Preparatory courses have long been offered by Australian universities, but now there is a stronger national focus on equity and access in higher education. This is supported by an Australian Government investment of more than $350 million to expand access to FFUR courses.
FFUR courses help people build the skills they need to get into university, without paying course fees. They are designed to support students who are often underrepresented in higher education, particularly people from regional areas, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and students with disability.
The new resources aim to make it easier for higher education providers to continue delivering high-quality preparatory learning that meets the needs of their students and communities. Resources include a best practice guide to support delivery of FFUR courses at institutions and a dedicated website.
Minister for Education, the Hon Jason Clare MP said:
"The Universities Accord says that by 2050, 80 per cent of the workforce will need a tertiary qualification.
"These free bridging courses are part of that. They give you the skills you need to succeed when you get to university.
"At the University of Newcastle, one in five students do one of these bridging courses first.
"I want to see this happen in more places.
"This Best Practice Guide will help more universities do this.
"This is all about breaking down that invisible barrier that stops a lot of people getting to uni."
The expansion of FFUR courses delivers on Recommendation 12 of the Australian Universities Accord, which called for a significant increase in high quality, fee free preparatory places to support more students aspiring to university.
To access the resources, visit FEE FREE Uni Ready.
