New national debate on higher education needed

Deakin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander today welcomed the new policy initiatives for higher education from the Federal Opposition, particularly in the science technology, engineering and maths (STEM) area.

"The time has come for a new national debate on the future of higher education in Australia," Professor den Hollander said.

"To commit three per cent of GDP to Research and Development by 2030 has the potential to profoundly change Australian society.  However, to achieve such a goal will require new ways of working together and new forms of sustained collaboration between government, industry, universities and research agencies.  The jobs of the future depend on it.

"We look forward to participating creatively in this aspirational goal.

"What is heartening are the broader social and economic implications of these commitments. 

"Our new digital globally-connected nation will require big ideas if we are to compete and succeed on the world stage. So teaching coding as a fundamental skill is also critical investment in educating the next generation.

"I hope these commitments will help break the current policy impasse and bring on the policy debate the nation needs, because the uncertainty for higher education in Australia must end.

"The debate has been protracted and emotional and has done nothing to promote public understanding of the federal strategy and ambition for higher education in Australia and the next generation who will create the wealth and jobs of our future.

"We have no way of knowing what next year's Budget or policy settings will be or what to say to our prospective students.

"We understand that change is necessary if Australia is to prosper and be a force for innovation.

"What the nation needs now is certainty and a longer term policy grounded by proper discussion and consultation.

"If the Australian university sector is to thrive, indeed survive, it must develop organisational structures and business models that leverage ever-advancing technology with complementary human capital – creativity, entrepreneurism, intuition and cross cultural understanding.

"Deakin remains convinced that a world class and equitable higher education system requires strong and consistent policy and long-term government investment supported by private contribution.

"Let's have a new conversation around higher education, one that centres on what communities, students, parents and industries want and need, and puts the best interest of our nation first."