Uni of Adelaide maintains strong financial position

The new $42m student learning space, Hub Central. Photos by Sam Noonan Photography and Hassell Architects.
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Tuesday, 5 June 2012

The University of Adelaide has achieved an operating surplus for 2011 of $66 million and has reinvested in excess of $90m, including cash reserves, in the development of capital infrastructure.

This result continues a positive trend in recent years with the University of Adelaide delivering solid performances driven by prudent financial management and a clear strategic focus.

Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha says the outcome has been realised through careful growth in enrolments at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and an increase in research output.

In 2011, the University of Adelaide's student enrolments reached 25,055 while funded research and research-related income increased to over $225 million.

"The University remains in a strong financial position. It reflects our prudent management strategies in recent years and, pleasingly, we are now reaping the benefits of our capital infrastructure investment as major building projects are completed," says Professor McWha.

"It is critical that we have facilities commensurate with a Group of Eight research-intensive university. Our long-term investment in capital infrastructure has transformed the University's physical presence."

In 2011, the University of Adelaide officially opened the new $42m student space, Hub Central, on its North Terrace Campus as construction continued on a new $97m research and science building, opposite the Barr Smith Library.

Professor McWha says the positive financial result has been underpinned the University's outstanding research achievements.

"A record NHRMC funding result in 2011 reinforced our proven track record in research in Health Sciences and Sciences.

"On a per capita basis, we are doing extremely well with research funding income leading the nation. For a smaller institution, this is an immensely satisfying achievement and a great credit to the calibre of our staff."

The past year has seen a heightened focus on the University's high-quality learning and teaching portfolio, with student co-creation a cornerstone of development in e-learning and other education initiatives.

"Last year, we hosted our inaugural Festival of Learning and Teaching and the response was overwhelming; from staff and students alike.

The appetite to embrace new ideas in education and work collaboratively with students is both encouraging and inspiring," says Professor McWha.

Other highlights for 2011 included:

• A record number of offers made to potential students
  
• A record $44.8m in National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) funding awarded University of Adelaide
  
• Hosting 170 students from the University of Canterbury following the earthquake in Christchurch
  
• Opening a $2.2m University dental clinic to service Whyalla and surrounding communities offering students valuable clinical experience in rural South Australia.
  
• Accreditation from the highly-regarded Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International for the University of Adelaide's MBA program

There were many staff and student accolades, including:

• Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor James McWha is awarded an AO for services to higher education
  
• Plant scientist, Professor Peter Langridge is named South Australia's 2011 Scientist of the Year
  
• Nobel Laureate and University Professor of Literature John Coetzee wins the Arts Award in the South Australian of the Year awards
  
• Five University researchers and one affiliate are named Young Tall Poppies of Science

To see the full Annual Review and Financial Statements please follow the links below:

Annual Review

Financial Statements

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