The establishment of the ATEC was a key recommendation of the Australian Universities Accord aimed at strengthening the sector's ability to anticipate Australia's future skills needs and deliver on long-term national priorities.
The ATEC first commenced in an interim capacity on 1 July 2025. During the second half of 2025, it was led by interim Commissioners Professor Mary O'Kane AC, Distinguished Professor Larissa Behrendt AO and supported by Professor Barney Glover AO.
Since 1 January 2026, the ATEC has been led by interim Commissioners Professor Barney Glover AO, the Hon Fiona Nash and Professor Tom Calma AO. The recruitment of inaugural statutory ATEC Commissioners is underway. Interim Commissioners will continue in their roles until statutory Commissioners have been appointed.
The ATEC will continue the work of the interim ATEC including:
- breaking down the barriers between university and Vocational Education and Training (VET)
- allocating places under the new Managed Growth Funding system, pending passage of legislation
- negotiating mission based compacts to support a diverse, responsive and high-performing sector
- commence the establishment of the First National Council
- providing expert, independent advice to government.
The ATEC will continue to progress key reforms to deliver quality education and provide more opportunities for more people across the country to benefit from tertiary education.
