🎓 Shadow Minister Julian Leeser's Call to Reform University Assessments

Julian Leeser, Australia's Shadow Minister for Education, has sparked a lively debate in higher education circles by urging universities to eliminate group assignments. Speaking at the Universities Australia annual conference in February 2026, Leeser argued that these collaborative tasks, often dreaded by students, undermine the fairness and credibility of degrees. 'I am calling on you to get rid of group assignments,' he stated in his address. 'There is always that student who does the work, and that student who reaps the benefit. Students feel, instinctively, that in many cases it is deeply unfair to assess them individually based on others’ work. It cheapens the degree.'

Leeser's comments come at a time when Australian universities are grappling with assessment practices amid shifting student demographics and post-pandemic learning shifts. With international students making up significant portions of cohorts—over 80 percent in some IT programs—he highlighted how group work can exacerbate inequities, particularly for those facing language barriers or discrimination. His speech also touched on broader reforms, including mandating on-campus attendance and reviving invigilated exams to bolster degree integrity.

Leeser, who previously served as policy and strategy director at the Australian Catholic University (ACU), brings insider knowledge to the table. Despite a 2023 ACU study suggesting students view collaborative group work positively in many ways, he contended that the drawbacks outweigh the gains unless exceptional circumstances justify them. This bold stance has resonated with many who have endured the frustrations of mismatched contributions in group projects.

Why Group Assignments Draw Such Strong Backlash from Students

Across Australian campuses, from the University of Sydney to Monash University, group assignments evoke groans and memes on social media. Students frequently complain about 'free riders'—teammates who contribute little yet share the grade. This phenomenon, known as social loafing in educational psychology, occurs when individuals exert less effort in a collective setting than they would alone. Surveys and anecdotal evidence paint a picture of widespread dissatisfaction.

For instance, online forums and X (formerly Twitter) posts reveal a chorus of frustration: 'Group assignments are the worst part of uni,' one Sydney student tweeted, echoing sentiments from thousands. A study on student perceptions at Murdoch University found that satisfaction with group work hinges on factors like perceived fairness and peer reliability, with unequal contributions being the top gripe.

International students, who comprise nearly half of enrolments at some institutions, face additional hurdles. Recent reports indicate that three in four experience racism, which can lead to exclusion or overburdening in groups. Language differences and cultural mismatches compound issues, turning what should be collaborative learning into a source of stress. In fields like business and engineering, where group projects simulate workplaces, the real-world parallel falls flat when teams implode over deadlines.

• Unequal workload distribution leaves diligent students carrying the team.
• Conflicts arise from differing communication styles and commitments.
• Grading ambiguity frustrates those who feel their efforts aren't rewarded proportionally.
• Time management suffers, especially for part-time or working students.

The Defended Value of Collaborative Learning in Higher Education

Despite the criticism, proponents of group assignments point to substantial research backing their role in skill development. Collaborative group work (CGW), as termed in academic literature, fosters teamwork, communication, and problem-solving—essential for graduate employability. A 2023 study published in Studies in Higher Education surveyed Australian undergraduates and found they perceived CGW as beneficial for engagement and peer learning, particularly when assessments were well-designed with peer support mechanisms.

In real-world contexts, professions from medicine to management rely on teams. Universities like the University of New South Wales (UNSW) emphasize group work in their teaching guides, arguing it mirrors industry dynamics. Benefits include:

• Exposure to diverse perspectives, enhancing critical thinking.
• Development of interpersonal skills valued by employers.
• Shared knowledge that deepens understanding of complex topics.
• Reduced marking load for lecturers, allowing focus on feedback.

However, effectiveness depends on structure. Poorly managed groups amplify negatives, while thoughtful interventions—like random allocation or contribution tracking—mitigate them. Leeser's outright ban overlooks these nuances, but his critique prompts reflection on when collaboration truly adds value.

Navigating Inequities: Racism, International Students, and Group Dynamics

Australian higher education's international focus amplifies group work pitfalls. With over 500,000 international students in 2025, diversity is a strength but also a challenge. A landmark Australian Human Rights Commission report from early 2026 revealed systemic racism on campuses, with 70 percent experiencing indirect discrimination. For group assignments, this translates to international students being sidelined or stereotyped as 'less capable' due to accents or cultural norms.

Leeser linked this to assessment fairness, noting high international concentrations risk community backlash on housing and services. Solutions must address root causes: universities could implement anti-bias training or hybrid models blending individual and group elements. For those eyeing careers post-graduation, platforms like higher ed jobs highlight roles valuing both solo and team skills.

Alternatives to Traditional Group Assignments: Innovative Paths Forward

Rather than ditching collaboration entirely, educators can pivot to fairer alternatives. Peer assessment tools, where students rate contributions, promote accountability. Jigsaw methods divide expertise among members, reassembling for synthesis—ideal for large classes.

Technology aids too: platforms like Microsoft Teams or Padlet enable asynchronous input, suiting global cohorts. Individual reflective reports on group processes add depth without shared grading. Universities like the University of Adelaide provide guidelines for effective group work, emphasizing clear roles and contracts.

• Adopt contribution logs or software for transparency.
• Hybrid tasks: group planning, individual execution.
• Project-based learning with self-selected teams post-midterm.
• Simulations or role-plays for low-stakes practice.

These shifts align with student demands while preserving benefits. Aspiring lecturers might explore career advice on becoming a university lecturer to design equitable assessments.

University Responses and the Path to Balanced Reform

As of late February 2026, Universities Australia has not issued a direct response to Leeser's proposal, but the sector welcomes dialogue. Past statements emphasize student-centered innovation amid regulatory pressures. Leeser's pledge to cut red tape resonates, potentially freeing resources for assessment overhauls.

Broader reforms could include mandatory individual components in all units and faculty training on inclusive practices. For students rating experiences, Rate My Professor offers insights into course structures before enrolling. Policymakers and administrators must weigh evidence: while group work has merits, fairness must prevail.

Photo by 0xk on Unsplash

For detailed coverage, see the Times Higher Education article on Leeser's speech.

Looking Ahead: Empowering Students in Australia's Higher Education Landscape

Leeser's intervention underscores a pivotal moment for Australian universities to prioritize equitable assessments. By blending individual merit with targeted collaboration, institutions can enhance graduate outcomes and satisfaction. Students, share your stories in the comments below—your feedback shapes change.

Explore opportunities at university jobs, refine your profile via higher ed career advice, or find roles in higher ed jobs. Whether pursuing lecturer jobs or professor jobs, understanding these dynamics prepares you for success.