May 21, 2019
The Group of Eight, (Go8) Australia’s group of leading research-intensive Universities, welcomes the newly elected Morrison Government and looks forward to working in partnership to ensure continuing success for Australia by providing a world class higher education and research system.
Go8 Chair and Vice Chancellor, University of Western Australia, Professor Dawn Freshwater said that as the University sector waits to see which Minister is given the portfolio, the Go8 universities will continue to focus on delivery of an excellent and broad education to their students, based in top quality international research and engagement, providing outstanding graduates with the flexibility to meet the future challenges presented by a rapidly changing world.
“Our priorities do not change – a focus on research, international engagement and a post-secondary education system that provides the workforce for our times.
“On Election night, Prime Minister Scott Morrison was euphoric in his words about the great country Australia and its people are. The Go8 universities work exceptionally hard to safeguard our nation’s future prosperity and global competitiveness.
“In the lead-up to the Federal election we set out the key priorities that we believe would deliver an integrated vision of research, education and international engagement in higher education and across post-secondary education more broadly, irrespective of who won on Saturday. These priorities set out the national benefit from supporting Australia’s world-leading higher education sector, as well as the significant consequences of not doing so.
“The Go8 is keen to work cooperatively with the Government of the day, helping to deliver new opportunities for Australia to create new knowledge, innovate in a broad range of fields and educate the people who will deliver economic advantage for Australia and improved living standards and health for all Australians,” Professor Freshwater said.
Media contact: Vicki Thomson Go8 Chief Executive (+61) 407 808 472