Swinburne welcomes Australian Universities Accord plans to transform the tertiary sector
![](/content/dam/media/legacy-news/media-centre/news/current-students/1912-campus-shot-ls.jpg)
Swinburne University of Technology welcomes the Australian Universities Accord interim report.
In summary
- Swinburne University of Technology welcomes the Australian Universities Accord interim report
- The interim report aims to boost equity and fairness in the university system
- Professor Pascale Quester says the interim report is an important step forward in creating an innovative, equitable and modern sector
Swinburne University of Technology welcomes the Australian Universities Accord interim report, released today.
The interim report identifies five key issues for further immediate consideration and ten possible ‘system shifts’ to boost equity and fairness in the university system.
Swinburne Vice-Chancellor Professor Pascale Quester says the interim report is an important step forward in creating an innovative, equitable and modern tertiary sector.
“Our sector needs to be stronger, future-focused, resilient, and responsive to global ructions. The release of the Accord Interim Report is a positive first step in what is a once in a generation opportunity to improve the sector.”
“We need to support students to participate, particularly those from marginalised groups, who can face significant structural barriers to engagement, as well as challenges because of employer perceptions and financial constraints.”
“We must not waste this moment to improve the overall equity and fairness of the university system.”
Work-integrated learning and bringing VET and HE closer together
The interim report identified a number of key areas for further exploration that were canvassed in Swinburne’s submission to the Accords in April 2023.
The interim report quotes Swinburne’s submission on the importance of lifting the quality and availability of work integrated learning, an area that Swinburne is a sector leader in.
“For Australia to remain competitive now and into the future, our university graduates need to be work-ready, graduating with industry-relevant knowledge and skills. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) supports students to do just that, by applying and deepening their degree learning in authentic work settings and contexts,” the report quotes.
The review considers that Australian higher education would benefit from having a wider range of complementary institutions differentiated by their unique missions, one of the key elements of Swinburne’s bold and pragmatic vision for the future.
Also called out in the report is the need for more integrated Vocational Education and Training and Higher Education systems, starting in areas of national priority. This closely echoes Swinburne’s dedication to creating accessible education opportunities for all students as a dual-sector university.
Professor Pascale Quester has welcomed the government’s commitment to ongoing discussion to help shape the future of the tertiary sector, with the final Accords report due in December.
“The report highlights a number of areas that Swinburne is a national leader in, including the need for better inclusion and participation, flexible study, work integrated learning, future employment outcomes, and innovative research. We commend the government for joining us in recognising the importance of these areas.”
“We know the current model of university funding is not working. It pits universities against one another in a race for resources that stifles scientific and academic progress and limits access to those who need it most.”
“It is clear that the focus on ‘bigger is better’ falls short in so many ways. More of a focus is needed on championing universities of all different sizes, and ensuring student satisfaction, equity and experience are taken seriously.”
“The Accord offers promise for Swinburne to reach its full potential as a leading global university defined and inspired by technology, science and innovation, helping us to make a positive difference.”
“We look forward to working with the sector to champion change and shift to a more equitable focus on overall quality, access and impact.”
Supporting the Accord
In his address to the National Press Club, Minister Jason Clare announced immediate action in a number of areas, including Indigenous student access, abolishing barriers to receiving HECS-HELP and working across jurisdictions to improve university governance.
Removing the barriers to further education faced by many is of high importance to Swinburne, and we welcome these supportive measures.
The report estimates that 55 per cent of the workforce will have a university degree by 2050, aligning with the growing need for skilled workers. For this number to be achieved, ensuring every Australian is able to access higher education and work-integrated learning is crucial.
Swinburne also welcomes the recognition of the importance of putting First Nations people at the heart of Australia’s Higher Education system, including enhancing research capabilities, removing barriers to access and offering flexible options for study, employment, teaching and engagement.
The full interim report is available here.
-
Media Enquiries
Related articles
-
- University
Opinion: The missed opportunity in the Australian Universities Accord
The Federal Government’s announcement of the Australian Universities Accord Implementation Advisory Committee is welcome, but the glaring omission of dual sector representation is a missed opportunity.
Monday 17 June 2024 -
- University
Swinburne community recognised in 2024 King’s Birthday Honours for outstanding contributions to education, medicine and community
Swinburne alumni and community members are among 737 inspirational Australians who have been recognised and celebrate for their services and achievements in the 2024 King's Birthday Honours list.
Wednesday 26 June 2024 -
- University
Swinburne rises into top 150 in US News Best Global Universities Ranking
Swinburne University of Technology has risen to number 142 in the world in the 2024-25 US News Best Global Universities Ranking.
Wednesday 26 June 2024 -
- University
Swinburne partners with eco fintech Sphere For Good to drive carbon neutral digital payments
Swinburne University of Technology has partnered with Sphere For Good, a new Australian eco fintech driving climate action through digital payments.
Tuesday 25 June 2024 -
- University
Richmond and Swinburne partnership to reach beyond a decade
Swinburne University of Technology and Richmond Football Club have extended their longstanding partnership for a further four years until at least the end of 2028.
Monday 17 June 2024