Universities Accord (Opening the Doors of Opportunity) Bill 2026; Consideration of Senate Message

Opened the debate

Scrymgour raised a point of order regarding Senate amendment 36, arguing it raised a constitutional issue under section 53 of the Constitution. Scrymgour explained that the amendment changed the destination of money appropriated under the Higher Education Support Act 2003, thereby increasing the burden on an appropriation. Scrymgour noted that standing order 180 required a message from the Governor-General under section 56 of the Constitution for such changes. Scrymgour confirmed that the necessary message had been obtained, allowing the House to proceed with the proposal if it chose to do so.

Government response

Clare moved that the House endorse the Speaker's statement on the constitutional questions and disagree to the Senate's purported amendment 36 to adhere to procedure. After the message from the Governor-General was announced, Clare moved an identical amendment to replace the disagreed one, expanding the activities providers could use equity funding for, including supporting disadvantaged students. Clare then moved to agree to all other Senate amendments. Clare stated the bill would deliver $3.6 billion in additional funding and support 230,000 new students over ten years through managed-growth and needs-based funding systems. Clare thanked the shadow minister and Senate committee for their collaborative work in strengthening the legislation.

Opposition response

Leeser clarified that the government's disagreement with amendment 36 was a procedural necessity due to constitutional rules on money bills, not a policy objection. Leeser stated the coalition supported the bill, which now included two new universities, Alphacrucis University College and the Australian University of Theology, in the Higher Education Support Act. Leeser highlighted coalition amendments that guaranteed regional funding would not be diverted to inner-city campuses and secured powers to cap international student numbers based on national interest. Leeser criticised the government for rejecting coalition proposals on overenrolment, regional student support, and independent provider consultation, arguing these missed opportunities would increase costs and reduce student choice.