The induction process

To facilitate the induction process for new staff at ANU, there is an induction checklist within HORUS to provide a trackable method for supervisors, staff, and the People and Culture team to ensure induction has occurred.

To view the steps in the process, visit the Induction Checklist in HORUS webpage

It is the responsibility of the supervisor to ensure that each new staff member is provided with an induction. A supervisor may provide all of the information directly, and/or may have other key people in the College/area assist with this. However the induction is delivered to the new staff member, the supervisor must oversee and ensure it has been provided.

 

What is an induction?

Induction is a clear, structured and supportive method of introducing a new staff member to the organisation.

It should communicate the University's strategic directions, policies and procedures to new staff and include an introduction to their role and their immediate work area. It is also a means by which key information and resources are provided to new staff in a timely manner.

Induction at ANU should provide the new staff member with:

  • a thorough explanation of their role and responsibilities (referring to their position description)
  • an understanding of their supervisor's expectations as they reasonably relate to the staff member's role
  • an understanding of where the role fits into the immediate work area, and the ANU more broadly
  • an explanation of the probation process
  • attendance at relevant ANU orientation and induction programs and events
  • access to ANU online mandatory training 
  • work health and safety information (including identification of any OHS training required for the role)
  • information on workplace reasonable adjustments that can be provided for an injury, illness or disability
  • an introduction to key colleagues in the work area
  • an introduction to colleagues who can provide support and advice (i.e. administrative staff, HR staff, mentor)
  • an appreciation of the University's expectations with respect to professional behaviour
  • guidance on where to find ANU policies 

Why provide an induction?

Commencing a new job can be a daunting process. There are new people to meet, new systems and policies to understand, and, of course, a new role to learn. The transition to the new workplace is made easier and more effective for both the individual and ANU if there is an effective induction process in place.

ANU is a large and complex organisation. Even if a new staff member has come from another university, all workplaces are different, and roles across universities differ greatly. All new staff need, and deserve to be, introduced to their new role, their workplace and the ANU, in a structured and supportive manner.

Good induction processes contribute to: 

  • job satisfaction and productivity
  • staff retention
  • reduced costs associated with staff turnover

The Induction Guide for supervisors (see 'Reference documents' section on this site) provides a timeframe for the completion of various stages of induction.

Reference documents

Page Owner: Human Resources