Last week, the Government released a consultation paper, through the Department of Education, on the future regulation of Australian higher education and potential amendments to the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency Act (TEQSA Act). While international students and international education are not specific targets in the paper, any changes to the TEQSA Act will have implications for the sector.
The consultation paper, Modernising and Strengthening TEQSA’s Powers, invites respondents to share views on 16 questions under the following four headings:
- A regulatory system that puts students first
- A modern regulator with powers to address emerging and systematic challenges
- Opportunities to streamline regulation for universities and other education providers, so they can focus on teaching and learning
- A system that supports a joined up tertiary system, helping more Australians get the skills and qualifications they need
Some of the interesting questions posed in the consultation paper include:
- Should TEQSA have new powers to immediately suspend a provider’s registration in response to acute risks? What should be the grounds for suspending a provider registration?
- What powers does TEQSA need to step in when it is justified and in the public interest? For example, in the event of a serious failure in governance, should TEQSA have the power to appoint a monitor, independent adviser or administrator to the governing body?
- What regulatory requirements or actions could be accomplished in a more efficient way that may lead to increased productivity, while ensuring regulatory outcomes are achieved?
The consultation closes at 5pm on Friday 17 October 2025.
A copy of the consultation paper is available here.
