Universities Australia acknowledges the release of the Expert Council on University Governance report and principles, alongside interim findings of the recent Senate Inquiry, as important opportunities to strengthen governance across Australia's universities.
Chief Executive Officer, Luke Sheehy, said that the principles outlined in the Expert Council's report provide a strong foundation for uplifting university governance across the system.
"Effective and contemporary approaches to governance are essential for strong universities," Mr Sheehy said.
"We support strengthening our governance arrangements to help every student and staff member feel safe and supported, and ensure universities continue to meet the expectations of the communities they serve.
"We'll continue to work closely with the government on implementation - ensuring reforms deliver the intended results while balancing the ongoing and increasing regulatory burden on universities," he said.
The Expert Council brought together representatives from across the sector, including the University Chancellors Council, Australian Institute of Company Directors, Governance Institute of Australia, Australian Indigenous Governance Institute, Law Council of Australia, Tertiary Education and Standards Agency and Universities Australia.
Mr Sheehy also acknowledged the constructive and collaborative nature of the Council's work.
"I thank the Council's Chair, Ms Melinda Cilento, and members Ms Sharan Burrow AC and Mr Bruce Cowley for their leadership and contribution," he said.
"This has been a valuable opportunity to reflect on what's working well and where we can further strengthen governance culture and practice to meet the realities of 2025 and beyond," he said.
Mr Sheehy said Universities Australia will continue to work with government on the implementation of principles by states and territories, and on any future changes to the powers of the national regulator.
"We welcome the opportunity for a nationally consistent approach and will work closely with government and ministers on the next steps," he said.
