UA Chair Professor David Lloyd said: “This is an important piece of work coming at a time when our universities require the full support of government to continue delivering for the nation.

“We encourage government to quickly establish the Implementation Advisory Committee so we can prioritise the rollout of reforms while providing universities with policy and funding certainty.

“Universities are partners in our national prosperity – supplying the pipeline of skilled workers and undertaking the research Australia needs to navigate the multigenerational challenges before us.

“These functions, performed for the benefit of all Australians, are becoming more important in a rapidly changing and complex strategic and economic environment.

“The final report acknowledges our sector’s role in supporting Australia’s future, putting a series of recommendations to government that underscore the need for a high-functioning university system.

“It’s clear the panel has considered multigenerational reforms that require commitment from successive governments, and we urge the serving and all future governments to stay the course.”

UA Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy said: “Universities Australia’s members have embraced this once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine the policy landscape in which they operate.

“Clear and constructive consideration has been given to deep reforms that can underpin a system that educates more Australians, is open and international, and supports our research endeavours.

“A report of this scale, nature and consequence requires appropriate and thorough interrogation and reflection as we consider what we would like to see prioritised in the government’s response.

“We thank the Albanese Government for its strong focus on, and recognition of our sector and the vital role universities play in driving Australia’s social, technological and economic progress, and also thank Professor Mary O’Kane and the panel for their extensive work.”