In February 2008, the Hon Kate Ellis MP, Minister for Youth, invited universities, students, small business, sports and community groups to help inform the Government on the impact of the current VSU policy. Minister Ellis has invited submissions in response to a discussion paper on the issue of VSU by COB 11 March.
Minister Ellis also met with representatives from universities, students, small business, sports and community groups from across Australia during February and March to hear about the impact of VSU.
The consultation superseded a planned review of impact of the legislation which was to commence in June 2008.
The findings from the consultation supported the Government’s view that VSU has had a negative impact on student services, amenities and representation. Impact of Voluntary Student Unionism on Services, Amenities and Representation for Australian University Students – Summary Report presents a summary of the findings from the written submissions and consultations.
The Government is giving careful consideration to the outcomes of the consultation with the aim of achieving a sustainable, long-term solution to the issue.
The discussion paper can be found below:
Public submissions to ‘The Impact of Voluntary Student Unionism on Services, Amenities and Representation for Australian University Students’ Discussion Paper can be found here.
Equity and Structural Reform Branch
Workplace Productivity Unit
Acting Director: Deborah Mackay, telephone (02) 6219 3562
Email: UniStudentServices@deewr.gov.au