6 December 2021
The Regional Universities Network (RUN) has long advocated for an independent champion for regional, rural and remote education, and is thrilled with the announcement that Fiona Nash is the inaugural Regional Education Commissioner.
Fiona has previously served as the Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Regional Communication, and most recently served as the Strategic Adviser for Regional Engagement and Government Relations at RUN member institution, Charles Sturt University.
The Chair of RUN, Professor Nick Klomp, said Fiona’s appointment will allow the Network to work more effectively across education sectors, portfolios and governments to promote educational outcomes in regional Australia.
“Achieving equity in educational outcomes for regional Australians will take a generation and I am glad we have someone of Fiona’s calibre supporting efforts to establish parity for regional Australia. It is important for the nation’s cohesion and success that regional education remains a focus in future policies and programs,” Professor Klomp said.
A key role of the Commissioner will be to oversee and coordinate the implementation of the National Regional, Rural and Remote Tertiary Education Strategy (Napthine Review).
“Elements of the Review have been picked up in the Job-ready Graduates Package, although the effectiveness of the measures need to be monitored. The Commissioner should also advocate for the remaining recommendations to be implemented,” Professor Klomp said. “Policy settings in areas such as regional development, health, migration, and employment need to work in a complementary way to facilitate positive educational outcomes in the regions.
“The Regional Education Commissioner will work with key stakeholders, assisting the important work being undertaken by RUN and other advocacy groups.
“We congratulate Fiona on her appointment and look forward to working closely with her.”
Contacts:
Mr Alec Webb, Executive Director, 0408 482 736
Ms Elle McCosker, Media Adviser, 0497 656 438
Website: www.run.edu.au
Twitter: @RegUniNet #RegUnisHelpRegions
Facebook: www.facebook.com/regionaluniversitiesnetwork
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/regional-universities-network