Opened the debate
Clare supported the bill, arguing it was necessary to secure the long-term funding of the National Student Ombudsman through a cost-recovery model. The Minister noted that the ombudsman had resolved 78 per cent of the 7,690 contacts received since opening in February 2025. Clare stated that the levy would ensure students continued to access the service free of charge while higher education providers bore the costs. The Minister emphasized that the ombudsman had improved best practices, with 80 per cent of providers implementing changes based on its advice.