University Merger

The Hon. R.A. SIMMS (15:00): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before addressing a question without notice to the minister representing the Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science on the topic of university rankings.

Leave granted.

The PRESIDENT: The Hon. Mr Simms, just before you start, I noted your apology to me for your state of undress, and I know that it's not going to be a habit that we are going to have to put up with.

The Hon. R.A. SIMMS: Thank you, Mr President. I have made a rod for my own back, being such a fashion plate in this chamber.

The PRESIDENT: Well, that's the problem, isn't it?

The Hon. R.A. SIMMS: I acknowledge that. When you set the bar high, it's very hard. It was reported yesterday that UniSA's rankings have dropped in the latest QS World University Rankings from 340 down to 326, putting the university now below Flinders University, which is sitting at 336. Last year, the Joint Committee on the Establishment of Adelaide University heard evidence from the Hon. Chris Schacht, a former federal Labor minister, that there may be a dip in ratings for a few years for the new university. My question therefore to the Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science is:

1. Is the government concerned about the potential for a future fall in ratings for the new Adelaide University?

2. In particular, are they concerned about the impact this may have on the capacity of the new university to recruit international students?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector) (15:01): I thank the honourable member for his question. I will be happy to pass it along to the Deputy Premier in another place and bring back a reply.