Module 2.4: Navigating Agreements - 08 September 2026 - Conference

This module is being delivered in person as a preconference workshop at the ARMS 2026 Conference in Perth. Registration is available via the conference website.

The Navigating Agreements module is intended to provide the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to understand the role of, and effectively manage, agreements in research administration across the research project lifecycle. The module aims to provide participants with an understanding of the different types of agreements used in research, the key components of an agreement, and the legal and financial implications of each component.

Participants will learn how to identify potential risks and liabilities associated with agreements and develop strategies to mitigate those risks. They will also gain an understanding of the negotiation process and strategies to ensure favorable terms for their institution. Additionally, the module will cover skills related to agreement drafting and review, compliance and regulatory issues, and monitoring and tracking agreement compliance through to completion.

The module is designed to provide all research management professionals with the tools and knowledge to understand and manage agreements throughout the lifecycle of a research project, from planning and proposals, to project setup, project management and closeout. Participants will be able to see how successful project outcomes can be achieved through good planning and the careful management of the agreement, while delivering value to the researcher and their organisation and protecting them both from potential legal and financial risks.

Key Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this module participants will be able to:

• Understand the purpose and importance of agreements across the research project lifecycle.
• Understand the purpose of different types of agreements commonly used in research.
• Understand the key components of an agreement and the legal implications of each.
• Identify potential risks and liabilities associated with agreements in research management.
• Understand the process of agreement review and execution.
• Understand the role of compliance and regulatory issues in agreement management.
• Develop skills in monitoring and tracking agreement compliance.
• Understand the role and responsibilities of research management professionals in the management and monitoring of research agreements.
• Understand the role of research management professionals in managing agreements during the closeout stage of the research project lifecycle, including closeout activities and managing remaining contractual obligations.

Who Should Attend:

This elective module is suitable for research management professionals from a broad range of roles and career stages.

While the module uses examples drawn from the Australian research environment, the principles and practices discussed are broadly applicable across Australasia.

Previous experience in grants or contract administration may be beneficial but is not essential. No legal qualifications or prior legal training are required.

The module forms part of the Foundation Level Accreditation Program (FLAP) and is available to participants in all regions. It may also be undertaken as a standalone professional development opportunity.

Presenter:

Dr Dora Horvath, Swinburne University

Location: 

Perth (Boorloo) Convention & Exhibition Centre, on Whadjuk Noongar Country

Cost:

• ARMS Members: $450 AUD (GST inclusive)
• Non-Members: $550 AUD (GST inclusive)

Registration:

• Registration is available via the conference website.

Inclusions:

• Attendance at the workshop
• Morning tea
• Access to all associated learning materials, including:
  • The module Body of Knowledge
  • Any workshop resources
  • A copy of the presentation slides following the workshop

Event Emails and Pre-reading:

• Upon registration, you will receive an initial confirmation email from the conference website confirming your successful registration for this workshop.

• Once your registration has been transferred to the ARMS CRM and Moodle platform, you will receive a second email. This email will include a link to the module's Body of Knowledge (pre-reading), along with any other relevant study materials.

• Study materials will be distributed no later than seven (7) days prior to the workshop, or at the time of registration for participants registering within this timeframe. Please note that outstanding payments may delay access to registration materials and pre-reading resources.

Assessment and Accreditation Points:

• At the end of the workshop, participants will be invited to complete a non-compulsory assessment; due two (2) weeks after receiving the link from the ARMS Executive Office.

• The quiz is compulsory for participants seeking accreditation points for one of the following programs:

  • Foundation Level Accreditation Program (FLAP) 

  • Established Level Accreditation Program (ELAP)

Cancellation Policy:

As per the ARMS Conference website.

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Enquiries:

Please reach out to our Accreditation and Member Engagement Coordinator at ARMSAccreditation@researchmanagement.org.au or +61 8 8201 5592.