Bradley Review endorses new national university for regional Australia

Southern Cross University has welcomed the Bradley Review of Australian Higher Education, which focuses largely on increasing participation in higher education.

Southern Cross University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Bill MacGillivray said the Bradley review included many recommendations which could have benefits for students living in regional Australia.

The release of the report follows the announcement last week that Southern Cross University and Charles Sturt University would conduct a feasibility study into the establishment of a new regionally-based Commonwealth University.

The Bradley review endorses that proposal with a recommendation to ‘commission a study to examine the feasibility of a new national university for regional areas’. It also includes a recommendation for appropriate funding.

“Our proposal is all about enhancing and enriching the opportunities for higher education in our regions and this is very much in line with the recommendations contained in this extensive review,” Professor MacGillivray said.

“We want to ensure that the recommendations will be implemented in a way that ensures high-quality education for the students within our region.

“We welcome the move to lift the participation rate, particularly from students in regional and rural areas and Indigenous students. This is very much in line with Southern Cross University’s objectives,” Professor MacGillivray said.

“We already draw 60 per cent of our students from regional areas and we have a range of initiatives in place to encourage participation.

“The review has recommended a target of 20 per cent participation from students from low socio-economic status backgrounds. We currently have a participation rate of 21 per cent from students who are from low socio-economic status backgrounds and offer a range of equity and outreach programs.

“These recommendations will pave the way for even greater focus in this area and a very welcome increase in financial assistance for these students.”

Professor MacGillivray said Southern Cross University looked forward to the Federal Government’s response to the review.

Photo: Southern Cross University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Bill MacGillivray.

Media contact: Brigid Veale Southern Cross University communications manager 02 66593006 or 0439 680 748.