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Performance indicators and data

Higher education providers receiving support from the Australian Government are responsible under the Higher Education Support Act 2003 for ensuring equity of access.  Supporting equity is an integral part of their general operations.

The Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST) provides additional support to universities for equity purposes.  Support for Indigenous students in higher education is administered through DEST's Indigenous and Transitions Group.  Other support for equity is administered through DEST's Higher Education Group.

Indigenous outcomes in higher education are monitored through the Department's annual Institution Assessment Framework and biennial visits to universities by members of the Indigenous and Transitions Group.


DEST provides National and State Performance Indicators in relation to Indigenous Higher Education access, participation, success and retention.  The indicators enable each institution to assess its performance from year to year, and to compare its performance with State and National data.

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