The government announces long awaited legislation

Education Minister Dan Tehan announced yesterday the government would legislate against exam taking and essay writing services, releasing a draft bill, for comment by end June.

The bill makes it illegal to complete work for a student in whole or part, provide answers for, or sit an examination on behalf of a student and/or advertise such services. Penalties include up to two years in prison and a $210 000 fine.

The Tertiary Education Quality Standards Agency will enforce the intended law.

This confirms a December announcement that the government had accepted advice from the Higher Education Standards Panel, sought by then minister Christopher Pyne in June 2015.

The Group of Eight was quick to back the announcement, with CEO Vicki Thomson saying last night, “a strong legislative solution is warranted – and one that sends a strong message to those seeking to profit from students in this way.”