Improved Services for UTAS Students from 2012
Tuesday, 11 October 2011
Students at the University of Tasmania will have access to better quality services and amenities when they return to campus next year, following the passage of the Higher Education Legislation Amendment (Student Services and Amenities) Bill 2010 through the Senate today.
Senator Singh said the Bill signalled a long overdue boost for student services, and was a big win for regional universities like the University of Tasmania (UTAS).
``When the Howard Government abolished Universal Student Unionism (USU) in 2006, students suffered from a massive decrease in student services,’’ Senator Singh said.
``The $2.2m funding shortfall the Tasmania University Union (TUU) has faced since changes to USU have meant that students have had less chance to participate in student culture – and less support for their studies.
``The Hobart-based student advocate is overwhelmed with students seeking help, and the TUU doesn’t have the money to hire a second advocate.
``Labor’s changes will allow higher education providers to require students to contribute to services and amenities on campus and a key feature of the new arrangements is that students can benefit from better services while they are at university but defer payment of the fee through the HECS system until they are earning a decent income.
``From next year, universities across Australia will be able to rebuild vital student services and amenities that will ensure support for growing student populations.
``Students will have improved access to a range of campus services, including sporting and recreational activities, employment and career advice, child care, financial advice and food services.’’
Senator Singh said that under the new legislation, higher education institutions can charge a fee of up to $263 per student in 2012. No student will be forced to join any student organisation and the Bill expressly prohibits fee revenue being used to support political parties.
``Over 1,000 new places have been created at the University of Tasmania in the last three years.
“This legislation will help UTAS restore the services and amenities that are vital to the learning and development of its growing student population.”