“The Australian Technology Network proposes, “a dedicated independent authority with responsibility for individual university accords”

ATN’s submission to the O’Kane Accord panel (scroll down for more) recommends an “authority” that “does not duplicate” the Department of Education and regulator TEQSA.

Such a body would have roles including,

* consulting with the HE sector, “on the best approaches to delivering the national needs identified by government”

* “managing the government’s strategic investments”

* “coordinating and planning” with Jobs and Skills Australia, the Australian Research Council, National Health and Medical Research Council, Medical Research Future Fund, and “national security agencies”

* “monitoring university performance” on their individual accords with government and advising government

Universities Australia suggests a “mechanism” to help

UA sets out the Accord as a continuing process, “over the span of several decades” and “flexible enough to respond to developing trends in higher education.”

It should include an “on-going process of consultation and engagement with all stakeholders in the sector” so “foci for the Accord can be identified and refined, and strategies can be developed to address them.” Plus, “determining matters for the Accord should be underpinned by research and analysis of trends and developments in post-secondary education.”

A “mechanism” huh?

UA is silent on what form its proposed mechanism should take, telling CMM, “that would be up to the government, we would work with whatever agency government decided was most appropriate.” ATN’ does not offer a view on what form its “authority” could take.

But there are examples out there for the Accord team to consider. For example, the Hong Kong University Grants Commission – made up of HE experts and industry representatives, to provide “long term plans and stewardship.” Then Uni Melbourne VC Glyn Davis pointed to it as a good example back in 2016 (CMM February 1 2016).

Yes, that Glyn Davis, present secretary to the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.