Nearly 20% fewer lower socio-economic students studying law as Pocock calls to scrap Morrison-era job ready scheme

The Guardian World

by Krishani Dhanji

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A significant decline in university enrolments from students with low socio-economic backgrounds has been observed, dropping by 10% between 2020 and 2024. Independent Senator David Pocock has criticized the Morrison-era Job Ready Graduates (JRG) scheme for exacerbating inequality in higher education, labeling it "segregated." Introduced under former Prime Minister Scott Morrison in 2021, the JRG scheme drastically altered degree costs, with arts degrees priced over $50,000 while science and mathematics fees were slashed by up to 59%. This disparity has discouraged students from disadvantaged backgrounds, who often prioritize affordable and accessible degrees. Experts argue that the scheme's unintended consequences have disproportionately impacted those it aimed to assist, leading to a reduction in diversity within higher education institutions. The JRG policy was designed to align university degrees with workforce demands but instead created financial barriers for many prospective students. Arts degrees, which are traditionally popular among low socio-economic students, became less affordable, while STEM fields saw increased subsidies due to their perceived alignment with economic priorities. This shift has led to a more fragmented education system, where access to certain degrees is determined by income levels rather than academic merit or interest. Critics, including Pocock, argue that this undermines the principle of equal opportunity and perpetuates social inequality. The broader implications of these changes are significant for global readers interested in issues of equity and social mobility. The trend towards higher education becoming increasingly inaccessible to those from disadvantaged backgrounds raises concerns about long-term societal impacts, such as reduced innovation, lower workforce diversity, and diminished opportunities for social advancement. Advocates for educational equity argue that policies like JRG risk creating a two-tiered system where only students from wealthier backgrounds can afford expensive degrees, further entrenching existing inequalities. In conclusion, the decline in low socio-economic student enrolments highlights the unintended consequences of the JRG scheme and underscores the importance of equitable access to higher education. As debates around education policy continue, the focus should be on ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have equal opportunities to pursue their academic goals without financial barriers. The current situation serves as a cautionary tale about the need for policies that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility over market-driven reforms.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/19/2026