General Staff Travelling Scholarship FAQs
Why is this only open to general staff?
Do I get paid while I am on the General Staff Travelling Scholarship?
May I complete the scholarship over a timeframe of less than three months?
May I attend a host university/institution within Australia?
Will I be covered by University insurance?
Do I have to take annual leave?
How do I organise my travelling arrangements?
Who does my job while I am away?
Can I include this in my PM&D?
If I am unable to get management support can I still apply?
Can I see examples of successful applications?
Why is this only open to general staff?
Academic staff have access to a number of development opportunities including the Special Studies Program (SSP) as well as awards, grants and promotions through the Institute for Teaching and Learning. The University is committed to providing professional development opportunities for its general staff members and the General Staff Travelling Scholarship is one such initiative.
Do I get paid while I am on the General Staff Travelling Scholarship?
Yes, you will be a University Traveller on official University of Sydney business and will continue to receive your regular salary.
May I complete the scholarship over a timeframe of less than three months?
Yes you may - as long your project/initiative is achievable within your suggested timeframe.
May I attend a host university/institution within Australia?
If the Assessment Committee considers this to be appropriate and consistent with the objectives of the scholarship they may accept such an application.
Will I be covered by University insurance?
The University’s Travel Insurance policy covers staff while travelling on official University business which is authorised by the appropriate delegated officer. Any associated holiday or personal travel, however, must be covered by the staff member. Please refer to the Travel Services website for more information on insurance.
Do I have to take annual leave?
No, the scholarship is awarded for you to take time out from your regular place of work to engage with an overseas institution and fulfil the objectives of your project. You are therefore considered to be on duty. However, you may choose to take some annual leave during the period of your scholarship as appropriate and as agreed by your supervisor.
How do I organise my travelling arrangements?
Refer to the University of Sydney Travel Policy and Travel Procedures as well as the Travel Services website for further information about arranging your travel, accommodation and expenses. You will be required to complete an online requisition through Spendvision and book your flights and accommodation through the University’s preferred suppliers. The Finance Officer in your Faculty/School/Unit should also be able to assist you with making travel arrangements.
Who does my job while I am away?
It is up to you and your supervisor to discuss and agree to workload arrangements prior to submitting your application. This may also provide a short term development opportunity for another staff member in your area.
Can I include this in my PM&D?
Yes, this professional development initiative should be included in your PM&D.
If I am unable to get management support can I still apply?
Applications without the support of your immediate supervisor, Head of School/Administrative Unit and your Dean or equivalent will not be considered in the selection process. However, you may apply in future years when it may be more appropriate for you to take time out of your work unit.
Can I see examples of successful applications?
This is the first year that General Staff Travelling Scholarships are being offered. Please refer to the eligibility criteria and, for more guidance in developing a project proposal, discuss with the supervisor in your work unit. Samples of successful applications will be made available in future years. For further information please contact Lauren Wells, HR Project Officer, on 9036 9674 or email .
