Universities Australia (UA) 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.
UA has unveiled its 2025 federal election statement, outlining how universities can help the next federal government build a stronger, more prosperous Australia.
"Universities matter to Australia's future," Universities Australia Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy said.
"They're pivotal in preparing us for the challenges ahead - from rapid digitalisation and the adoption of new technologies to shifts in our industrial base and geopolitical change.
"The decisions made by the next federal government, and subsequent ones, will shape Australia's ability to manage and prosper from these big shifts underway in our economy.
"We need a bigger skilled workforce and more research and development to power Australia's progress so that no one is left behind.
"Our universities are national assets and should be treated as such, receiving bipartisan support to grow and succeed in the national interest."
The statement outlines the priorities both major parties should take to the election to ensure Australia's universities can thrive for the benefit of all Australians, including:
- ensuring financial stability for Australia's universities to support their growth, including through the re-establishment of the Education Investment Fund
- breaking down barriers to tertiary education so all Australians can access an education
- investing in research and development to drive our progress as a country
- strengthening the foundation of Australia's world-class international education sector, and
- implementing Indigenous-related recommendations in the Australian Universities Accord.
"Reforming our higher education sector in line with the Australian Universities Accord is essential to Australia's future productivity and economic growth," Mr Sheehy said.
"We have no choice but to grow and improve our university system - Australia needs more of what our institutions do on behalf of all Australians, and quickly.
"But we need our universities to be match fit to deliver for the nation, which is why we want to work closely and collaboratively with both major parties to ensure our sector is supported into the future."
Read UA's 2025 federal election statement: Universities matter to Australia's future online.
