UPDATE: Vicki Thomson, chief executive of the Group of Eight, has issued a critical warning regarding the potential mergers of universities in Western Australia. Speaking ahead of her keynote address at the University of WA Public Policy Institute Higher Education Summit on Thursday night, Thomson emphasized that while merging institutions could drive much-needed reform, the process is fraught with challenges.
Thomson remarked, “Merging is not an easy process because it involves bringing together different institutional cultures.” Her comments come as the Cook Government explores the viability of university mergers in WA, with a report expected by the end of the year from a committee led by former Labor minister Alannah MacTiernan.
With four public universities in WA offering similar courses, the need for structural reform is pressing. Thomson highlighted that the current system has remained unchanged since the 1980s, stating, “We’re still operating under a system that was developed in the 80s, and it’s now 2025.”
The Group of Eight, which includes prestigious institutions like UWA and the recently merged Adelaide University, is advocating for a strategic approach to mergers. UWA has already evaluated the potential benefits of amalgamating with Curtin or Murdoch University, although neither has reciprocated interest.
Thomson emphasized the necessity of achieving “scale” and “critical mass” to attract research funding and compete on a global stage. She identified UWA as a key “anchor institution,” stating, “UWA is the globally-ranked leading research institution in this State and punches above its weight nationally.”
While mergers could alleviate financial pressures, Thomson cautioned they would not resolve the deeper governance and regulatory issues plaguing the system. “It has to be right for the local circumstance,” she stated, reflecting on the recent decision in South Australia to reduce its number of universities from three to two.
If a merger is recommended, Thomson warned that the process would take time, potentially spanning two to three years. “It’s a huge process,” she said, underscoring the importance of ensuring that students benefit from any changes.
As WA grapples with the complexities of university mergers, the focus remains on creating a higher education landscape that meets modern demands while preserving the integrity of institutional cultures. Stakeholders will be eagerly awaiting the upcoming report from MacTiernan’s committee, which could shape the future of WA’s university system.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
