IHEA Congratulates New ATEC Commissioners

Independent Higher Education Australia (IHEA) congratulates Professor Barney Glover AO on his appointment as the first permanent Chief Commissioner of the Australian Tertiary Education Commission, along with Commissioners the Hon Fiona Nash, Mr David Coltman, and Dr Stephen Duckett, announced by the Minister for Education, the Hon Jason Clare MP today.

The establishment of ATEC marks a significant milestone in Australia’s tertiary education landscape. As reported today, Professor Glover has already signalled a bold and future‑focused agenda, emphasising the need for a more diverse higher education ecosystem.

Chief Executive Officer of IHEA, the Hon Dr Peter Hendy welcomed the news, saying: “We look forward to continuing to work with Professor Glover and the ATEC Commissioners, particularly on our shared goals of enhancing course flexibility and a renewed focus on student outcomes.”

“We were privileged to have Professor Glover as the keynote speaker at IHEA’s 25th anniversary dinner just last week, where we he remarked on the pivotal role the independent higher education sector plays in Australia’s economy and society.”

ATEC’s establishment was a key recommendation from the Australian Universities Accord, which also called for 80 per cent of the Australian workforce attaining a tertiary qualification by 2050. IHEA continues to work with ATEC and the Australian Government on how the independent higher education sector can support the delivery of this goal.