The Regional Universities Network welcomes the focus on regional universities in today’s Coalition election campaign announcement regarding international students.
Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Universities Network, Mr Alec Webb said that while the focus on, and acknowledgement of regional universities is welcomed, additional consultation and policy development is needed to ensure there are no unintended consequences.
“The recognition of the unique needs of regional universities is welcomed in today’s announcement.
“International higher education students are vital to regional universities and regional Australia, and the Regional Universities Network look forward to seeing how the proposed international student cap fits within a broader regional migration strategy,” said Mr Webb.
Universities operate in a deeply complex policy environment, and it is vital that all policy makers and parliamentarians remain highly vigilant to ensure that changes in one area of policy do not result in unintended consequences elsewhere.
“We strongly welcome the Coalition’s commitment to work productively with the higher education sector to prevent any unintended consequences for universities with regional campuses.
“The Regional Universities Network, and our members, are ready to work with all political stakeholders and policy makers to ensure that all higher education policy does not disadvantage regional universities and regional Australians,” said Mr Webb.
For media enquiries:
Alec Webb, Chief Executive Officer, 0408 482 736
Website: www.run.edu.au
Twitter: @RegUniNet #RegUnisHelpRegions
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/regional-universities-network