The Australian Universities Accord Final Report released today provides a transformative roadmap for advancing higher education.

“The report has set out a far-reaching strategy in relation to equity, access, governance and potential future funding mechanisms. A dynamic, high-quality and sustainable post-secondary education sector is essential for meeting current and future knowledge, and skills demands,” ACCI chief executive officer Andrew McKellar said.

“In considering the establishment of the Australian Tertiary Education Commission, we urge the government to ensure that there is an independent-sector commissioner to represent independent higher education providers.

“ACCI strongly supports the recommendations to improve integration of vocational education and training, and higher education, to meet learners’ needs better. Nine in ten new jobs will require a post-secondary qualification, so we need a system to meet these demands.

“Recognising the importance of work-integrated learning and the emphasis on lifelong learning is welcome, particularly with recommendations of reforms for recognition of prior learning.

“The extension of Commonwealth-supported places to TAFE providers should be available to students regardless of provider type. Students should be at the heart of their education decision-making.

“The report’s release is the culmination of the Accord process led by Professor Mary O’Kane and a panel of experts, who engaged in extensive consultations with stakeholders to deliver 47 detailed recommendations.

“Establishing the Implementation Advisory Committee is a critical next step to advise on implementing the review’s recommendations. We look forward to participating in the process and working with the government and other key stakeholders on the delivery of the recommendations.”