Newcastle University staff say deficit size does matter

Several hundred concerned staff at the University of Newcastle today attended a forum organised by the Community & Public Sector union (CPSU). Resolutions were carried unanimously opposing any staff reduction as a result of the University of Newcastle's announced deficit, said by Vice-Chancellor Professor Saunders to be in the order of $28 million.

The meeting set up a Campaign Committee to investigate the financial status of the University and to encourage the University to admit publicly that the deficit is in fact far less than $28 million.

CPSU Branch President, Susan Eade, said, "Staff are angry that the University may not have been fully open with them. Our aim is to guarantee that the University is kept honest in this whole process and that staff are not made to bear the brunt of the slash and burn tactics of the new administration."

Ms Eade added, "It is surprising that the Union finds itself agreeing with the Minister, Brendan Nelson, but it appears he was right when he said that the University has excellent assets and reserves. The Union's analysis of the situation indicates the University simply wants to increase capital at the expense of jobs."

The meeting also demanded that the Federal Government restore Newcastle's funding as a regional university. This was previously removed by the Federal Government, costing the University $3.5 million a year.

Ms Eade said, "It is outrageous that the University of Wollongong, 80 kilometres south of Sydney, continues to receive regional funding while Newcastle, 160 kilometres to the north, doesn't. Clearly, this was a mistake and Newcastle's funding should be restored."

The CPSU will be meeting with senior University management on Thursday morning for further discussion.

For further information or to arrange an interview please contact:
Susan Eade, Branch President, 49212017
Ron Hunter, Organiser, 0401 583 365