Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said the committee recognised the constructive role played by universities to meet the serious challenge of foreign interference.

“Our universities are very alive to the risks of foreign interference. We have proactively partnered with Government and the security agencies to tackle the issues,” Ms Jackson said.

“As a result, the Universities Foreign Interference Taskforce (UFIT) – established in partnership with the Government – continues to play a central role in strengthening national security, student safety and protecting our research efforts.”

“UFIT has introduced guidelines which are proportionate and carefully tailored to universities with varying exposure and risk levels.”

“We will continue to lead the way in ensuring that Australia is collaborating with world leading researchers and institutions as we strive for the big breakthroughs, whilst managing and mitigating risks.”