Discussion Paper re University Reforms

The Federal Minister for Health, The Hon Julie Bishop MP, recently launched a discussion paper entitled "The Bologna Process and Australia: Next Steps".

The Bologna Process currently involves 45 European countries working towards greater consistency and portability across their higher education systems. It was this process that provided the model for the proposed double degree for dentistry at The University of Melbourne (on which the ADAVB has lodged an opposing submission).

The discussion paper seeks feedback on the significance of Bologna for Australia and possible Australian responses, with submissions due to quality@dest.gov.au by 30 April 2006.

As this is a Commonwealth initiative, the ADA Inc. will be preparing the dental profession's submission on this, and to facilitate that process, the ADAVB invites members to forward comments and suggestions to me for compilation into a Victorian perspective which can inform the national position.