The Australian Technology Network and Innovative Research Universities combine to issue three challenges for the next government

The two lobbies combine in a new policy paper.

Skills and labour shortages: the partners propose for “innovative models of collaboration” between universities and VET  and nominate health care, manufacturing, and defence as “priority growth sectors” for skill supply

Access and participation: for post-school qualifications, “more Australians from outer suburban and regional areas will need a fair go.” The allies urge government provide universities with, “enough fully funded places to support local and regional businesses with the skilled graduates they need.”

“Closing the gap for First Nations Australians”: ATN and IRU want metro and regional/remote First Nations Australian to have the same access to higher education and for governments to support “universities that are committed to cultural support for inclusion and success

A voice that will be heard:  Between them the two groups constitute not far off half the public universities. And their members are well-positioned politically, which-ever party is in power. The tech-focused ATN appeals to governments talking up jobs and manufacturing. And IRU represents universities seen as serving regional and low SES students.

ATNIRU’s (IRUATN?) pitch states members define success, “by those we include, not exclude,” which will go down well with whoever is minister.

Which makes CMM wonder, is this an election one-off or are the two groups dating?