NEWCASTLE — On March 23, 170 students braved the rain and cold at the University of Newcastle to protest the federal Coalition government’s assault on student unions.

The university’s vice-chancellor, professor Nick Saunders, stated his opposition to “voluntary student unionism” (VSU) legislation. He then explained the “unfortunate necessity” of academic staff cuts due to a budget shortfall. The crowd jeered and heckled in response, demanding a guarantee that teaching quality wouldn’t suffer.

Corey Bell from the University of Newcastle Union, which provides food and entertainment services, said that he was fearful that campus social life would diminish under VSU, making the university a more sterile place.

Carl Harris, Newcastle University Students’ Association president, pointed out that VSU would stop students’ ability to resist the attacks proposed by the vice-chancellor in his speech.

During the rally, it was proposed that students join the annual May Day march to fight against VSU and attacks on trade unions.

Peter Robson

From Green Left Weekly, April 6, 2005.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.

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