IHEA Submission to DoE on Consultation on the Australian Universities Accord Terms of Reference

Independent Higher Education Australia (IHEA) has provided a submission to the Australian Government Department of Education on consultation on the Australian Universities Accord terms of reference.

This submission outlines IHEA's recommendations for priorities to be explored in the terms of reference for the Australian Universities Accord review of higher education.

The Accord process is a great opportunity to ensure higher education policy, delivery and funding settings are appropriate to support student access, choice, and outcomes. Our hope is that the results of the Accord process will deliver a more equitable higher education system that encourages diversity and innovation for the sake of our students.

IHEA's submission and associated recommendations cover three broad themes:

1. Student equity and choice - Students should not be disadvantaged when choosing an independent
   provider as the highest quality provider appropriate to their educational needs.
2. Competitive neutrality including equitable market access and competitive access to government funding
   allocations.
3. Ensuring a cohesive and connected, quality and sustainable tertiary education system as a means of:
   - sustaining Australia's world-class reputation as a destination of choice for higher learning;
   - creating a pipeline of skilled workers to fill critical workplace shortages amongst present-day
   challenges affecting Australia's productivity performance; and
   - promoting economic activity.

This was submitted on 14 December 2022.

Thank you to IHEA members who provided feedback on this submission.