The Gillard Government's record investment in tertiary education has resulted in Australian universities being recognised amongst the world's best in rankings released today.

For the first time, the Academic Ranking of World Universities has placed five Australian institutions in the top 100, with 19 of Australia's 37 public universities making the top 500.

"This outstanding result is due in large part to the record $37 billion the Government has invested in our universities, as well as the hard work of Australia's universities," Minister for Tertiary Education Senator Chris Evans said.

"The Gillard Government's effort to build a world class higher education system for Australians has now received global recognition and success.

"Australia now has the third highest number of universities in the top 100. This is an outstanding result when you consider that the top two countries have significantly more universities than Australia's 37. There are 4495 universities in the United States and 115 in the United Kingdom.

"We are investing an unprecedented $38.8 billion over the next four years to profoundly change the higher education landscape by improving quality teaching and learning facilities and providing greater access to students from all walks of life.

"Our aim is to have 40 per cent of young people attending university by 2025 and we have already made significant gains with an additional 150,000 students grasping the opportunity of a higher education.

"These results show that the government can lift participation at the same time as excellence.

"In a changing economic world, Australia will need a much bigger pool of higher skilled and better educated workers for the jobs of the future.

"Increasing the number of graduates will boost Australia productivity and ensure our economy has the skilled workers it needs to meet industries demands."

Media Contact: Minister Evans' office, Rhys Davies 0411 138 572

16 August 2012