Higher Education Standards Panel announced

Minister for Education and Training, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, today announced the new Chair and members for the Higher Education Standards Panel which will replace the TEQSA Advisory Council.

Mr Pyne thanked the outgoing members of the Higher Education Standards Panel for their valuable work during their three year appointments and announced the members of the TEQSA Advisory Council as the new Higher Education Standards Panel.

“In reviewing the Higher Education Standards Framework through a consultative and iterative process, the Panel members have set a benchmark for the higher education sector,” Mr Pyne said.

“By appointing the members of the TEQSA Advisory Council to the Higher Education Standards Panel and disbanding the Council, the Government is delivering on its commitment to smaller government while continuing to enhance the quality of higher education.”

The Higher Education Standards Panel will now be chaired by Professor Peter Shergold AC, Chancellor of the University of Western Sydney and former Secretary of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Professor Shergold will be supported by Professor Alan Robson AO, Professor Greg Craven, Ms Karen Thomas and the Hon Mr Phil Honeywood.

“I am expecting that by bringing the members of the TEQSA Advisory Council into the role of the Higher Education Standards Panel, they will not only continue the good work of the previous panel but will also guide TEQSA as it continues its work upholding quality in higher education,” Mr Pyne said.

“I would like to thank Professor Alan Robson AO for his valuable work in chairing the Higher Education Standards Panel for the last three years and for agreeing to provide continuity in the Panel’s work by remaining as a member. I would also like to thank the outgoing members of the Panel, Professor Richard James, Ms Adrienne Nieuwenhuis, Emeritus Professor David Siddle and Professor Joanne Wright,” Mr Pyne said.