Building on more than 125 years of quality faith-based education, Avondale has once again earned national recognition through its successful re-registration as an Australian university.
The Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) has advised that the registration of Avondale University Limited (Avondale) is for a period of seven years until April 2, 2032. This renewal is the maximum period that TEQSA grants.
In her official correspondence TEQSA acting chief commissioner Adrienne Nieuwenhuis stated, “The decision to renew the registration of Avondale University Limited has been made on the basis that TEQSA is satisfied Avondale University Limited continues to meet the provisions of the Higher Education Standards Framework (Threshold Standards) 2021 for registration in the Australian University category.”
The application for re-registration is a rigorous one with a strong focus on governance and compliance with the Higher Education Standards Framework. Ms Nieuwenhuis noted, “Avondale is to be commended for the high calibre of its application, supporting materials and engagement with TEQSA throughout the application process. Avondale has demonstrated it has competent governance oversight, a commitment to continuous improvement and robust quality assurance mechanisms.”
In his affirmation of Avondale staff, students, alumni and stakeholders, vice-chancellor and president Professor Malcolm Coulson said, “All in all, this decision by TEQSA is something we should all celebrate!”
Chancellor Glenn Townend, president of the South Pacific Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, congratulated all those who contributed to the success. “The current and past leadership of the university and the staff and Council can be proud of this achievement,” he said. “Teaching, governance, management and research at Avondale is done at the highest standard and with a clear spiritual God focus and mission service purpose.”
Underscoring the importance of a shared and compelling vision, Prof Coulson highlighted that the collective engagement by many people has enabled this outcome: “Re-registration has been a consuming but educative process.”
He suggested how the process continues to amplify the focus on Avondale’s core mission: “It will help to ensure Avondale University provides high quality, faith-based learning experiences, equipping students for the joy of service to a world in need.”
Dr Drene Somasundram, staff representative serving on Avondale’s Council, said, “This achievement reaffirms Avondale’s commitment to academic excellence and, above all, its dedication to serving God by transforming lives through education. It is a privilege to work at Avondale and it is a place we love and hold so dearly.”
Avondale’s key strategic partners also shared their appreciation of Avondale’s transformative education which is shaped by a “greater vision of world needs”. Dr Jean Carter, national director for Adventist Schools Australia, recognised that Avondale continues to focus on excellence and service, with many graduates sought after across a range of professions. “It is still a proud ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and still prepares graduates to serve with excellence in their communities,” she said.
Dr Carter, also an elected member of Avondale University Council, further acknowledged Avondale as crucial to the future success of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the South Pacific Division. “We could not continue our strong ministries in the areas of teaching, preaching and health without the excellent graduates from Avondale. God has blessed our Church greatly through Avondale graduates for more than 100 years.”
Some of these graduates have completed a post-graduate research degree. For registration as an Australian university, Avondale must produce world-standard research and engage in research training. Professor Darren Morton, director of the Lifestyle Medicine and Health Research Centre, endorsed Avondale’s focus on “service-oriented research which makes a positive difference to people across a range of local, national and international contexts”. At a missional and strategic level “we seek to optimise spiritual, intellectual and wellbeing outcomes for people wanting to thrive in our communities”, he said.
Reflecting on Avondale’s nationally recognised suite of programs, Dr Somasundram, who also serves as a chaplain for the Sydney campus, said, “Through our rigorous academic programs and research, a culture of service and a Christ-centred approach, we strive to prepare graduates to lead with integrity, compassion and a commitment to making a meaningful difference in our complex world.”
While celebrating Avondale’s ongoing success, Prof Coulson also acknowledged the investment in Avondale’s renewal strategy and the importance of connecting with those who Avondale serves: “Thank you for your support and prayers as we work together to offer hope and purpose.”
