’s land and, for this purpose, may give directions to persons on the land.
(sch.1-sec.6-ssec.2) A person must not fail to comply with a direction given under subsection (1) , unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not complying with it. Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —10 penalty units.
sch.1-sec.7
Regulatory notice
sch.1-sec.7 Regulatory notice
The university may erect or display at or near any vehicular entrance to the university’s land, a notice (a regulatory notice ) regulating the driving, parking or standing of vehicles on the land, including, for example—
fixing a maximum speed limit; or
indicating a pedestrian crossing; or
indicating a place where the driving, parking or standing of a vehicle is restricted or prohibited.
A person on the university’s land must comply with a regulatory notice, unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not complying with it.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
A regulatory notice—
must state the limits of the area to which the notice applies; and
may state that a contravention of a requirement of the notice is an offence against this Act and the penalty for the offence.
Without limiting subsection (1) , the university may erect and display regulatory notices in the form of official traffic signs.
Evidence that a regulatory notice was erected or displayed at a place mentioned in subsection (1) is evidence that the notice was erected or displayed by the university.
A regulatory notice erected or displayed under this section must be easily visible to passers-by.
(sch.1-sec.7-ssec.1) The university may erect or display at or near any vehicular entrance to the university’s land, a notice (a regulatory notice ) regulating the driving, parking or standing of vehicles on the land, including, for example— fixing a maximum speed limit; or indicating a pedestrian crossing; or indicating a place where the driving, parking or standing of a vehicle is restricted or prohibited.
(sch.1-sec.7-ssec.2) A person on the university’s land must comply with a regulatory notice, unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not complying with it. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sch.1-sec.7-ssec.3) A regulatory notice— must state the limits of the area to which the notice applies; and may state that a contravention of a requirement of the notice is an offence against this Act and the penalty for the offence.
(sch.1-sec.7-ssec.4) Without limiting subsection (1) , the university may erect and display regulatory notices in the form of official traffic signs.
(sch.1-sec.7-ssec.5) Evidence that a regulatory notice was erected or displayed at a place mentioned in subsection (1) is evidence that the notice was erected or displayed by the university.
(sch.1-sec.7-ssec.6) A regulatory notice erected or displayed under this section must be easily visible to passers-by.
(a) fixing a maximum speed limit; or
(b) indicating a pedestrian crossing; or
(c) indicating a place where the driving, parking or standing of a vehicle is restricted or prohibited.
(a) must state the limits of the area to which the notice applies; and
(b) may state that a contravention of a requirement of the notice is an offence against this Act and the penalty for the offence.
sch.1-sec.8
Information notices
sch.1-sec.8 Information notices
This section applies if a regulatory notice does not state that a contravention of a requirement of the notice is an offence against this Act and the penalty for the offence.
The university must erect or display at or near each vehicular entrance to the university’s land to which the regulatory notice relates, and other places the vice-chancellor considers appropriate, information notices stating that a contravention of a requirement of a regulatory notice is an offence and the penalty for the offence.
An information notice may contain any other information the vice-chancellor considers appropriate.
An information notice erected or displayed under this section must be easily visible to passers-by.
In this section—
regulatory notice does not include an official traffic sign.
(sch.1-sec.8-ssec.1) This section applies if a regulatory notice does not state that a contravention of a requirement of the notice is an offence against this Act and the penalty for the offence.
(sch.1-sec.8-ssec.2) The university must erect or display at or near each vehicular entrance to the university’s land to which the regulatory notice relates, and other places the vice-chancellor considers appropriate, information notices stating that a contravention of a requirement of a regulatory notice is an offence and the penalty for the offence.
(sch.1-sec.8-ssec.3) An information notice may contain any other information the vice-chancellor considers appropriate.
(sch.1-sec.8-ssec.4) An information notice erected or displayed under this section must be easily visible to passers-by.
(sch.1-sec.8-ssec.5) In this section— regulatory notice does not include an official traffic sign.
sch.1-sec.9
Removal and detention of illegally parked or abandoned vehicles
sch.1-sec.9 Removal and detention of illegally parked or abandoned vehicles
An authorised person may seize, remove and hold, a vehicle that the authorised person believes on reasonable grounds—
is parked in contravention of a regulatory notice; or
is abandoned.
The vehicle must be held at a safe place.
An authorised person may exercise the powers given under subsection (1) (a) only if—
the authorised person believes on reasonable grounds that it is necessary or desirable to seize and remove the vehicle having regard to the safety and convenience of traffic on the university’s land; and
the authorised person—
can not immediately locate the driver of the vehicle; or
believes on reasonable grounds that the driver of the vehicle is not willing or able to remove the vehicle immediately.
The authorised person must, so far as is reasonably practicable, give the vehicle’s driver notice of its seizure by displaying a notice in a prominent position in a reasonably secure way as close as possible to the place where the vehicle was seized.
As soon as is practicable and no later than 14 days after the vehicle is seized, the university must give to the owner of the vehicle a notice stating how the owner may recover the vehicle.
If the owner can not be ascertained or located within 14 days after the vehicle is seized, the notice may be given by publishing it in a newspaper circulating generally in the State.
If the vehicle was parked in contravention of a regulatory notice, the owner of the vehicle must pay to the university the amount demanded by it for the cost of seizing, removing, holding and returning the vehicle.
In this section—
vehicle includes a part of the vehicle and anything attached to, or contained in, the vehicle.
sch 1 s 9 amd 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch
(sch.1-sec.9-ssec.1) An authorised person may seize, remove and hold, a vehicle that the authorised person believes on reasonable grounds— is parked in contravention of a regulatory notice; or is abandoned.
(sch.1-sec.9-ssec.2) The vehicle must be held at a safe place.
(sch.1-sec.9-ssec.3) An authorised person may exercise the powers given under subsection (1) (a) only if— the authorised person believes on reasonable grounds that it is necessary or desirable to seize and remove the vehicle having regard to the safety and convenience of traffic on the university’s land; and the authorised person— can not immediately locate the driver of the vehicle; or believes on reasonable grounds that the driver of the vehicle is not willing or able to remove the vehicle immediately.
(sch.1-sec.9-ssec.4) The authorised person must, so far as is reasonably practicable, give the vehicle’s driver notice of its seizure by displaying a notice in a prominent position in a reasonably secure way as close as possible to the place where the vehicle was seized.
(sch.1-sec.9-ssec.5) As soon as is practicable and no later than 14 days after the vehicle is seized, the university must give to the owner of the vehicle a notice stating how the owner may recover the vehicle.
(sch.1-sec.9-ssec.6) If the owner can not be ascertained or located within 14 days after the vehicle is seized, the notice may be given by publishing it in a newspaper circulating generally in the State.
(sch.1-sec.9-ssec.7) If the vehicle was parked in contravention of a regulatory notice, the owner of the vehicle must pay to the university the amount demanded by it for the cost of seizing, removing, holding and returning the vehicle.
(sch.1-sec.9-ssec.8) In this section— vehicle includes a part of the vehicle and anything attached to, or contained in, the vehicle.
(a) is parked in contravention of a regulatory notice; or
(b) is abandoned.
(a) the authorised person believes on reasonable grounds that it is necessary or desirable to seize and remove the vehicle having regard to the safety and convenience of traffic on the university’s land; and
(b) the authorised person— (i) can not immediately locate the driver of the vehicle; or (ii) believes on reasonable grounds that the driver of the vehicle is not willing or able to remove the vehicle immediately.
(i) can not immediately locate the driver of the vehicle; or
(ii) believes on reasonable grounds that the driver of the vehicle is not willing or able to remove the vehicle immediately.
(i) can not immediately locate the driver of the vehicle; or
(ii) believes on reasonable grounds that the driver of the vehicle is not willing or able to remove the vehicle immediately.
sch.1-sec.10
Disposal of unclaimed vehicles
sch.1-sec.10 Disposal of unclaimed vehicles
This section applies if the owner of a seized vehicle does not recover the vehicle within 2 months after notice is given to the owner under section 9 (5) or (6) .
After publishing a notice in a newspaper circulating generally in the State, the university may sell the vehicle by public auction.
The notice must—
identify the vehicle; and
state that the vehicle is to be sold by auction; and
state how the owner may recover the vehicle before the auction; and
state the time and place of the auction.
Compensation is not recoverable against the university for the sale of a vehicle under this section.
In this section—
vehicle includes a part of the vehicle and anything attached to, or contained in, the vehicle.
(sch.1-sec.10-ssec.1) This section applies if the owner of a seized vehicle does not recover the vehicle within 2 months after notice is given to the owner under section 9 (5) or (6) .
(sch.1-sec.10-ssec.2) After publishing a notice in a newspaper circulating generally in the State, the university may sell the vehicle by public auction.
(sch.1-sec.10-ssec.3) The notice must— identify the vehicle; and state that the vehicle is to be sold by auction; and state how the owner may recover the vehicle before the auction; and state the time and place of the auction.
(sch.1-sec.10-ssec.4) Compensation is not recoverable against the university for the sale of a vehicle under this section.
(sch.1-sec.10-ssec.5) In this section— vehicle includes a part of the vehicle and anything attached to, or contained in, the vehicle.
(a) identify the vehicle; and
(b) state that the vehicle is to be sold by auction; and
(c) state how the owner may recover the vehicle before the auction; and
(d) state the time and place of the auction.
sch.1-sec.11
Application of proceeds of sale
sch.1-sec.11 Application of proceeds of sale
The proceeds of the sale must be applied in the following order—
in payment of the reasonable expenses incurred in the sale;
in payment of the reasonable cost of seizing, removing and holding the vehicle;
if there is an amount owing to an entity under a security interest registered for the vehicle under the Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cwlth) —in payment of the amount owing under the security interest;
in payment of any balance to the owner.
Compensation is not recoverable against the university for a payment under this section.
sch 1 s 11 amd 2010 No. 44 s 84
(sch.1-sec.11-ssec.1) The proceeds of the sale must be applied in the following order— in payment of the reasonable expenses incurred in the sale; in payment of the reasonable cost of seizing, removing and holding the vehicle; if there is an amount owing to an entity under a security interest registered for the vehicle under the Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cwlth) —in payment of the amount owing under the security interest; in payment of any balance to the owner.
(sch.1-sec.11-ssec.2) Compensation is not recoverable against the university for a payment under this section.
(a) in payment of the reasonable expenses incurred in the sale;
(b) in payment of the reasonable cost of seizing, removing and holding the vehicle;
(c) if there is an amount owing to an entity under a security interest registered for the vehicle under the Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cwlth) —in payment of the amount owing under the security interest;
(d) in payment of any balance to the owner.
sch.1-pt.3
Conduct on university land
Conduct on university land
sch.1-sec.12
Disorderly conduct or disturbance
sch.1-sec.12 Disorderly conduct or disturbance
A person must not be disorderly or create a disturbance on the university’s land.
Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
sch.1-sec.13
Power to deal with particular persons
sch.1-sec.13 Power to deal with particular persons
This section applies if an authorised person—
finds a person contravening section 12 ; or
finds a person in circumstances that leads the authorised person to suspect on reasonable grounds that the person has just contravened section 12 ; or
has information that leads the authorised person to suspect on reasonable grounds that a person has just contravened section 12 ; or
reasonably believes, having regard to the way a person is behaving, that the person’s presence may pose a threat to the safety of someone else on, entering or leaving the land; or
has information that leads the authorised person to believe, on reasonable grounds, that a person’s presence may pose a threat to the safety of someone else on, entering or leaving the university’s land; or
reasonably believes that a person is on the university’s land without lawful justification or excuse.
The authorised person may direct the person to leave the university’s land or a part of the university’s land.
A person must comply with a direction given to the person under subsection (2) , unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not complying with it.
Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —10 penalty units.
(sch.1-sec.13-ssec.1) This section applies if an authorised person— finds a person contravening section 12 ; or finds a person in circumstances that leads the authorised person to suspect on reasonable grounds that the person has just contravened section 12 ; or has information that leads the authorised person to suspect on reasonable grounds that a person has just contravened section 12 ; or reasonably believes, having regard to the way a person is behaving, that the person’s presence may pose a threat to the safety of someone else on, entering or leaving the land; or has information that leads the authorised person to believe, on reasonable grounds, that a person’s presence may pose a threat to the safety of someone else on, entering or leaving the university’s land; or reasonably believes that a person is on the university’s land without lawful justification or excuse.
(sch.1-sec.13-ssec.2) The authorised person may direct the person to leave the university’s land or a part of the university’s land.
(sch.1-sec.13-ssec.3) A person must comply with a direction given to the person under subsection (2) , unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not complying with it. Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —10 penalty units.
(a) finds a person contravening section 12 ; or
(b) finds a person in circumstances that leads the authorised person to suspect on reasonable grounds that the person has just contravened section 12 ; or
(c) has information that leads the authorised person to suspect on reasonable grounds that a person has just contravened section 12 ; or
(d) reasonably believes, having regard to the way a person is behaving, that the person’s presence may pose a threat to the safety of someone else on, entering or leaving the land; or
(e) has information that leads the authorised person to believe, on reasonable grounds, that a person’s presence may pose a threat to the safety of someone else on, entering or leaving the university’s land; or
(f) reasonably believes that a person is on the university’s land without lawful justification or excuse.
Source text: opening excerpt
Sourced from Queensland Legislation (legislation.qld.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.
pt.1 Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1 Short title
sec.1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the University of the Sunshine Coast Act 1998 .
sec.2 Commencement
sec.2 Commencement
This Act (other than parts 9 and 10 ) commences on a day to be fixed by proclamation.
sec.3 Definitions
sec.3 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 2 defines particular words used in this Act.
pt.2 The university and its council
The university and its council
pt.2-div.1 University establishment and general functions and powers
University establishment and general functions and powers
sec.4 Establishment of university
sec.4 Establishment of university
The University of the Sunshine Coast is established.
The university—
is a body corporate; and
has a seal; and
may sue and be sued in its corporate name.
(sec.4-ssec.1) The University of the Sunshine Coast is established.
(sec.4-ssec.2) The university— is a body corporate; and has a seal; and may sue and be sued in its corporate name.
(a) is a body corporate; and
(b) has a seal; and
(c) may sue and be sued in its corporate name.
sec.5 Functions of university
sec.5 Functions of university
The university’s functions are—
to provide education at university standard; and
to provide facilities for, and encourage, study and research; and
to encourage the advancement and development of knowledge, and its application to government, industry, commerce and the community; and
to provide courses of study or instruction, at the levels of achievement the council considers appropriate, to meet the needs of the community; and
to confer higher education awards; and
to disseminate knowledge and promote scholarship; and
to provide facilities and resources for the wellbeing of the university’s staff, students and other persons undertaking courses at the university; and
to exploit commercially, for the university’s benefit, a facility or resource of the university, including, for example, study, research or knowledge, or the practical application of study, research or knowledge, belonging to the university, whether alone or with someone else; and
to perform other functions given to the university under this Act or another Act.
(a) to provide education at university standard; and
(b) to provide facilities for, and encourage, study and research; and
Provides the offices and appointment terms for chancellor, deputy chancellor and vice‑chancellor, including council powers to remove those officers in certain circumstances and to restore persons despite convictions in limited ways (ss 30-33; ss 40C-40F).
Establishes connected bodies: a student guild (body corporate) with constitution approval by council (ss 34-38) and an academic board with advisory and policy formulation functions (ss 40-40A). The Act declares certain matters excluded from specified Corporations Act provisions for these bodies (s 40B).
Sets out property and finance arrangements: trust and gift modification procedures (ss 42-49), State land treated under the Land Act 1994 with a restriction that the university may only grant leases up to 25 years (s 50), inclusion as a statutory body under the Financial Accountability Act 2009 and Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 (ss 51-52), investment common fund rules (s 54), revenue application (s 55) and annual budget/review obligations (s 56).
Confers operational powers on the university and authorised persons to regulate traffic and conduct on university land, erect regulatory notices, seize illegally parked or abandoned vehicles and sell unclaimed vehicles subject to specified procedures (schedule 1, parts 1-3). It prescribes offences and penalties for non‑compliance with regulatory notices and conduct prohibitions (sch 1 ss 6-13; s 66 for summary procedure).
Provides processes for criminal‑history checks by police (with written consent) before appointment recommendations or eligibility assessments (s 64B), imposes mandatory disclosure obligations on members for disqualification or relevant convictions with a maximum 100 penalty units (s 64D), and restricts disclosure of protected information with a maximum 100 penalty units (s 64E).
Prescribes transitional provisions (Part 8) converting the former Sunshine Coast University College and Student Union into the new university and student guild, and contains amendment annotations reflecting legislative amendments across 2001, 2002, 2005, 2009, 2010 and 2017.
In short, the Act establishes the university as a statutory corporate body with broad commercial and academic powers, a multi‑class council governance model with internal elections and appointment paths, explicit financial and property rules including trust modification mechanics, and operational enforcement powers on university land.
Main concepts
Corporate constitution and statutory status
The university is a statutory corporate entity, with the corporate attributes of perpetual succession, a seal and capacity to sue and be sued (s 4). It is also a statutory body for financial and borrowing regimes under the Financial Accountability Act 2009 and the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 (ss 51-52). These declarations determine how the university is treated for financial reporting, appropriation and borrowing rules.
Functions and powers
The Act sets sectoral purposes: deliver education at university standard, encourage research and knowledge transfer, confer higher education awards, provide wellbeing resources for staff and students, and exploit commercially university facilities and intellectual property (s 5). The university has the usual powers of a natural person and may act beyond Queensland and outside Australia (s 6). Practically this authorises commercialisation, contracting, property transactions, and offshore activity.
Governing council design
The council is the governing body (s 8). Membership is multi‑class: official members (chancellor, vice‑chancellor, chair of academic board), 6 appointed members (Governor in Council) (s 14), 5 elected members representing academic staff, general staff and students (s 15), and 4 additional members appointed by the council (s 16). The Act sets minimum constitution triggers (council properly constituted when 11 or more members , s 17, modified by transitional provisions), member terms (appointed and additional up to 4 years, elected varying between 2-4 years per class under s 19), casual vacancy rules (s 20A) and election rules (ss 26AA-26AC).
Delegation and limits
The council may delegate many powers to qualified members, committees or university staff (s 11). Notably the council may not delegate the power to make an election policy or to adopt the university’s annual budget (s 11(2)). The vice‑chancellor can receive subdelegations from the council and subdelegate further to staff where permitted (s 11(3), s 32(5)).
Member duties, disclosure and internal discipline
Members have fiduciary‑style obligations to ensure the council performs appropriately, must act honestly and in the university’s best interests, exercise reasonable skill, disclose conflicts and not misuse position or information for advantage (s 26A). The council has power to remove additional, appointed or elected members if at least 12 members are satisfied of breaches of duties or conduct obligations (s 26B). Special removal provisions apply to chancellor, vice‑chancellor and chairperson (ss 40C-40D), with consequential rules on compensation claims for a removed vice‑chancellor (s 40E).
Elections and electoral integrity
The council must make an election policy and publish it on the university website (s 26AA). The election policy must prescribe integrity and security of voting, secret ballot, voter eligibility, single vote per person, nomination procedures, notice of election period, result publication, and complaint mechanisms (s 26AA(2)). Elections required under ss 15 and 20A must be held under that policy (s 26AB). Eligibility to vote is tied to being an eligible person for the class and meeting any election policy requirements (s 26AC).
Trust and donor funds regime
The Act recognises trust property and gives the council a power to amend terms of trusts or gifts where the donor’s purpose is achieved, no longer exists, uncertain, impractical or the property is inadequate. The council may prepare a scheme for designated purposes, but approval by Governor in Council (with notice in the gazette) is required for the proposed scheme to take effect (ss 43-46). Approved schemes replace the donor’s purpose (s 46) and must be made available to donors and on request (s 45).
Property, land and State land restrictions
State land dealings are governed by the Land Act 1994 but the university may only grant interests in State land by lease, limited to 25 years (s 50). This constrains long‑term alienation and informs commercial and campus development options.
Operational powers on university land
The Act delegates to the vice‑chancellor authority to appoint authorised persons who may control traffic, give directions, erect regulatory notices (including signs), seize and detain vehicles parked contrary to notices or abandoned, and direct persons to leave in specified circumstances (schedule 1, particularly ss 1-13). The university may charge owners for seizure, removal and holding costs and dispose of unclaimed vehicles by auction after prescribed notices and timeframes (sch 1 ss 7-11).
Information handling and criminal‑history screening
The Minister and the council may request person’s criminal histories from the police commissioner in order to consider appointment or eligibility, but only with the person’s written consent (s 64B). Reports must be destroyed when no longer needed (s 64B(6)). Members who are disqualified under Corporations Act Part 2D.6 or convicted of relevant indictable offences must immediately disclose that fact to the appropriate officer (chancellor, vice‑chancellor or Minister as specified) or face a maximum penalty of 100 penalty units (s 64D). Protected information obtained as police reports or member notifications is subject to strict non‑disclosure rules with a maximum 100 penalty units, subject to limited statutory exceptions and operational needs (s 64E).
Interaction with Corporations and other statutes
Several provisions expressly tie the Act to external statutes: Corporations Act Part 2D.6 disqualification is used to bar membership or office (s 23, s 40C), the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act and Financial Accountability Act influence financial administration (ss 51-52), the Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cth) is referred to in application of sale proceeds of vehicles (sch 1 s 11), and Justices Act 1886 summary procedures can be used for certain offences (s 66). These cross‑references create compliance dependencies on other regimes.
Transitional architecture
Part 8 contains transitional rules for converting the Sunshine Coast University College and its union into the university and student guild, preserving staff rights and contracts, treating existing instruments as continuing for limited periods, and allocating assets, liabilities and funding arrangements (Part 8 generally).
The Act therefore combines corporate formation, internal governance rules, statutory duties and disciplinary mechanics, property and finance regimes, and operational enforcement powers on university land. The Act prescribes who decides (council, Governor in Council, Minister in defined cases), who pays for certain interventions (vehicle owners for seizure costs, the university for liabilities substituted under s 64A), and what behaviour is controlled (member conduct, electoral integrity, vehicle and traffic behaviour, public conduct on campus).
Who it affects
Primary institutional actors
The university (the corporate entity) is the primary subject of the Act (s 4). The council is the university’s governing body and the central decision‑maker for governance, appointment, finance and policy functions (ss 7-11). The vice‑chancellor, chancellor and deputy chancellor operate as specified officers with executive and ceremonial roles (ss 30-32).
Council members and officeholders
Official members (chancellor, vice‑chancellor, chair of the academic board , s 13), appointed members (6 appointed by Governor in Council , s 14), elected members (2 academic staff, 1 general staff, 2 students , s 15) and additional members (4 appointed by council, at least one a graduate , s 16) are all subject to eligibility rules, terms, duties and removal powers (ss 12-26C, 26A, 26B). Members are directly affected by the duty regime in s 26A, the disclosure and criminal‑history rules (s 64B, s 64D), and potential removal mechanisms (s 26B).
Students and staff
Students and staff are directly affected both as constituents (students and staff may be members of the student guild, may be elected to council , s 15; schedule 1 affects behaviour on campus) and as persons whose wellbeing and campus services are part of university functions (s 5). Staff also retain employment rights under transitional provisions where relevant (s 76).
Donors, trustees and beneficiaries
Donors and persons who provide gifts or bequests to the university are affected by the trust modification regime (ss 42-48). The council may propose a scheme to change the designated purpose of trust property in stated circumstances, but changes take effect only on approval by Governor in Council and gazette notice (s 45). Donors must be given a copy of approved schemes so they can see changes to gift usage (s 45(3)).
Third parties dealing commercially with the university
Contractors, consultants, commercial partners and corporations formed or participated in by the university are affected by the university’s broad corporate powers (s 6, s 63). The university may form or manage corporations and enter agreements for exploiting research and IP (s 63). State land lessors, property purchasers and lenders are affected by the Land Act interaction (s 50) and statutory body financial rules (ss 51-52). Creditors with registered PPSR security interests on seized vehicles have a priority claim under sch 1 s 11.
Regulators and government
The Minister has roles in appointments (recommendations to Governor in Council for appointed members , s 85), in extending terms (s 26C), in receiving notice when an appointed member is removed (s 26B(2)(b)), and in deciding proportions of certain funding transfers in specified transitional circumstances (s 81). The Governor in Council appoints members (s 14). The police commissioner is required to provide criminal history reports on request with consent (s 64B).
Visitors and vehicle owners on campus
Persons on university land must comply with regulatory notices and authorised person directions. Vehicle owners risk seizure and associated costs for contravening regulatory notices or abandoning vehicles; the university is empowered to remove, hold and sell unclaimed vehicles under sch 1 ss 9-11. Individuals may be directed off the land in defined circumstances (sch 1 s 13).
Student guild and academic board
The student guild is a corporate body with a constitution that requires council approval (ss 34-38). The academic board advises on teaching and research policy and is set by council membership decisions (ss 40-40A). These connected bodies have internal rules subject to the Act’s control and certain Corporations Act exclusions (s 40B).
People subject to information handling rules
Applicants for appointment and members whose criminal history or disqualification matters arise are affected by the police report and mandatory disclosure regimes (ss 64B, 64D). Persons with access to protected information, including the Minister, members and administrators, are bound by non‑disclosure obligations with statutory exceptions (s 64E).
People affected by transitional provisions
Persons, staff and bodies connected to the predecessor Sunshine Coast University College and its union are affected by the transitional rules preserving employment conditions, preserving or transitioning contracts, continuing instruments for limited periods, and transferring assets and liabilities to the new university and student guild (Part 8 generally, ss 69-82).
In all cases the Act specifies who decides, who must pay or take action (for example vehicle owners pay seizure and return costs , sch 1 s 9(7)), and which behaviours are required or restricted (member duties s 26A, election rules s 26AA, conduct and traffic rules in schedule 1). The Act places concentrated decision authority with the council (subject to Minister and Governor in Council roles in appointments and approvals), and distributes compliance requirements across members, staff, students and visitors.
Key duties and rights
Council and university duties
Council is defined as the university’s governing body and must perform the functions conferred on it under this Act (s 8). The council must act in the way it considers most likely to promote the university’s interests (s 10). The council must adopt a budget each year for the next financial year, control spending within that budget and conduct an annual review of bequests/donations/special grants and their spending (s 56).
Member duties and obligations
A member’s function is to ensure the council performs its functions and exercises its powers appropriately, effectively and efficiently (s 26A(1)). In performing that function a member must: act honestly and in the best interests of the university; exercise reasonable skill, care and diligence; disclose to the council any conflict of interest; and not make improper use of position or information to gain advantage (s 26A(2)). These are standalone statutory duties.
Rights of members and officers
Members have statutory protections from civil liability for acts done honestly and without negligence under the Act; where civil liability would otherwise attach to a member, it attaches instead to the university (s 64A). The chancellor, deputy chancellor, vice‑chancellor and chairperson have specified tenure limits and appointment mechanisms (ss 30-32, 40A). The vice‑chancellor is the chief executive officer and may exercise powers conferred by the Act, another Act or the council (s 32(4)), and may delegate powers to appropriately qualified staff (s 32(5)).
Limits on delegations and council obligations
The council may delegate powers to appropriately qualified council members, committees including council members, or university staff (s 11(1)), but must not delegate the power to make an election policy or to adopt the university’s annual budget (s 11(2)). Delegations to the vice‑chancellor may allow subdelegation to staff (s 11(3)).
Electoral integrity rights and obligations
The council must make an election policy and publish it on the university website (s 26AA(1)). The election policy must include protections for the integrity and security of voting, secret ballot, voter eligibility, single vote per person, nomination procedures, notice of election period, result publication and complaint processes (s 26AA(2)). Elections must be conducted under the election policy (s 26AB), and voter eligibility is limited to eligible persons and additional election policy requirements (s 26AC).
Trust, donor and property duties and rights
The university may agree to and carry out conditions attached to gifts (s 42) and may prepare a scheme to vary donor purposes if circumstances justify the change (s 43). A proposed scheme has no legal effect until approved by the Governor in Council and notified in the gazette (s 45). Once approved, the university must hold the property for the designated purpose (s 46) and must give copies of the approved scheme to donors where practicable and to anyone else on request without charge (s 45(3)-(4)). The council may later amend an approved scheme (s 48) but must follow the same procedure (ss 43-47 apply to amendments).
Financial duties
Funds received by the university are to be applied solely to university purposes subject to any trust terms (s 55). The Act specifies that enabling study or research for current or former students/staff, the advancement of learning generally, and helping affiliated bodies are university purposes (s 55(2)). The council must adopt an annual budget and control spending within the adopted budget (s 56). The university may establish trust funds and an investment common fund for collective investment of funds (s 53, s 54). Income from investment common funds must be periodically distributed among component funds in proportion to their shares, subject to specific exceptions for stated purposes and capitalisation (s 54).
Disclosure and privacy obligations
When the Minister or council requests a criminal history report from the police commissioner, the person must have given written consent for the request, the commissioner must comply, and the recipient must destroy the report when no longer needed (s 64B). Members who become disqualified from managing corporations or are convicted of certain indictable offences must immediately notify the appropriate officer, with a maximum penalty of 100 penalty units if they fail to do so (s 64D). Protected information (police reports or notices under s 64D) must not be disclosed except in limited permitted circumstances; unauthorised disclosure carries a maximum penalty of 100 penalty units (s 64E).
Operational rights and duties on university land
The vice‑chancellor may appoint authorised persons who may control traffic, give directions and enforce regulatory notices (sch 1 ss 1-6). Persons on university land must comply with regulatory notices and authorised directions unless they have a reasonable excuse; penalties apply (sch 1 ss 6-7). Authorised persons must be issued identity cards which must be produced or displayed when exercising powers (sch 1 ss 4-5). Where vehicles are seized under sch 1 s 9, specified notice and timeframes apply before sale, and proceeds are applied according to an order of priorities that includes sale expenses and registered PPSR security interests (sch 1 ss 9-11).
Removal and discipline rights
The council can remove additional, appointed or elected members if at least 12 members are satisfied of non‑compliance with member duties or a conduct obligation; procedural steps require notice to the member and, for appointed members, notice to the Minister (s 26B). The council may remove the chancellor, vice‑chancellor or chairperson under similar thresholds (s 40D). The Act also provides discretion for the Minister or council to restore persons despite convictions in limited circumstances (ss 25-26, s 40C(2)).
Collectively, the Act sets out a mixture of positive and negative obligations (budget adoption, duty of care in governance, disclosure duties) and confers operational rights (commercial powers, seizure powers, delegation powers). The Act places concentrated decision power in the council while providing for Minister and Governor in Council roles in appointment, scheme approval and limited supervisory interventions (e.g. s 26C term extensions).
Penalties and enforcement
Statutory penalties and summary enforcement
The Act prescribes civil protections for members (s 64A) and criminal/penal exposures for other specific obligations, and creates summary enforcement avenues in the Justices Act 1886 for certain offences. Section 66 permits proceedings for schedule 1 offences and specified schedule offences to be taken in a summary way under the Justices Act 1886.
Specific penalties in the Act and schedule
Disclosure and protected information:
Mandatory disclosure of disqualification or certain convictions by members carries a maximum penalty of 100 penalty units (s 64D(2)).
Unauthorised disclosure of protected information (reports under s 64B or notices under s 64D) carries a maximum penalty of 100 penalty units (s 64E(2)).
Conduct and traffic offences:
Failure to comply with a direction of an authorised person (traffic control) is a maximum of 10 penalty units (sch 1 s 6(2)).
Failure to comply with a regulatory notice is a maximum penalty of 10 penalty units (sch 1 s 7(2)); regulatory notices may themselves specify the area and penalties (sch 1 s 7(3)).
Disorderly conduct or creating a disturbance on university land is an offence with a maximum penalty of 20 penalty units (sch 1 s 12).
Directives to leave the land under sch 1 s 13 carry a maximum penalty of 10 penalty units for failure to comply (sch 1 s 13(3)).
Identity card return:
A former authorised person who fails to return their identity card must, unless a reasonable excuse exists, return it as soon as practicable; that failure carries a maximum penalty of 10 penalty units (sch 1 s 4(3)).
Enforcement mechanisms and administrative remedies
Seizure and disposal of vehicles:
Authorised persons may seize, remove and hold vehicles believed on reasonable grounds to be parked in contravention of a regulatory notice or to be abandoned (sch 1 s 9(1)). The university must hold the vehicle at a safe place, make reasonable attempts to notify the driver at the seizure site, and must send notice to the owner within 14 days explaining how to recover the vehicle (sch 1 s 9(2)-(5)). If unclaimed after two months, the university may sell the vehicle by public auction after newspaper notice, and proceeds must be applied in a prescribed priority order (sch 1 ss 9-11).
Internal governance enforcement:
The council may remove members (additional, appointed, elected) where at least 12 members are satisfied the member breached s 26A(2) or a conduct obligation; the council must give reasons and (if appointed member) inform the Minister (s 26B). The chancellor, vice‑chancellor or chairperson may be removed on the same standard where 12 members are satisfied (s 40D). Removal takes effect on notice or a stated later date (s 26B(3), s 40D(3)).
Civil liability substitution:
If a member is protected from civil liability under s 64A(1), any liability that would have attached to the member attaches instead to the university (s 64A(2)). This shifts financial exposure to the university while protecting individual members for honest, non‑negligent acts.
Procedural safeguards and limits
Removal powers are internal to the council and require at least 12 members to be satisfied (s 26B). For appointed members, the council must provide a copy of the removal notice to the Minister (s 26B(2)(b)). The council’s power to remove an appointed member does not limit the Governor in Council’s powers under the Acts Interpretation Act 1954 s 25(1)(b)(i) or (iii) (s 26B(4)).
Police reports and criminal history checks require written consent from the person whose history is sought; the police commissioner must comply with requests from the Minister or council (s 64B). Reports must be destroyed when no longer needed (s 64B(6)), which imposes an evidence‑handling obligation on recipients.
Who enforces and who pays
Operational enforcement on campus (traffic control, seizure) is typically executed by authorised persons appointed by the vice‑chancellor (sch 1 s 1). The university recovers seizure and holding costs from vehicle owners when the vehicle was parked in contravention of a regulatory notice (sch 1 s 9(7)). For unclaimed vehicles sold at auction, costs and PPSR‑registered security interest obligations are satisfied first from sale proceeds (sch 1 s 11).
Internal governance enforcement (removal of members) is exercised by the council itself (ss 26B, 40D). The Governor in Council and Minister have roles in appointment, approvals and in exceptional powers (ss 14, 25, 26, 26C).
Summary enforcement via courts
The Act contemplates summary prosecution under the Justices Act for certain schedule offences (s 66), meaning enforcement may proceed in local courts where applicable and penalties are applied as fines corresponding to penalty units.
Collectively, the Act pairs statutory penalties for misconduct or disclosure breaches with administrative enforcement powers (seizure, removal, regulatory notices) that the university may exercise internally through authorised persons and the council, while also providing for external procedural remedies through the courts for specified offences.
The Act cross‑references and depends on a number of external statutes and their regimes:
Corporations Act: Disqualification from managing corporations under Corporations Act Part 2D.6 is used as an eligibility bar for membership and office (s 23(1)(a), s 40C(1)(a)). The Act also declares certain matters involving the academic board and student guild to be excluded matters under the Corporations Act s 5F for specified Parts (s 40B). These interactions mean corporate‑governance disqualification rules in federal corporate law directly affect council composition and eligibility.
Land Act 1994: State land is to be held and disposed of under the Land Act 1994 but the university may only grant interests in State land by way of lease and for no more than 25 years (s 50). This limits campus land transactions and requires compliance with Land Act processes.
Financial Accountability Act 2009 and Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982: The university is declared a statutory body under those Acts, which govern financial reporting, budgeting, borrowing and financial arrangements (ss 51-52). These designations impose statutory financial regimes on the university beyond the Act’s internal rules.
Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cth): Sch 1 s 11 prioritises payments to entities holding registered PPSR security interests when vehicle sale proceeds are applied. That cross‑reference affects the mechanics of seizure disposal and creditor claims.
Criminal Law (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act 1986: The definition of "criminal history" in s 64B references that statute, excluding spent convictions as defined in the Rehabilitation Act. This controls what the police may report and what the council or Minister may consider.
Justices Act 1886: Section 66 authorises summary proceedings under the Justices Act for certain schedule offences, giving a procedural enforcement route in local courts.
Operational and procedural effects
Eligibility and appointment corridors become a function of federal corporate law: a person disqualified under Corporations Act Part 2D.6 cannot be a member (s 23(1)(a)), but there are processes enabling a majority of members to permit exceptions (s 23(3)) or for the Minister or council to grant restoration/approval in particular cases for appointed or additional/elected members (ss 25-26).
Financial operations of the university are subject to both the Act’s obligations (budget adoption, investment common fund) and the statutory financial accountability and borrowing regimes under Financial Accountability Act 2009 and the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 (ss 51-52). That requires aligning internal budget decisions with external reporting and borrowing permissions.
Property and trust variation is subject to an executive approval process: the council can propose a scheme to vary a donor’s purpose but the scheme is ineffective until approved by the Governor in Council and gazetted (s 45). That ties donor trust variation to executive government oversight.
Privacy and information handling
Requests to the police commissioner for criminal history reports must be made with the person’s written consent and the commissioner must comply where the information is in its possession (s 64B). The recipient must destroy the report once no longer needed (s 64B(6)). This places obligations that intersect with privacy, records management and possibly state privacy laws and policies.
Transitional links to prior instruments and bodies
Part 8 converts the prior Sunshine Coast University College Act 1994 institutions into the new university and student guild, continuing contracts, property, trust obligations and staff entitlements; it allows existing instruments to run for up to a year unless earlier repealed (ss 69-77). This creates bridges between pre‑existing statutory and contractual regimes and the new Act.
Implications for corporate entities
Section 63 permits the university to form or manage corporations and to enter arrangements with corporations whose objects match university commercial and research objectives, explicitly “despite the Corporations Act” (s 63(3)). The effect is to enable the university to structure its commercial activities through corporate vehicles while the Act’s other cross‑references (such as disqualification rules) remain in force.
Dispute resolution and enforcement interplay
Summary proceedings under Justices Act 1886 are available for specified offences under the schedule and specified sections (s 66), providing a streamlined prosecutorial route. At the same time, internal council removal processes and administrative powers (seizure, notice) operate without required court action in many instances, though vehicle seizures and sales have statutory notice and timeframe rules (sch 1 ss 9-11).
In short, the Act does not operate in isolation. It embeds the university within a network of state and federal statutes that determine eligibility to govern, financial controls, property dispositions, creditor priorities for seized assets, criminal-history checking and privacy/destruction obligations, and summary enforcement mechanisms. Compliance therefore requires attention to those external regimes as well as the Act’s internal rules.
Amendment history
Recorded amendment annotations in the source document indicate the Act has been amended multiple times. The source includes in‑text amendment notes adjacent to many provisions. The Act’s annotated history in the provided text identifies the following insertions and amendment notes (as recorded in the printed text):
2001 No. 45:
s 63 amendment and s 40B insertion: s 63 is shown as amended 2001 No. 45 s 29 sch 3; s 40B (previously s 40A) was inserted 2001 No. 45 s 29 sch 3 and later renumbered (s 40B prev s 40A).
2002 No. 75:
Additions at ss 15, 20A and others have notes "ins 2002 No. 75 s 72" or "s 15 amd 2002 No. 75 s 71" , indicating 2002 amendments affecting elected member composition and the casual vacancy mechanism at s 20A (ins 2002 No. 75 s 72).
Transitional provisions reference 2002 amendments (e.g. s 21 amended 2002 No. 75 s 73; s 22 amended 2002 No. 75 s 74 sch).
2005 No. 18:
Many amendments and insertions carried out by 2005 No. 18, including:
s 11 amendments (s 11 amd 2005 No. 18 s 140).
Changes to membership wording and composition (s 12 sub 2005 No. 18 s 141; s 13 sub 2005 No. 18 s 141; s 14 amd 2005 No. 18 s 142; s 15 amd 2005 No. 18 s 143; s 16 sub 2005 No. 18 s 144).
Delegation, terms of office and other governance updates reflected with references "ins 2005 No. 18 s 153" for sections such as s 26A, s 26B, s 26C.
Schedule 1 amendments list "sch 1 s 2 amd 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch" and multiple other schedule adjustments.
Transitional provisions for the University Legislation Amendment Act 2005 are included in Part 8 Div 2 (ss 83-93) inserted 2005 No. 18 s 163.
2009 No. 9:
s 51 amended/ins 2009 No. 9 s 136 sch 1 designating the university a statutory body under the Financial Accountability Act 2009.
2010 No. 44:
sch 1 s 11 amended 2010 No. 44 s 84 (provisions dealing with application of sale proceeds and PPSR).
2017 No. 36:
A large package of amendments in 2017 No. 36 updated election processes, statutory disclosure obligations and other governance provisions. Specific insertions and amendments with annotations include:
s 11 amendments referenced (2017 No. 36 ss 84, 154).
ss 15, 19, 20A, 21 and others show amendment notes "2017 No. 36 s 155", "s 19 amd 2005 No. 18 s 147 ; 2017 No. 36 s 155", "s 20A amd 2005 No. 18 s 149 ; 2017 No. 36 s 156", "s 21 sub 2017 No. 36 s 157".
The election policy provisions (s 26AA), conduct of election (s 26AB) and eligibility to vote (s 26AC) are marked as "ins 2017 No. 36 s 159".
Disclosure, protected information and other sections (s 64D, s 64E, s 96-97) are shown as inserted or amended by 2017 No. 36 ss 91, 91, 163 respectively.
Noted repeals: references to previous sections 58-62 are shown as "om 2017 No. 36 s 162" indicating omission by the 2017 amendment.
sch 1 sections and amendments are also annotated as affected by 2017 No. 36 in transitional provisions.
Other notations:
Several subsections and entire sections are noted as omitted ("om") or renumbered ("renum") in the annotations (for example, s 33 om 2005 No. 18 s 156; s 40B renum 2005 No. 18 s 165 sch; s 58-62 om 2017 No. 36 s 162).
What these annotations indicate in practice
The Act has been progressively modernised since its original enactment in 1998 (Short title s 1 and commencement s 2 references). Major themes of amendment include adjustments to council composition and election processes (2002, 2005), strengthening of member duties and removal mechanisms (2005), integration with broader state financial and corporate regimes (2009, 2010), and reforms to election policies, criminal‑history handling, disclosure and protected information regimes (2017).
The 2005 University Legislation Amendment Act produced an entire transitional division (Part 8 Division 2) to phase in changes to appointed and additional members and to manage continuity of elected members (ss 83-93). The 2017 amendments introduced the formal election policy requirement (s 26AA) and related electoral integrity provisions.
This summary uses only amendment annotations and dates shown in the provided Act text. The source identifies the years and statute numbers where insertions, amendments and omissions occurred; the list above restricts itself to those references contained in the text. For precise amending instrument texts and full legislative history, consult the official statute revision history files and government gazettes.
Litigation history
The provided statute text does not record any judicial decisions, case names, or litigation history. The Act contains internal enforcement and administrative remedial paths that are largely intended to be exercised by university bodies (council, vice‑chancellor) and the Minister/Governor in Council in specified cases (removal, restoration, appointment, scheme approval). For matters that are criminalised under the Act or schedule (for example disorderly conduct on university land or non‑compliance with regulatory notices), the Act permits summary proceedings under the Justices Act 1886 (s 66), but no reported cases are cited in the source.
What the Act provides that can generate litigation
Internal disputes about council removal decisions: the council may remove members and must provide notice and reasons (s 26B); such decisions could give rise to procedural fairness claims or judicial review in the courts, but the Act itself does not specify an internal appeal mechanism. The Act also states the council’s power to remove appointed members does not limit Governor in Council powers under Acts Interpretation Act 1954 s 25(1)(b)(i) or (iii) (s 26B(4)).
Contract and commercial disputes: The university’s capacity to enter contracts, hold property and form corporations (ss 6, 63) will inevitably produce contract and commercial disputes in ordinary courts.
Vehicle seizure and disposal disputes: owners whose vehicles are seized and sold may litigate over procedural compliance (notice, valuation, sale proceeds application) or priority of security interests; sch 1 s 11 provides the statutory framework for proceeds application including PPSR claims.
Privacy and disclosure compliance: non‑authorised disclosures of protected information can attract criminal penalties (s 64E) and may also trigger administrative review or civil claims under privacy or defamation law as applicable, though such consequences would sit outside the Act.
Trust and scheme challenges: the Governor in Council’s approval mechanism for schemes varying donor purposes (ss 43-46) could be a focal point for litigation if donors or beneficiaries dispute the council’s scheme or the administrative process.
Absent case law in the source, practitioners must check published decisions and law reports for litigation that has interpreted provisions such as member duties (s 26A), council removal powers (s 26B), police report use (s 64B), and seizure/disposal mechanics (sch 1 ss 9-11). The statutory framework leaves open standard avenues of judicial review and civil litigation in state courts; however the text itself contains no reported litigation history.
Gotchas
Provisions that commonly cause traps in practice, and the concrete mechanisms that produce them:
Delegation limits and operational delegations
The council may delegate broadly (s 11), but cannot delegate the power to make an election policy or to adopt the annual budget (s 11(2)). Councils that assume these matters can be delegated may face legal challenge. Delegations to the vice‑chancellor may permit subdelegation (s 11(3)), so the council must be explicit about delegation terms to avoid overreach.
Election policy content and publication timing
The council must both make and publish an election policy on its website (s 26AA(1)). The policy must contain specific integrity elements (s 26AA(2)). Failure to publish or to impose rigor in the policy (for example, secret ballots, single vote rules) may invalidate elections or expose results to challenge. The Act makes elections subject to the policy (s 26AB) and ties eligibility to both statutory eligibility and policy requirements (s 26AC). Practical consequence: a poorly drafted or unpublished policy can create procedural non‑compliance that affects elected member legitimacy.
Criminal‑history checks require written consent and destruction obligations
The Minister and council may request police criminal history reports only with the person’s written consent (s 64B(4)). The recipient must ensure the report is destroyed when no longer needed (s 64B(6)). Missteps in consent forms or retention routines may create breaches of the statute and privacy.
Mandatory disclosure with heavy penalty
Members must immediately disclose disqualification or specified convictions to the relevant officer, under penalty of up to 100 penalty units (s 64D(2)). Delay or incomplete information invites prosecution or internal discipline. The notice must include precise factual details (s 64D(3)), generating an administrative burden for compliance and records.
Protected information and scope of authorised disclosures
Protected information (police reports and member notices) cannot be disclosed except under tightly defined exceptions (s 64E). The Act allows operational sharing to the extent necessary for performing functions, but careless disclosure (for instance via broad circulation of police report contents) may attract 100 penalty units (s 64E(2)). The university must maintain strict access controls and records‑destruction policies.
Trust variation requires Governor in Council approval
The council may prepare a proposed scheme to change a donor’s purpose (s 43) but the scheme is not effective until Governor in Council approval and gazettal (s 45). Councils that act on an unapproved scheme may be violating trust obligations; donors and beneficiaries retain standing to challenge improper use until the scheme is lawfully approved.
State land leasing limit
The university may only grant interests in State land by lease and for not more than 25 years (s 50). Those negotiating long‑term campus developments or finance instruments must structure transactions to respect that cap or use alternative property structures.
Vehicle seizure and PPSR interactions
Seizure and disposal procedures for vehicles require careful compliance with notice timelines (sch 1 s 9(5)-(6), s 10) and the application of sale proceeds must respect registered PPSR security interests (sch 1 s 11(1)(c)). The university must identify PPSR registrations before distribution; failure to do so risks creditor claims.
Internal removal thresholds and potential partiality concerns
Removal of members requires at least 12 members’ satisfaction of a breach (s 26B(1)). That is a relatively high numerical threshold but internal politics may still create disputes about process fairness, adequacy of reasons and procedural natural justice. The Act does not set out an appeal process beyond council action and the Governor in Council’s powers; litigated disputes may focus on whether the council complied with natural justice when exercising removal powers.
Civil liability substitution
Members acting honestly and without negligence are protected from civil liability but where liability would otherwise attach it shifts to the university (s 64A). That reduces personal exposure but creates institutional risk and budgetary consequences should a claim arise.
Time‑sensitive transitional instruments
Existing university college statutes and rules continued post‑commencement but expire after a year unless repealed earlier (s 77). Failure to review and re‑enact or repeal inconsistent instruments in time can leave governance gaps or unintentional continuance of old rules.
Restoration and exception mechanisms
The Minister and council have discretion to restore or approve appointments despite convictions in limited circumstances (ss 25-26, s 40C(2)), and the council can vote to allow over‑12‑year membership in specified circumstances (s 23(3)). These mechanisms create discretionary levers; their use can generate contest or reputational risk if not documented and justified.
Practitioners should therefore pay attention to procedural compliance (publication and content of election policies, consent and destruction for police reports, notices for vehicle seizure), recordkeeping, intersection with federal corporate disqualification rules, and the administrative steps required when the council acts on trust variations or removes members.
How to comply
Concrete compliance steps drawn from the text, arranged by actor:
Council (governing body)
Adopt and publish an election policy on the university website that covers the mandatory items in s 26AA(2): voting integrity and security, secret ballot, single vote per person, protection against undue influence, nomination procedures, election period notices, result publication deadlines, and complaint resolution procedures. Ensure the policy states any additional eligibility criteria for nomination and voting allowed by s 26AA(3).
Adopt an annual budget within the statutory timetable; ensure the budget is framed for the next financial year, and institute financial controls to keep spending nearly within the adopted budget (s 56(1)-(3)). Record minutes evidencing adoption to demonstrate legal compliance.
Maintain registers and processes required by the Financial Accountability Act 2009 and Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982 as the university is declared a statutory body under those Acts (ss 51-52). Align internal reporting, audit and borrowing approvals accordingly.
For trusts and gifts, when the council believes donor purposes are achieved, impracticable, or uncertain (s 43), prepare a proposed scheme and forward it for Governor in Council approval; do not implement the scheme until Gazette notification under s 45(1). Provide copies of approved schemes to donors when practicable (s 45(3)) and make schemes available on request (s 45(4)). Retain records of these communications.
For member removal decisions, ensure at least 12 members can be assembled for decision‑making (s 26B(1)); prepare written reasons and serve notice of removal as soon as practicable (s 26B(2)-(3)). For appointed members, copy the Minister the notice (s 26B(2)(b)). Keep careful minutes and legal advice showing process fairness.
Vice‑chancellor and executives
Ensure delegation instruments are in writing, specify subdelegation permissions and comply with s 11. If the council delegates powers to the vice‑chancellor, document whether subdelegation to staff is permitted (s 11(3)). Maintain delegation registers and provide copies to council.
Manage the appointment and oversight of authorised persons under schedule 1: issue identity cards with photograph and signature (sch 1 s 4), keep a log of appointments, conditions and limitations of powers under sch 1 s 2, and ensure returning of identity cards on cessation of appointment (sch 1 s 4(3)).
Put in place procedures to appoint authorised persons only after assessing their training, knowledge and experience (sch 1 s 1). Provide standard operating procedures for traffic control, seizure of vehicles, notices, and recordkeeping to comply with sch 1 ss 6-11. Make sure appropriate signage (regulatory notices and information notices) is clearly visible and properly located per sch 1 ss 7-8.
Members (council members)
Comply with member duties in s 26A(2): act honestly, be guided by the university’s interests, exercise reasonable skill, care and diligence, disclose conflicts of interest to the council promptly, and avoid misuse of position or information. Keep contemporaneous conflict registers and minutes.
If a member becomes disqualified under Corporations Act Part 2D.6 or is convicted of an indictable offence referred to in s 24(1)(i) or s 40C(1)(b), immediately notify the appropriate officer as specified in s 64D(2) and provide the required details in s 64D(3). Ensure you understand the potential 100‑penalty‑unit exposure for failure to disclose.
If involved in recruitment or appointment processes, give written consent before criminal history checks are sought by the Minister or council (s 64B(4)). Where a criminal history report is provided, request confirmation of destruction when no longer required (s 64B(6)).
Student guild and academic board
Ensure the student guild’s constitution is written and submitted to council for approval; changes have no effect until council approves them (s 38). Maintain compliance with s 36 that the student guild is not the employee or agent of council.
For academic board membership decisions and advisory functions, keep records of council decisions on membership and maintain documentation of academic board advice to the council (s 40).
Donors and trustees
Expect that any proposed change to a donor’s purpose via the council’s scheme (s 43) will require Governor in Council approval and Gazette notification before it becomes effective (s 45). If a donor receives a copy of an approved scheme, consider whether to seek independent legal advice or to raise concerns before the scheme is gazetted or enforced.
Where property held on trust is being pooled in an investment common fund (s 54), confirm periodic income distribution mechanics and that income attributable to component funds used for stated purposes is handled appropriately, including possible temporary use of income in the university’s general funds where the component fund income is not needed immediately (s 54(4)).
University operational compliance (traffic and conduct)
Erect and maintain regulatory notices at vehicular entrances and other specified places consistent with sch 1 s 7 and, where a regulatory notice does not state the offence or penalty, erect information notices as required by sch 1 s 8. Ensure notices clearly state the limits of the area they apply to (sch 1 s 7(3)(a)).
When seizing vehicles: confirm reasonable grounds under sch 1 s 9(3), attempt to notify drivers at the time of seizure where practicable (sch 1 s 9(4)), send owner notices within 14 days (sch 1 s 9(5)), and if the owner cannot be located use newspaper notice (sch 1 s 9(6)). For disposal after two months, follow sch 1 s 10 notice and auction procedures. Before distributing proceeds, check PPSR registrations and apply proceeds in the statutory priority order (sch 1 s 11).
Records and destruction obligations
Maintain tight records management for criminal history reports and member notices under s 64B and s 64D: reports and notices must be destroyed as soon as practicable after they are no longer needed (s 64B(6), s 64D(4)). Implement retention and destruction policies aligned with these obligations and privacy laws.
Financial and statutory body compliance
Treat the university as a statutory body for Financial Accountability Act and Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act requirements (ss 51-52). Ensure financial policies, internal audits, procurement and borrowing comply with those statutes. Align investment common fund rules with the trust obligations in s 54 and financial reporting calendar rules, noting the university’s financial year is the calendar year (s 57).
Legal processes and notices
When the council removes an appointed member, provide notice and reasons promptly and copy the Minister (s 26B(2)(b)). In all removal and disciplinary processes, document steps taken, minutes of votes (showing at least 12 members where required), and legal advice to reduce procedural‑fairness litigation risk.
Practical checklists to reduce risk
Publish and periodically review the election policy (s 26AA).
Maintain a delegation register (s 11).
Run an annual audit of trust funds and confirm schemes are gazetted before implementation (ss 43-46).
Implement identity card issuance and return processes for authorised persons (sch 1 s 4).
Establish documented procedures for seizure, notice and sale of vehicles, including PPSR checks (sch 1 ss 9-11).
Maintain a privacy and records destruction protocol for police reports and member disclosure notices (ss 64B, 64D).
Keep minutes and formal records for all council decisions, especially budget adoption, removal decisions and major property transactions (ss 11, 56, 26B).
Following these concrete steps, each tied to the statutory provision cited above, will materially reduce the risk of procedural non‑compliance, penal exposure, or operational dispute arising under the Act.
Division pt.2-div.1University establishment and general functions and powers
(c) to encourage the advancement and development of knowledge, and its application to government, industry, commerce and the community; and
(d) to provide courses of study or instruction, at the levels of achievement the council considers appropriate, to meet the needs of the community; and
(e) to confer higher education awards; and
(f) to disseminate knowledge and promote scholarship; and
(g) to provide facilities and resources for the wellbeing of the university’s staff, students and other persons undertaking courses at the university; and
(h) to exploit commercially, for the university’s benefit, a facility or resource of the university, including, for example, study, research or knowledge, or the practical application of study, research or knowledge, belonging to the university, whether alone or with someone else; and
(i) to perform other functions given to the university under this Act or another Act.
sec.6 General powers of university
sec.6 General powers of university
The university has all the powers of an individual and may, for example—
enter into contracts; and
acquire, hold, dispose of, and deal with property; and
appoint agents and attorneys; and
engage consultants; and
fix charges, and other terms, for services and other facilities it supplies; and
do anything else necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.
Without limiting subsection (1) , the university has the powers given to it under this Act or another Act.
The university may exercise its powers inside or outside Queensland.
Without limiting subsection (3) , the university may exercise its powers outside Australia.
(sec.6-ssec.1) The university has all the powers of an individual and may, for example— enter into contracts; and acquire, hold, dispose of, and deal with property; and appoint agents and attorneys; and engage consultants; and fix charges, and other terms, for services and other facilities it supplies; and do anything else necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.
(sec.6-ssec.2) Without limiting subsection (1) , the university has the powers given to it under this Act or another Act.
(sec.6-ssec.3) The university may exercise its powers inside or outside Queensland.
(sec.6-ssec.4) Without limiting subsection (3) , the university may exercise its powers outside Australia.
(a) enter into contracts; and
(b) acquire, hold, dispose of, and deal with property; and
(c) appoint agents and attorneys; and
(d) engage consultants; and
(e) fix charges, and other terms, for services and other facilities it supplies; and
(f) do anything else necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.
pt.2-div.2 Council establishment and general functions and powers
Council establishment and general functions and powers
sec.7 Establishment of council
sec.7 Establishment of council
The council of the university is established.
sec.8 Functions of council
sec.8 Functions of council
The council is the university’s governing body.
The council has the functions conferred on it under this Act or another Act.
(sec.8-ssec.1) The council is the university’s governing body.
(sec.8-ssec.2) The council has the functions conferred on it under this Act or another Act.
sec.9 Powers of council
sec.9 Powers of council
The council may do anything necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.
Without limiting subsection (1) , the council has the powers given to it under this Act or another Act and, in particular, may—
appoint the university’s staff; and
manage and control the university’s affairs and property; and
manage and control the university’s finances.
(sec.9-ssec.1) The council may do anything necessary or convenient to be done for its functions.
(sec.9-ssec.2) Without limiting subsection (1) , the council has the powers given to it under this Act or another Act and, in particular, may— appoint the university’s staff; and manage and control the university’s affairs and property; and manage and control the university’s finances.
(a) appoint the university’s staff; and
(b) manage and control the university’s affairs and property; and
(c) manage and control the university’s finances.
sec.10 Council to promote university’s interests
sec.10 Council to promote university’s interests
The council must act in the way that appears to it most likely to promote the university’s interests.
sec.11 Delegation
sec.11 Delegation
The council may delegate its powers under this Act to—
an appropriately qualified member of the council; or
an appropriately qualified committee that includes 1 or more members of the council; or
an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
However, the council may not delegate its power—
to make an election policy; or
to adopt the university’s annual budget.
A delegation of a power under subsection (1) to the vice-chancellor may permit the subdelegation of the power to an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
s 11 amd 2005 No. 18 s 140 ; 2017 No. 36 ss 84 , 154
(sec.11-ssec.1) The council may delegate its powers under this Act to— an appropriately qualified member of the council; or an appropriately qualified committee that includes 1 or more members of the council; or an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
(sec.11-ssec.2) However, the council may not delegate its power— to make an election policy; or to adopt the university’s annual budget.
(sec.11-ssec.3) A delegation of a power under subsection (1) to the vice-chancellor may permit the subdelegation of the power to an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
(a) an appropriately qualified member of the council; or
(b) an appropriately qualified committee that includes 1 or more members of the council; or
(c) an appropriately qualified member of the university’s staff.
(a) to make an election policy; or
(b) to adopt the university’s annual budget.
pt.2-div.3 Council membership
Council membership
sec.12 Membership of council
sec.12 Membership of council
The council consists of official members, appointed members, elected members and additional members.
s 12 sub 2005 No. 18 s 141
sec.13 Official members
sec.13 Official members
There are 3 official members.
The official members are—
the chancellor; and
the vice-chancellor; and
the chairperson of the academic board.
s 13 sub 2005 No. 18 s 141
(sec.13-ssec.1) There are 3 official members.
(sec.13-ssec.2) The official members are— the chancellor; and the vice-chancellor; and the chairperson of the academic board.
(a) the chancellor; and
(b) the vice-chancellor; and
(c) the chairperson of the academic board.
sec.14 Appointed members
sec.14 Appointed members
There are 6 appointed members.
The Governor in Council is to appoint the appointed members.
s 14 amd 2005 No. 18 s 142
(sec.14-ssec.1) There are 6 appointed members.
(sec.14-ssec.2) The Governor in Council is to appoint the appointed members.
sec.15 Elected members
sec.15 Elected members
There are 5 elected members.
The elected members are—
2 members of the university’s full-time and part-time academic staff; and
1 member of the university’s full-time and part-time general staff; and
2 students, other than persons eligible for membership under paragraph (a) or (b) .
Each elected member is to be elected at a council election.
s 15 amd 2002 No. 75 s 71 ; 2005 No. 18 s 143 ; 2017 No. 36 s 155
(sec.15-ssec.1) There are 5 elected members.
(sec.15-ssec.2) The elected members are— 2 members of the university’s full-time and part-time academic staff; and 1 member of the university’s full-time and part-time general staff; and 2 students, other than persons eligible for membership under paragraph (a) or (b) .
(sec.15-ssec.3) Each elected member is to be elected at a council election.
(a) 2 members of the university’s full-time and part-time academic staff; and
(b) 1 member of the university’s full-time and part-time general staff; and
(c) 2 students, other than persons eligible for membership under paragraph (a) or (b) .
sec.16 Additional members
sec.16 Additional members
There are 4 additional members.
The council must appoint the additional members.
The council must appoint at least 1 graduate of the university as an additional member.
An additional member must not be a student or a member of the university’s academic staff or general staff.
s 16 sub 2005 No. 18 s 144
(sec.16-ssec.1) There are 4 additional members.
(sec.16-ssec.2) The council must appoint the additional members.
(sec.16-ssec.3) The council must appoint at least 1 graduate of the university as an additional member.
(sec.16-ssec.4) An additional member must not be a student or a member of the university’s academic staff or general staff.
sec.17 When council is taken to be properly constituted
sec.17 When council is taken to be properly constituted
The council is taken to be properly constituted when it has 11 or more members, whether they be additional, appointed, elected or official members.
s 17 amd 2005 No. 18 s 145
sec.18 Appointed member’s term of office
sec.18 Appointed member’s term of office
An appointed member is to be appointed for a term of not more than 4 years.
s 18 amd 2005 No. 18 s 146
sec.19 Elected member’s term of office
sec.19 Elected member’s term of office
An elected member mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) or (b) holds office for 4 years.
An elected member mentioned in section 15 (2) (c) holds office for 2 years.
An elected member’s term of office starts—
if the member is re-elected—the day after the day when the member’s previous term of office ends; or
if paragraph (a) does not apply—the day after the day when the term of office of the member’s predecessor ends.
s 19 amd 2005 No. 18 s 147
(sec.19-ssec.1) An elected member mentioned in section 15 (2) (a) or (b) holds office for 4 years.
(sec.19-ssec.2) An elected member mentioned in section 15 (2) (c) holds office for 2 years.
(sec.19-ssec.3) An elected member’s term of office starts— if the member is re-elected—the day after the day when the member’s previous term of office ends; or if paragraph (a) does not apply—the day after the day when the term of office of the member’s predecessor ends.
(a) if the member is re-elected—the day after the day when the member’s previous term of office ends; or
(b) if paragraph (a) does not apply—the day after the day when the term of office of the member’s predecessor ends.
sec.20 Additional member’s term of office
sec.20 Additional member’s term of office
An additional member is to be appointed for a term of not more than 4 years decided by the council.
s 20 sub 2005 No. 18 s 148
sec.20A Dealing with casual vacancy in office of an elected member
sec.20A Dealing with casual vacancy in office of an elected member
This section applies if a casual vacancy arises in the office of an elected member.
If the elected member was elected at a council election, the council must appoint to the office the one person, if any, who—
was a candidate for the office in the council election; and
was not elected; and
received the highest number of votes of all the candidates who were not elected; and
is eligible, under this Act, to be a member; and
is willing to be, and available to perform the functions of, a member.
Subsection (4) applies if—
the elected member was not elected at a council election; or
no-one is eligible for appointment under subsection (2) .
A person is to be elected to the office at a council election.
Despite subsection (4) , if the elected member was a student, the council may appoint a student to the office.
A person appointed under subsection (2) or (5) is taken, other than for subsection (2) or (3) (a) , to have been elected at a council election.
s 20A ins 2002 No. 75 s 72
amd 2005 No. 18 s 149 ; 2017 No. 36 s 156
(sec.20A-ssec.1) This section applies if a casual vacancy arises in the office of an elected member.
(sec.20A-ssec.2) If the elected member was elected at a council election, the council must appoint to the office the one person, if any, who— was a candidate for the office in the council election; and was not elected; and received the highest number of votes of all the candidates who were not elected; and is eligible, under this Act, to be a member; and is willing to be, and available to perform the functions of, a member.
(sec.20A-ssec.3) Subsection (4) applies if— the elected member was not elected at a council election; or no-one is eligible for appointment under subsection (2) .
(sec.20A-ssec.4) A person is to be elected to the office at a council election.
(sec.20A-ssec.5) Despite subsection (4) , if the elected member was a student, the council may appoint a student to the office.
(sec.20A-ssec.6) A person appointed under subsection (2) or (5) is taken, other than for subsection (2) or (3) (a) , to have been elected at a council election.
(a) was a candidate for the office in the council election; and
(b) was not elected; and
(c) received the highest number of votes of all the candidates who were not elected; and
(d) is eligible, under this Act, to be a member; and
(e) is willing t
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