HouseDivision 2 · 9 Feb 2026

Universities Accord (Australian Tertiary Education Commission) Bill 2025 - Second Reading - Opposition concerns

Not passed41 aye · 95 no

What this vote was about

The majority voted against an amendment introduced by Berowra MP Julian Leeser (Liberal), which means it failed.

Amendment text

That all words after "That" be omitted with a view to substituting the following words:

"whilst not declining to give the bill a second reading, the House:

(1) notes with concern that:

(a) Australia's tertiary education sector is significantly over-regulated;

(b) providers report to multiple competing and overlapping bodies; and

(c) some providers are required by law to deal with more than 300 different pieces of legislation and regulation;

(2) affirms that the objective of tertiary education in Australia must focus on teaching, learning and research, and should otherwise be aimed at promoting a dynamic and innovative sector that provides a positive student experience, delivers value for money, improves Australia's productivity and supports Australian values;

(3) further notes widespread concern among the tertiary sector and expert stakeholders about the drafting of this legislation; and

(4) calls for this legislation to be the subject of proper and thorough scrutiny".

Context written by They Vote For You volunteers (ODbL), reproduced unchanged.

Second reading: The second reading vote decides whether the chamber agrees with the bill in principle. A second reading amendment attaches commentary or conditions to that agreement without changing the bill's text.

Related bills

Universities Accord (Australian Tertiary Education Commission) (Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Bill 2025

By party

Party	Aye	No
Australian Labor Party	0	87
Liberal–National Coalition	38	1
Independent	3	6
Australian Greens	0	1

Every vote

AYE (41)

NO (95)

Other divisions this sitting day

What the House divided on around this vote, in order.

9 Feb 2026Motions - Small Business - Adjourn debateHouse 89–42
9 Feb 2026Universities Accord (Australian Tertiary Education Commission) Bill 2025 - Second Reading - Agree with the bill's main ideaHouse 95–39