National Student Ombudsman Levy Bill 2026

Mr HILL (Bruce—Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs and Assistant Minister for International Education) (18:42): I'll sum up the debate. These two bills relate to the funding of the National Student Ombudsman. I got excited when the shadow minister walked in—obviously because I love seeing him and because he's got an excellent first name.

I've always approved of that. There was that unfortunate term when we had another one, but he wasn't so good, so we dealt with him. But I understand he's here for the next debate.

Anyway, I do thank all members who've spoken, especially the government members. I think that last contribution summed up very well the broader context in which this bill sits and the work that the government's done to improve access and equity to higher education—particularly and perhaps most importantly for those students from the suburbs and the regions who may be the first in their families to go to university or pursue higher education or, indeed, TAFE.

It's just as important. You referred to the study hubs, cutting 20 per cent off all student debt, prac payments and so much more. It's certainly the passion that drives the Minister for Education.

It's the consistent thread through his work in early childhood, in schools funding and in post-school funding, and it's core to the mission of a Labor government. That's a speech for another day. One of my family stories is about how my mum couldn't afford the uniforms to go and finish year 12, and could never achieve her dream of being a doctor and going to uni.

It's core to our Labor values. Within that context, the work of the National Student Ombudsman is so important. It has given students a voice in the matters that concern them when they walk through the gates of our universities, and it's helping our universities to implement best practice too.

It's really important that it be set up for success to continue its work into the future. These bills establish the legislative framework to introduce a levy on higher education providers to recover the costs of administering the National Student Ombudsman and provide for collection arrangements associated with the levy and its payment. It's nerdy, and it's niche, but it's important.

The method for calculation of the amount of the levy will be set out in the regulations to this bill, following further consultation with the sector, and the bill makes clear—importantly, I'll finish on this point—that will be on a cost recovery basis. These things are done in accordance with the government's cost recovery framework, as is appropriate, and I commend the bills to the House.

Question agreed to. Bill read a second time. Ordered that this bill be reported to the House without amendment.