The Australian Centre for Student Equity and Success (ACSES) warmly welcomes today’s official launch of the Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC) and the appointment of its inaugural interim Commissioners.
The establishment of ATEC as an independent steward for Australia’s higher education system marks a significant milestone in the delivery of the Australian Universities Accord reforms.
With a clear mandate to create a more equitable and effective tertiary education system, ATEC will play a central role in helping Australia reach the Government’s target of 80 per cent tertiary attainment among the working-age population by 2050.
ACSES Executive Director Professor Shamit Saggar said ATEC’s launch was a pivotal moment for advancing fairness in higher education.
“The Commission will be integral to embedding equity, harmonising pathways across tertiary education, and promoting a diverse and inclusive higher education landscape,” Professor Saggar said.
“ATEC will give meaning the Universities Accord’s vision of an expanded university sector with equity outcomes baked in. It is, therefore, a landmark moment for student equity in Australia.”
ACSES welcomes the appointment of Professor Mary O’Kane AC as interim Chief Commissioner, alongside Professor Barney Glover AO and Professor Larissa Behrendt AO, whose combined expertise in education, leadership, and equity provides a strong foundation for bold reform.
ATEC officially commences interim operations today and will become fully operational from 1 January, 2026, subject to the passage of legislation. ACSES looks forward to working closely with the Commissioners to ensure students from all backgrounds can access, participate in, and succeed in higher education.
Media Contacts:
Miriam Fisher, ACSES Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Manager
Tel: (08) 9266 4327 Mobile: 0478 266 357 Email: miriam.fisher@curtin.edu.au
