Universities Accord (Opening the Doors of Opportunity) Bill 2026

Summary

This legislation reforms Australia's higher education system to make university more accessible and affordable for students. It modifies the funding arrangements between the Australian government and universities, adjusts student contribution levels for different courses, and creates new support mechanisms for disadvantaged students entering tertiary education. The changes address concerns that current university costs and admission processes create barriers for low-income and regional students, aiming to increase participation rates across all communities by removing financial and practical obstacles to higher education.

What happens at this stage

The final vote in this chamber on the bill as a whole, after all amendments have been considered. If it passes, the bill moves to the other chamber to go through the same process. If both chambers have already agreed to identical text, the bill proceeds directly to Royal Assent.

Next: The other chamber, which runs the same process from First Reading, or Royal Assent if both chambers have already agreed