"Chief Commissioner (full-time), First Nations Commissioner (full-time), Commissioner (part-time) - Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC)"

About the role

The Australian Government is seeking outstanding leaders to serve as the inaugural statutory Commissioners of the Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC). The ATEC will be established under the proposed Universities Accord (Australian Tertiary Education Commission) Act (the ATEC Act).

The Universities Accord (Australian Tertiary Education Commission) Bill 2025 was introduced into the Commonwealth Parliament on 26 November 2025. These statutory appointments are subject to the passage of the bill.

There are three positions available:

• Chief Commissioner (full-time)
• First Nations Commissioner (full-time)
• Commissioner (part-time)

About you

ATEC Commissioners will play a central role in shaping the strategic direction and governance of the ATEC, ensuring it fulfils its legislative purpose and operates with integrity, transparency and collaboration. These appointments offer a unique opportunity to contribute to the effective stewardship of the higher education system, working collectively to advance high-quality equitable outcomes across higher education and VET. Each Commissioner will have distinct statutory functions and together the Commissioners will hold collective responsibility for the ATEC’s leadership and governance.

Each Commissioner will bring unique expertise and together will build an institution that strengthens collaboration and drives lasting improvement across the system.

Our ideal applicant will demonstrate:

• A deep understanding of the tertiary education system (higher education and VET), and demonstrated capacity to provide independent, evidence-based advice on tertiary education policy and funding.
• Experience and knowledge in building a collaborative and cohesive ecosystem across multiple organisations, enabling better educational outcomes for students and the wider community.
• Commitment to integrity, equity and inclusion in tertiary education, including in relation to regional Australia.

Under the proposed ATEC Act, the role of the First Nations Commissioner must be undertaken by an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.

Applications

To apply, please visit the Future Leadership website: https://futureleadership.com.au/

Please address your cover letter and resume to Grant Nichol and Andrew Norton of Future Leadership, or call 1300 347 437 for further information.

Closing date: 29 January 2026