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NICM Advisory Board Terms of Reference

The NICM Board will provide advice to NICM in the advancement of its objectives and priorities as a significant national body providing leadership and support for strategically directed research into complementary medicine and translation of evidence into clinical practice and relevant policy to the benefit of all Australians.

The Board is an independent advisory council established by the Western Sydney University to provide guidance and recommendations but not to take responsibility for operational decisions. Western Sydney University may from time to time authorise the Board to take undertake activities on its behalf and it is expected that Board members will play an important ambassadorial and representative role.

The NICM Board will report to University Executive as required. The Director, NICM will report to the Board on strategic and development matters. The Board will be advised on research and industry/ commercialisation matters by the Scientific Advisory Committee. The Board will receive in put on fundraising matters from the Sponsors Advisory Group.

Members of the NICM Advisory Board are honorary appointments made by the Director of the National Institute of Complementary Medicine (NICM) in consultation with the NICM Managing Director and the Western Sydney University.

The Advisory Board membership will always consist of the Director, NICM, the NICM Managing Director, a representative of the Western Sydney University Executive, and up to eight (8) key experienced individuals from outside NICM to achieve a mix of high level business skills; political, commercial and legal experience; marketing, communications, consumer advocacy and fund-raising skills. 

Members of the NICM Advisory Board will be appointed for three year cycles.

The duties of the NICM Advisory Board are to:

a. Attend Board meetings (usually no more than twice yearly)
b. Serve on NICM sub-committees from time to time
c. Promote the mission, aims and activities of NICM, and in particular:

  • Provide strategic advice to the Director and Managing Director on the NICM Business Plan, and operational and expenditure priorities in order to successfully achieve the NICM mission and NICM initiatives
  • Assist in the provision of financial, political and strategic support to NICM
  • Assist in the development of strong collaborative links (national and international) with relevant industry, the community, government agencies, other universities and research centres
  • Oversee the implementation of best practice in NICM strategic planning, research and financial management
  • Provide advice on potential funding and translation paths, activities and strategies for the Institute (both strategic and operational)
  • Assist the Institute to maintain high visibility, partnerships and collaborations, and reputation in research, industry, government and public domains

Support

  • NICM will meet reasonable travel expenses incurred by Board members in the course of meetings
  • NICM will provide office space for Board meetings either at its Campbelltown site or at an alternative city location
  • Clerical support will be provided via the Administrative Officer, NICM