Independent representation and services for postgrads

Universal membership of democratically elected student representative organisations is indispensable to protecting and promoting student rights. The representation and services provided by independent student organisations also contribute significantly to the development and maintenance of sound institutional governance practices, policy development, collegiality and procedural fairness.

CAPA’s report on the impact of voluntary student unionism (VSU) on postgraduate student associations (PGSAs) found that:

· At least 8 universities no longer have an independent organisation representing postgraduate students

· At least 4 PGSAs are surviving on less than 5% of their pre-VSU funding

· PGSA staff numbers have reduced by half and many roles diverted from advocacy and representative support

· Of 20 PGSAs that responded to a recent questionnaire, 30% are unable to provide advocacy services

Organisational restructuring on many campuses has meant that universities are increasingly involved, either directly or indirectly, in the governance and management of student organisations. Of particular concern is the threat this poses to the continued provision of independent representation and advocacy. As one PGSA commented in the recent CAPA questionnaire:

 Our biggest concern is that the new structure will silence the independent  student voice. Currently [the PGSA] can issue a press release, but we are  unsure what restrictions will be placed on [the new organisation] in this  regard. I suspect the question will not be resolved until [we have] a need to  issue a controversial press release.

Key Targets

· Require each institution to support representation and advocacy provided by independent student organisations

· Require that students decide and control the structure and governance of their representative organisation(s)

· Commonwealth to remove the “VSU” amendments from the Higher Education Support Act (HESA) and ensure adequate funding for student organisations

You can download a .pdf on independent representation and services for postgrads, or return to CAPA's Election Priorities for 2007. 

Authorised by Nigel Palmer, CAPA.  Printed by CAPA, Box 42, Level 3, Trades Hall 2 Lygon St, Carlton South, VIC 3053