The Government should listen to regional universities concerns about the likely impact of its anti-student unionism legislation on regional campuses, according to the Australian Democrats.
Democrats Higher Education Spokesperson Senator Natasha Stott Despoja is in Armidale today for a Senate Committee inquiry into the Government's legislation to ban compulsory student union fees.
"Regional universities will be particularly disadvantaged by this legislation," Senator Stott Despoja said.
"The services student organisations offer such as counselling, childcare and advocacy are particularly important in regional and rural areas, where they often provide services to the community which would not otherwise be provided.
"Poorer students will also be hit hard by so-called voluntary student unionism, as many will not be able to afford the full cost of services currently subsidised by student associations.
"Students from lower socioeconomic status backgrounds are already suffering due to increased HECS fees and inadequate student income support measures.
"We know from the recent Senate inquiry into student income support which I am proud to have initiated that around 60 percent of students on income support payments are already living below the poverty line.
"In addition to the many services student organisations provide, they also play a key role in protecting students academic and social rights. It is essential student organisations are able to maintain this independent voice."
The Senate inquiry will examine the likely effects of the Government's anti-student unionism legislation on student organisations, the student body in general, and universities.
Witnesses appearing before the inquiry in Armidale today include the Vice-Chancellor of the University of New England; the University of New England Union; the University of New England Postgraduate Association; the University of New England Student Association; the University of Southern Queensland Guild; Australian University Sport; and, the Armidale Community International Sports Precinct Fundraising Committee.
