Universities Australia CEO, Dr Glenn Withers said, "The formation of the Office of Learning and Teaching is a welcome response to the review of support for higher education learning and teaching conducted earlier this year.
"It is most pleasing that Senator Evans has accepted all seventeen recommendations made by the review, evidence that all bodies represented in the consultation process were given due regard. We see this as an acknowledgement of the fundamental role the higher education sector plays in setting and maintaining the agenda for Australian teaching and learning.
"Funding will ensure that the quality of teaching and learning in Australia is recognised, and that our university staff are rewarded for the contribution they make in advancing the high standards of the higher education sector. It will also enable the sector to grow by developing the skills and knowledge of university staff, thus improving educational outcomes for students.
"The ALTC played an important role in the higher education sector. Its abolition and the budget savings made were government decisions that were found inexplicable by the university sector and were much to be regretted. However it is hoped that the Office of Learning and Teaching will now ensure that the standing of learning and teaching continues to be validated and supported, and the fruits of the ALTC community's labours are not lost.
"Renewed focus on the standards of excellence in learning and teaching in Australian universities will continue to place us in world-class standing," Dr Withers concluded.
