All Australians, regardless of background or geography, will see a more equitable choice of university opportunities and tertiary services, following today’s passing of the Universities Accord (Opening the Doors of Opportunity) Bill 2026.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Universities Network (RUN), Mr Alec Webb, welcomed the passing of the Bill today which will see the introduction of a new system of managed growth enrolments, accompanied by needs-based funding.
“RUN has repeatedly called for a system of needs-based funding and managed growth enrolments, overseen by the Australian Tertiary Education Commission, to deliver a more equitable distribution of domestic and international students across the tertiary sector.
“This Bill brings overdue reforms that deliver greater choice, certainty, and funding to students.
“It also begins to address the structural inequities recognised in the system by the Australian Universities Accord,” said Mr Webb.
RUN acknowledges important amendments that have been made to strengthen the Bill, in response to concerns raised by RUN during the Bill’s consultation phase.
“The amendments advocated by RUN, and subsequently included in the final Bill, will ultimately enhance the transparency and accountability of decision-makers, while ensuring that students are able to pursue their educational dreams at the providers of their choice,” said Mr Webb.
For media enquiries: Alec Webb, Chief Executive Officer, 0408 482 736
