Summary of feedback from the 2025 consultation on education fees.
Thanks to all individuals and groups who provided submissions and feedback during the recent SWRB Education Fees consultation. Submissions on the education fees consultation were received via survey monkey and email from groups and individuals, and we would like to acknowledge the time and effort put into each submission.
Consultation themes
The feedback was complex and multi-layered. Initial analysis of submissions has identified the following themes, with more detailed analysis likely to yield further insights.
- The desire for consultation on the Prescription and Monitoring framework. While the consultation was limited to the proposed fees model, we received substantial feedback on the Prescription and Monitoring framework itself. The consultation reveals that a wider group of stakeholders wish to provide additional feedback and engage on the Prescription and Monitoring framework.
- The desire for consultation on the Prescription and Monitoring framework. While the consultation was limited to the proposed fees model, we received substantial feedback on the Prescription and Monitoring framework itself. The consultation reveals that a wider group of stakeholders wish to provide additional feedback and engage on the Prescription and Monitoring framework.
- Concern about cost equity. There is a concern that smaller and regional Tertiary Education Organisations (TEOs) will be disadvantaged. This is due to the change in fee calculation for the programme support fee from a student numbers-based fee to a flat fee and the higher travel costs expected for regional TEOs.
- Increasing fees and SWRB surplus. There is a perception that fees are increasing while SWRB have posted an end of year surplus. Further information on the financial implications of a surplus will be provided to clarify this.
- NZQA and SWRB roles. There is a perception that the SWRB could rely on the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) reviews for quality assurance. Further information to clarify the differing roles of each organisation will be provided.
Next steps
Analysis is ongoing and early in the new year we will provide a more comprehensive report and opportunities for further engagement.
A decision on the education fees as proposed in the consultation has been deferred and the education fees will be consulted on as part of the wider fees consultation the SWRB will engage on towards the end of 2026.