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Each WA university has its own unique value proposition and culture .
Structural change
Independent review to assess Western Australia ’ s university sector .
By Emilie Lauer
Western Australia will conduct an independent review of the state ’ s four public universities to address a drop in student numbers and research funding over the past decade .
In February , state premier Mark McGowan appointed a panel of experts to analyse the financial viability of Murdoch University , Edith Cowan University , Curtin University and the University of Western Australia .
He said between 2010 and 2019 , WA had the smallest percentage growth in university enrolments in Australia , with research funding falling from 11 per cent to 2.9 per cent .
“ It ’ s critical that we have the right settings in place to give WA ’ s public universities the best chance of success ,” the premier wrote in a statement .
James Cook University former Vice- Chancellor Professor Sandra Harding will lead the panel and propose “ structural change options ” to the state ’ s universities to improve their overall performances and finances .
Other panellists include WSU former Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Shergold AC , former Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister Dr Ian Watt AC and University of Adelaide Faculty Dean Professor John Williams .
The four universities have welcomed the announcement of the review .
UWA Vice-Chancellor Professor Amit Chakma said the university would work closely with the review panel .
“ UWA welcomes the State Government ’ s interests in maximising education opportunities and the integral knowledge , expertise and researchdriven contribution that our universities make to the State ’ s current and future society and economy ,” Professor Chakma said .
ECU Vice-Chancellor Professor Steve Chapman said the university currently accounts for more than 30,000 students and expects growth after the completion of its new city campus in Perth CBD . “ ECU is thriving ,” Professor Chapman said . “ The universities in Western Australia serve a diverse population , and it is our diversity that is one of our greatest strengths . We will ensure that this is acknowledged in the review .”
Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne said Curtin ’ s graduates have the highest employment rate in the state and contribute to the global economy .
“ Each WA university has its own unique value proposition and culture , and students benefit from the opportunity to choose the university that best fits their needs and interests ,” Professor Hayne said .
Murdoch University Vice-Chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks has welcomed the review but questions its timing .
“ This review is an opportunity to articulate the value WA universities add to our society , our industries and our economy and to look at opportunities to enhance that value ,” Professor Deeks said .
“ I am , however , somewhat concerned with the timing of this review , coming as it does on the heels of the release of a Discussion Paper by the Australian Universities Accord Panel .”
The report will be finalised by the second half of 2023 . ■
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