About

Role of Senate

Senate is the peak governing body of the University as constituted by the University of Queensland Act 1998. The 35th Senate began its four-year term on 1 January 2022.

The primary role of Senate is to exercise oversight of the University and its affairs. In particular, Senate ensures that the appropriate structures, policies, processes and planning are in place for UQ to effectively manage its activities and achieve its goals. Senate reviews and approves the strategic direction of the University as outlined in UQ's Strategic Plan 2022-2025.

Senate membership

There are 22 members in official, appointed and elected capacities. The Chancellor is appointed by members to lead Senate. For more information, read Composition of the 35th Senate.

The role of a Senate member is similar to that of a director of a large company. External members bring a range of knowledge and expertise and are able to offer special skills and advice. Members who are staff or students bring knowledge and an understanding of the University's activities and culture, and provide a link between Senate and staff and students.

Members usually also participate in one or more of the Senate Committees and some members are representatives on faculty boards.

Duties and responsibilities of members

Members of Senate have duties and responsibilities to:

act in the University’s best interests as a whole rather than as a representative of any constituency
act honestly and in good faith
disclose relevant third-party interests and avoid conflicts of interest (the University maintains a register of interests of members of Council)
exercise a duty of care, skill and diligence
exercise a duty of confidence and observe confidentiality protocols
familiarise themselves with Standing Orders and understand operating protocols for the conduct of business
understand the work of the University
develop linkages and use networks on behalf of the University to assist in achieving its goals
be able and willing to participate in the work of Senate and its boards and committees through regular attendance at meetings.

Senate endorses the Voluntary Code of Best Practice for the Governance of Australian Universities.

Senate meetings

Senate will meet 6 times in 2024, as follows:

Tuesday 22 February 2024
Tuesday 30 April 2024
Tuesday 25 June 2024
Tuesday 20 August 2024
Tuesday 29 October 2024
Tuesday 3 December 2024

Papers for inclusion in the agenda are required a minimum of two weeks prior to the meeting. The Senate Secretary can assist.

Senate minutes

Listed below are the links to The University of Queensland Senate minutes of meetings, providing an update on Senate activities.

5 December 2023
22 February 2024
Tuesday 30 April 2024
Tuesday 25 June 2024
Tuesday 20 August 2024
Tuesday 29 October 2024
Tuesday 3 December 2024

Enquiries regarding the Senate Minutes can be directed to the Senate Secretary (senate.secretary@uq.edu.au).