Academic Development Program

What is the Academic Development Program (ADP)

A provision for eligible academic staff to undertake a sustained period of academic development - to assist individual members of the academic staff to pursue research; acquire new skills and knowledge that can be applied to their teaching; or to develop ongoing partnerships with industry that will benefit the University.

Details are in the Academic Development Program Policy, and the Academic Development Program Guidelines.

While your plan may involve international or domestic travel, consideration must be provided in relation to possible quarantine and vaccination requirements.

Applicants must comply with the Public Health orders at the time of travel.  You will also need to  undertake a risk assessment for your ADP and this can be located on the  WHS&W website.

Applicants are encouraged to include both Teaching and Learning (opens in a new window) and Research (opens in a new window) into their proposed program. Guidance for both of these areas is available via the links above.

Applicants can also apply to undertake some of their ADP  with a Policy Fellowship with the James Martin Institute for Public  Policy.

Who can apply?

Tenured members of the academic staff of the University will, under normal circumstances, be eligible to apply for ADP if they have completed at least three years continuous service - however please read relevant section of the ADP Policy - Eligibility to Undertake ADP.

If you are uncertain, please contact the ADP Coordinator at adp@westernsydney.edu.au, within the Office of People and Success, for confirmation of your eligibility to apply.

Mentors - Link in to an ADP Mentor

How can I apply?

Applications should be on the current Application template (opens in a new window) and should be accompanied by a short CV (opens in a new window) (template provided) and your Research Activity Statement obtained from the ADP Coordinator.

All applicants will have to meet the assessment criteria as set out in the ADP policy and complete an application template. Applications should be submitted to adp@westernsydney.edu.au

Please Note: Applications and any supporting documentation must be submitted electronically. Hard copies will not be accepted.

You are strongly advised to discuss your program with your Dean or Institute Director before submitting an application noting that your plan should form  part of your career development plan also.

Important Dates for 2025

Applications for 2025 have closed. Details for the 2026 applications will be advised later in the year.

Please contact adp@westernsydney.edu.au if you have any queries.

What obligations do I have if I am successful?

You must complete the ADP Undertaking Form and Leave and Payment Details Form, and submit to the ADP Coordinator. You also need to submit a report on your ADP upon your return. You may be asked to present at various University events such as Research Week and also within your School. These obligations are further outlined in the ADP Procedures.

For any queries in regard to the ADP policy or process please contact adp@westernsydney.edu.au