I believe that investing in our universities is investing in our future. I don't want Australia to be left behind, but I believe that's what will happen without proper, ongoing public investment in our universities.
Our workforce will demand more qualified graduates, our economy will rely on the creation of new companies, industries, jobs and opportunities that can only come from a strong university sector. Highly skilled graduates are what our economy needs to prosper as global competition intensifies.
Australian universities give back to the country in countless ways. University research and innovation continues to put Australia on the world stage, international education is our biggest export besides resources, universities employ over 120,000 people and directly contribute over $25 billion to our GDP. They are an investment in the future.
I call on you to lend this issue bipartisan support and to ensure proper, ongoing public investment in university education and research.
Let the community know that you won't let Australia get left behind.