TEQSA registers Australian College of Theology as an Australian University

The TEQSA Commission has confirmed the registration of the Australian College of Theology (ACT) in the Australian University category.

The decision followed consultation with state and territory ministers responsible for higher education following a decision by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal in October 2024.

The Tribunal's decision noted that TEQSA needed to consult with the responsible state and territory ministers in accordance with Section 39 of the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency Act 2011 (TEQSA Act).

In making its decision, TEQSA noted that the Tribunal had formed the view that ACT met the requirements for registration as an Australian University, and State and Territory Ministers did not oppose the change in provider status.

The Australian College of Theology was founded in 1891 and was granted self-accrediting authority in 2010 and gained University College status in 2022. It has approximately 3,000 students enrolled in courses in Theology, Ministry and Christian Studies.

Comments attributable to TEQSA Acting Chief Commissioner, Ms Adrienne Nieuwenhuis

"Following the Tribunal's ruling and in accordance with the TEQSA Act, TEQSA consulted with all state and territory ministers with responsibilities for higher education.

"Having given consideration to feedback from the relevant Ministers, the TEQSA Commission confirmed the decision to register the Australian College of Theology in the Australian University category on 20 December 2024."

"On behalf of the TEQSA Commission, I congratulate the Australian College of Theology on achieving registration as the nation's 44th university."