The Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC) is seeking feedback on proposed outcomes and priorities for its Statement of Strategic Priorities 2027–28, including a proposed new priority on global engagement.
ATEC is the new system steward for higher education and the Statement of Strategic Priorities will set its direction for 2027 and 2028. It must also be considered when ATEC develops mission-based compacts with Table A and B providers.
The consultation paper proposes nine priority areas, with global engagement, collaboration, and student experience and safety added to the six priorities in ATEC’s interim statement.
Under global engagement, ATEC describes international education and research, including transnational education, as a “national asset” supporting economic prosperity, workforce capability and Australia’s international reputation. It says a strong, secure and sustainable international education sector also supports research, innovation and cultural exchange.
The paper says the benefits of international education need to be balanced with sustainable growth, high-quality student experiences and strong sector integrity, while continuing to support national priorities including research, skills development and workforce needs.
The consultation asks whether the proposed priorities are the right areas for ATEC to focus on in 2027 and 2028 and whether any should be added, refined or removed.
ATEC will host a webinar on the Statement of Strategic Priorities 2027–28 on Friday, 16 October from 1.30pm to 2.30pm.
Submissions are due by 30 October and should be sent to SSP@atec.gov.au.
Register for the webinar and access the consultation paper here.
