Legal and Governance Services
Legal and Governance Services (LGS) is a central administrative unit led by the General Counsel and Chief Governance Officer. It is dedicated to supporting the university’s governance framework and ensuring institutional integrity, accountability, and compliance.
The Secretariat Team, led by the University Secretary, plays a pivotal role in enabling effective decision-making at the University by providing advice and operational support to the governing bodies and executive leaders.
Legal Services
The Legal Services team provides expert advice and support across a broad range of legal matters and projects at the University of Newcastle. Drawing on extensive experience in higher education and regulatory environments, the team is committed to delivering timely, practical and high-quality legal services to support the University’s operations, governance and strategic objectives.
Compliance, Audit and Policy
The Compliance, Audit and Policy team supports the University of Newcastle in maintaining strong governance, accountability and regulatory compliance across its operations. The team provides oversight and guidance on compliance obligations, internal audit activities, policy development and management, and integrity frameworks. Through a proactive and risk-based approach, the team helps ensure the University operates in accordance with legislative requirements, sector standards and its strategic objectives.
The Secretariat Team
The Secretariat Team plays a pivotal role in enabling effective decision-making by providing strategic advice and operational support to the Governing Bodies of the University, including the Council, Academic Senate, and Executive Leadership Team.
Workplace Relations Team
The Workplace Relations team provides expert advice and support on employment and industrial relations matters across the University of Newcastle. The team works closely with leaders and stakeholders to manage employee relations, interpret industrial instruments, and support fair, compliant and consistent workplace practices. Through a practical and solutions-focused approach, Workplace Relations helps foster a positive and productive work environment aligned with the University’s policies, obligations and strategic goals.
Insurance
The University maintains relevant and appropriate insurance to protect and cover the core activities of staff, students, business and related entities. You may be covered by the University's insurance if you are undertaking officially approved activities related to your work or study.
Internal audit
Internal Audit is an independent and objective advisory service designed to improve the University’s operations and assist in the achievement of the Looking Ahead 2030 Strategic Plan.
Fraud and Corruption
All staff are responsible for contributing to the prevention, detection and response to fraud and corruption within their area, and for ensuring compliance with relevant University Rules, Policies and Procedures.
Incident management
The University has plans in place to manage the risks associated with, and maximise the ability to recover from unforeseen and disruptive events such as natural disasters, loss of critical infrastructure or pandemics.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.