Professional Team Award Finalists

Awarded to a team which may consist of either a work unit team or individuals from different work units whose collaboration has produced an outstanding contribution.

  1. Code of Conduct Implementation Working Group

    Naomi Fischer, Rachael Laybutt, Angus Rogers, Lynn Herd, Emma Hale, Andrew Cairns, Gregory Ward, Fiona Mundie, Ennia Jones, Serena Rogers, Angela Mills

    The Code of Conduct Implementation Working Group collaborated across multiple teams to develop and implement a ground-breaking and impactful Staff Code of Conduct program. Through extensive stakeholder engagement, the group created policies, streamlined workflows, and enhanced declaration processes. Key initiatives included updating training, integrating the Code into onboarding and performance management, and launching a University-wide communication and support platform. With strategic phases and expert networks, the group ensured long-term integrity uplift, exemplifying cross-unit collaboration and exceptional achievement.

  2. Global Academic Reputation Team

    Tina Imig, Nicole Bagnall, Stephanie Venz, Steve Wheatley, Jessica Ward, Trudy Edwards, Carina Bates, Jessica DeBurr, Dr Yik Teo, Serena Rogers

    The University of Newcastle is an exceptional institution, yet its global reputation has not kept up with the quality of its research. This presented an opportunity to elevate the University’s reputation nationally and globally. Several teams collaborated extensively throughout 2024 to deliver five significant initiatives to raise the University’s profile and showcase the University’s commitment to equity and Indigenous knowledges. These efforts, which culminated in hosting the Times Higher Education conference, reached 661,258 people globally.

  3. Performance Edge Virtual Reality Stress Management Program Team

    Professor Rohan Walker, Dr Emma Kerr, Phoebe Sanders, Dr Murielle Kluge, Johanna Voeste, Helen Scobie, Scott Laing, Andrew Steele

    The Performance Edge Virtual Reality Stress Management Program, developed by the University's Centre for Advanced Training Systems, offers digital mental health training for individuals and groups. Led by qualified clinicians, participants practice evidence-based stress management techniques in a digital “real world” environment. This innovative program helps staff and students develop essential skills for managing stress in their work or study settings, enhancing wellbeing and psychological safety while mitigating psychosocial risks.