The Australian Centre for Student Equity and Success (ACSES) has released its flagship annual report, Equity Insights 2025: Policy, Power, and Practice for a Fairer
Australian Tertiary Education System, bringing together 22 leading voices from across the higher education landscape to examine what has changed for student equity and what more needs to be done.
ACSES launched the report last at the Mercure Sydney at a welcome reception for the Student Equity in an Era of Change 2025: The Australian Student Equity Symposium at the University of Technology Sydney.
The report includes university leaders, researchers, policymakers and students contemplating the future of equity in higher education.
Notable voices such as Professor Harlene Hayne (Curtin University Vice-Chancellor), Professor Margaret Sheil (Queensland University of Technology Vice-Chancellor), Professor the Hon Verity Firth AM (Vice-President Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement, UNSW), Distinguished Professor George Williams AO (Vice-Chancellor & President, Western Sydney University), Sarah Bendall (National Student Ombudsman), and Ashlyn Horton (National Union of Students) address pressing issues such as Indigenous leadership and cultural safety, the impact of artificial intelligence on access and participation, disability inclusion, the student union voice, and pathways between vocational education and higher education.
ACSES Executive Director Professor Shamit Saggar said the report provided a unique snapshot of the challenges and opportunities shaping equity in higher education today.
"The report demonstrates the scale of change needed if we are to meet the ambitious equity targets set by the Australian Universities Accord," Professor Saggar said.
"It also shows the sector is rich with ideas and committed voices. The question now is how we turn those ideas into action across every institution."
ACSES Research and Policy Program Director Professor Ian Li said the diversity of perspectives was one of the report's greatest strengths.
"This report captures insights from students, educators, and leaders alike," Professor Li said.
"It highlights both the systemic reforms required and the everyday practices that can make a real difference in the lives of students."
The Equity Insights 2025 launch comes as ACSES convenes its second annual Student Equity Symposium at the University of Technology Sydney on September 9-10, where the report will inform panel discussions on policy, lived experience and innovative practice.
