Chief Executive of Universities Australia, Ms Belinda Robinson said: “Universities Australia particularly welcomes commitments given to reducing the regulatory burden on universities, increasing university autonomy, facilitating the distribution of Commonwealth Supported Places to the sub-degree level, and helping universities address increased demand for post-graduate coursework places.”
“It is good to see the importance of science and all areas of research acknowledged – the physical and natural sciences, the social sciences, engineering and technology, the humanities and the creative arts -with a commitment to address the absence of a sustainable investment model for the administration and management of our national research assets and infrastructure.”
The statement heavily emphasises the need to bring more closely together, industry and the research community through the establishment of a new National Innovation Council and Australian Innovation Partnerships.
“This could help leverage expertise and resources for maximum impact”, said Ms Robinson.
Australia has an enviable reputation for delivering education to the world and the prospects for further growth are positive as 3 million more international students will be looking overseas for their education by 2020.
International education is currently Australia’s fourth largest export industry sustaining more than 100,000 jobs and revenues of $15 billion dollars.
“In response to the review of international education released earlier in the year, Universities Australia urges bi-partisan support for the proposal for an international education industry development plan.
“Should Labor be returned to government, Universities Australia would welcome the opportunity to consult further on the full suite of proposals including university colleges and strengthened compact arrangements.
“It is disappointing that neither of the major parties have indicated they would reverse the higher education budget savings announced earlier in the year. Universities Australia will continue to advocate that an appropriate level of investment in universities is required to maintain and enhance our international standing and competitiveness”, Ms Robinson concluded.
The policies can be accessed here.
