“Despite repeated promises by the Government of a public discussion on higher education policy options, the only policy on the table is billions of dollars in proposed cuts to funding for university teaching and research.

“As a policy position this sits in stark contrast to the Government’s intention for a national economic transformation to be underpinned by research, innovation and international education.

“From Opposition, Labor has outlined proposed funding commitments in higher education and we await with great interest further details on research funding.

“After years of budget cuts and policy uncertainty from both of the major parties, students, their families and the community are right to question how genuine is the commitment to sustaining our nation-building higher education and research infrastructure.

“The impending election is the opportunity for both major parties to make clear their plans to maintain a properly funded, affordable, world-class higher education and research system,” Ms Robinson said.