Targeted legislative changes have been recommended in a Victorian Parliamentary committee report on university governance.
A key recommendation is to increase the number of staff and students’ representatives on the Councils of Victorian universities.
The report tabled in Parliament today by the Legislative Assembly Economy and Infrastructure Committee makes 37 findings and 17 recommendations.
“In the last few years, the tertiary education sector has experienced a national reputational crisis that has led to concerns about the priorities of these institutions,” said Committee Chair, Alison Marchant.
“Throughout the inquiry, it became clear that this crisis of confidence has affected all Victorian public universities. Restoring public trust in the sector is critical.”
Evidence received during the inquiry highlighted concerns regarding the transparency of decision-making processes and the accountability of university governing bodies.
“The Committee found these concerns to be both significant and widespread,” Ms Marchant said.
“In response, the Committee has made a series of recommendations aimed at improving transparency, strengthening accountability, and enhancing staff and student representation on university Councils. These reforms seek to rebuild trust and confidence in Victoria’s universities.”
Many of the recommendations focus on the process for appointment of members to the Councils of Victorian universities as well as public reporting by universities.
In particular, the Committee has recommended that the Victorian Government support the adoption of the Expert Council on University Governance Principles and expect Victorian universities to publicly report against these principles under Federal legislation.
During the inquiry, the Committee heard from all major stakeholders and experts in the tertiary education sector including Vice-Chancellors, staff and student unions, and individuals.
In its report, the Committee outlines the differing views expressed by inquiry participants. It notes that staff and students advocated for legislative reform, while universities were reluctant to suggest any changes.
“These competing perspectives highlight a central challenge facing the sector: how to strengthen the voice of staff and students in university governance and ensure that institutional decision-making remains focused on the interests of the university community,” Ms Marchant said.
The report is available on the Committee’s website, along with the submissions received and transcripts from public hearings.
