Country students will have a dedicated advocate as Australia’s first regional education commissioner is appointed.

Former Nationals minister Fiona Nash was announced as commissioner on Monday to ensure recommendations from the National Regional, Rural and Remote Tertiary Education Strategy — known as the Napthine review — are implemented.

She will serve a three-year term and report annually on the progress of the recommendations.

The role was established after the Napthine review found country Australians were less than half as likely to obtain a university degree by the age of 35, compared to those who lived in cities.

The commissioner will bring a national focus and direction for regional and remote education and champion the educational needs of students in regional communities.

Regional Education Minister Bridget McKenzie said Ms Nash would advocate fiercely on behalf of students who live and study in the regions.

Ms Nash said she welcomed the opportunity to work with governments at all levels, peak education organisations and regional and remote communities to improve educational outcomes for students.

– AAP