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ATN WELCOMES OPPOSITION SUPPORT FOR UNIVERSITIES

11 May 2018

The ATN welcomed the commitment to post-secondary education by the Leader of the Opposition in tonight’s Address in Reply.

The ATN welcomed the commitment to post-secondary education by the Leader of the Opposition in tonight’s Address in Reply.

“It was heartening to see education feature prominently in the Opposition’s Budget response,” says ATN Executive Director, Renee Hindmarsh.

In the Budget Reply, Mr Shorten committed to the uncapping of university places, reinstating the demand driven system.

The ATN is supportive of any policy that is accessible and promotes participation in higher education, particularly to under-represented equity groups. We also hope that the commitment to the demand driven system will be part of a holistic university policy that promotes a commitment to students, builds on Australia’s world-class research offerings and promotes strong collaboration with industry. In particular, targeted measures to boost stubbornly low participation rates among disadvantaged and marginalised Australians would draw out the full potential of the inclusive intent behind the demand driven system.

“Universities have the power to transform lives, open up new opportunities and empower people with the knowledge and skills to contribute positively to their community. A sustainable, accessible, and affordable higher education system is crucial in building an innovative nation,” Ms Hindmarsh says.