Legislation to facilitate the creation of the new Adelaide University has passed State Parliament, paving the way for the new institution to open in 2026.
Last month, the parliamentary Committee on the Establishment of Adelaide University endorsed the merger between the University of Adelaide and University of South Australia, finding its creation will advance the economic and social interests of South Australia.
The Committee heard the merger would help South Australia to compete in an increasingly competitive market, including raising the international ranking of the new institution and helping to attract more international students.
Other evidence provided to the Committee highlighted the long-term economic benefits to South Australia the merger would create including enhanced research output and quality.
Business groups, academics and the SA Productivity Commission also gave evidence that the merger would help South Australian students gain the skills the State needs to deliver ambitious programs such as AUKUS.
By 2034, Adelaide University is expected contribute an additional $500 million annually to the State's economy and educate more than 70,000 students.
To support the new university, the Government will establish two Government-owned investment funds - a $200 million research fund and a $120 million Student Support Fund to assist students from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds and the regions access higher education.
An independent expert with experience in higher education will be appointed to work with the Government and the two existing universities, as well as staff and student representatives, throughout the implementation phase.
The expert will provide independent advice and recommendations to the Government on the measurement and achievement of proposed economic benefits, possible impacts on staff and students and risk management measures.
As put by Susan Close
The creation of the new Adelaide University will benefit all South Australians, providing greater access to higher education, no matter what part of our State they call home.
Adelaide University will teach more domestic students from a broader range of backgrounds and will give young people a chance at a university education if that is what they want.
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for higher education in South Australia, and we are seizing it.
As put by University of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor, Professor Peter Høj AC, and University of South Australia Vice Chancellor, Professor David Lloyd
We welcome the passing of legislation to establish the new Adelaide University. We thank the Parliament for their confidence in our vision.
This is an important milestone for South Australia. We look forward to continuing to engage with our communities, as together we create this transformational new institution for our state.
