“We know a lot of students are doing it tough with the current cost-of-living pressures creating more financial barriers to study,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy said.

“The Albanese Government is listening and acting on these issues, putting students front and centre with changes to make HELP repayments simpler and fairer and funding for paid placements, as recommended by the Australian Universities Accord panel.

“Practical support for practical training is a game-changer and will ensure we are educating more of the teachers, nurses, midwives and social workers our communities and economy needs.

“These students can’t graduate without practical experience, but too many are being held back by placement poverty which can be the difference between commencing and completing a degree.

“This isn’t good for students or key areas of our workforce which are crying out for more graduates.

“The Government’s Commonwealth Prac Payment means fewer Australians will have to choose between paying the bills and studying for the qualifications they need.

“Universities Australia has called on the Government to prioritise student support measures in the May budget and we strongly welcome the financial assistance announced this weekend.”