AUSTRALIA: Union fee change hits universities

The introduction of voluntary student unionism has cost Australian universities $161 million a year since it came into effect in 2006, reports the Sydney Morning Herald. A Federal Government report has highlighted its devastating impact on campuses, where basic services have been cut due to lack of funding.

The findings are revealed in the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations' summary report on the impact of the voluntary scheme. The report, which was compiled in March and April from 162 submissions from higher education stakeholders, cost taxpayers $50,000. It paints a grim picture of campus life.

"Most submissions concluded that the abolition of upfront compulsory student union fees had impacted negatively on the provision of amenities and services to university students, with the greatest impact at the smaller and regional universities and campuses," it said.
Full report on the Sydney Morning Herald site