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Advocacy Update: Advocacy and Media Engagement in Early 2026


1 April 2026

In the first quarter of 2026, the Australian Higher Education Industrial Association (AHEIA) has continued to actively represent the higher education sector through both advocacy and media engagement.

By the end of Q1 2026, AHEIA has made a total of six submissions to various government bodies, contributing to key policy and legislative discussions impacting universities across Australia. These submissions reflect AHEIA's ongoing commitment to ensuring that the sector's voice is represented in national decision-making.

The submissions made to date include:

  • 12 February 2026 - Submission to the Senate Inquiry on the Fair Work Amendment (Right to Work from Home) Bill 2025
  • 13 February 2026 - Submission to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) regarding Fixed Term 333F Exceptions and Regulations for government and philanthropic funded sectors
  • 25 February 2026 - Submission to the Senate Inquiry into Productivity in Australia
  • 6 March 2026 - Submission to the Closing Loopholes Review
  • 10 March 2026 - Submission to the House of Representative Inquiry on the Operation and Adequacy of the National Employment Standards
  • 11 March 2026 - Submission to the Victoria Parliamentary Inquiry into University Governance

In addition to formal submissions, AHEIA has also engaged with the media on key issues affecting the sector. Media releases issued during this period have focused on productivity, workplace relations, and broader policy discussions, contributing to public dialogue and supporting informed debate.

Together, these activities form part of AHEIA's broader advocacy efforts to support fair, sustainable, and effective outcomes for the higher education sector. 

AHEIA will continue to engage with government, stakeholders, and the media throughout the year and will provide further updates on its activities.

Read more about the submissions
Read more about AHEIA media release

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AHEIA Conference 2026: Program Highlights
Salary Database Available to Members
FTC exemption extended
Sexual harassment book
Annual leave loading amount
Fixed term provisions
Push for national WFH rights
Academic overtime claim dismissed
Changes to the Fair Work Act
Modern awards review 2023 – 2024