A report released today by Graduate Careers Australia shows that Australian university graduate outcomes remain strong, with more than 91 per cent of bachelor degree graduates finding employment within four months of finishing their degree, according to Minister for Tertiary Education, Senator Chris Evans.

TheGraduate Destinations 2010report states that 76.2 per cent of 2009 bachelor degree graduates had found full-time employment and a further 15.1 per cent secured part-time work within four months.

“This report highlights the value of a higher education degree and reflects demand for graduates to the productivity of the nation,” said Senator Evans.

“While the 2010 figures represent a slight decline from the 2009 graduate outcomes, these results were collected when advanced economies were in recession and reflect how well the Australian economy is performing relative to other countries.

“That’s why the Gillard Government has made a record investment in our nation’s universities, uncapped student places and set the ambitious target that by 2025, 40 per cent of 25-34 year olds will have attained a bachelor level or higher qualification.

“These reforms have succeeded in opening the doors of Australia’s universities to more students than ever before.

“As a direct result we have seen close to 100,000 additional students grasp the opportunity of a university education since 2007.

The Gillard Government is making education more accessible than ever, providing young Australians with opportunities and building a highly skilled and educated workforce for the 21st century.