School Manager's Update
Published in the RSAA Lunations
Vol1 Issue34 1–30 November 2022
Hello everyone.
We are fast nearing the end of the year and I would like to take this opportunity to provide a few reminders and updates.
End-of-year processes
Each year HR, Finance and other areas provide cutoff dates for various processes such as contract extension or invoice payments. Our last day of work before the shutdown might be the 24th of December, but as a rule of thumb, consider the first week of December as an administrative cut-off.
HR has advised that contract extensions must be requested before COB Thursday, 8 December 2022
Financial dates have not been published yet, but it is crucial that all large recurrently (R) funded expenses are paid before the end of the year. Delays to 2023 will place pressure on next year’s budget. If you are aware of any large recurrently funded payments at risk, please come and have a chat with me.
Budget work
RSAA has not yet received the 2023 budget allocation, but we continue to work on various budget contingencies to promote smooth operations in the year to come. Stay tuned for updates.
Stromlo Café and Visitors Centre
This project is gaining a little momentum following our recent discussion with a possible operator/partner. We are now commencing work on the various business structures, including ANU and legal operational requirements. Still early days, but we would like to aim for an opening in the first half of 2023.
Optical Ground Stations
As mentioned earlier this week, work is commencing on the Optical Ground Stations located at the top of the hill behind the CSO building. Please stay well clear of the construction site and watch out for any heavy vehicles and machinery in the area. Together we will watch this building take shape and I will continue to provide updates.
WHS Audit
The WHS Audit has taken place on Dec 2nd, to test our School’s knowledge and compliance with WHS requirements. I appreciate everyone’s assistance over the past few months with completing their training and getting paperwork up to date. I understand that this can be a painful paperwork process, but it is not something we can ignore. We will continue reaching out with various WHS matters, however for most of us, a large chunk of the paperwork is behind us. Please continue to focus on safety and follow the required processes as you encounter any risk or danger.
Use of calendars
A reminder to everyone, please use your digital calendars to book meetings or events. Currently, this is the best tool we have to organise meetings, but colleagues can only assess your availability if your calendar is up to date. A gentle reminder to all event organisers, please send out calendar invites as soon as you schedule any events. This helps prevent clashes and increases attendance.
As always, please take care and a reminder to drop by for a chat at any time.
Mat Malzacher
