Universities Australia’s Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said the scheme had come into effect on 10 December 2018.
“The university sector worked constructively with the Attorney-General and his Department as the Government crafted and refined this legislation last year,” she said.
“Its purpose is to provide the public and government decision-makers with visibility of the nature, level and extent of foreign influence on Australia’s government and political process.”
“In April, amendments were made to the legislation to clarify the scope of ‘communications activities for the purpose of political or government influence’ covered by the scheme,” she said.
“In line with Australian Government policy, our nation’s universities are looking carefully at their agreements with foreign entities to ensure they comply with the new laws.”
“Australia’s universities also strongly uphold their institutional autonomy and control of curriculum and standards.”
