The guiding principles for review are based on the University’s quality cycle of Plan, Act, Evaluate (monitor and review) and Improve. The following principles relate specifically to reviews of academic areas:
1. The strategic directions of the University are of central importance for all reviews.
2. Benchmarking leading to improvement is strongly encouraged, as is input from stakeholders.
3. Academic reviews consider the effectiveness of processes and procedures, particularly as they are demonstrated through outcomes. Effective processes are best demonstrated by successful outcomes and reviews encourage a focus on outcomes.
4. The importance and relevance of external professional and accreditation reviews is acknowledged.
5. Quality assurance and improvement are core responsibilities and budgeting for review is therefore part of the normal planning and budgeting process of academic areas.
Academic Reviews will be undertaken as required. Possible triggers include but are not limited to:
· Significant change in the University’s strategic direction
· Failure to meet key performance indicators over time
· Non-compliance with University policies
Academic reviews will comprise the following stages as detailed in the Procedures:
· Self-review of the academic area and preparation of self-review report;
· Call for submissions;
· Review by external panel and preparation of review report;
· Preparation of action plan;
· Reporting to and consultation with the Vice-Chancellor’s group and the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Planning and Quality);
· Reporting on implementation of recommendations 12 months after lodgement of the review report and action plan.
The Monash Quality Unit (MQU) will maintain a database of academic reviews, implementation plans and 12-month follow-up reports on implementation of recommendations. | 
