A broad range of strategies and activities are used to support engagement with stakeholders to improve awareness and understanding of ARC programs and policies, and to effectively consult and collaborate across the higher education and research sectors. The ARC’s external communications strategy provides an overarching framework for engaging effectively with our external stakeholders—promoting the value of Australian research through communicating the outcomes and benefits of ARC-funded research; improving stakeholder awareness about the ARC’s programs, policies and activities; and effectively consulting and collaborating with stakeholders across the higher education and research sector. Some examples of our key communication activities include our website, research sector messaging, publications and social media, while outreach engagement activities carried out by the ARC include consultations, panels, workshops, round tables and surveys conducted before or after outreach for feedback on activities. The ARC strives to be adaptive, proactive and innovative as we engage with our stakeholders and the broader community to respond to Australian research needs.
Finance The ARC is committed to financial sustainability, sound financial governance and effective budget management. The use and management of public resources at the ARC is governed by the Commonwealth Resource Management Framework which is underpinned by the Public Governance , Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act), Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Rule 2014 and supporting directions and guidance. These requirements are embedded in our own internal financial policies, guidelines and controls which ensures the ARC achieves its purpose and fulfils the expectations of the Minister and stakeholders. People and Culture A highly-skilled workforce which understands the ARC’s purpose is central to achieving our desired outcomes. Established policies are in place to support the development of a workforce that is aligned with the key activities and is able to respond flexibly to shifting priorities. Workforce planning processes are focused on identifying capability requirements, both current and emerging, and the development of skill-sets that are well prepared to meet future capability needs. Strong leadership is also an enduring theme at the ARC and its leaders are supported to steer a high performing culture that aims to be innovative and collaborative. The ARC values the retention of corporate knowledge and expertise and although its overall staffing numbers are small, it maximises opportunities for all staff through formal and informal development opportunities. A range of policies and strategies are in place to ensure that the ARC workplace is inclusive and diverse and facilitates flexible, people-centred working arrangements. Communication The ARC plays an important role in promoting the benefits of Australian research to the wider Australian and international communities. The agency engages with its stakeholders through strategic communication and targeted outreach activities to ensure the highest quality performance in the delivery of our program responsibilities. The ARC communication strategy increases our ability as an agency to effectively engage with stakeholders to develop and implement policies and programs that serve the Australian research sector and benefit the wider community. Our internal communication is also premised on ensuring that consistent, effective and efficient communications are maintained to promote continued growth of a dynamic, supportive and productive workplace.
FIGURE 2: ARC Stakeholders
Researchers
Research
Research end users
peak bodies
ARC
Community
Policy makers
International
Government
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Australian Research Council / CORPORATE PLAN 2020–21
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