There are more than 100,000 students in Australia who choose to study with a non-university higher education provider.

We choose these learning institutions because they suit our educational goals, career aspirations and personal circumstances.

The degree we receive is of equal value to its equivalent at a public university.

But we are penalised for this choice.

As a student studying with a private higher education provider, we cannot access government financial support. Unlike students who study at public universities, we pay full fees and an extra 25% on our HECS debt.

We call on the Senators of the Australian Parliament to support student choice. Why should we be disadvantaged simply because of where we choose to study?

Education is about increasing opportunity for all.

We urge you to pass the government’s higher education reforms so that all students may have access to government supported places regardless of where they choose to study.

After all, it’s all about choice.