Filling the places: managing government-supported student numbers in Australian public universities

Most government funding for domestic Australian places is paid to universities as a flexible block grant. Using a multiple case study approach, this paper explores internal university decision-making on the government-supported student places funded by this block grant. It analyses who contributes to the decision-making process, the factors they consider, and how final decisions are made. Across all universities studied, a senior executive group is ultimately in charge. Levels of consultation and participation at the faculty level varied. The most participatory institution was also the smallest in our study, perhaps because direct communication is more feasible. Faculties retain most control over minimum academic entry standards. In all cases, compulsory work placements limit enrolments in courses where they are required. Planning offices were critical intermediaries in all institutions, collating internal and external sources of data to inform decision-making.