by: Mine Racho
The DVE webinar, facilitated by Danielle Baird, explored current expectations for business continuity planning and risk management in higher education, with a practical focus on TEQSA requirements. Panellists Dr Michelle Mosiere and Peter Duffy shared insights drawn from regulatory reviews and enterprise risk experience.
A key theme was the shift from policy-based compliance to demonstrated operational capability. Regulators are increasingly focused on whether providers can continue delivering education during disruption, rather than simply reviewing documented plans. This shift has been driven by COVID-19, provider closures, cyber risks, and increased reliance on third-party delivery.
Michelle highlighted that business continuity and risk management are assessed across multiple Domains of the Higher Education Standards Framework, including governance, teaching and learning, student support, and operational systems. Regulators expect clear evidence that institutions can maintain academic standards, support student progression, and make sound decisions during disruption.
Common weaknesses include plans that exist only on paper, unclear decision-making authority, outdated frameworks, and limited staff awareness. A recurring issue is where institutions focus on restoring operations, rather than preserving teaching, assessment, and student outcomes.
Peter emphasised the importance of practical, usable frameworks. Institutions should focus on impact rather than attempting to predict every scenario, identify time-critical functions, and develop simple, actionable plans with clearly defined roles and priorities.
Overall, the webinar reinforced that effective business continuity planning must be embedded in governance and day-to-day operations, supported by evidence, testing, and continuous improvement. Strong capability not only meets regulatory expectations but also protects students and strengthens institutional resilience during disruption.
As not all pre-submitted questions could be addressed during the session, this accompanying FAQ document has been developed to provide further responses and practical guidance on key areas raised by participants.
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