“Teaching is one of the most important professions in the world, yet it is also one of the most challenging,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.

“Good teachers inspire and change lives, and we need more of them, so it’s time we backed our teachers from day one of their education until the final day of their career.

“Universities have been working closely with the expert panel on ways to give our teachers the best start, to ensure we can attract and retain more of the strong and committed professionals we need.

“We welcome the report’s emphasis on providing higher quality, better resourced practical experience for teachers in training as well as the focus on mentoring and enhanced career progression, which we have advocated for.

“We also welcome the focus on bolstering pathways for mid-career teachers.

“Universities understand high-quality initial teacher education is fundamental to student learning outcomes and ultimately the strength of our nation.

“But this is not the whole picture. Once teachers are in the classroom, we must ensure they are not held back by administrative burden and are supported in their career.

“We’ll continue to work closely with government as it considers the findings of the report, to ensure the best outcomes for universities, the teachers we educate and the nation.”