NTEU criticises Abstudy cuts
By Marina Cameron
On September 9 the National Tertiary Education and Industry Union publicly pledged support for a national day of action on September 11, organised by indigenous educators to fight cuts to Abstudy. Students, educators and their supporters rallied around the country on that day to condemn the government attack.
Dr Bob Morgan, chair of the union's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Policy drafting committee, said the union expected that more than the government's own estimate of 3000 students would have their benefits reduced or revoked by changes due to be implemented in January.
NTEU president Carolyn Allport said the union was also very concerned about the flow-on effects on indigenous employment in higher education. Indigenous higher education units will also lose funding, if student numbers drop." The results could be closure of career opportunities and job losses in some areas."
Dr Allport said that the budget changes pre-empted a recently completed ATSIC review of Abstudy, and were totally unjustified.
In Perth more than 100 people — Aboriginal students from all four universities, their families and supporters — protested. As the rally marched through the city numerous onlookers decided to take part.
Using an open microphone at the DEETYA offices, speakers highlighted the importance of fighting the cuts being made to all students — high school, TAFE and university.
From Canberra, Martin Iltis reports that indigenous students and their supporters rallied, organised by the Jabal Centre, which represents Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at the Australian National University. They gathered at lunchtime at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy before marching to Parliament House.