If Australia is going to prosper in the years ahead – we’re going to need far more tertiary educated workers. That’s the central finding of the Universities Accord report out today – which recommends sweeping changes to recruit more students – particularly from regional, remote, and disadvantaged backgrounds. It’s calling for a shake-up of course fees, more resources for regional unis, more financial support for those struggling to make ends meet while studying, and an overhaul of student loan repayments. Is the government up for serious reform and investment? We’ll find out soon.
In the meantime – we’re 6 days out from the Dunkley by-election – the first real test for Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton this year. The Prime Minister’s pitch to voters over the past week has been all about cost-of-living – talking up his tax cuts and better news on wage growth. While the Opposition Leader has been hammering away on his favoured ground - border protection. Listen to the full episode of this week's Insiders.