Higher Education Support Amendment (End Dirty University Partnerships) Bill 2025

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Thursday 13 February 2025 · Senate

   First Reading
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2. Thursday 13 February 2025 · Senate

   Second Reading

   Senator Mehreen Faruqi introduced the bill to prohibit public universities from forming monetary partnerships or investments with weapons, fossil fuel, tobacco, and gambling industries. She argued that such links contradict the public good mission of higher education and cited specific examples of university ties to arms manufacturers and fossil fuel research. The legislation requires divestment within six months and allows for Commonwealth compensation for funding shortfalls. The debate was adjourned after the senator sought leave to continue her remarks later.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned after Senator Faruqi sought leave to continue her remarks later.

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3. Thursday 6 November 2025 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The debate centred on whether public universities should be prohibited from partnering with or investing in weapons, fossil fuel, gambling, and tobacco industries. Greens senators argued the bill was necessary to protect academic integrity and prevent complicity in climate change and conflict, citing specific university investments in weapons manufacturers. Liberal senators opposed the bill, claiming it was unworkable, overly broad, and would stifle innovation and research by restricting legitimate partnerships and board appointments. The government remained silent throughout the debate. The bill was not passed.

   Outcome: The bill was not passed.

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