Following the Trial Quality Audit at the end of March, the Quality Working Party, lead by Ken Window, wishes to thank and applaud all involved for their outstanding commitment, cooperativeness and collegiality.

Reaching a milestone, such as the completion of the Trial Audit, could not be done without the efforts of many, who must be specifically acknowledged.

Firstly, the staff of the Rockhampton Library were very hospitable and pleasant amid considerable disruption. Also, the Facilities Management Team were prompt and efficient, and without these groups the logistics of the Trial Audit would simply have failed.

In addition, thanks go to the secretarial staff for their time and skills in note-taking for the auditors, Kay Brodel, from Capricornia College for assistance in the recruitment of students for interview and ITD staff for perseverance in managing technology challenges.

In the preparation of the Trial Performance Portfolio, the Analysis and Planning team, and many others from throughout the organisation provided data and feedback with very little notice. Your supportiveness enabled the completion of the report, and was much appreciated.

Finally, and most importantly, to the 143 staff, students and community members who made time in their busy schedules to participate in interviews and lunches with the Trial Auditors – thankyou! Undertaking the Trial Audit provided invaluable experience in organising and preparing for an AUQA audit, and enabled the testing of the Performance Portfolio.

While the AUQA process was generally followed, there were constraints to the Trial Audit, such as having a smaller audit panel and less time to study the organisation. This meant that the Trial Auditors did not audit the organisation to the depth and detail that could be expected of the AUQA Auditors. The level on investigation by the AUQA Panel is likely to be more extensive, including visits to on-shore and off-shore teaching locations.

The Quality Office has begun work in revising the Performance Portfolio which will be submitted to AUQA in July. The Portfolio, which will set out CQU’s objectives, plans, activities, measures and results, will be the foundation of the audit in October.

Further assistance and participation in this activity will be required, and your ongoing support is appreciated. If you would like to become involved, or have any queries, please feel welcome to contact the Quality Team by email: cquality@cqu.edu.au or phone: 07 4923 2593.