24/25.10.2002 German - Australian Conference on Higher Education Financing

The Australia Centre Berlin is pleased to be working with the Hochschulrektorenkonferenz (HRK) in convening the German- Australian Conference on Higher Education Financing, to be held at the Australian Embassy Berlin, on 24-25 October 2003. The HRK is the umbrella organisation of all universities in Germany, akin to the Australian Vice-Chancellors' Committee (AVCC).

Higher education reform is currently a topic of great debate in both Germany and Australia. In both countries, much of the debate is focussed on the issue of student contributions to university funding.
In Australia, the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) is undergoing significant reforms, including the partial deregulation of fees allowing universities to increase student contributions. In Germany university students have never paid tuition fees.
However, due to the universities. increasing financial difficulties, the idea of student contributions is currently under close examination.

The conference will continue our work in generating a positive impact on policy formulation in Germany and Australia. With the eminent group of speakers we have assembled, the conference will provide the ideal forum for thoughtful debate on a subject of great importance to both countries. We hope to learn from each other, develop strong policies, and continue our positive collaborations in the future.

Ditta Bartels
Managing Director
Australia Centre Berlin

For further information and registration, please visit the webpage of our institutional member www.australiacentre.org

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