HDR Wellbeing Project

The HDR Wellbeing, Engagement and Research Culture (WERC) team is working to address the well-being of UQ's HDR students. Through wide collaboration, in 2021 we provided a set of data and recommendations that is serving as the basis for enhanced awareness on the factors affecting student wellbeing at UQ. Significantly, it is providing the basis for supporting and accelerating the development of initiatives to enhance the quality of life, wellbeing and study experience of HDR candidates, which was not possible previously due to a lack of reliable data and knowledge in the Australian context.

Implementation

In response to the initial findings in 2020, the project team drafted 16 recommendations. The HDR Wellbeing Working Group was established, comprised of staff and HDR candidates and chaired by the Director of the Graduate School, to develop an action plan and implement changes and improvements based on these recommendations, under sponsorship from the HDR Advisory Committee with representation from all major UQ units.

So far, findings from the annual survey have helped to inform HDR consultation and supervisor development, to improve processes and resources for HDR candidates, and to increase financial support for HDRs (including stipends).