Update on the Graduate Research Training Policy

The Graduate Research Training Policy (MPF1321) has been simplified and merged with the Supervisor Eligibility and Registration Policy (MPF1322) to provide clearer, more accessible guidance. This revised policy will be published on 1 January 2025. If you are familiar with the current policy, you will see significant changes to format as well as to the content. These format changes include structured enumeration of responsibilities, delegations, and exceptions, and removal of the detail of processes, which will instead be documented in supporting processes. Common questions about the policy are being addressed in these FAQs on the Graduate Research Hub.

There are only minor changes of relevance to current candidates:

  • Candidates that are approved for late submission will continue to receive supervision and advisory committee support and access to required services
  • Candidates will now be responsible for drafting their graduation citations
  • There are changes to inclusion of co-authored publications in theses
  • If you experience delays with submitting your thesis, the late submission process has been updated to offer improved support and structure, ensuring access to university resources and supervisory support during this period
  • Candidates who complete an approved internship will automatically receive an equivalent period of late submission to accommodate time away from research
  • We will be introducing examination by viva into the PhD. Current PhD candidates will not be required to have the viva examination, however from late 2025, you will be able to choose whether to be examined by thesis only or by viva. We will make further announcements closer to that time.

Changes for candidates commencing on or after 1 January 2025:

  • Supervisory agreements will now be completed within three months of commencement, helping to establish clear expectations and a strong foundation for the research journey early on
  • Essential training, such as Research Integrity Online Training (RIOT) and Preventing Sexual Misconduct training, will be required to be completed within the first six months of candidature to help candidates navigate research responsibilities with confidence
  • For PhD candidates commencing in 2025, examination by viva will be introduced, providing an opportunity to showcase and discuss their research through direct engagement with examiners.

The Graduate Research Hub will be the central source for up-to-date information.