Today’s endorsement of The Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration by all seven of Australia’s state and territory education ministers and the federal Minister for Education, Dan Tehan, puts diversity, inclusivity and equity as the path forward for Australia’s education future. All ATN Universities have long supported these values and welcome the goals set out in the declaration.

“Providing an equitable, accessible and inclusive education system is critical to maintaining a cohesive society and high-performing economy,” said ATN Executive Director Luke Sheehy.

“Education doesn’t just stop when leaving school or completing university. We have long acknowledged and recognised the importance lifelong learning. With the majority of jobs to be created in the coming years requiring some form of tertiary education, the integration and collaboration of work and further study is going to be increasingly important.”

“Ensuring that all Australians have the opportunity to continue studying at university or other further education if they wish is crucial to this.”

ATN recognises the importance of the good foundation in primary and secondary school and looks forward to collaborating with all levels of government to achieve the goals and call for action articulated in the Declaration. ATN universities embrace the important social and cultural role they have in our society and are committed to their outreach programs.