Professor Mark Rose AM has been appointed First Nations Commissioner of the Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC).

Professor Rose bring brings more than four decades of Indigenous education experience across higher education, vocational education and training (VET), policy, governance, schooling and Indigenous community advocacy to the role.

The Gunditjmara man has held senior executive and academic leadership positions across universities and government, including as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Strategy and Innovation) at Deakin University.

Last year he was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of his contributions to Indigenous tertiary education.

ATEC Chief Commissioner, Professor Barney Glover, applauded Professor Rose's appointment.

"Professor Rose is an outstanding leader whose deep knowledge of education, policy and community engagement will be a tremendous asset to ATEC," Professor Glover said.

"I look forward to working with him to advance First Nations self-determination, strengthen outcomes for First Nations students and help deliver the reforms recommended by the Australian Universities Accord."

The federal government said the First Nations Commissioner plays an important role in delivering better outcomes for First Nations students in the tertiary education sector, including helping more First Nations students access tertiary education.

"Professor Mark Rose is one of Australia's most respected Indigenous educators and leaders," federal Minister for Education, Jason Clare, said.

"His work will be invaluable to help more First Nations students get to and get through university and get the skills and qualifications they need."

Legislation was introduced by the federal government in 2023 to uncap non-medical Commonwealth Supported Places for First Nations students commencing from 2024. This was extended to First Nations medical students commencing this year.

The government said in the last three years the number of First Nations students at university jumped by nearly 13 per cent, with preliminary data indicates this is up again this year.

"We want to see more First Nations students making the most of the opportunities that come from tertiary education, including through programs like Free TAFE," federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles, said.

"I look forward to working with Professor Rose alongside the entire ATEC to continue to expand opportunities for First Nations students."

Professor Rose has been appointed for a five-year term commencing 17 August 2026.

He joins ATEC Chief Commissioner Professor Barney Glover AO and Commissioners the Hon Fiona Nash, David Coltman and Professor Stephen Duckett AM.