Job-ready Graduates Package

Sitou argued that the previous government had undermined the higher education sector and that the current government was delivering on promises to fix the system. Sitou highlighted the $16 billion in student debt relief provided by cutting 20 per cent off all student debts and the introduction of a fairer repayment threshold starting at around $67,000. Sitou also pointed to structural fixes such as the correction of HECS indexation and new support for students in essential care professions through Commonwealth prac payments. Sitou stated that reforming the complex higher education system requires a systematic and sustainable approach based on the Universities Accord.

Watson-Brown criticised the Labor government for not reversing the fee hikes introduced by the previous administration and for maintaining an indexed debt system. Watson-Brown argued that the tax system was broken, with students paying significantly more revenue through HECS than fossil fuel companies paid through the Petroleum Resource Rent Tax. Watson-Brown contended that free university was a viable option, citing examples from other countries, and suggested that taxing mining corporations properly could fund such an approach. Watson-Brown stated that while she would not block the small debt reduction, much more action was needed to address the unfairness of the current system.

Chesters acknowledged the spirit of the motion and highlighted the government's delivery of the 20 per cent student debt cut, which benefited 17,000 people in her electorate. Chesters discussed the implementation of Universities Accord recommendations, including improved pathways from vocational education to university and the introduction of fee-free uni-ready places. Chesters noted that while progress had been made, there was still work to be done regarding the Job-ready Graduates Scheme, particularly concerning the high fees charged to arts and humanities students. Chesters affirmed that the government aimed to address these injustices as part of the broader reform process.