Over the last month, the Federal Government has announced:

• $243.5 million for a new Trailblazer Universities initiative to establish four university-industry research hubs;
• $32.5 million for universities to create industry-focused short courses that enable Australians to upskill over their careers;
• $19.9 million to waive HELP debts for eligible doctors and nurses who work in regional or remote Australia; and
• $36.3 million in waivers of regulatory fees across tertiary and international education providers.

Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said:

“We expect to see further announcements detailing the Government’s research commercialisation agenda over the coming months. Continuing discussions on the long-term sustainability of research funding for Australia’s universities are also a fundamental part of any plan for national recovery and prosperity.”

“Today’s measures, and those to come, recognise the fact that universities are central to Australia’s knowledge base, research capability and workforce.”