CPSU welcomes possible rethink on Student Unionism Bill

The CPSU/PSA has welcomed news, reported by The Australian , that a number of National Party MPs have serious apprehensions on the effects of the Federal Government's proposed Volountary Student Unionism (VSU) legislation.

Most vocal among these, has been incoming Queensland senator Barnaby Joyce. See attached: p.6 - Nats Baulk At Student Union Bill.

CPSU/PSA Organiser at Southern Cross University, Stephen Senise, said that the news was a small, positive step in the right direction for regional universities.

"I welcome the fact that some National Party politicians are prepared to publicly air their concerns in support of country campuses like ours," Mr Senise said.

"I take the opportunity to call on our own local National Party MP, Ian Causley, to do likewise."

"Both the CPSU, and Campus Central* management, have written to Ian Causley in recent times, requesting he meet with staff, before he is called on to cast his vote."

"If this bill is passed, we are facing the prospect of over 2 ½ million dollars being removed annually from the Lismore economy, and we think that Mr Causley should be fully aware of the potential effects."

"Based on the most current figures, 150 jobs annually could disappear at Campus Central, and there's a justifiable expectation among staff that the local MP should go into bat for his constituents."

"There is also a genuine concern that Campus Central's important role as a nursery for local sporting talent will be lost."

"We understand that Ian Causley has got a pickle on his hands: He has to work out whether he's in Lismore representing Canberra's concerns, or whether he's in Canberra representing the interests of Lismore."

"But at the very least there is an expectation that he make himself available to meet with Campus Central management and staff."

"Ian Causley is going to have to sign off on this, by voting in favour or against the VSU bill - and we would like him to be as informed as possible, when he makes that decision."

"We are also hopeful that as the local MP, he can be convinced to make representations to Education Minister, Dr Brendan Nelson, so that the full local impact of the proposed legislation is taken into account."

"The staff and management at Campus Central look forward to the opportunity of meeting with Mr Causley, whenever he is available."

* Campus Central is the service provision arm of the student union at Southern Cross University.