Progress and Milestones

Good progress in HDR is not just about speed—it is about sustained, high-quality development of your research over time. Across your candidature, this typically involves:

• Developing a clear and feasible research project
• Producing written or practice-based work on a regular basis
• Engaging with feedback and refining your ideas
• Maintaining regular contact with your supervisory panel
• Working steadily toward a complete and coherent thesis

Progress is cumulative. Small, consistent steps, supported by regular feedback, are the most effective way to move toward timely completion.

Your candidature includes a series of key milestones designed to structure your progress and ensure your research is developing as expected. These milestones provide opportunities to reflect on your work, refine your research direction where needed, and receive formal feedback and guidance.

While the exact timing may vary, milestones generally align with major stages of your HDR journey: early project development, mid-candidature consolidation, and preparation for thesis submission. Your supervisory panel will support you throughout, helping to ensure you are progressing appropriately and meeting expectations.

There are four formal milestones doctoral candidates will complete during their candidature, all of which are managed through Research Master, the University’s primary system for HDR processes and documentation:

• Candidature Plan (typically completed within 2–3 months of commencement)
• Confirmation of Candidature (typically completed within 6 months of commencement)
• Research Progress Report (completed annually following successful confirmation of candidature)
• Thesis Submission and Examination (typically completed within 3–4 years of commencement for full-time candidates)

You are encouraged to discuss these milestones early with your supervisory panel, so you have a clear understanding of expectations, timing, and requirements.

Good progress in HDR is not just about speed - it is about sustained, high-quality development of your research over time. Across your candidature, this typically involves:

• Developing a clear and feasible research project
• Producing written or practice-based work on a regular basis
• Engaging with feedback and refining your ideas
• Maintaining regular contact with your supervisory panel
• Working steadily toward a complete and coherent thesis

Progress is cumulative. Small, consistent steps, supported by regular feedback, are the most effective way to move toward timely completion.

Your candidature includes a series of key milestones designed to structure your progress and ensure your research is developing as expected. These milestones provide opportunities to reflect on your work, refine your research direction where needed, and receive formal feedback and guidance.

While the exact timing may vary, milestones generally align with major stages of your HDR journey: early project development, mid-candidature consolidation, and preparation for thesis submission. Your supervisory panel will support you throughout, helping to ensure you are progressing appropriately and meeting expectations.

There are four formal milestones doctoral candidates will complete during their candidature, all of which are managed through Research Master, the University’s primary system for HDR processes and documentation:

• Candidature Plan (typically completed within 2–3 months of commencement)
• Confirmation of Candidature (typically completed within 6 months of commencement)
• Research Progress Report (completed annually following successful confirmation of candidature)
• Thesis Submission and Examination (typically completed within 3–4 years of commencement for full-time candidates)

You are encouraged to discuss these milestones early with your supervisory panel, so you have a clear understanding of expectations, timing, and requirements.

Confirmation of Candidature (CoC) is the first major milestone for doctoral and MPhil candidates. Completed within the first six months of full-time candidature (or 12 months part-time), it is a formal review of your progress and the viability of your research project before you move into the main phase of your research.

The process involves preparing a written Confirmation of Candidature document and delivering an oral presentation to an academic panel consisting of your supervisors, your HDR Director, and an independent specialist. Working with your supervisory panel, you will demonstrate that your project is well developed, methodologically sound, and achievable within the timeframe of your degree.

Following the review, the panel will recommend one of four outcomes:

• Pass: your candidature is confirmed.
• Revisions: further work is required before confirmation.
• Downgrade: transfer to a Master of Philosophy may be recommended where appropriate.
• Fail: candidature is not confirmed in accordance with the HDR Progress Policy.

Further information, including the SABEL CoC Template, is available on the Resources and Guides page.

HDR degrees are designed to be completed within a defined timeframe. Staying aware of these timelines can help you plan effectively and avoid unnecessary delays. As a general guide, the following full-time equivalent (FTE) durations apply:

• PhD: 3–4 years FTE
• MPhil: 1.5–2 years FTE
• MRes: 1.5–2 years FTE

Part-time (PT) candidates will progress over a longer period, but the expectation of steady progress remains the same.

As an HDR candidate, you are responsible for actively managing your research and maintaining steady progress throughout your candidature. This involves taking ownership of your project, engaging consistently with supervision, and working toward the timely completion of your research.

Key responsibilities include:

• Setting realistic goals and maintaining a clear timeline for your project
• Preparing work in advance for discussion and feedback
• Engaging constructively with feedback and incorporating it into your research
• Communicating regularly with your supervisory panel and keeping them informed of your progress
• Seeking advice and support early when challenges arise

Taking an active and responsible approach to your research is essential to a successful and rewarding HDR journey.

Your supervisors play a central role in supporting your progress and development throughout candidature. They provide academic guidance and work with you to ensure that your research meets the required standard.

In SABEL, supervisors are expected to:

• Provide regular guidance and disciplinary expertise
• Offer timely, constructive, and actionable feedback on your work
• Support you in maintaining momentum and meeting key milestones
• Assist in preparing your thesis for submission and examination

Supervision is a collaborative process. A strong and productive working relationship - based on clear communication, mutual respect, and shared expectations - is essential to a successful HDR experience.

Maintaining steady progress over an extended period can be challenging, particularly alongside other commitments. Establishing good working habits early in your candidature will help you sustain momentum and manage your research effectively.

We recommend:

• Setting both short- and long-term goals to guide your progress
• Establishing a regular writing or research routine
• Monitoring your progress against your research plan and milestones
• Engaging with the SABEL research community to stay connected and motivated

If you encounter difficulties, it is important to seek support early. Your supervisory panel, School HDR Director, and School Research and HDR Officer are available to provide guidance and help you navigate any challenges that arise.

Progress is not always linear, and it is normal to encounter challenges at different stages of your HDR journey. SABEL provides a range of support to help you stay on track, including ongoing supervisory guidance, access to funding and resources, and opportunities to connect with other HDR candidates.

If you have concerns about your progress, your School’s Director, HDR and Honours, is your first point of contact.