LorThe Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN Universities) has welcomed the passage of the Universities Accord (Opening the Doors of Opportunity) Bill, which aims to improve equity in higher education and help more Australians develop the skills needed to thrive.
The legislation establishes two funding systems: Managed Growth Funding to support growth in university places, and Needs-based Funding to provide additional support for students facing disadvantage.
ATN Universities supports expanding access to higher education to lift Australia’s productivity, build resilience and achieve fairness. Australia’s long-term productivity, sovereign capability and social mobility all depend on more Australians successfully completing tertiary qualifications. ATN Universities looks forward to working with Chief Commissioner Professor Barney Glover AO and the ATEC to ensure transparentfunding arrangements for universities, certainty for long-term university planning and provide recognition of the different missions of universities.
ATN Chair and The University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky AO said that the reforms can have widespread impact nationwide if delivered responsibly.
“Opening the doors of opportunity means more than increasing the number of students we have on campus. It means uplifting people from different cultures, backgrounds, and circumstances, and giving them access to the skills they need to succeed and contribute to their communities and our national economy.”
“Australia benefits from universities with different strengths, industry partnerships and regional connections. Recognising these distinct missions will be essential to ensuring the reforms deliver lasting benefits for students, industry and the nation.”
ATN Executive Director Dr Andy Marks said the legislation was an important milestone, with implementation now critical to delivering lasting outcomes.
“Passage of this legislation is an important moment for the future of higher education in Australia. It creates an opportunity to expand university access while strengthening Australia’s workforce capability and long-term prosperity,” he said.
“What we need now is a clear and predictable direction for the system. Transparent funding arrangements and the ability for universities to plan for the long term will be essential in turning this ambitious reform into lasting and impactful outcomes.”
Contact: info@atn.edu.au
