A Shorten Labor Government will work with our universities, industry and science agencies to get the incentives right to meet the needs of the future economy. 

From skill shortages in key occupations to productivity-driving opportunities in new industries, universities will be encouraged within the existing funding system to be more responsive to drivers of growth. 

In consultation with universities, Labor will establish an independent Higher Education Productivity and Performance Commission to drive these labour market outcomes. Similar Commissions are common in other developed economies; in the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Hong Kong, and provide good examples of best practice for Australia to consider.