Universities are working out how they can maximise their share of the National Priorities and Industry Linkage Fund – for now

A few weeks back the Department of Education, Skills and Employment advised it was “working closely with the sector to develop detailed administrative guidelines including requirements for universities,” (CMM March 3) and now all institutions need do is get their heads around the pilot scheme document now circulating in the system.

Which is no more confusing than the proposal floated last October. To get hold of the funding on offer all universities need do is submit a plan including metrics from 15 specified categories and case-studies for work integrated learning, STEM skills and industry partnerships.

Base funding under the scheme is in four EFTS-based bands, ranging from $3.25m to $8.75m from next year to 2025 when there will be a new methodology, which “the department will advise … prior to 2025.”

By when everybody will probably have worked out this one.