PoliticalClaims.au

While the claim that the Coalition cut $170 million from the Research Training Scheme is factually accurate, the full picture reveals this was part of a broader pattern of higher education budget constraints affecting both major parties: **The Coalition's rationale:** - The changes were part of a comprehensive higher education reform package - The government argued that allowing student contributions (with HELP loans) was a more sustainable funding model - The same budget prioritized medical research through the $20 billion MRFF [2][4] **Context of budget repair:** - Both parties sought savings from the higher education sector - Universities Australia's analysis shows $3.9 billion in net contributions from the sector between 2011-2017 under both governments [3] - The $170 million RTS reduction was smaller than Labor's $2+ billion cuts the previous year **Impact on research students:** - Research students faced new fees up to $3,900 per year (or $1,700 for low-cost courses) - However, HELP loan availability meant upfront costs were not required - The policy was intended to be implemented from 2016, giving universities time to adjust This was not unique Coalition policy - both parties have reduced university and research funding when facing budget pressures.