“Professor Saunders, since his appointment as Acting Chief Commissioner in August 2014, has provided steady leadership to the agency as it progresses with an ambitious agenda to reform TEQSA’s operations and regulatory philosophy,” said Chief Executive of Universities Australia, Ms Belinda Robinson.

“His ongoing role will provide stability for an Agency that is expected to have a vital role to play in a reformed higher education policy environment.

“Ms Martin will bring valuable experience and knowledge of the university sector to her new role at TEQSA. We look forward to working with her.”

Ms Robinson also acknowledged the role played by Mr Michael Wells, the outgoing Commissioner.

“Mr Wells was an inaugural Commissioner and played an essential role in establishing TEQSA in its crucial first years,” Ms Robinson said.

“TEQSA’s registration and accreditation roles remain central to assuring the quality of Australian higher education to domestic and international audiences, and we will continue to work collaboratively with the Agency and the Government in pursuit of this objective.”