Hunter Community Alliance Set to Meet Tonight

 BY PETER HYSLOP

The Hunter Community Alliance is set to meet today (March 6) at the University of Newcastle's Great Hall.

It's a gathering of unions, religious, disability and community action groups, which registered an attendance of about 1000 last year.

Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen is set to attend. The alliance will ask his Government for a $5 billion energy bill savings plan, which would involve subsidies and funds to reduce the upfront cost of home energy upgrades.

The alliance will also push for local energy hubs where residents can access information on Hunter projects, similar to the one delivered by the High Speed Rail Authority.

Hunter Community Alliance meeting in 2024

Funding Announced for Hunter STEM Career Pathways

 BY PETER HYSLOP

The Federal Government is committing $3.2 million to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) pathways in Hunter schools.

The program includes $1.9 million awarded to the University of Newcastle to support its Next Gen STEM program, delivering hands-on science and engineering days for students from Years 7 to 10, and $1.3 million for pathways into STEM careers.

Trevor Smith from regional development Australia, the agency responsible for managing the careers program, says it's an exciting initiative.

"[Seeing] Students getting involved, taking up the challenges being put to them, thinking outside the box, working together in teams, being creative, and creating brand new solutions, is such a joy to watch," he said.

 

Science and Engineering Challenge in action. Credit: University of Newcastle

Additional University Places Added in Newcastle to Grow AUKUS Workforce

BY HOLLY FISHLOCK

Additional places in STEM courses will be open at the University of Newcastle next year, in a bid to help grow the skilled workforce required to deliver AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines.

The Albanese Government is investing $128 million to fund an additional 4,001 university places across Australia. In Newcastle, 140 places have been allocated.

These additional places will apply to 38 STEM-related courses, designed to attract more students to train in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Federal Member for Patterson Meryl Swanson said she's celebrating the move.

"I'm delighted to say that the Albanese Labor Government has funded 140 additional places at the University of Newcastle over the next four years for STEM related subjects such as mechanical engineering and chemical engineering," says MP Swanson.

Ms. Swanson says it is important to increase training in STEM-related fields, as careers in these industries in Newcastle are in high demand.

"It's incredibly important that we do grow the workforce that is needed for the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines. In addition to that, it's also important that we constantly work with our businesses in the local area.

"The reason it's so important that we increase people taking up STEM courses is because that's where the jobs of the future in our region are going to lie. As a government we've recognised that, and that's why we've supported and funded these 140 places at Newcastle University over the next four years,," she said. 

Eligible students are able to apply and commence studies for STEM courses from the beginning of 2024.

The Wollotuka Institute Celebrates 40th Anniversary

BY OLIVIA GOELDNER

The beloved Wollotuka Institute will be celebrating its 40th anniversary at the University of Newcastle today. 

Beginning in 1983, Wollotuka originated as a support program for Indigenous students and has grown to be a pioneering example of First Nations excellence. 

The University of Newcastle now leads the country in Indigenous student enrolment, support and retention.

The milestone will be celebrated across two events, a public event and an invitational dinner, to be held at the University's Callaghan campus this month. 

Jordan Perry from the Wollotuka Institute says the hard work of those involved is worth celebrating. 

"We're looking after students, setting ground-breaking research agendas and also teaching the new generation coming through," he said. 

He said cultural safety is of the upmost importance for First Nations students. 

"Having Wollotuka here and having that hub where they can feel at home amongst their people is the most important thing to me."

Image: National Indigenous Times

Hunter teens have $200,000 in unpaid fines, according to new report

BY SHY-ANN ARKINSTALL

According to data from Revenue NSW, Hunter residents under the age of 18 owe more than $200,000 in unpaid fines.

Researchers out of the University of Newcastle have been studying the trend, and say many young people are showing signs of financial stress including skipping meals and making late payments on bills.

Research has also found, many are turning to credit options to pay fines and bills leading to interest costs and further financial stress.

Senior Sociology Lecturer at the University of Newcastle, Dr. Julia Cook says most fines owed by those under 18 are transport fines for travelling without a valid ticket and believes most are likely not paying because they can't afford it.

"They may get a fine but also through that process they may become known to the transport officers and that means they may be likely to get picked up on that again and that can be a bit of a cycle," Dr. Cook said.

Dr. Cook also pointed out there is an assumption, parents will be able to pay fines if children cannot afford it, but said this is not always a case, especially amid the current cost of living crisis.

"Young people can have issues getting their L plates and their P plates; if they have outstanding fines that can be a roadblock to getting those sorts of things that young people are not always aware of. Particularly for young people who live in areas that may not have great public transport or if they have started a trade and they really need to be able to drive or just to have employment, it can be a real roadblock to their goals," Dr. Cook said.

Dr. Cook also said there are alternative methods of payments for fines which should utilised by young people struggling to pay fines, such as requesting a Work and Development Order where, through work, study, or financial counselling, you can get your fines reduced.

Work and Development Orders can be carried out at places such as PCYC and the University of Newcastle, among others.

"I think we need to look at why these people are accruing fines. If people are taking public transport and aren't paying their fare I don't think they should necessarily be receiving a fine for that. I think there needs to be some kind of further examination because even when people are on a low income they still need to be able to access essential services," Dr. Cook said.

Collaborative Artwork Between Newcastle-Based Artist and UON Researcher Unveiled at HMRI

BY OLIVIA DILLON

A Newcastle-based artist and reproduction expert have collaborated to produce a new piece of art unveiled at the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) overnight.

This year's HMRI Art Series is the product of a collaboration between Researcher of the Year, Professor Brett Nixon and visual artist, Mitch Revs. 

The University of Newcastle's Professor Nixon is a member of the HMRI Pregnancy and Reproduction team, and his research focuses on genetic and environmental factors which impact the quality of sperm. 

At the HMRI Community Seminar last night, Professor Nixon said seeing his work come to life brought tears to his eyes. 

"I've devoted my life to this research field, not for the accolades but more to try and improve the outcomes for people that are suffering from infertility," he said.  

"I'm very touched by what Mitch has brought out of our research. He's a genuine artist."

The one-off artwork titled "Seedling" aims to shed a light on the crucial need for more researchers in the fields of infertility and reproduction, and showcase the significant fertility research being run out of laboratories in the Hunter. 

Mitch Revs was specially chosen to produce the artwork for this year's Series, and said he couldn't be more grateful for the opportunity to be a part of a worthy cause. 

"My biggest fear was not being able to reflect him (Brett) how he needs to be reflected; I felt a lot of pressure around the objective because I wanted to do a good job," Mitch said. 

"To have my work displayed at HMRI is a massive honour and achievement for me; it's one of those boxes everyone wants to tick." 

"Hopefully we can raise some much needed funds when we auction the artwork in a few weeks." 

"Seedling" will be auctioned at the HMRI Ball on Saturday June 17th. 

The money raised from the auction will go towards funding more vital research projects in the Hunter. 

Image: Mitch Revs

Image: Michelle Lawson

University of Newcastle announces mandatory placement for all undergraduate students

BY SHY-ANN ARKINSTALL

The University of Newcastle has announced all students commencing undergraduate courses from 2023 onwards will complete mandatory placement within a workplace in their chosen industry.

Although placement has been an important part of medicine and teaching programs for years, science, arts, and business students have not had the same experience and take longer to gain employment after graduation across the country.

Minister for Tertiary Education, Tim Crakanthorp says the program will allow students to experience in the vocation they intend to go into after graduation and make an informed decision about their education and career path going forward.

"I am a perfect case example as I did a degree, got into work, and realised it wasn't for me. This is a great program and I can clearly see the benefit," Mr Crakanthorp said.

The program is one of the first of its kind in Australia, showing the University is a leading force not only in the state but in the country.

The 2021 Australian Skills Commission report found 75% of employers look for experience before even considering an applicant, and 40% of roles were given to someone the employer already knew.

These findings show how important it is for students to gain industry experience while studying and to grow their network of contacts within their industry to improve their chances of future employment.

Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic at the University of Newcastle, Mark Hoffman says the university has great relationships with local businesses and "they are really passionate about supporting us in this program".

"This is possible particularly for the University of Newcastle because of the great industry support and relationships we have in the region and nationally," Mr Hoffman said.

Hunter Students Slapped with Higher HECS

BY OLIVIA DILLON

There's concern for University of Newcastle students with a HECS debt, after the federal government today announced a major indexation rise. 

Student debt has been hit with a 7% hike across the board, which will take effect from the 1st of June. 

It's the highest rate seen in 32 years. 

The change means total repayment amounts will stay the same, but the repayment time will lengthen. 

As a result, average HECS debt will increase by about $1500 this year and next year.

National Union of Students member Grace Francco, said it means many people won't be able to reduce their balance. 

"Anyone who is earning less than $62,000, which is between the minimum and median wage, will see their debt increase. So the minimum repayments that they make won't actually decrease their HECS debt."

University of Newcastle Students Take Up the Tools to Support Women in Need

BY OLIVIA DILLON

A vital outreach arm of the University of Newcastle has delivered a small but welcome project for women's refuge Carrie's Place as part of International Women's Day.

Over five weeks, women from the community and female students from the School of Architecture and Built Environment worked with the team from Outfit to build two custom-designed dining tables.

The timber used for the project was donated from a former display at Sydney's Powerhouse Museum.

Third-year student Kinga, says learning to use large workshop power tools was a bit daunting at first, but well worth it.

"I think it's very important in the field of built environment that we support women because it's a very male-dominated industry," she said.

"It's just great to be a part of something bigger than yourself." 

Head of School Professor Sue Anne Ware, says the group is also undergoing a number of other projects to support the service into the future.

 

Third-year student Kinga in front of a photo of her and a community volunteer working on a table top.

 

 

University Of Newcastle Announces International Hotel School

BY OLIVIA DILLON

The University of Newcastle has announced plans to open an International Hotel School, in order to address job shortages within the region's tourism and hospitality industries.  

The program will allow TAFE students undertaking an advanced diploma, to partner their studies with a bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Tourism and Events. 

It comes in line with a national shortage of more than 400,000 jobs in the sector, and a 30% shortage in the region alone. 

Pro Vice Chancellor of the College of Human and Social Futures Professor John Fischetti, said the expansion of Newcastle airport will bring about the need for more industry workers. 

He also said jobs in the sector should be guaranteed, given the shortage. 

"We believe we now have a seamless pathway, with placements each semester in-industry, so this is a very practical, hands-on degree. It will prepare you to run your own business, to work for a major hotel chain, work on a cruise ship, or to help scope out the major new eco-tourism and other things happening in the Hunter," Professor Fischetti said. 

There are currently about 30 students enrolled in the program, with plans to expand the degree to 150-200 students, and potentially establish a physical hotel in the city. 

"This would allow students to work in the University of Newcastle hotel to be able to do their work-integrated learning. Either way, all of our students will be placed in industry partnerships from the beginning, all the way through their degree," Professor Fuschetti said. 

University of Newcastle staff reject proposed enterprise agreements

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The University of Newcastle's proposed enterprise agreements put to staff have been overwhelmingly rejected.

The separate agreements for Academic and Professional staff members went to an all-staff ballot after negotiations with unions stalled after 15 months.

Of 1,085 academic staff who voted, 971 voted against, and just 114 for the agreement.

Among the professional staff, 1,295 of the 1,720 voters also voted against their agreement.

It wasn't mandatory for staff to have their say, with 1,085 of the 1,676 eligible academic staff voting, and 1,720 of the 2,725 eligible professional staff voting.

Vice-Chancellor Alex Zelinsky says they'll engage with staff and take time to reflect on the feedback.

"We’ve heard clearly that the package of benefits we are offering in the new agreements isn’t right yet," he said.

"We will engage further with our staff early next year as we consider the next steps."

The proposed agreements included a 9.5 percent salary increase over three years, six additional days of paid leave per year, and increased flexibility in the use of other leave, as well as an increase in superannuation for casual staff from 10 percent to 17 percent.

The National Tertiary Education Union has raised concern, however, regarding pay, workloads and job security.

The union will resume good faith bargaining with management, and says the vote is "a resounding message to management that they will not be bullied".

The existing enterprise agreements will remain in place in the meantime, and staff have been advised to expect more information in early February. 

University of Newcastle promised more spots in Labor budget

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The Federal Government has allocated 967 additional university places to train teachers, nurses, and engineers at the University of Newcastle.

It's estimated to cost $28 million locally, part of a $485 million scheme to train 20,000 new students across the country.

The places will roll out over 2023 and 2024.

It's hoped the commitment will both level the playing field in terms of student equity, as well as help address staff shortages in critical sectors.

Hunter blokes trying out walk-and-talk therapy in new study

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Newcastle researchers are hoping to find out if walk-and-talk style, outdoor therapy could be a better option for men than sitting down inside.

The team includes members from all of the University's schools and colleges, and is the first internationally to explore the approach.

Dr Myles Young says it's important we have as many tools as possible to treat mental health issues.

"In Australia, one in eight men will experience depression throughout their life," he said. "In reality, it's probably actually quite a bit more, because many men don't seek help."

"During COVID alone, the prevalence of depression in Australia increased by about ten percent."

"Compared to women, men are less likely to seek help for things like depression or low mood, and when they do seek help and go to psychotherapy or counselling, they're less likely to stick with it all the way through. 

It's believed taking psychotherapy outside might make men more comfortable to open up, because of the natural environment, less eye contact, and the shared space.

Dr Young says the physical activity can also be great for men doing it tough.

"While we have all this evidence to show it may work, no one's ever really looked to see if it does work with men," he said. "It's possible that it might not be as appealing. No one knows that yet, because no one's done the research."

"And we're not sure not only does it work, but is it something that men find engaging and appealing and will stick with? That's what we're really interested to find out through our research."

The team's recruiting local blokes to take part until Friday 28 October.

You can find out more by contacting Dr Myles Young at myles.young@newcastle.edu.au.

University of Newcastle Survivors Take a Stand Against Violence

BY OLIVIA DILLON

A University of Newcastle student has founded the institution's first survivor-run advisory advocates group. 

21 year-old Sarah Williams is a child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault survivor, third-year law and communications student, and an advocate for survivors across the region and country. 

She previously founded What Were You Wearing, an education, awareness and advocacy organisation run by sexual violence survivors. 

Ms Williams said the Survivors Advocates Advisory Board will provide a diverse insight into the lived experience of the survivor. 

"I only want the group to go ahead if it has First Nations people on it, people living with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ identifying people, because as we know from statistics, those three groups are disproportionally affected by sexual violence, and particularly sexual violence on campus," Ms Williams said. 

The group of 10 student survivors will meet once a month to discuss how to support victims and combat violence on campus. 

They will be joined by a trauma-informed psychologist at meetings to provide support on potentially triggering issues, and are assured the group will be a safe and confidential space. 

The establishment of the group comes after the latest National Student Safety Survey revealed almost one in five UON students had been sexually harassed since starting their studies. 

It also aligns with the Federal Government's announcement today, it will launch the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children. 

The 10-year plan is underpinned by six principles, one of which involves working with victim-survivors to develop policies and solutions.

Ms Williams said she's excited to see higher-ups working with survivors to find solutions, and she already has suggestions for the University to implement. 

"Being able to have that voice is really powerful. You feel like you're able to assist in making change. It also makes you believe that the government actually does want to make change and they don't want to continue to see the statistics that we continue seeing, which is really great," she said. 

"I'd love to see more consent education brought out in the University to regular students, rather than just student residents. Currently you do a consent module, but that's just once when you do your degree and it's nothing at all; it's very outdated in our opinion." 

Applications to become one of the 10 survivor advocates are open to anyone who will be studying at the University in 2023 (including current Year 12 students) and will close on the 24th of October. 

More information can be found on the What Were You Wearing website. 

The University of Newcastle has established its first Survivors Advocates Advisory Board for sexual violence survivors. 

University of Newcastle book fair aiming for 2023 return

BY OLIVIA DILLON

The Friends of the University of Newcastle are calling on the community to clean out their bookshelves in preparation for the 2023 book fair.

After a two-year COVID-induced hiatus, they are hoping the book fair will return mid-next year.

The Friends are accepting donations of books, CDs, records, DVDs and magazines on Tuesdays between 9am and midday, in the Bowman building at Callaghan Campus. 

Book Fair Convenor Lesley Gent, said any donations from the community will be greatly appreciated. 

"We sort them into categories," she said. "We have 50 categories and we take everything you can think of." 

"We have 28 volunteers who come and sort and pack every week and they haven't been able to do anything for two years so they're very excited." 

Ms Gent also said funds raised from the sales are used to support students across a range of disciplines at the University of Newcastle. 

"We have 10 student scholarships and all the money goes to that. We are all volunteers so we don't get paid. All the money we make goes to scholarships."

Further information including the location of the Bowman Building can be found on the Friends of the University of Newcastle website.

Donations for the Friends of the University of Newcastle Book Fair are now open. 

State of Australia's Financial Literacy Revealed in University of Newcastle Report

BY BEN CLIFFORD

New research published by the University of Newcastle has found that more than a third of Australians are financially illiterate. 

The research forms the basis of the Financial Wellbeing and General Life Satisfaction in Australia report released this week. 

The report represents a combined effort between the University and the Greater Bank as a part of their Financial Literacy Program which has been operating across the Hunter region since 2019. 

The findings provide a fascinating insight into the current state of Australian's knowledge levels when it comes to managing their money and demonstrates the impact financial literacy has on overall life satisfaction. 

When it comes to financial literacy, young people have emerged as a key demographic of concern with 43% of 18-24 year-olds reporting they have not been able to meet their personal debt obligations. 

Researchers have also found significant differences between men and women's financial management capabilities.

For example, young men have demonstrated higher levels of financial literacy than women, however, they are less likely to apply their financial knowledge to make positive economic decisions. 

As cost of living pressures and interest rates continue to rise, the importance of having strong financial literacy is paramount. 

Lead researcher, Professor Christina Boedker says people only need to take a few small steps to improve their financial literacy skills. 

"A critical thing is to sit down and set a household budget. If you can start to plan you can start to better manage," he said.

"Set yourself some targets, critically review your income vs expenses and figure out what you're able to last on a monthly basis."

Through their joint outreach program, the University and Greater Bank are hoping to improve the worrisome financial status of young Australians. 

The program currently helps high-school students learn  the importance of household budgets, investments and savings, as well as the risks associated with credit cards and buy now pay later schemes. 

There are hopes that similar programs will be rolled out across the University to further assist young adults in making informed financial decisions. 

The peer-reviewed report is available for viewing at https://www.greater.com.au/financialwellbeing

Ukrainian President to address University of Newcastle

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will address students at the University of Newcastle on Wednesday.

The video-link address has been extended by the Australian National University, who are hosting the broadcast.

Students and staff are being invited to a lecture hall at Callaghan at 4pm tomorrow, for a 4:30pm start.

Students are also being invited to submit questions to the Ukrainian President, which he'll answer in a Q&A session after his address and an introduction from ANU Chancellor Julie Bishop.

Psychology students launch new clinic for crisis accomodation residents

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Jenny's Place is partnering with the University of Newcastle for a new clinic connecting crisis accommodation residents with weekly psychology services.

The Sunshine Hut program is being staffed by provisional psychologists and postgraduate students in the School of Psychology.

Jenny's Place Executive Manager Marcia Chapman says women and children fleeing violence often struggle with their mental health.

"Some kids can have learning difficulties at school, they can act out, they can have trouble having relationships," she said.

"They can have low self-esteem, or suffering mental issues such as anxiety, depression. Drug and alcohol dependencies.

"Some may become abusers themselves, or get into domestic violence relationships and the cycle repeats."

The program's been made possible by an anonymous philanthropic grant to Jenny's Place, who is also funding preliminary research to further develop the initiative.

The psychologists initially work with mothers to examine their personal history and understand their needs, before focusing on individual therapy and referrals to other services.

It's also being welcomed as a valuable hands-on experience for psychology students, with hope the program will be expanded over the next four years.

"They're going to learn so much, being able to come in and be part of this," Ms Chapman said.

"They've been involved in it from the get-go, so they're the ones who are designing it, putting it together, and doing the research and building the program as they go.

"It's a very exciting time for the clients, for the students, and for us."

Clinical Supervisor Saskia Behan, Jenny's Place Operations Manager Stacey Gately, and Master of Clinical Psychology student Rebecca Fellowes.

University of Newcastle Announces New Brain Cancer Research Centre

BY OLIVIA DILLON

The University of Newcastle is taking a step towards finding a cure for brain cancer, with the announcement of a new research centre. 

The Mark Hughes Foundation Centre for Brain Cancer Research builds on the existing partnership between the Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF) and the University, with MHF having now committed over $15 million over five years to establish a dedicated research team and centre. 

A $10 million contribution from the University makes the centre a $25 million philanthropic investment. 

Bringing in colleagues from HMRI and the local heath district, as well as a national network of experts in the field, the centre will drive critical research, education, and health care improvements for brain cancer patients across the country, as well as their families and carers, and heath professionals. 

Professor Michael Fay will join the University as the MHF Foundation Chair in Brain Cancer and as Director of the Mark Hughes Foundation Centre for Brain Cancer Research, bringing with him extensive experience in brain cancer research and medical and radiation oncology. 

He said his team of researchers has already begun work to improve outcomes for brain cancer patients.

"There's a whole lot of different streams of research being done at the moment, for instance, developing new tests and new types of imaging for brain cancer. We want to translate these into patients as quickly as we can, so, take them out of the laboratory and into the clinical arena where we hope they can be used for patient benefit," Professor Fay said. 

"The problem with high-grade brain cancer, or glioblastoma, is that the outlook hasn't really changed in 20 years. Lots of things have been tried- chemotherapy was brought in during the early 2000's- but things really haven't improved much and for a lot of these patients, the outcomes are really poor."

A previous recipient of the MHF HMRI Clinical Research Fellowship, Professor Fay said the Foundation's commitment to the cause was inspiring.  

"I'm just delighted by the ongoing support from the Foundation and I think all of the brain cancer researchers locally would feel the same way," he said. 

"The fight against brain cancer is an urgent one and the establishment of a dedicated brain cancer research centre further cements our commitment to helping solve this devastating disease. My ambition is to advance brain cancer research and achieve the greatest impact for brain cancer patients and their families". 

Kirralee Hughes, Mark Hughes, Professor Alex Zelinsky, and Professor Elizabeth Sullivan

University of Newcastle continues to climb in world rankings

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The University of Newcastle has again improved its ranking on the global stage, jumping another four places to number 192 in the QS World University Rankings.

The University has now climbed by more than 100 places in under a decade.

The institution's ranking is obtained based on six indicators: academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty to student ratio, citations per faculty, international student ratio, and international faculty ratio.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky says it's proof to international students, Newcastle is an education destination.

"The student experience is very, very important," he said. "International students do look at world rankings because they pay good money to come to study in Australia or any other country."

"They are looking at top-ranked institutions, and to get into the top 200 is really one of those thresholds that you're really seriously taken as a University that's going places."

It comes just weeks after the University was named in major funding commitments by both the Coalition and Labor, to develop pathways and research into green energy and manufacturing across the Hunter and Australia.

Professor Zelinsky says, as a global leader, it's important the University plays a role in the search for solutions to global challenges.