We are responsible for managing the New Zealand Government's approximately $3 billion annual funding for tertiary education. We also provide policy advice and implementation across the sector, and support tertiary education organisations to be accountable, self-improving and self-managing.

We give effect to the Government's requirements for tertiary education as outlined in the Tertiary Education Strategy and act in accordance with our role and responsibilities as set out in the Education Act 1989.

All forms of post-secondary school education and training come under our umbrella. These range from literacy and numeracy education to academic study, Modern Apprenticeships and work-related training through to doctoral research.

We were established in 2003.