“Professor Dawkins has long championed the importance of strong links between our vocational and higher education systems and is strongly positioned to enhance the role that highly-skilled people play in helping Australia solve problems and seize opportunities,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.

“His deep experience across education and in the public service, including in economic portfolios, stand him in good stead to guide our response to the skills crisis and meeting our future labour market needs.

“Professor Dawkins has been an innovator in new teaching models and education and skills in areas of rapidly increasing demand.

“Universities, together with vocational providers, have a key role to play in producing the skilled workers our country desperately needs to drive our economic growth.

“We know that more than half of the one million jobs expected to be created in the next five years will require a university degree, reinforcing our sector’s critical role in keeping Australia strong, successful and safe.

“We look forward to working with Professor Dawkins and Jobs and Skills Australia to help our country succeed.”