Sessions
View detailed descriptions of each session or view the Program with time and locations.
Accessible version of program with session details (DOCX 45.5 KB)
Keynote Speakers
Morning Keynote
Antarctic expedition leader, leadership and teamwork expert, and best-selling author
Afternoon Keynote
Gold Logie award-winning Actor, mental health advocate, Victorian Australian of the Year and Head of Cancer Vanquishment at Love Your Sister
Sessions
Learning about our shared past: Truth-telling, justice and transformation
- Scarlet Barnett, Strategic Engagement Coordinator, Indigenous Strategy, Office of the Provost
- Dr James Waghorne, University Historian, Centre for the Study of Higher Education
- Margot Eden, Director, Indigenous Strategy, Office of the Provost
- Sonia Harvey, HR Director, Office for Indigenous Employment and Development, Office of the Provost
Abstract
The recent publication of Dhoombak Goobgoowana: A History of Indigenous Australia and the University of Melbourne documents a challenging history of how the University has contributed to injustices against First Peoples of this continent.
The publication of Dhoombak Goobgoowana marks the beginning of a process of institutional reckoning with the truth of its past - a process relevant to all at the University. This truth-telling process is important because it is the first step towards understanding, justice and transformation, and a path towards a better future.
As a priority area in Murmuk Djerring, this truth-telling process will be progressed through the University Truth and Justice Project. As the institution seeks a shared understanding of what repair and redress looks like, our responsibility as staff is to reflect on this history and make changes to our practices.
This panel will introduce staff to key topics from the book and to some potential consequences for professional practice at the University in light of this history. It will also provide information about current and future initiatives related to truth-telling and justice in Murmuk Djerring and beyond. Crucially, it will give attendees a space in which to begin their own process of learning and reflection, arming them with examples of what transformation might look like for our University.
Learning outcomes
- An introduction to the University’s shared past with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
- An opportunity to engage in a reflective and critical discussion about the potential consequences of this history on current processes and practices.
- An understanding of the activities, initiatives and commitments the University is undertaking as part of the process of truth-telling, justice and transformation.
- Example(s) of: what transformation of current work practices looks like; and truth-telling in action.
Intended audience
All professional staff at the University of Melbourne .
Drawing out your vision: Creative workshop
- Sarah Nagorcka, Communications Coordinator, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences
Abstract
In a fast and information-saturated world, clarity is a precious resource. During the development stage of any project, putting your thoughts and vision into words can be extremely challenging.
Move from confusion to clarity in this fun and reflective drawing workshop. These guided drawing tasks can expedite the process of personal insight, drawing out a vision that you can more easily share with your team and broader community. Gain new perspectives about your work and discover the unique way in which you process the world.
Exercises are designed to help move past any fear of drawing and get your thoughts out on a page. No art experience is necessary– bad art is encouraged. Materials provided.
Learning outcomes
- Learn practical and repeatable tools to gain personal clarity
- Gain a personal understanding of the way you process information
- Appreciate the way in which other people process information
- Connect with other professional staff over shared challenges and vision
- Connect to yourself and your core values and purpose
Intended audience
Leaders and team members who are looking for a more sustainable way of working in their team. People at the beginning stages of a project or who feel stuck and unsure. Those who need to declutter their mind and recapture their vision. Those feeling overwhelmed and unsure of the next steps in their career or project
Separating Fact from Fiction in Generative AI
- Rina Gao (she/her), Collaboration Applications Lead, Business Services
- Graeme Hairsine (he/him), Director, Information Governance Services, Legal and Risk
- Emily Woodhams, Cybersecurity Engagement Manager, Business Services
Abstract
Are you ready to bust myths and learn some raw truths about using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools in your daily work? Find out whether GenAI tools are infallible, can write your reports and organise your mailbox, or take your job altogether. Discuss with us the current capabilities, limitations, and common misconceptions of GenAI tools; and how to effectively and responsibly integrate them into your workflows. You will leave this session equipped with a personal starter list of Unimelb-supported GenAI tools and techniques. With human oversight and critical evaluation, GenAI tools can enhance your productivity as powerful aids rather than misunderstood replacements for your unique talents and perspectives.
By the way, we wrote this abstract with the help of a few GenAI tools and techniques; could you tell? Imagine what you could achieve after a week, month, or year of learning and using powerful GenAI tools in your professional toolbox. Come along to this session for practical tips to use GenAI tools appropriately and safely for greater productivity and work quality.
Learning outcomes
- Understand the importance of safe and responsible use of GenAI tools
- Maximise your efficiency and productivity with GenAI tools
- Prioritise using endorsed and supported GenAI tools
Intended audience
All professional staff at the University of Melbourne interested in using GenAI.
Speak Freely: Feel Confident in Front of a Crowd
- Elizabeth Davie (she/her), Complex Human Data Hub Coordinator, Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences
Abstract
Do you need to deliver a presentation, lead a meeting or communicate about your work and you’d like to feel more confident? Work with award-winning performer and Complex Human Data Hub Coordinator Elizabeth Davie to learn practical techniques to feel at ease speaking in public. In this experiential workshop, we will cover the following:
- Managing nerves using body-based tools like breath and movement
- Vocal exercises to speak with clarity and ease
- Using body language and eye contact to connect to your audience
- Creating physical cues to get you ready to present
The session will also include a take-home pdf with techniques and tips.
Learning outcomes
- Managing nerves using physiological body-based tools (breath, movement)
- Effectively connecting to your audience using eye contact, voice and body language
- How to prepare for a presentation/speaking event to feel comfortable and present on the day
Intended audience
Staff at any level who feel nervous about speaking in public.
UniSuper: Rethinking retirement planning
- Derek Gascoigne, State Manager Advice, Vic-Tas, UniSuper Advice
- Jamie Laird, Private Client Adviser, UniSuper Advice
Abstract
In the face of challenges such as increasing longevity, inflation and a rise in the cost of living, this presentation encourages attendees to consider an approach to how they will structure their retirement capital with a view to help overcome these challenges that might differ from the approach the vast majority of retirees plan and adopt.
Learning outcomes
- When it comes to saving for retirement, the earlier the better.
- The approach taken by the majority of retirees may not necessarily be as effective in assisting people in meeting their retirement goals.
Intended audience
All staff.
Mastering your waste practices: Transforming knowledge into action
- Raveena Grace (she/her), Sustainability Engagement Coordinator, Campus Management, Business Services
Abstract
Join us as we uncover the University of Melbourne's journey towards waste management excellence. Currently, the University generates 23 kg of waste per person annually. However, we have publicly committed to reducing this figure to just 10kgs per person by the end of 2025!
Waste management is a pressing issue, particularly in Australia, one of the most wasteful nations in the developed world. Each year, our waste output increases at double the rate of our population growth. From the staggering consumption of 1 billion coffee cups annually to the daily use of 10 million plastic bags and the presence of microplastics equivalent to a golf ball within us, the scale of the current challenge is clear.
The University has set an ambitious goal to progress towards a zero-waste future. During this session, you'll learn how to correctly recycle, bust waste myths, discover methods to divert waste from landfill, and explore ways to engage with our initiatives aimed at significantly reducing waste. We invite you to join us in achieving our sustainability goals by implementing practical tools and resources that can be seamlessly integrated into your daily life on campus. Many are unaware of what items belong in which bins or that coffee cups are often not recyclable.
Together, let's educate ourselves on these crucial aspects. This is your gateway to immediate practical solutions and real-world applications that are relevant to all and will transform your waste management practices today.
Learning outcomes
- Identify successful waste management initiatives at the University of Melbourne.
- Discuss challenges in waste management and propose practical solutions.
- Explore tools and technologies for improving waste management efficiency.
- Share strategies for fostering a collaborative team culture in waste management practices.
- Address the challenges now to implement solutions and make a direct impact.
- Learn how to recycle correctly, and divert waste from landfill.
Intended audience
Anyone who's been confused about waste and what we can recycle on the University campuses. Staff who want to embed Sustainability strategies into everyday work.
Practical tips for supporting Mental Health in the workplace
- Peta Sarlos, Human Resources Business Partner, Chancellery
Abstract
As a HRBP and Mental Health First Aider this presentation is designed to help people (people leaders, colleagues, anyone) identify if someone in their team is struggling and give them tips on how they can have a conversation, what support is available, and how they can support a team member to get the help they need.
Learning outcomes
- Identify if someone you know is struggling with their mental health
- Things you can do to help them in a hybrid working world
- The importance of having a conversation
Intended audience
Everyone - people leaders & peers.
Business continuity: how to be ready in a time of uncertainty
- Hexing Yang (she/her), Emergency & Business Resilience Coordinator, Business Services
- Goldie Pergl (she/her), Emergency & Business Resilience Coordinator, Business Services
Abstract
In today’s world, disruptions can occur at anytime and anywhere; from natural disasters to cyber-attacks - being prepared is critical for organisations.
Are you and your team prepared for potential disruptions? How do you ensure a high level of readiness? Good business practice involves not only providing high quality services during peacetime but also having the capability to maintain key service delivery during disruptions.
Business Continuity Management (BCM) is a discipline that equips people, teams and organisations with the capability to minimise disruptive impacts and maintain critical service delivery during challenging times. Regardless of the size of the organisation or the team, the BCM approach is adaptable to varied business needs and complexities.
In this presentation, we will discuss the business continuity journey here at the University, highlighting the progress achieved over time and the learnings gained from engaging with departments and portfolios across the organisation. We will touch on the links between BCM and other incident and emergency management frameworks at the University. We will also explore how staff and their teams can work with us to initiate local business continuity journey and discuss the tools and resources available to enhance our organisational resilience.
Learning outcomes
- An appreciation and awareness of the Business Continuity discipline and approach at the University;
- Ability to initiate their continuity journey with sufficient knowledge in partnership with the Emergency & Business Resilience Team.
Intended audience
All staff who are keen to prepare their work for future disruptions and incidents.
Transforming Student Services
- Kate Gascoigne (she/her), Director, Operational Planning & Student Info, Student and Scholarly Services
- Brad Skrokov (he/him), Director, Service Experience & Design, Operational Performance Group
Abstract
The Student Services Transformation Program (SSTP) aims to deliver a world class student experience that is personalised, holistic and continuously improving. SSTP is a hallmark initiative to address several commitments under the Advancing Students and Education Strategy and is one of the University’s key priorities. This presentation will dive into the difference between transformation and other improvement work and use SSTP as a working example of how we are applying a transformative approach to improving student services.
Learning outcomes
- Understand 'transformation', the approach and success markers
- How the approach is being applied to improving student services
- A broad understanding of the scope and goals of SSTP, including key initiatives
- Explore the potential for, and lessons related to multidisciplinary collaboration across various University portfolios and departments
Intended audience
All staff. The topics are applicable to a variety of University portfolios and departments.
Visual Thinking: Applying a Creative Approach in a Professional Environment
- Emily Gittins (she/her), Digital/Graphic Designer, Faculty of Education
- Lucy Buzacott (she/her), Program Manager, Ngarrngga, Faculty of Education
- India Murphy, Digital Engagement Officer, Ngarrngga, Faculty of Education
Abstract
In this interactive workshop, participants will have the opportunity to consider and experiment how they can incorporate visual communication skills into their work processes and outcomes. The workshop will begin with an introduction by Program Manager, Lucy Buzacott, about Ngarrngga as a signature project at the University. Ngarrngga is a collaboration between the Faculty of Education, Indigenous Studies Unit and Indigenous Knowledge Institute, and aims to empower educators to showcase the depth and wealth of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' histories, cultures and contributions to Australia.
Led by Emily Gittins (Gumbaynggirr/ Barkindji), Ngarrngga Digital/ Graphic Designer, the workshop will then introduce participants to visual thinking approaches and considerations. It will involve a hands-on activity guided by a prompt, followed by a larger collaborative activity related to participants' individual roles and the way they all work together within the University - this larger scale artwork will then be shared with those involved after.
Learning outcomes for participants include an understanding of the basics of visual communication, including ideation, process, and implementation, as well as a confident mindset when applying these skills in their professional work. Participants will also come away with tangible pieces of design created by themselves related to their work area.
Learning outcomes
- Working together in collaboration to create a 'bigger picture'
- Showing that without individuals the 'bigger picture' isn't possible
- Taking participants through easy steps of visual communication thinking and how they can apply it to themselves and their roles
- How visual communication can support the participant's future work
Intended audience
An array of professional staff from different areas across the University.
Collaborating with Intent
- Suzie Fraser (she/they), Manager, Research and International Collaborations, Faculty of Fine Arts and Music
- Rina Gao (she/her), Collaboration Applications Lead, Business Services
- Jeremy Goh (he/him), Manager Academic and Learning Systems, Student and Scholarly Services
- Steph Lim (she/her,) Senior Coordinator- Projects, Business Services
- Anh Le (she/her), Coordinator – Projects, Business Services
Abstract
Join us in 'Collaborating with Intent' for practical tips to navigate and collaborate across the University of Melbourne’s complex environment. Learn techniques to break down barriers to cross-team collaboration, bridge communication gaps, and leverage diverse perspectives. Achieve shared objectives and innovative results across spheres of research, teaching, external engagement, and university operations.
This session will spotlight the rewards of investing time in working across siloes. Build diverse relationships across the University, listen deeply, and integrate consistent tools, processes, and language are a few of the topics we will discuss in this session. Through examples of key projects led by our presenters, this session will demonstrate the power and joy of collaborating strategically with other teams, enhancing professional relationships and achieving better outcomes together.
Learning outcomes
- Gain deeper understanding of the value and benefits of intentional collaboration
- Learn how to strategically identify and cultivate key relationships to foster collaboration
- Explore effective tools and best practices that elevate teamwork and collaborative effort
Intended audience
Professional and academic staff who coordinate people, manage projects, or work across departments and teams, seeking to enhance their collaborative effectiveness.
Replacing Themis – technology as an enabler for change
- Jacqui Lewis, ERP HR Stream Lead, Business Services
- Raechelle McLean (she/her), ERP Change Stream Lead, Business Services
Abstract
In 2025, we will replace our Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, Themis, with new cloud-based systems to enable contemporary HR, finance and research management practices and support transparency across our operations to meet current and future challenges and opportunities.
For an organisation like the University of Melbourne, this change is akin to replacing the engine of a jumbo jet while in flight. It’s not just a technology change, but technology is an enabler for broader change across the University. Rather than doing things in ways that deliver the best outcome for us as a University, we have often preferred to do things the ways we always have, leading to unintended consequences and the potential to threaten our reputation or involve us in costly litigation.
By leveraging this opportunity to replace our ERP systems to also adopt common ways of working for co-ordination and administrative tasks, where possible, we will free ourselves to focus our attention on our core objectives, the things that matter to all of us, delivering our research and educational missions.
Our objective is clear – to ensure the transition is as seamless as possible. This will need close collaboration with all our teams and leaders to prepare for the impending transformation. Find out more about the new systems and ways of working and what we are doing to ensure our people are ready for and supported through this transition.
ProcessX: Streamlining University Operations: The Power of Incremental Process Improvement and Digital Automation
- Murtuza Kapadia (he/him), Co-Founder & Director, ProcessX
- Brendan Snowden (he/him), Founder & Director, ProcessX
Abstract
In today’s fast-evolving educational landscape, universities face increasing demands to optimise operational efficiency while improving user experience. This presentation will explore how digital tools, combined with incremental process improvement techniques, can significantly streamline administrative workflows within higher education institutions. Drawing on over a decade of experience in process improvement, including work at universities and other industries, we will showcase a case study highlighting the power of small, continuous improvements using methodologies such as Kaizen and PDCA cycles, alongside the integration of digital solutions.
The case study focuses on a recent project where a key administrative workflow was optimised through a series of incremental improvements using tools like the SIPOC and co-design, resulting in significant time savings and enhanced user experience. Following this improvement phase, a customised Microsoft PowerApps solution was developed to digitise the workflow, empowering University professional staff with an intuitive, user-friendly platform designed to automate repetitive tasks and improve operational efficiency.
Learning outcomes
- The power of incremental improvement techniques in identifying and addressing inefficiencies in university workflows.
- How digital tools like PowerApps can automate and enhance daily administrative tasks.
- Practical tools such as the SIPOC and co-design that staff can apply to continuously improve processes.
"That's Nice Dear": How to communicate what you do so even grandma gets it.
- Rory McNeice, Operations Manager, Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre, Research, Innovation & Commercialisation
- Daniel O'Halloran, Commercial Director, COS
Abstract
You know how you try to explain things sometimes, and people just don’t get it? Whether it’s to students, stakeholders, or grandma around the dinner table, sometimes complexity gets in the way of clarity, and the message gets lost.
In this workshop, run as a collaboration between the Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre (MEC) and our PSC Innovative Sponsor COS, we’ll teach you an easy framework to help you communicate what you do and why it’s important in 20 seconds or less, and help make sure it’s clear enough that grandma will even be able to explain it to her bridge club.
Learning outcomes
A handy framework to:
- Quickly and easily communicate what you do and why it’s important;
- Distil complexity down to just a few relevant points; and
- Reduce how many times you have to explain things to grandma.
Intended audience
All professional staff.
Building capability to advance Melbourne globally: Cultural Intelligence
- Catherine Mudford (she/her), Director, Capability Development, Asialink Business
Abstract
Advancing Melbourne Globally 2030 details the University of Melbourne's growing focus on Asia and the critical role the region plays in our global growth strategy and ambitions. Asia capabilities are vital for success as we look to:
- Become a hub of knowledge and research for the Asia Pacific region
- Lead on global challenges and develop centres of excellence that are global in reach, ambition and impact
- Strengthen relationships with a global community of scholars, partners and alumni
Learning outcomes
This short interactive presentation will:
- Raise awareness of the key cultural drivers that impact the way business is conducted in different Asian countries.
- Build an understanding of similarities and differences between Australian and Asian communication styles and how to respond.
Intended audience
- Staff who engage or will engage with international students and alumni, academics and researchers.
- Staff who are developing new partnerships and supporting the development of centres of excellence and curriculum that is globally focused.
Impactful engagement - Tailored approaches to meaningfully engage
- Leah Hyland (she/her), Senior Communications and Engagement Manager, Corporate Finance, Property and Sustainability
- Nicole Vandersluys (she/her), Communications and Engagement Lead, Corporate Finance, Property and Sustainability
- Meredith Mail (she/her), Communications and Engagement Manager, Corporate Finance, Property and Sustainability
- Ruqyya Ahsan (she/her), Student@Work, Property and Sustainability
Abstract
Engagement is more than communication with community and stakeholders, it is a two-way exchange where stakeholder input informs decisions for project development.
Our work as professional staff involves varying levels of engagement every day - but how we plan and approach it can make all the difference in how successful the engagement will be (survey fatigue anyone?!).
In response to this, the Communications and Engagement Team (CFPS) developed an Engagement Framework and Toolkit in 2023, in collaboration with engagement specialists both in and outside the University, to help us design engagement experiences that are tailored, impactful and creative.
During our workshop/presentation, we will showcase the key steps to impactful engagement and share varied and innovative approaches on how you can engage with professionalism and style.
Learning outcomes
- Participants will be provided with principles to follow when designing outstanding engagement activities
- Participants will learn that there are a wide variety of engagement approaches and methods that can be used to get the most out of engaging with your stakeholders
- Participants will see examples of the engagement in action and see how they can be applied in their own work settings
- Participants will receive an Engagement Toolkit document as digital files afterwards, so they can apply their learnings with considered planning and useful approaches.
Intended audience
Any professional staff member - the content is applicable to all types of workplaces.
MU Sport: Blended Pilates
- Angelina La Scala – Group Fitness Coordinator at Melbourne Uni Sport
Abstract
Blended Pilates – A session using the chair to assist with stability in standing exercises and moving through a sequence of seated exercises throughout this session. It helps to improves balance by challenging the muscles with assisted bodyweight and coordination. Focusing on the breath to activate core, keeping us focused and present.
Get up and moving with one of our conference sponsors, Melbourne University Sport.
Building service excellence capability across the University of Melbourne
- Kristie Matthews, Business Support Analyst
- Sally Lawson (she/her), Design Manager
- Nick Gilfillan, Manager, Student Enrolment
- Pooja Gupta, Analyst, Business Process Innovation
Abstract
The 14 week ‘Service Excellence Capability Program’ focusses on strengthening problem-solving capabilities across the University by upskilling staff in Human-centred Design, Service Improvement, Change & Communications and Project Management methodologies. The program enables accelerated capability growth through the provision of classroom training, mentoring, and coaching for participants of varied UoM grades, from diverse University functions and faculties. Cohort 1-3 included staff from Business Services, RIC, CFOG, Student Services, FEIT, FoE and FFAM.
Nominated by their leadership teams, participants embark on the Program with a specific business problem to solve. They are provided with a safe space to learn and experiment with OPG improvement project methodologies, to successfully deliver projects with demonstrated benefits for their business area. The diverse range of benefits delivered for the University exhibits excellence in process improvement and outstanding service to deliver an improved experience for staff, stakeholders, and students.
All Program stakeholders demonstrated a strong commitment to the upskilling of our university community in their dedication to delivering classroom training, and providing project coaching, mentoring and support of Program participants. This included 1:1 interaction, as well as providing opportunities for participants to shadow OPG team members in their Service Improvement and Design work.
Learning outcomes
- Overview of the 14-week ‘Service Excellence Capability Program' at the University.
Intended audience
Staff at the Professional Staff Conference will benefit from knowing about the Program; it is an opportunity to upskill themselves or staff in their business area.
Chief People Officer's Address
- Alexis Beckwith, Chief People Officer, Office of the Provost