Despite media reports to the contrary yesterday (Wednesday 17 August), the Group of Eight (Go8) continues to support the Demand Driven System (DDS) which underpins our university access system.
As we outlined in our “Priority Directions” document released publicly in June during the Federal Election campaign, and as was restated in a speech delivered in Sydney yesterday, the DDS in its current form has successfully increased participation in Australia’s university system.
As we stated in June, and in a number of subsequent public comments, the Go8 does believe that there is now the opportunity to enhance the DDS to ensure it better meets its original intentions, and continues to deliver wide participation.
Returning to the previous system of capped enrolments allocated by Government is not the answer.
To that end, the Go8 has recommended that the Government take immediate steps to broaden Australia’s commitment to educational opportunity – spanning diploma to post graduate qualifications.
The Go8 has also recommended that steps be taken to moderate growth in degree level participation, while opening up a wider range of opportunities, including at the sub-degree level in both vocational and higher education.
Contact: Vicki Thomson, Group of Eight Chief Executive on +61 438 047 155