The 2026 Intergenerational Report reinforces that Australia’s future prosperity will increasingly depend on research, innovation and advanced skills.
As population growth slows and artificial intelligence (AI) and clean energy reshape the economy, the nation’s research-intensive universities will be central to driving productivity, building sovereign capability and ensuring Australia remains competitive and secure.
Group of Eight Chief Executive Vicki Thomson said: “ Today’s Intergenerational Report delivers a clear message – the nation’s long‑term prosperity will depend on our ability to generate new knowledge, adopt advanced technologies, and build a highly skilled workforce.”
“The 2026 report highlights major transitions already underway, including the AI revolution, an ageing population, energy transformation and intensifying global competition, making it essential to invest in the skills and research capacity that underpin national resilience and economic strength.”
“Australia’s industrial base is shifting further toward services and technology‑enabled industries, reinforcing the need for deep expertise, innovation capability, and research translation. Research, advanced skills and technological capability are not optional — they are the foundation of Australia’s economic strength, national resilience and global competitiveness.”
Treasurer Jim Chalmers noted: “The global and generational risks are serious, but Australia’s opportunities are endless”.
Ms Thomson said: “With the right policy settings, Australia’s leading research-intensive universities are well equipped to deliver the research, innovation and advanced skills that will determine Australia’s economic strength over the next 40 years.”
“International education, particularly high-quality research students, will become even more strategically important. Go8 universities are central to attracting world class research talent and training the high-skilled workforce who will drive innovation and secure Australia’s productive future.”