Merging WA universities could be one way to achieve much-needed structural reform — but Group of Eight chief executive Vicki Thomson has warned that no-one should under-estimate how difficult mergers could be.
UPDATE: Vicki Thomson, chief executive of the Group of Eight, has urgently called for university mergers in Western Australia as a critical step towards structural reform in higher education. Speaking ahead of her keynote address at the Higher Education Summit at the University of Western Australia on Thursday night, Thomson emphasized the complexities involved in merging institutions but insisted it is necessary for progress.
Thomson highlighted that the current educational framework is outdated, stating, “We’re still operating under a system that was developed in the 80s, and it’s now 2025.” She noted that while merging universities is challenging due to differing institutional cultures, it is vital for enhancing competitiveness and attracting research funding.
The Cook Government is actively exploring the potential benefits of university mergers in WA. A committee led by former Labor minister Alannah MacTiernan is expected to deliver findings by the end of the year. With four public universities in WA offering similar courses, the discussion around mergers is intensifying.
UWA has already assessed the prospect of merging with Curtin or Murdoch University, but both institutions have not shown interest in such collaborations. Thomson asserted that UWA stands out as a prime candidate for leading any merger discussions. “UWA is the globally-ranked leading research institution in this State and punches above its weight nationally,” she remarked.
She further elaborated on the need for universities to achieve a significant “scale” to effectively compete on a global stage. “An anchor institution like UWA is a very attractive proposition for international and national investment in research and development,” Thomson stated, underlining the importance of UWA in any potential merger scenario.
While Thomson acknowledged that mergers could alleviate financial and structural pressures, she cautioned that they alone would not resolve the deeper governance and regulatory issues facing universities. “It has to be right for the local circumstance,” she stressed, referencing the successful merger of universities in South Australia as a model for WA.
If a merger is recommended, Thomson indicated that it would be a lengthy process, potentially taking two to three years to implement. “It’s a huge process,” she said, emphasizing that the primary goal should be to ensure that students benefit from any changes made.
As discussions around university mergers gain momentum, stakeholders are urged to consider the implications for students, faculty, and the broader educational landscape. The urgency of these reforms cannot be overstated as WA universities face increasing challenges in a rapidly evolving academic environment.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
