A new proposed bill could see university students who fail half their subjects in their first year lose access to government subsidies and loans. The scheme forms part of a crackdown on excessive enrollments and HELP debts that are not being repaid.

Education Minister Dan Tehan said these measures will ensure students can’t take on a study load they won’t complete, leaving them without a qualification but a large debt.

The Daily was joined by Andrew Norton, professor of higher education policy at Australia National University, to discuss the bill, and why there is a perceived need for it.