Inside

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

With just days to go before polling day and the outcome of the Federal election far from certain, the nation’s university sector could be mistaken for feeling a little ‘unloved’ as the political parties roll out policy initiatives largely designed to appeal to punters in a handful of marginal seats which will ultimately determine the outcome of what will be a tight race to the finish line.

Urgent action needed for international higher education

Economic output associated with Australia’s third largest export industry will shrink by as much as $600 million in 2011 and by $1.2 billion to 2012, unless urgent action is taken to address pressing policy concerns.

"Science for Australia's Future" must be underpinned by a strong research workforce

The ATN is calling for a new visa category to be introduced by Australia; one which specifically targets a cohort of quality international research students and research-qualified immigrants so that they are attracted to Australian universities to study and then are retained to settle with their families as researchers in Australia.

Innovation economy needs human capital

The ATN has acknowledged the commitment shown by the Labor Government to support collaboration between universities and industry, but urges both parties to pay greater attention to the renewal of Australia’s research workforce.

Coalition proposals to assist students a welcome starting point

With under a week to go before the Federal election the ATN welcomes the Coalition’s proposal for extending the qualifying geographic area for youth allowance to include inner regional Australia.

Generic skills an important feature of the AQF

The ATN continues to actively engage with the Australian Qualifications Framework Council as it continues its development of a robust AQF. As a group of universities committed to the improvement of the national post‐compulsory education agenda, the ATN reiterates its support for the review of the AQF and its role to ensure it reflects and promotes the best outcomes for Australian post‐compulsory education.

Appointments provide a foundation for future TEQSA

The ATN has welcomed the recent appointment of former ATN Chair and Vice Chancellor, University of South Australia, Emeritus Professor Denise Bradley to the position of interim Chair of TEQSA.

Sino-Australian research collaboration must be supported

The ATN recently participated in Australia and China: Science and Technology week at the Shanghai World Expo 2010.

This event brought together leading researchers from Australia and China in the areas of climate change, food and water security and nanotechnology. In hosting this event, the Australian government has acknowledged the critical role innovation will play in our future prosperity and wellbeing. It has also acknowledged that Australian science and technology links with China are both “precious and strong”.

ATN engagement with Europe and UK

A delegation headed by the ATN Chair, Professor Ross Milbourne, and including Deputy Vice Chancellors Research from across the network will visit the UK and Europe next month as part of the ATN’s international engagement activities.

Footsore and fabulous

With less than a month to go let’s take a look at how the ATN teams are faring in the Global Corporate Challenge.