The Federal Government has released a consultation paper on the future arrangements for the allocation of funding to non-research Commonwealth support postgraduate places.

 

The consultation paper comes as the government released data that shows Commonwealth-supported postgraduate places have doubled over the last four years – from 16,500 in 2007 to 33,000 in 2011.

 

“The Government will continue to allocate postgraduate student places,” Minister for Tertiary Education, Senator Chris Evans said.

 

“However, it is important that the higher education sector has a say in the processes for allocating those places.”

 

The Government is now seeking submissions from the sector to inform its longer term approach to supporting postgraduate study. 

 

In particular, the Government is keen to fully understand the impact of possible approaches on the way in which universities deliver postgraduate programs, on students and employers. 

 

It is anticipated that a report and recommendations on Commonwealth supported postgraduate places will be finalised for consideration by the Government in conjunction with its consideration of the Base Funding Review.

 

The consultation paper and details of the consultation process, including how to make a submission are available at:www.deewr.gov.au/HigherEducation/Policy/PostgraduatePlaces

 

Submissions on the consultation paper close on Friday 16 December 2011.