A landmark report into Australia’s tertiary education system has been warmly welcomed by the NSW business community.

The Australian Universities Accord Final Report provides a range of recommendations for a more integrated tertiary education system.

“Our members say the availability and relevance of workforce skills remain top priorities that government must fix amid widespread skill shortages,” Business NSW CEO Daniel Hunter said.

“We welcome the focus on opportunities for better integration across vocational and higher education, particularly in regional Australia.

“A national approach to the recognition of prior learning is a welcome idea, as is the ability for TAFEs to be more self-directed in keeping pace with current and emerging skills needs.”

A key recommendation was incentives for universities working with government, industry and communities.

“Across our NSW network, both regional and CBD universities are working with business more than ever to tackle major economic and social challenges,” Mr Hunter said.

“This work is done via research, innovation and investment and the accord process will help that continue.

“The idea of a new national agency in the form of the Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC) represents a significant change. This new agency has the potential to substantially transform the way different parts of Australia's tertiary education and research system work together.

“We look forward to working with the Federal Government and other stakeholders across vocational and higher education in working towards a tertiary education system that is inclusive, economical and effective.” 

About Business NSW

Formerly the NSW Business Chamber, Business NSW is the peak policy and advocacy body which has been representing businesses in NSW since 1826. We represent almost 50,000 businesses.