TEQSA regulator performance framework report 2015–2016

Overview

The Commonwealth Government released its Regulator Performance Framework (RPF or the Framework) in October 2014. The Framework was developed in consultation with a range of stakeholders, and consists of six outcomes-based key performance indicators covering:

  • reducing regulatory burden
  • communications
  • risk-based and proportionate approaches
  • efficient and coordinated monitoring
  • transparency
  • continuous improvement.

Commonwealth regulators that administer, monitor or enforce regulation are required to implement the Framework. The Framework applies from 1 July 2015, with the first assessment period being the 2015–16 financial year.

Under the Framework, TEQSA is required to self-assess its performance, and then obtain external validation of that self-assessment. The Higher Education Standards Panel has provided this external validation and the TEQSA accountable authority has certified the report. The report has also been provided to the Minister of Education and Training for noting.

TEQSA’s RPF consists of the following six key performance indicators (KPIs):

  1. Regulation by TEQSA does not unnecessarily impede the efficient operation of higher education providers
  2. TEQSA’s communication with higher education providers is clear, targeted and effective
  3. Regulatory actions undertaken by TEQSA are proportionate to the risks being managed
  4. TEQSA’s compliance and monitoring approaches are streamlined and coordinated
  5. TEQSA’s dealings with higher education providers are open, transparent and consistent
  6. TEQSA’s regulatory framework continues to be improved in consultation with stakeholders.

In December 2015, TEQSA obtained approval for the evidence metrics it proposed to use to assess its performance against these KPIs. The approval was provided by the Minister responsible for the RPF in the Education and Training Portfolio (the then Minister for Vocational Education and Skills, the Hon Luke Hartsuyker MP).