Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education Andrew Gee, will host the first of a series of Regional Universities Roundtables on Wednesday, 8 July 2020.
The Roundtable series, announced by Minister Gee on 26 June, will bring together regional universities, sectoral stakeholders and representatives of regional communities to help inform the future approach to Australia’s country universities.
Minister Gee said the first roundtable of the series would be held virtually, with Chancellors and Vice-Chancellors from ten of Australia’s major regional universities.
“Chancellors and Vice-Chancellors will have the opportunity to engage in an open discussion on the Australian Government’s proposed changes to tertiary education sector,” Minister Gee said.
“This is the first of a number of consultations with the education sector and country communities about the future of higher education and its important role in creating opportunities in the bush.
“We know our country universities have been faced with a number of challenges of late, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“That is why, it is crucial that we listen and understand the unique challenges faced by country universities, while also positioning them to take full advantage of future opportunities.
“It is vital that country Australians have access to quality teaching and learning, and job opportunities in key sectors of the economy following graduation.
“Our country university Chancellors and Vice-Chancellors have a wealth knowledge and experience from the frontline, and it is crucial that their views are fed into the bigger discussion on tertiary education reform.”
