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Welcome to Government Matters, your online resource for all things relevant across all levels of government – Commonwealth, state and territory, and local government.

On this page you will find our latest thinking in the form of alerts, publications, articles and opinions. With our insights all in the one place, we aim to make it as easy as possible to find what you are looking for to support you in the work you do every day.

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6 February 2026 | Higher education reform series

The governance of Australia's public universities has become a focal point for national debate, driven by concerns around transparency, accountability, and the balance of power within institutions. As universities navigate shifting funding models, heightened public scrutiny, and increasingly complex social expectations, longstanding governance structures will need to be reassessed to ensure they remain fit for purpose. The conversation is ultimately about how to preserve universities’ public mission while equipping them to operate effectively in a rapidly changing environment.

6 February 2026 | A structure for culture - Expert Council on university governance principles

The release of the governance principles by the Expert Council on University Governance re-focuses governing board members on their accountability for the culture within Australian universities and will require universities to review and align their existing governance structures.

6 February 2026 | Bunnings use of facial recognition - Appeal Panel decision decided collection is authorised

The Guidance Appeal Panel of the Administrative Review Tribunal has handed down its decision.

6 February 2026 | Key lessons from the Bunnings facial recognition decision

The decision offers important guidance for any organisation considering the use of facial recognition technology.

4 February 2026 | Conclusion of Senate Inquiry into Quality of Higher Education Governance

The final report of the Senate Inquiry raises important issues around the proper role of universities, the duties of governing board members, employment compliance issues and interjurisdictional regulation.

29 January 2026 | NSW Government procurement reform Part 5 – Local Jobs First

In this fifth article in the series we discuss the release of the draft Local Jobs First Bill and accompanying Local Jobs First Regulation.

16 December 2025 | Construction Update - December 2025

Welcome to the fourth issue of the Construction Update, our annual review of the issues facing an industry responding to economic pressures and operational challenges.

16 December 2025 | Ex tempore decision in Services Australia v Anatoly Kern

In this proceeding the Services Australia contended that the disclosure of positional email inboxes should be conditionally exempt under section 47E(d) of the FOI Act.

12 December 2025 | Sparke Helmore has been ranked in the Chambers Asia-Pacific 2026 Guide

We are pleased to announce that Sparke Helmore has been ranked in four categories in the Chambers Asia-Pacific 2026 Guide. The celebration continues with seven partners being recognised in their respective categories.

11 December 2025 | 12 Days of (Christmas) FOI

Our Information Law team has put together the FOI version of the 12 Days of Christmas.

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