The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) is the national voice for academic and professional staff. CAUT represents more than 72,000 teachers, librarians, researchers, general staff, and other academic professionals at 125 post-secondary institutions across the country. CAUT works actively in the public interest to improve the quality and accessibility of post-secondary education in Canada. Universities, colleges and polytechnics are key public institutions that play an important role in Canadian society. From places of learning, research and discovery to economic hubs and community pillars, postsecondary institutions are at the forefront of innovation and problem-solving for the complex issues we face. CAUT here provides five recommendations for the 2025 Federal Budget: (1) Improve affordability; (2) Improve quality; (3) Advance reconciliation; (4) Enhance transparency; and (5) Better research.