NEWS

Australia: Universities Accord:
The Australian Universities Accord was published in February 2024, setting the stage for significant reforms in the higher education sector. The Accord includes 47 recommendations aimed at transforming the system to meet future skills needs, with an emphasis on creating a more equitable and integrated tertiary education system. Key goals include increasing the tertiary education attainment rate from 60% to at least 80% by 2050 and ensuring more Australians from disadvantaged backgrounds, regions, and Indigenous communities have access to higher education. The Accord also addresses the need to break down barriers between vocational education and training (VET) and universities. The implications of these recommendations are currently being unpacked, with the government considering how to implement them effectively.

Australia: 2025 International Student Caps and Their Consequences

Starting in 2025, the number of new international students allowed to commence studies at Australian universities and vocational education providers will be capped at 270,000 as part of a government reform to balance student numbers with infrastructure and housing needs. Public universities will be limited to around 145,000 new students, while vocational training providers will take up to 95,000. The cap will bring enrolments below both pre-pandemic levels and 2023 figures by 53,000. Universities have voiced frustration, warning the cap could harm funding streams that support research and student services, and lead to job losses in student-facing roles. There is also concern about the broader economic impact, as international students contribute billions to the economy. 

New Zealand
New Zealand is actively working to enhance student mental health and wellbeing through initiatives led by Tertiary Wellbeing Aotearoa New Zealand (TWANZ). The network promotes mental health on campuses by providing resources, hosting events, and supporting both students and staff. Recent collaborations include the Australasian Mental Health in Higher Education (AMHHEC) project, which focuses on strengthening mental health strategies through education, research, and community engagement. These efforts highlight New Zealand’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for tertiary students.

Fiji
In Fiji, the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) is spearheading initiatives to improve student affairs and wellbeing. A significant effort is the establishment of Higher Education Training Centres in collaboration with Provincial Councils. These centers aim to provide tailored programs and direct skills training, particularly for school dropouts, to bridge skills gaps and offer educational opportunities within local communities.

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