Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said the peak body for universities looked forward to working with both Ministers and the Government on education and research policy.

“Throughout his public life, Dan Tehan has expressed his strong personal commitment to ensure more Australians can access the transformative opportunity of a university education,” she said.

“Indeed, in his very first speech, he called access to tertiary education ‘the great enabler’.”

“We look forward to continuing the strong relationship with him and working on the many reviews underway to deliver expert input into policy that advances the national interest.”

Ms Jackson said universities were also very pleased to see Minister Andrews continue in her role.

“Karen Andrews is a former mechanical engineer who brings science, technology, innovation and industry experience from her career before politics to these crucial portfolios,” she said.

“In her own words, she’s an ‘unabashed supporter of science’ and sees clearly that research, industry and universities drive economic growth and social prosperity.”

Ms Jackson said Universities Australia would deepen further the important relationships forged with both Ministers in the last term of Parliament.

We also note the appointment of Ken Wyatt as the first Indigenous person appointed as Minister for Indigenous Australians and Health Minister Greg Hunt’s responsibilities for youth mental health and youth suicide prevention.

“Universities Australia works with Government, our portfolio Ministers and all sides of politics to ensure policy is informed by evidence and maximises educational opportunity for all Australians.”