Module 2.4: Navigating Agreements - 11 June 2026

All times are listed in AEST (April to September) or AEDT (October to March)

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

On successful completion of this module, participants will have an increased ability 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 module is suitable for:

• Research management professionals from a wide range of backgrounds noting:
  • This module is written using examples from the Australian context, but the principles are broadly relevant to other Australasian jurisdictions.
  • Some experience in grant or contract administration may be useful but is not necessary.
  • No legal background or training is required or assumed.

Accreditation Pathway

This module forms part of the ARMS Professional Development Framework under the “Research Funding Cycle”, along with:

• Module 2.1: Pre-Award Grants Processes
• Module 2.2: Post-Award Grants Process
• Module 2.3: Research Finance

The module may be completed as a standalone professional development activity, or as part of a broader accreditation pathway.

Participants from all regions may enrol. 

Presenter(s)

Dr Teresa Howard
Senior Manager - Major Awards, Monash University

Format

Online workshop (Zoom)

Cost

• ARMS Member: $420 AUD (GST inclusive) - Member discount applied automatically in the shopping cart.
• Non-Member: $520 AUD (GST inclusive)

Registration:

• Members: Log into your account and then continue your registration below.
• Non-Members: Create or sign into your free website user account to continue your registration.

Event Communications and Pre-Reading

• A registration confirmation email will be issued upon successful registration. Please note that pending payments may delay confirmation. If you require assistance, contact the ARMS Accreditation and Member Engagement Coordinator.
• Access to the Body of Knowledge (pre-reading), any additional study material, and the Zoom access link will be distributed approximately ten (10) days prior to the workshop.

Cancellation Policy

Should your circumstances change, and you are unable to attend this workshop, you must contact ARMSAccreditation@researchmangement.org.au by no later than 10 working days prior to the commencement of the scheduled event. ARMS will refund the full registration fee minus any administrative fees.

Should you cancel less than 10 working days prior to the commencement of this workshop, no refund will be payable but instead you may wish to send a proxy.

ARMS reserve the right to cancel, postpone or re-schedule courses and events due to minimum numbers not being reached or for other unforeseen circumstances.  In the event of a cancellation, ARMS will aim to advise all participants in writing five (5) days prior to the scheduled event and will refund the full registration fee including administrative charges within 30 days after notification.

Using Zoom

• We strongly recommend testing your Zoom access prior to the session.
• How to join a Zoom meeting
• Zoom participant controls
• For technical support, please contact your organisation’s IT team.

Enquiries

For further information, please contact the Accreditation and Member Engagement Coordinator:

• Email: ARMSAccreditation@researchmanagement.org.au
• Phone +61 8 8201 5592