The higher education system of Australia has both government and private institutions in it. If a university or college is seen as part of the higher education system (also known as tertiary education), then it was either established by or is recognised by the Australian government as a tertiary institution. Higher education programs include all of the schools that cover levels 1 through 10 according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The Australian Qualifications Framework distinguishes the Australian education system from many other countries. The AQF was established in 1995 and is a national policy that covers qualifications from the tertiary education sector (higher education and vocational education and training). Australia’s education system provides for flexible access to higher education. The tertiary education is different than many other countries. As of 2009, the Australia higher education system had 41 universities. 37 of the universities are public, 2 are private, and 2 of them are Australian branches of universities that are located overseas. There are also 3 self-accrediting higher education institutions.