It also proposes that short courses known as micro-credentials could be recognised for credit towards other qualifications, concluding it is too soon to give them their own category.

Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said the review chaired by Professor Peter Noonan had set out to make the system clearer.

“The overall goal is to modernise the framework so it better reflects the reality of student skills and capabilities under each type of qualification,” she said.

“And while many of the proposed changes apply more to vocational training than to university education, that goal of greater clarity is a laudable aim across both post-secondary sectors.”

The report envisages a careful and consultative process of implementation.

“There are a wide array of pathways and partnerships between universities and vocational education providers – and we continue to build on that strong foundation,” Ms Jackson said.

As we noted in a joint opinion piece with TAFE Directors Association Chief Executive Craig Robertson only yesterday:

“Australia needs two strong systems — higher education and ¬vocational education — working together to deliver the best possible results for Australians, and for our economy and our communities.”

“We need to make sure Australians of all ages have access to ongoing education to upskill and re-skill as they need to — and that young Australians, in particular, can train for the jobs of the future.”