IHEA is the peak body representing Independent Higher Education Providers in Australia

Abolishing the 25% Loan Tax is a long-term IHEA reform priority:

Opposed by IHEA in our previous incarnation as the Council of Private Higher Education (COPHE)
IHEA advocated for abolition of the Loan Tax even when operating under our previous branding as COPHE – we welcomed a partial abolition of the Loan Fee for students choosing independent universities in 2018.

Essential Reform in our ‘Students First’ 2019 Federal Election Campaign
Abolition of the Loan Tax was one of the central policy reforms proposed by IHEA advocated through the 2019 Federal election to create equity across the higher education sector and create greater choice for students.

Key element of IHEA COVID19 Pandemic Response Plan
IHEA’s influential advocacy through the COVID19 crisis included an exemption from the Loan Tax to encourage students to maintain their studies through the crisis, protect providers through and minimise the debt burden on students. This advocacy was successful with a Loan Tax exemption included in the Government’s Higher Education Relief Package.

Ongoing Economic Recovery Priority
IHEA has continued to highlight the economic, employment and productivity benefits of the Loan Tax exemption to Government. IHEA has sustained our high level advocacy with the Federal Government and key stakeholders for the Loan Tax exemption to be made permanent, abolishing the Loan Tax and boosting the economy as Australia recovers from COVID19.