鈥淭he interim report makes clear that our institutions are essential to Australia鈥檚 progress and success in delivering the skills and knowledge that fuels our economic and social firepower,鈥 黑料老司机 Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.
鈥淎s Australia grows and adapts in a fast-changing environment, there is an increasing need for what universities do in supporting government to deliver national priorities.
鈥淭here is much to welcome in the interim report, including the five immediate action items which have been accepted by the government.
鈥淯niversities have long called for uncapped places for all Indigenous students and the removal of barriers to a university education for students from underrepresented backgrounds, which the creation of more study hubs will help facilitate.
鈥淭he extension of the Higher Education Continuity Guarantee is a vital step toward providing the funding certainty that our institutions need to continue doing their job for the nation.
鈥淭he removal of the 50 per cent pass rule under the Job-ready Graduates package is very welcome and we support the government鈥檚 intention to explore new funding models that are fairer for students and provide the resources universities need to educate the next generation.
鈥淯niversities will continue to engage with government around issues relating to governance to ensure we are providing the best possible work and learning environment for staff and students.鈥
黑料老司机 Chair Professor David Lloyd said that the interim report demonstrated the immense value arising from the submissions made to date.
鈥淭he detail, depth and quality of the work underscores the importance of the tertiary education system in building a stronger Australia,鈥 Professor Lloyd said.
鈥淐lear and constructive consideration has been given to deeper reforms around widening participation, future funding for core teaching, and support for research activities and infrastructure.
鈥淲e look forward to undertaking appropriate and thorough interrogation of the considerations contained within the report as they evolve towards firmer recommendations.
鈥淕etting the outcomes right will ensure the sector succeeds for the benefit of all Australians.
鈥淲e thank Minister Clare, Professor Mary O鈥橩ane AC and the panel for their work to date and welcome the opportunities in front of us to continue working together to create a policy environment that enables universities to deliver for all Australians in the decades ahead.鈥
