Timing of the state election in Victoria will prevent the Victorian government from legislating changes to university operations recommended by a parliamentary committee.
The parliament’s Legislative Assembly Economy and Infrastructure Committee released a report into university governance in late July this year, containing 17 recommendations.
Following the publishing of the report the Australian Higher Education Association (AHEIA) asked Victoria’s Minister responsible for universities, Deputy Premier, Gabrielle Williams, for consultation before implementation of recommendations.
It has received no reply.
Ms Williams said the government would change the law to effect recommendations of the parliamentary committee.
The State election will be held on November 28, 2026 and from November 3, 2026, the government entered caretaker mode during which it cannot make major decisions or commitments.
That puts any action on the Committee report into limbo and it will be a matter for a new government, whatever form that may take.
Mr Laughton said he recently had written to the State Opposition asking its intentions, so far as the report is concerned.
AHEIA wants consultation before implementation of any or all of the recommendations are accepted. The National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU), which represents fewer than 10 per cent of higher education employees, wants all recommendations adopted.
“One of the key recommendations of the inquiry is to increase staff and student representation on university governing bodies.,” the Executive Director of AHEIA, Craig Laughton, said.
“Such representation already exists. The government regularly appoints people to university governing bodies.”
Ends
Contact details:
Craig Laughton | (he/him)
Executive Director | Australian Higher Education Industrial Association |
phone: 0477 799 149
[email protected] | www.aheia.edu.au |
