Jason Clare has found some loose change down the back of Jim Chalmers’ couch, and has doled out $50 million to 10 universities to help alleviate funding pain.
In recognition of the issues with the current funding model, the Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC) selected the universities in a competitive application process, with the outcomes announced yesterday providing the following funding:
• James Cook University – $7.5 million
• University of Southern Queensland – $6.5 million
• University of Canberra – $5 million
• University of Tasmania – $5 million
• University of the Sunshine Coast – $5 million
• University of New England – $5 million
• Australian Catholic University – $4 million
• Central Queensland University – $4 million
• La Trobe University – $4 million
• Federation University – $4 million
The funds will be used to provide additional support for underrepresented students, strengthen pathways and provide degree apprenticeships.
There have been a range of challenges faced by many institutions as a result of Government policies, with a particular impact on regional institutions – including limits on international enrolment numbers, increased compliance costs and impacts of JRG fees.