Stronger standards for university governance and tackling racism
The Albanese Government is strengthening the standards universities must meet to improve governance, transparency and action against racism. From today (Monday, 13 July), the University Governance Principles will become part of the standards and we are establishing a new standard on preventing and responding to racism. Strengthening governance Australian universities receive over $22 billion in public funding each year and play a central role in Australia’s civic, economic and social life through education and research.
With this public investment and their public role, universities should exhibit high standards of governance but too many are falling short. The Principles establish a clear governance framework for universities, similar to the ASX Corporate Governance Principles for listed companies. The Principles were developed by the Expert Council on University Governance, which included Chair Melinda Cilento, Sharan Burrow AC and Bruce Cowley.
Universities will be required to report to regulator TEQSA annually against these new Principles on an “if not why not” basis. The Principles set strong expectations across eight key themes: Accountability: Governance structures and accountabilities are well-defined, effective and transparent. Diversity of perspectives: Composition of the governing body enables purpose and performance.
Independence: Academic standards and freedom are respected and protected. Transparency: Purpose, strategy and performance are clear and openly communicated. Trustworthy: The university operates lawfully, ethically, responsibly, and consistent with its public purpose.
Inclusive and responsive: Expectations of the university's community and stakeholders are understood, respected and responded to. Sustainable: Risks are understood and managed effectively. Responsible: Workforce and remuneration are structured fairly and responsibly.
Public universities will be required to publish: the outcomes of governing body meetings and decisions; consultancy spending and its purpose; external roles held by vice-chancellors and senior executives; and annual remuneration reports, including vice-chancellor remuneration. Tackling racism The new anti-racism standard requires all higher education providers to maintain a safe and inclusive environment for students and staff.
Universities will be required to adopt definitions, including of antisemitism, racism towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and Islamophobia. They will need to implement transparent complaints processes and enable representation and participation in decision making. They will also have to provide clear guidance to students and staff on actions that enhance safety and security on campus and online.
The Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency will work with the sector to develop detailed guidance on how the new standards will operate. Attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare: “Anyone who doesn’t think there have been some challenges in university governance has been living under a rock. “This is about making sure our universities meet the standards their students, staff and whole communities expect.
“There is no place for antisemitism or any type of hate in our universities or anywhere else. “We announced this standard on 18 December as part of the Plan to Combat Antisemitism. It was also a recommendation of the Respect at Uni report into racism at universities.
“Unis will have to act to prevent racism and respond when it happens.”