Thematic and Functional Reviews are conducted as part of a rolling quality assurance schedule, to ensure that ACU is meeting the minimum standards of the Higher Education Standards Framework (Threshold Standards) 2021, and ACU's continued alignment with its strategic priorities, mission and vision.

The purpose of the Reviews is to:

1. build a culture of critical self-reflection and continuous improvement that is evidence-based and benchmarked.
2. ensure alignment with the University's Strategic Direction, Mission and Vision;
3. recognise areas of strength, achievements and performance excellence.
4. identify areas of risk and recommend mitigating strategies.
5. report achievements / progress against identified goals and objectives set by strategic and / or operational plans.
6. assess the University's engagement with its stakeholders.
7. identify areas of improvement and provide recommendations; and
8. explore and assess potential opportunities and future directions.

The Thematic and Functional Reviews Policy governs the organisational unit review, thematic review and desktop review processes at ACU. The general principles of this Policy and the Thematic and Functional Reviews Procedure can be utilised to ensure consistency of approach to quality assurance.