Australia Establishes Interim Tertiary Education Commission for Higher Ed Reform

Australia has taken a major step toward reshaping its higher education system with the official launch of the interim Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC). This move, effective from July 1, 2025, follows a key recommendation from the Australian Universities Accord and is aimed at creating a more inclusive, coordinated, and future-ready tertiary education sector.

Leadership and Governance

The interim commission will be led by Professor Mary O’Kane, one of the principal architects of the Universities Accord and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Adelaide. Supporting her are Professor Barney Glover, Commissioner of Jobs and Skills Australia, and Professor Larissa Behrendt, a leading law academic and advocate for Indigenous rights at the University of Technology Sydney.

Mandate and Strategic Goals

ATEC has been tasked with implementing long-term reforms that align with national priorities and future workforce needs. Its key objectives include:

• Raising tertiary attainment to 80% of the working-age population by 2050.
• Improving equity in access and participation across the education system.
• Ensuring adequate university places to meet national skills demand.
• Strengthening pathways between vocational education (VET) and higher education.
• Embedding First Nations perspectives in decision-making and operations.

In addition to these goals, ATEC will oversee the introduction of a managed growth funding system and negotiate mission-based compacts with universities, supporting a diverse and responsive higher education landscape.

Transition to Full Operation

Currently in its interim phase, ATEC is expected to become fully operational by 2026, subject to the passage of enabling legislation. Its creation marks a pivotal moment in Australia’s efforts to modernize tertiary education, ensuring it remains competitive, equitable, and aligned with economic needs.

The establishment of ATEC signals a strategic shift towards evidence-based policy and integrated planning, with a strong emphasis on equity, skills development, and collaboration between universities and vocational institutions.