Universities Australia Chair Professor Deborah Terry said: “The revised Bill includes legislative protection for funding of student-places. This is important because it gives some certainty about funding levels in a challenging environment.”

“We appreciate also that the Transition Fund, which gives universities three years to adjust to the changes, has also been enshrined in the legislation.”

“We also support adjustments in student fees for social work and some psychology courses. We look forward to further details on how this will be applied.” 

“Universities welcome the commitment to indexation of Government funding, which helps us keep pace with costs, and the focus on improving participation and attainment by Indigenous, regional and remote students.

“Redressing disadvantage is a core aim of all of our universities, and we support the new measures that assist in achieving that goal,” Professor Terry said.

“Minister Tehan has recognised the need to meet an increase in demand for student places in the coming years. We know that during a recession demand for a university education goes up. A skilled educated workforce is fundamental to a full recovery.”