Tertiary Education Minister Penny Simmonds and Associate Minister David Seymour announced changes to the Education and Training Act.
Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds and Associate Minister of Education David Seymour unveiled legislation amendments aimed at bolstering freedom of speech obligations on universities. The proposed changes aim to promote a diverse and inclusive academic environment, enabling students to engage with various viewpoints.
Key reforms include setting clear expectations for university approaches to freedom of speech issues, promoting an environment where ideas can be challenged and diverse opinions expressed. University councils will take the lead in safeguarding and championing academic freedom, with annual reporting on commitments and robust complaint systems in place.
The legislation seeks to address a growing trend of universities deplatforming speakers and cancelling events deemed controversial or offensive. Minister Simmonds emphasized that universities should promote diversity of opinion and encourage students to explore new ideas and perspectives.
Minister Seymour stated that the changes align with the National/ACT coalition agreement, which committed to introducing protections for academic freedom and freedom of speech. The proposed amendments are expected to be introduced into Parliament in March 2025 and enacted by the end of 2025, with universities given six months to develop and approve their freedom of speech statements.