Universities Australia has reinforced the critical importance of a modern, fit-for-purpose research system in a submission today to the independent review of the Australian Research Council Act.

Universities Australia welcomes the release of the consultation paper for the review of the Australian Research Council Act.

Universities Australia welcomes major announcements at today’s Australian Financial Review Higher Education Summit from Education Minister Jason Clare that will bolster Australia’s research and innovation system.

“UA congratulates Ms Judi Zielke PSM on her appointment today as Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Research Council,” said Universities Australia’s Chief Executive Catriona Jackson.

Universities Australia’s Plenary – representing the nation’s 39 comprehensive universities – agreed on the following statement to the Senate Education and Employment Legislation Committee on the Australian Research Council Amendment (Ensuring Research Independence) Bill 2018.

Topics covered: Research funding priorities, safe return to campus, freedom of speech and academic freedom, gender equity, student safety, and the upcoming federal election
Date recorded: 22 February 2022

The first major gathering of the university sector and its leadership since COVID-19 closed Australia’s international borders and upended the lives of students and staff begins today.

Catriona Jackson, Chief Executive, Universities Australia.