Universities Australia is urging both major parties to be bold and ambitious in their vision and support for Australia’s universities as the next federal election looms.

Our 2025 federal election statement outlines how universities can help the next federal government build a stronger, more prosperous Australia in the face of new challenges and opportunities.

Australia’s universities have a central role to play in ensuring our country can navigate all that lies ahead. They are national assets and should be treated as such, receiving bipartisan support to grow and succeed in the national interest.

Our universities are expected to deliver on multiple fronts critical to the nation’s future.

These expectations include:
• providing world-class education
• driving research and innovation
• boosting economic growth, creating jobs and supporting local economies
• fostering global partnerships to enhance Australia’s international reputation, and
• playing a key role in supporting regional areas and communities.

Yet, Australia’s universities are at a tipping point.

Over the past decade, a combination of policy decisions and external pressures has placed unprecedented financial strain on institutions that serve as the country’s foundation of education,
research and innovation.