CAPA welcomes initiative of Victorian Nationals on VSU Bill

The Council of Australian Postgraduate Associations welcomes the resolution adopted at the State Conference of the Victorian National Party calling on the Federal Government to amend the so-called Higher Education Support Amendment [Abolition of Compulsory Up- front Student Union Fees] Bill 2005 by adopting the current Victorian model of Voluntary Student Union membership.

"CAPA opposes any form of anti-student organisation legislation. The Bill in its current form severely limits students' choice and opportunities, and will have a negative impact on the educational experience of all students. It is ideologically driven, and therefore constitutes an insidious form of anti-student organisation legislation", said Mr Horton.

"Regional universities and the communities they serve will be hard hit by the current Bill. Students across Australia will lose vital services such as childcare, sporting programs, academic advocacy, orientation programs, and representation. This will not only affect those studying at regional universities, but also students from rural areas studying at metropolitan universities. The Victorian Nationals have recognised the threat to these services and moved to amend the legislation so these vital services to students can continue", Mr Horton concluded.

CAPA calls on the Government to take notice of the resolution and enter immediate negotiations with all stakeholders to amend the legislation.