VU Council
Composition
The Chancellor
The Vice-Chancellor
Two persons elected by the board or boards established under the Statutes to be responsible for academic programs and courses of study in higher education and technical and further education in the University
Three persons elected by and from the staff of the University prescribed by the Statutes;
(Note 1 H/Ed, 1 TAFE and 1 General Staff)
Two persons elected by and from the students enrolled at the University prescribed by the Statutes; (Note 1 H/Ed and 1 TAFE)
Six persons appointed by the Governor-in-Council
One person appointed by the Minister
Six persons appointed by the Council;
Of the members appointed under sub-section (2)(g) & (i) -
(a) two must be persons with financial expertise with relevant qualifications and experience in financial management at a senior level;
(b) one must be a person with commercial expertise at a senior level;
(c) one must be a person who has substantial knowledge or experience of vocational education and training.
(d) three must be persons who live in or about the Western Metropolitan Region of Melbourne.
01 November 2008
VU Council
Last week I was lucky to get an Observer's Pass to observe the Council Meeting. I had no idea who are the VU council. A big mistake. I should have familiarise myself. Anyway, this week, I decided to satisfy my curiosity and do some research. Ok. Ok I admit it. Any excuse to get out of working on my assignments. But... I can justify this as part of Human Service Organisation research?? Right?? Oh well, I tried :)
The information is available at VU websites & therefore public information. Im sure most of you have more interesting things in life than go surf websites for such interesting (NOT) information. Yes, I do need to get a life but that's another story for another day. So, here goes
Victoria University of Technology was established on 1 July 1990 by an Act of the State Parliament entitled the Victoria University of Technology Act 1990. The University, thorugh its Council and other Committees and Boards, pursues the objects and exercises the powers conferred upon it by the Act.
The Council is the governing authority and has the direction and superintendence of the University. The Council monitors aspects of university-wide activity, and oversees the formulation and implementation of the University Strategic Plan. It works closely with the Vice-Chancellor and President as the University's Chief Executive Officer to maxmise the efficiency and effectiveness of the University.
The Council has established a number of standing committees to assist it in its work, namely:
the Chancellor's Committee;
the Resources Committee;
the Strategy Committee; and
the Audit and Risk Committee.
These committees address specific and specialised matters and refer their advice and consideration of these matters to Council for final decision making. Membership of these standing committees consists primarily of members of Council. During the academic year, the Council usually meets six times a year. The standing committees generally meet on a monthly or bimonthly basis.
In addition, there is one statutory Board that is required by the Act or subordinate legislation to provide advice to Council or the Education and Research Board.
http://gpps.vu.edu.au/committee/id/1/cid/9/parent/0/t/committee/title/Council
The information is available at VU websites & therefore public information. Im sure most of you have more interesting things in life than go surf websites for such interesting (NOT) information. Yes, I do need to get a life but that's another story for another day. So, here goes
Victoria University of Technology was established on 1 July 1990 by an Act of the State Parliament entitled the Victoria University of Technology Act 1990. The University, thorugh its Council and other Committees and Boards, pursues the objects and exercises the powers conferred upon it by the Act.
The Council is the governing authority and has the direction and superintendence of the University. The Council monitors aspects of university-wide activity, and oversees the formulation and implementation of the University Strategic Plan. It works closely with the Vice-Chancellor and President as the University's Chief Executive Officer to maxmise the efficiency and effectiveness of the University.
The Council has established a number of standing committees to assist it in its work, namely:
the Chancellor's Committee;
the Resources Committee;
the Strategy Committee; and
the Audit and Risk Committee.
These committees address specific and specialised matters and refer their advice and consideration of these matters to Council for final decision making. Membership of these standing committees consists primarily of members of Council. During the academic year, the Council usually meets six times a year. The standing committees generally meet on a monthly or bimonthly basis.
In addition, there is one statutory Board that is required by the Act or subordinate legislation to provide advice to Council or the Education and Research Board.
http://gpps.vu.edu.au/committee/id/1/cid/9/parent/0/t/committee/title/Council
NTEU Public Meeting
NTEU Public Metting
Date: Thursday, 06 NOV 2008
Time: At 7:30 p.m.
Place: Church Hall [Uniting Church]
10a Hyde Street, Footscray, VIC
Topic: “What is the Future of VU?”
Those Invited, include:
Julia Gillard, AU Deputy Prime Minister
Jacinta Allen, VIC Minister For Employment and Youth Affairs
Hon Justice Frank Vincent, VU Chancellor
Elizabeth Harman, VU Vice-Chancellor
NTEU Representatives to answer questions
All students interested in preserving VU
Any interested person or one who offers support of VU
Date: Thursday, 06 NOV 2008
Time: At 7:30 p.m.
Place: Church Hall [Uniting Church]
10a Hyde Street, Footscray, VIC
Topic: “What is the Future of VU?”
Those Invited, include:
Julia Gillard, AU Deputy Prime Minister
Jacinta Allen, VIC Minister For Employment and Youth Affairs
Hon Justice Frank Vincent, VU Chancellor
Elizabeth Harman, VU Vice-Chancellor
NTEU Representatives to answer questions
All students interested in preserving VU
Any interested person or one who offers support of VU
Student Support Meeting
Next Student Support Meeting
Date: Wednesday, 05 NOV 2008
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Place: Footscray Campus, Bldg A, Room 315
For more information contact vu_sag@yahoo.com
Date: Wednesday, 05 NOV 2008
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Place: Footscray Campus, Bldg A, Room 315
For more information contact vu_sag@yahoo.com
Parliamentary comments by Don Nardella, Labor MLA for Melton
PARLIAMENT OF VICTORIA
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
DAILY HANSARD
Tuesday, 28 October 2008
Adjournment motion, Don Nardella, Labor MLA for Melton
Victoria University: campus closures
Mr NARDELLA (Melton) — My adjournment matter matter is for the Minister for Skills and Workforce Participation. The action I seek is for her to have discussions with Victoria University, following its decision yesterday to close the Melton and Sunbury campuses, to force the university to institute transitional arrangements to retain higher education, TAFE courses and community activities at the Melton campus and to do what she can to stop as many redundancies of the 270 forced redundancies as possible.
Victoria University vice-chancellor, Professor Liz Harman, is destroying this great institution. She has presented a fait accompli to the university council regarding the campus closures and the 270 redundancies. Professor Harman and her sycophant management team announced the forced redundancies last week and then presented this fait accompli of the closures to the council yesterday. The council had toaccept the proposal or take a no-confidence position with regard to her. The vice-chancellor would have been forced to resign if her decisions had not been adopted. Professor Harman and her management toecutters took the easy decision in the Thatcher mould to implement economic rationalist policies that weaken local communities and to take away a critical piece of infrastructure that adds to the social capital and lifelong learning opportunities available in the disadvantaged and growing areas of the outer west where greater access and equity are needed.
She has form in the 2006 sackings and now these sackings two years later. Professor Harman is selling and closing the heritage, the assets and the legacy of generations of western suburbs residents, students and communities who have built up this great institution. She is just selling it off. In two years time she will move on. She will leave once her contract ends, but her legacy, her disaster and her scorched-earth policy and practice will remain from heringlorious wasted term of office.
Since being appointed to Victoria University (VU), Professor Harman’s modus operandi has been to sell,sell, sell — like an auctioneer — the campuses under her control. She is shutting down the Newport VU campus, not caring about the students in automotive studies who have nowhere to go next year. Who will train the western suburbs motor mechanics in the future? Certainly not VU! Professor Harman does not care, does not undertake real consultation or listen to reason, and is callous about sacking 270 people, with real families, just before Christmas. This is heartless. This is the Christmas present awaiting 270 families this year, following in the footsteps of Kennett, who sacked 1600 school cleaners just before Christmas in 1993. It is cruel and heartless.
For an intellectual, Professor Harman has not done any hard thinking in conjunction with local communities, students, staff and other stakeholders to build this institution, not to disassemble it and weaken it, to sack great committed hardworking staff at all levels, and to bring this great institution to its knees and into disrepute, where all staff are scared for their future and where VU will have real difficulty attracting staff in the future. It is a real tragedy that VU is disappearing into its own orifice and becoming unviable, where in the near future it will be taken over to survive long after Professor Harman and her sycophantic managers are gone.
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
DAILY HANSARD
Tuesday, 28 October 2008
Adjournment motion, Don Nardella, Labor MLA for Melton
Victoria University: campus closures
Mr NARDELLA (Melton) — My adjournment matter matter is for the Minister for Skills and Workforce Participation. The action I seek is for her to have discussions with Victoria University, following its decision yesterday to close the Melton and Sunbury campuses, to force the university to institute transitional arrangements to retain higher education, TAFE courses and community activities at the Melton campus and to do what she can to stop as many redundancies of the 270 forced redundancies as possible.
Victoria University vice-chancellor, Professor Liz Harman, is destroying this great institution. She has presented a fait accompli to the university council regarding the campus closures and the 270 redundancies. Professor Harman and her sycophant management team announced the forced redundancies last week and then presented this fait accompli of the closures to the council yesterday. The council had toaccept the proposal or take a no-confidence position with regard to her. The vice-chancellor would have been forced to resign if her decisions had not been adopted. Professor Harman and her management toecutters took the easy decision in the Thatcher mould to implement economic rationalist policies that weaken local communities and to take away a critical piece of infrastructure that adds to the social capital and lifelong learning opportunities available in the disadvantaged and growing areas of the outer west where greater access and equity are needed.
She has form in the 2006 sackings and now these sackings two years later. Professor Harman is selling and closing the heritage, the assets and the legacy of generations of western suburbs residents, students and communities who have built up this great institution. She is just selling it off. In two years time she will move on. She will leave once her contract ends, but her legacy, her disaster and her scorched-earth policy and practice will remain from heringlorious wasted term of office.
Since being appointed to Victoria University (VU), Professor Harman’s modus operandi has been to sell,sell, sell — like an auctioneer — the campuses under her control. She is shutting down the Newport VU campus, not caring about the students in automotive studies who have nowhere to go next year. Who will train the western suburbs motor mechanics in the future? Certainly not VU! Professor Harman does not care, does not undertake real consultation or listen to reason, and is callous about sacking 270 people, with real families, just before Christmas. This is heartless. This is the Christmas present awaiting 270 families this year, following in the footsteps of Kennett, who sacked 1600 school cleaners just before Christmas in 1993. It is cruel and heartless.
For an intellectual, Professor Harman has not done any hard thinking in conjunction with local communities, students, staff and other stakeholders to build this institution, not to disassemble it and weaken it, to sack great committed hardworking staff at all levels, and to bring this great institution to its knees and into disrepute, where all staff are scared for their future and where VU will have real difficulty attracting staff in the future. It is a real tragedy that VU is disappearing into its own orifice and becoming unviable, where in the near future it will be taken over to survive long after Professor Harman and her sycophantic managers are gone.
29 October 2008
Keep writing to your MP
Please continue to write (letters/emails) to your Member of Parliaments (MPs). As evident from the email Christine sent to her local state member and the respond she received our MP will listen and advocate on our behalf.
Christine had also written to her local Federal MP last week and received a supportive reply.
I wrote to my local Federal Member for Deakin, Mike Symon, last week and he too replied and said that he had forwarded my letter to the Minister of Education, Employment & Workplace Relations, and Social Inclusion, Julia Gillard for her consideration.
I know many have written to their local members. Email the reply to me if you are happy for me to blog it.
Christine had also written to her local Federal MP last week and received a supportive reply.
I wrote to my local Federal Member for Deakin, Mike Symon, last week and he too replied and said that he had forwarded my letter to the Minister of Education, Employment & Workplace Relations, and Social Inclusion, Julia Gillard for her consideration.
I know many have written to their local members. Email the reply to me if you are happy for me to blog it.
Letter to Joanne Duncan MP and her reply
A fellow student, Christine, wrote this email to Joanne Duncan, MP Member for Macedon and received the following response. [Christine has kindly given me permission to post the emails on this blog. Thanks.]
To: joanne.duncan@parliament.vic.gov.a
Date: 23/10/2008 11:39PM
Subject: Victoria University
Dear Joanne
I am writing to express my concern about the proposed staff cuts atVictoria University. Once again those of us who live in the Northern andWestern suburbs are being deprived of resources. I am a second yearstudent in the Bachelor of Social Work at the St Albans campus. I am asingle mother returning to study after many years at home caring forchildren (including 2 with disabilities). It would not be possible for meto study elsewhere largely because of other State Government educationpolicies which result in me needing to drive my children to St Albans eachday in order to access an education to meet their special needs. As aresident of Sunbury I am also concerned about the potential closure of theSunbury and Melton campuses. As our local member I would urge you toadvocate on our behalf for some degree of equity in the provision ofeducational resources.
Yours sincerely
Christine Quilty
From: joanne.duncan@parliament.vic.gov.au
[mailto:joanne.duncan@parliament.vic.gov.au]
Sent: Wednesday, 29 October 2008 11:14 AM
To: christine quilty
Subject: Re: Victoria University
Dear Christine,
Sorry I should have combined these two emails..
I raised this issue in Parliament last night with the Minsiter for Skills and Workforce Participation and wrote to the VU Council last week. Basically we want a meeting to ensure there is some transition plan and that post compulsory education continues at that site. I was very disappointed in their press release because I am of the view that if they offer courses that are relevant, students will come and this decision is premature given the Federal Governments current review which is very likely to increase funding to univerisites etc.The Minister and I will do all we can to keep this campus open keeping in mind the financial management decisions rest with the university and the university council..
Kind regards
Joanne
Joanne Duncan MP
Member for Macedon
telephone: 54 282138
fax: 54 282919
To: joanne.duncan@parliament.vic.gov.a
Date: 23/10/2008 11:39PM
Subject: Victoria University
Dear Joanne
I am writing to express my concern about the proposed staff cuts atVictoria University. Once again those of us who live in the Northern andWestern suburbs are being deprived of resources. I am a second yearstudent in the Bachelor of Social Work at the St Albans campus. I am asingle mother returning to study after many years at home caring forchildren (including 2 with disabilities). It would not be possible for meto study elsewhere largely because of other State Government educationpolicies which result in me needing to drive my children to St Albans eachday in order to access an education to meet their special needs. As aresident of Sunbury I am also concerned about the potential closure of theSunbury and Melton campuses. As our local member I would urge you toadvocate on our behalf for some degree of equity in the provision ofeducational resources.
Yours sincerely
Christine Quilty
From: joanne.duncan@parliament.vic.gov.au
[mailto:joanne.duncan@parliament.vic.gov.au]
Sent: Wednesday, 29 October 2008 11:14 AM
To: christine quilty
Subject: Re: Victoria University
Dear Christine,
Sorry I should have combined these two emails..
I raised this issue in Parliament last night with the Minsiter for Skills and Workforce Participation and wrote to the VU Council last week. Basically we want a meeting to ensure there is some transition plan and that post compulsory education continues at that site. I was very disappointed in their press release because I am of the view that if they offer courses that are relevant, students will come and this decision is premature given the Federal Governments current review which is very likely to increase funding to univerisites etc.The Minister and I will do all we can to keep this campus open keeping in mind the financial management decisions rest with the university and the university council..
Kind regards
Joanne
Joanne Duncan MP
Member for Macedon
telephone: 54 282138
fax: 54 282919
Draft Template
A fellow student, Anna L, wrote this letter to her MP and she is happy to share with other students who might like to use the template. Thanks Anna.
*********************************************************************
Date
[Name of Elected Federal MP for your area],
Federal Member of Parliament,[your electorate name]
Electorate,[address of MPs office in electorate][postcode]
(you can google this info once getting name from AEC)
Dear [MP’s name],
I am a resident of the [your electorate name, (look up in AEC website)] Electorate, and the (friend, sibling, parent, employer) of a social work student of Victoria University. I understand that effectively 1 in every 5 staff members, or 270 staff in total, will be cut from VU courses, and that smaller courses will be lost to the students of VU.
Victoria University was established to be accessible and to accommodate the learning needs of students who come from very diverse backgrounds and experiences. This had the flow on effect of encouraging professional employment and opportunities for individuals and families to not only improve their life prospects and escape the poverty trap, but also to reduce their dependency on social security payments, and to instead contribute to the economy through gainful employment.
VU gave hope to the community, hope to families that through appropriate education their children may have greater opportunities in life and a very realistic chance that they would be offered a place at a local campus in a wide variety of courses offered. The variety of courses and pathways catered to the needs of students who live or work in the western suburbs and therefore encouraged engagement in higher education and meaningful activity. Many of these students cannot afford a lot of travel on a daily basis, nor to live away from home in order to access a university education. Furthermore, many students both work and study within the western region and contribute to and strengthen local community.
Welfare and social work are key services to the western suburbs and many students complete the field education component of their studies within this region, and some then gain employment at these workplaces on completion of their placements; unpaid placements which amount up to a year’s worth of free service to the community. The Social Work course at VU sends students into the community field education placements each year, therefore creating strong and viable community links. If the social work course, or indeed staff from within it, were lost from VU, its service and contribution to the community would also be largely lost. Furthermore the welfare sector in the West may struggle to find employees and to provide the services required by residents. I believe the loss of jobs especially across social work and welfare related courses will prove to be detrimental not only to students but also to the western suburbs, and the economy over the longer term.
If major cuts occur Victoria University will no longer be a “New School of Thought” within the western suburbs of Melbourne. Such action will exclude many disadvantaged students from obtaining tertiary qualifications.
I appeal to you to lobby in support of retaining staff and courses at all campuses of Victoria University, particularly in the areas of Social Work and Welfare, and on behalf of many VU students who live or work within your electorate.
Yours sincerely,
(your name)
*********************************************************************
Date
[Name of Elected Federal MP for your area],
Federal Member of Parliament,[your electorate name]
Electorate,[address of MPs office in electorate][postcode]
(you can google this info once getting name from AEC)
Dear [MP’s name],
I am a resident of the [your electorate name, (look up in AEC website)] Electorate, and the (friend, sibling, parent, employer) of a social work student of Victoria University. I understand that effectively 1 in every 5 staff members, or 270 staff in total, will be cut from VU courses, and that smaller courses will be lost to the students of VU.
Victoria University was established to be accessible and to accommodate the learning needs of students who come from very diverse backgrounds and experiences. This had the flow on effect of encouraging professional employment and opportunities for individuals and families to not only improve their life prospects and escape the poverty trap, but also to reduce their dependency on social security payments, and to instead contribute to the economy through gainful employment.
VU gave hope to the community, hope to families that through appropriate education their children may have greater opportunities in life and a very realistic chance that they would be offered a place at a local campus in a wide variety of courses offered. The variety of courses and pathways catered to the needs of students who live or work in the western suburbs and therefore encouraged engagement in higher education and meaningful activity. Many of these students cannot afford a lot of travel on a daily basis, nor to live away from home in order to access a university education. Furthermore, many students both work and study within the western region and contribute to and strengthen local community.
Welfare and social work are key services to the western suburbs and many students complete the field education component of their studies within this region, and some then gain employment at these workplaces on completion of their placements; unpaid placements which amount up to a year’s worth of free service to the community. The Social Work course at VU sends students into the community field education placements each year, therefore creating strong and viable community links. If the social work course, or indeed staff from within it, were lost from VU, its service and contribution to the community would also be largely lost. Furthermore the welfare sector in the West may struggle to find employees and to provide the services required by residents. I believe the loss of jobs especially across social work and welfare related courses will prove to be detrimental not only to students but also to the western suburbs, and the economy over the longer term.
If major cuts occur Victoria University will no longer be a “New School of Thought” within the western suburbs of Melbourne. Such action will exclude many disadvantaged students from obtaining tertiary qualifications.
I appeal to you to lobby in support of retaining staff and courses at all campuses of Victoria University, particularly in the areas of Social Work and Welfare, and on behalf of many VU students who live or work within your electorate.
Yours sincerely,
(your name)
Media Release - Vice Chancellor
http://www.vu.edu.au/About_VU/Media_Releases/VU_will_provide_whats_best_for_west/indexdl_94087.aspx
VU will provide what's best for west
28 October 2008
Victoria University's (VU) Vice Chancellor Professor Elizabeth Harman today reaffirmed Victoria University's commitment to provide high quality post secondary education for all people living in the western region of Melbourne.
Professor Harman said: "The decision made by Victoria University's Council last night will see the University staying on track by offering the courses that students want, at the campuses they prefer in the western region of Melbourne, with the right staff and support services."
"Our aim is to make VU the first choice for vocational and higher education students in western Melbourne."
"We are currently teaching courses at eleven sites across the west and in the city. The arrangements are not optimal for students or for the University. Council has been planning for a better campus future for more than a year and deliberations will continue into 2009."
During 2008, VU commissioned major external reports about the educational needs of the western region and separate reports on each campus.
Council has now resolved to advance plans to meet the growth in student numbers in the western growth areas through development of VU at Footscray, St Albans, Sunshine and Werribee ensuring those campuses are viable and vibrant.
Council agreed that VU should stop enrolment of new students at two of its small outer suburban campuses at Melton and Sunbury from 2010, although it recognised that in courses deemed to be too small across the whole university enrolments may cease from 2009.
These decisions are subject to approvals from relevant Governments.
Professor Harman said: "Students who are currently enrolled at Melton and Sunbury campuses - 850 at Melton and 1550 at Sunbury - will be supported through their studies so that they can successfully complete their courses."
"Our analysis shows that even if we were to change our course mix and attempt to relocate other courses to Melton and Sunbury there is little possibility that either campus would reach a viable size by 2031."
The University will continue discussions with authorities at local, State and Commonwealth level with a view to VU assisting in partnerships for educational services that better meet the needs of local residents. This might be because other providers make use of VU land and facilities at Melton and Sunbury. Alternatively, students from Melton and Sunbury will continue to travel to other VU campuses in the western region, as the majority now do.
Professor Harman said: "Planning for our campuses, must be based on the real trends and forecasts of actual student demand for tertiary education over the next few decades in the western region."
"The University aims to develop an investment strategy that recognises that while the first call on funds goes to student needs, learning, teaching and research, the University nonetheless must find the means to provide first class facilities in the west for this education and research by improvements or extensions to our existing infrastructure."
VU will provide what's best for west
28 October 2008
Victoria University's (VU) Vice Chancellor Professor Elizabeth Harman today reaffirmed Victoria University's commitment to provide high quality post secondary education for all people living in the western region of Melbourne.
Professor Harman said: "The decision made by Victoria University's Council last night will see the University staying on track by offering the courses that students want, at the campuses they prefer in the western region of Melbourne, with the right staff and support services."
"Our aim is to make VU the first choice for vocational and higher education students in western Melbourne."
"We are currently teaching courses at eleven sites across the west and in the city. The arrangements are not optimal for students or for the University. Council has been planning for a better campus future for more than a year and deliberations will continue into 2009."
During 2008, VU commissioned major external reports about the educational needs of the western region and separate reports on each campus.
Council has now resolved to advance plans to meet the growth in student numbers in the western growth areas through development of VU at Footscray, St Albans, Sunshine and Werribee ensuring those campuses are viable and vibrant.
Council agreed that VU should stop enrolment of new students at two of its small outer suburban campuses at Melton and Sunbury from 2010, although it recognised that in courses deemed to be too small across the whole university enrolments may cease from 2009.
These decisions are subject to approvals from relevant Governments.
Professor Harman said: "Students who are currently enrolled at Melton and Sunbury campuses - 850 at Melton and 1550 at Sunbury - will be supported through their studies so that they can successfully complete their courses."
"Our analysis shows that even if we were to change our course mix and attempt to relocate other courses to Melton and Sunbury there is little possibility that either campus would reach a viable size by 2031."
The University will continue discussions with authorities at local, State and Commonwealth level with a view to VU assisting in partnerships for educational services that better meet the needs of local residents. This might be because other providers make use of VU land and facilities at Melton and Sunbury. Alternatively, students from Melton and Sunbury will continue to travel to other VU campuses in the western region, as the majority now do.
Professor Harman said: "Planning for our campuses, must be based on the real trends and forecasts of actual student demand for tertiary education over the next few decades in the western region."
"The University aims to develop an investment strategy that recognises that while the first call on funds goes to student needs, learning, teaching and research, the University nonetheless must find the means to provide first class facilities in the west for this education and research by improvements or extensions to our existing infrastructure."
Media Release - Chancellor
http://www.vu.edu.au/About_VU/Media_Releases/Council_backs_VU_VCs_plans/indexdl_94086.aspx
Council backs VU VC's plans
28 October 2008
The following statement was issued by the Hon. Frank Vincent, AO, QC, Chancellor Victoria University, following the VU Council meeting held on 27 October 2008.
Victoria University stayed on track last night to offer the courses that students want, at the campuses they prefer in the western region of Melbourne, with the right staff and support services.
The University Council supported the Vice Chancellor's redundancy plans for up to 270 staff linked to nonviable courses and disproportionately high salary costs compared to other expenditure.
The Vice Chancellor indicated that every possible avenue would be explored to reduce the number of redundancies required and the consultation period with staff will be extended.
In a separate debate, Council agreed to advance overall planning strategy for the University's eleven campuses to ensure that these best suit the region's future growth and educational needs. Progress on a comprehensive plan will be made in March 2009.
Council agreed that VU should stop enrolment of new students at two of its small outer suburban campuses at Melton and Sunbury from 2010, although it recognised that enrolments may cease in 2009 in courses deemed to be too small across the whole university. These decisions are subject to approvals from relevant governments.
The decisions will provide time for the University to continue discussions with authorities at local, State and Commonwealth level with a view to VU assisting in partnerships for educational services that better meet local needs than is currently the case.
It will also give time for the outcomes of the Bradley Report to be considered and for any material assistance that this may recommend to government that could benefit VU to be taken into account.
Council backs VU VC's plans
28 October 2008
The following statement was issued by the Hon. Frank Vincent, AO, QC, Chancellor Victoria University, following the VU Council meeting held on 27 October 2008.
Victoria University stayed on track last night to offer the courses that students want, at the campuses they prefer in the western region of Melbourne, with the right staff and support services.
The University Council supported the Vice Chancellor's redundancy plans for up to 270 staff linked to nonviable courses and disproportionately high salary costs compared to other expenditure.
The Vice Chancellor indicated that every possible avenue would be explored to reduce the number of redundancies required and the consultation period with staff will be extended.
In a separate debate, Council agreed to advance overall planning strategy for the University's eleven campuses to ensure that these best suit the region's future growth and educational needs. Progress on a comprehensive plan will be made in March 2009.
Council agreed that VU should stop enrolment of new students at two of its small outer suburban campuses at Melton and Sunbury from 2010, although it recognised that enrolments may cease in 2009 in courses deemed to be too small across the whole university. These decisions are subject to approvals from relevant governments.
The decisions will provide time for the University to continue discussions with authorities at local, State and Commonwealth level with a view to VU assisting in partnerships for educational services that better meet local needs than is currently the case.
It will also give time for the outcomes of the Bradley Report to be considered and for any material assistance that this may recommend to government that could benefit VU to be taken into account.
Council split on planned job cuts
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,24566844-12149,00.html
Andrew Trounson
October 29, 2008
IN the face of looming strike action, Victoria University has determined to carry through with its plan to cut up to 270 staff in the next six months despite the prospect of a federal funding boost following the Bradley review in December.
But it was a split 13-7 vote with two independent councillors backing a motion from staff council members to freeze the redundancy pending a review of finances. While chancellor Frank Vincent said the redundancy program remained on track, noting that every effort would be made to minimise job losses, the National Tertiary Education Union claimed it was encouraged by the split vote.
In an email to staff, NTEU branch president Richard Gough said the vote "indicates a level of disquiet in council about management decisions that has rarely been seen".
The NTEU has condemned the job losses as premature given the prospect of a funding boost from Canberra in 2010 once the Bradley review reports in December. And commenting on the job losses earlier this week, Victorian Skills and Workforce Participation Minister Jacinta Allan told The Australian "it is unfortunate that Victoria University has made this decision prior to the completion of the federal Government's review of higher education which is expected to report in December 2008".
Andrew Trounson
October 29, 2008
IN the face of looming strike action, Victoria University has determined to carry through with its plan to cut up to 270 staff in the next six months despite the prospect of a federal funding boost following the Bradley review in December.
But it was a split 13-7 vote with two independent councillors backing a motion from staff council members to freeze the redundancy pending a review of finances. While chancellor Frank Vincent said the redundancy program remained on track, noting that every effort would be made to minimise job losses, the National Tertiary Education Union claimed it was encouraged by the split vote.
In an email to staff, NTEU branch president Richard Gough said the vote "indicates a level of disquiet in council about management decisions that has rarely been seen".
The NTEU has condemned the job losses as premature given the prospect of a funding boost from Canberra in 2010 once the Bradley review reports in December. And commenting on the job losses earlier this week, Victorian Skills and Workforce Participation Minister Jacinta Allan told The Australian "it is unfortunate that Victoria University has made this decision prior to the completion of the federal Government's review of higher education which is expected to report in December 2008".
Victoria University courses and enrolments cut
http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,24567680-2862,00.html
October 29, 2008 12:00am
VICTORIA University will cull unpopular courses from next year and stop enrolments at Melton and Sunbury from 2010.
The move follows fury over plans to slash up to 270 jobs across all campuses through forced and voluntary redundancies to save $27 million next year.
Victoria University has about 44,000 students at 11 sites in the western suburbs and city.
The university yesterday confirmed plans to scrap courses with small enrolments, and to develop growth areas in Footscray, St Albans, Sunshine and Werribee.
October 29, 2008 12:00am
VICTORIA University will cull unpopular courses from next year and stop enrolments at Melton and Sunbury from 2010.
The move follows fury over plans to slash up to 270 jobs across all campuses through forced and voluntary redundancies to save $27 million next year.
Victoria University has about 44,000 students at 11 sites in the western suburbs and city.
The university yesterday confirmed plans to scrap courses with small enrolments, and to develop growth areas in Footscray, St Albans, Sunshine and Werribee.
Things we can do 9 - Attend Public Meeting
We can plan to attend the Public Meeting organised by National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) and the community.
Date: Thursday 6 November
Time: 7.30 pm
Place: The Church Hall, 10a Hyde street Footscray.
Mark this date in your diary.
Date: Thursday 6 November
Time: 7.30 pm
Place: The Church Hall, 10a Hyde street Footscray.
Mark this date in your diary.
Things we can do 8 - Letters to Editor
We can consider writing letters to the Editor
letters@theage.com.au
http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/editorial/letter/
http://www.mxnet.com.au/lettertoeditor/
fcnvic_mail@fairfax.com.au (The Mail Footscray)
http://maribyrnong-leader.whereilive.com.au/contact/ (Maribyrnong Leader)·
editorial@starnewsgroup.com.au (The Footscray Star)
letters@theage.com.au
http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/editorial/letter/
http://www.mxnet.com.au/lettertoeditor/
fcnvic_mail@fairfax.com.au (The Mail Footscray)
http://maribyrnong-leader.whereilive.com.au/contact/ (Maribyrnong Leader)·
editorial@starnewsgroup.com.au (The Footscray Star)
28 October 2008
What can we do 7
I know it's exam period for some. For others, there are assignments to be completed. It's a very busy time for everyone. When you get a short break, could you please consider writing to your State Member of Parliament, local councils and Ministers. If you scroll down this blog you will find a template which you can use. You can locate the name of your electorate and your Member of Parliament through www.aec.gov.au and you can then Google further details such as their local office site, email address etc.
Please raised your concerns / issues and attack any issues but please do not attack the persons.
Please raised your concerns / issues and attack any issues but please do not attack the persons.
Victoria University to close Melton, Sunbury campuses
An excerpt. For full article go to the webpage
http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,24564965-2862,00.html
Victoria University to close Melton, Sunbury campuses
Billy Crossland
October 28, 2008 02:28pm
VICTORIA University will close two campuses, affecting thousands of students after intense speculation about its financial troubles.
Chancellor Frank Vincent confirmed the closure move in an announcement today. “Council agreed that VU should stop enrolment of new students at two of its small outer suburban campuses at Melton and Sunbury from 2010, although it recognised that enrolments may cease in 2009 in courses deemed to be too small across the whole university,” it said.
Melton State Labor MP Don Nardella slammed the decision, calling it “shambolic” and a “disaster”. The statement also said decisions were “subject to approvals from relevant governments’’, but Mr Nardella said this was misleading attempt to shift the blame to goverments.
The Melton Campus has 606 higher education students and 230 TAFE students. Victoria University has 11 campuses and sites in Melbourne's western suburbs and the CBD, including the campuses earmarked for closure.
http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,24564965-2862,00.html
Victoria University to close Melton, Sunbury campuses
Billy Crossland
October 28, 2008 02:28pm
VICTORIA University will close two campuses, affecting thousands of students after intense speculation about its financial troubles.
Chancellor Frank Vincent confirmed the closure move in an announcement today. “Council agreed that VU should stop enrolment of new students at two of its small outer suburban campuses at Melton and Sunbury from 2010, although it recognised that enrolments may cease in 2009 in courses deemed to be too small across the whole university,” it said.
Melton State Labor MP Don Nardella slammed the decision, calling it “shambolic” and a “disaster”. The statement also said decisions were “subject to approvals from relevant governments’’, but Mr Nardella said this was misleading attempt to shift the blame to goverments.
The Melton Campus has 606 higher education students and 230 TAFE students. Victoria University has 11 campuses and sites in Melbourne's western suburbs and the CBD, including the campuses earmarked for closure.
Victoria University sackings are 'premature': Victorian Government
An excerpts. For full article go to the webpage below
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,24559796-12149,00.html
Victoria University sackings are 'premature': Victorian Government
by Andrew Trounson
October 27, 2008
While careful to avoid criticising VU, Victoria's Minister for Skills and Workforce Participation Jacinta Allan told The Australian, "it is unfortunate that Victoria University has made this decision prior to the completion of the Federal Government's Review of Higher Education which is expected to report in December 2008".
"The Victorian Government looks to VU to ensure the people of western Melbourne continue to have access to quality education," Allan said.
Victoria University's council will consider tonight a proposal to eventually shut down its Melton and Sunbury campuses in Melbourne's north west in what will be a fiery meeting, at the centre of which will be the planned job cuts.
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,24559796-12149,00.html
Victoria University sackings are 'premature': Victorian Government
by Andrew Trounson
October 27, 2008
While careful to avoid criticising VU, Victoria's Minister for Skills and Workforce Participation Jacinta Allan told The Australian, "it is unfortunate that Victoria University has made this decision prior to the completion of the Federal Government's Review of Higher Education which is expected to report in December 2008".
"The Victorian Government looks to VU to ensure the people of western Melbourne continue to have access to quality education," Allan said.
Victoria University's council will consider tonight a proposal to eventually shut down its Melton and Sunbury campuses in Melbourne's north west in what will be a fiery meeting, at the centre of which will be the planned job cuts.
Council Observer's Pass
I was issued an Observer's Pass late yesterday afternoon and was able to be present at the Council's meeting. This is what the pass looks like. From the attendance sheet, 50 Observer's Pass were distributed on first-come-first-serve basis.
This is not a criticism or judgement, just an observation: some of my friends who applied before me did not get a pass. Interesting.
*************************************************************************************
VICTORIA UNIVERSITY
COUNCIL 2008
Council Observer’s Pass
This pass enables …(Name of Observer)
To be an observer at the Council meeting scheduled to be held at:
TIME: 5.30PM
DATE: Monday, 27th October 2008
VENUE: Seminar Rooms 1 & 2
Convention Centre
SUNSHINE CAMPUS
Observers are requested to observe Council policy as set out in the attached document.
Please note this pass is not transferable.
Ms Leitha Nilsen
Secretary to Council
*************************************************************************************
This is not a criticism or judgement, just an observation: some of my friends who applied before me did not get a pass. Interesting.
*************************************************************************************
VICTORIA UNIVERSITY
COUNCIL 2008
Council Observer’s Pass
This pass enables …(Name of Observer)
To be an observer at the Council meeting scheduled to be held at:
TIME: 5.30PM
DATE: Monday, 27th October 2008
VENUE: Seminar Rooms 1 & 2
Convention Centre
SUNSHINE CAMPUS
Observers are requested to observe Council policy as set out in the attached document.
Please note this pass is not transferable.
Ms Leitha Nilsen
Secretary to Council
*************************************************************************************
Students and Staff Meeting today
Hope you can come to the students and staff meeting this afternoon. Hope to see you there
Date: Tuesday 28 October
Time:1 pm.
Place: Room D531 Footscray Park Campus, Ballarat Rd
Date: Tuesday 28 October
Time:1 pm.
Place: Room D531 Footscray Park Campus, Ballarat Rd
Please be there
I will be showing my support by turning up at the Sunshine Campus Convention Centre even though I could not get an observer's pass to attend the Council Meeting. I know many students are planning to turn up. So, I hope you can be there too.
Council meeting
Date: 27 October 2008, Monday
Time: 5.00 pm for 5.30pm start
Place: Sunshine Campus Convention Centre
Council meeting
Date: 27 October 2008, Monday
Time: 5.00 pm for 5.30pm start
Place: Sunshine Campus Convention Centre
27 October 2008
Things we can do 6
Please consider attending the student and staff meeting to develop support/actions. Please pass the word around and encourage other students to attend. Hope to see you there
Date: Tuesday 28 October,
Time:1 pm.
Place: Room D531 Footscray Park Campus, Ballarat Rd
Date: Tuesday 28 October,
Time:1 pm.
Place: Room D531 Footscray Park Campus, Ballarat Rd
I Support VU Staff
Hi fellow students, friends and supporters
I started this blog as a way of showing support to the VU Staff. I would like to use this blog as a site for healthy discussions and debate on the issue of staff cut. I welcome all comments and discussions on this issue. However, I wish to be upfront that I discourage any personal attacks on any individuals and I reserve the right to ask for a withdrawal on any malicious comments. Let's attack the issue without attacking anyone.
As a Social Work student, I encourage us to put into practice all that we have learned thus far. Let us show through our collective actions the positive impact our learning have had on our lives and the lives of those we will be working with and for. I hope our lecturers are proud of their input in our learning and our lives.
I started this blog as a way of showing support to the VU Staff. I would like to use this blog as a site for healthy discussions and debate on the issue of staff cut. I welcome all comments and discussions on this issue. However, I wish to be upfront that I discourage any personal attacks on any individuals and I reserve the right to ask for a withdrawal on any malicious comments. Let's attack the issue without attacking anyone.
As a Social Work student, I encourage us to put into practice all that we have learned thus far. Let us show through our collective actions the positive impact our learning have had on our lives and the lives of those we will be working with and for. I hope our lecturers are proud of their input in our learning and our lives.
More News Articles & Media Release
More news articles and Headlines. Check them out if you want to know more
Vic universities slash more than 400 jobs
Posted Fri Oct 17, 2008 2:49pm AEDT
Updated Fri Oct 17, 2008 4:04pm AEDT
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/10/17/2394241.htm?section=justin
VU VICE-CHANCELLOR SHOULD BE THE FIRST TO GO
MEDIA RELEASE
17 October 2008
http://www.nteu.org.au/news/current/untitled
Victoria University to axe 250 staff
Vanessa Chircop
October 17, 2008
http://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria-university-to-axe-250-staff-20081017-530p.html
Victoria University to cut 250 staff in the next six months
October 17, 2008 04:15pm
http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,24510780-661,00.html
Vic universities slash more than 400 jobs
Posted Fri Oct 17, 2008 2:49pm AEDT
Updated Fri Oct 17, 2008 4:04pm AEDT
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/10/17/2394241.htm?section=justin
VU VICE-CHANCELLOR SHOULD BE THE FIRST TO GO
MEDIA RELEASE
17 October 2008
http://www.nteu.org.au/news/current/untitled
Victoria University to axe 250 staff
Vanessa Chircop
October 17, 2008
http://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria-university-to-axe-250-staff-20081017-530p.html
Victoria University to cut 250 staff in the next six months
October 17, 2008 04:15pm
http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,24510780-661,00.html
National Tertiary Education Union 21 Oct 2008
http://www.nteu.org.au/news/current/vu_action
NTEU to recommend industrial action at Victoria University
21 October 2008
The National Tertiary Education Union will be recommending industrial action be taken at a meeting of Victoria University staff tomorrow, said Matthew McGowan, Victorian Secretary of the NTEU.
“Victoria University staff are shocked by the announcement on Friday of the largest ever mass redundancy in Australia’s higher education sector. The Vice-Chancellor has shown disregard for staff and for students in slashing 250 jobs, and staff are fed up with this arrogance.”
“In troubled economic times, job security is an important issue for staff at universities, many of whom are forced onto short-term contracts or only given casual positions. The NTEU is seeking a collective agreement that would increase rights for casual staff and put limitations on the use of contracts. It is disappointing that rather than negotiate in good faith, the Vice-Chancellor and her negotiating team have decided to engage in mass sackings.
“Such a large number of job losses can only mean increased workloads for remaining staff.”
“This decision by the Vice-Chancellor is a serious blow to higher education opportunities for students from the Western Suburbs. There is no doubt that student services will be affected, and diversity of courses will reduce.”
“Staff at VU have been left with no other choice but to take industrial action. The Vice-Chancellor and senior management have consistently failed to negotiate seriously, and have refused to treat the bargaining process with respect.”
“Victoria University’s Vice-Chancellor can turn this around by coming to the negotiating table in good faith, and give up her reckless and derisory attitude towards collective bargaining and staff.”
NTEU to recommend industrial action at Victoria University
21 October 2008
The National Tertiary Education Union will be recommending industrial action be taken at a meeting of Victoria University staff tomorrow, said Matthew McGowan, Victorian Secretary of the NTEU.
“Victoria University staff are shocked by the announcement on Friday of the largest ever mass redundancy in Australia’s higher education sector. The Vice-Chancellor has shown disregard for staff and for students in slashing 250 jobs, and staff are fed up with this arrogance.”
“In troubled economic times, job security is an important issue for staff at universities, many of whom are forced onto short-term contracts or only given casual positions. The NTEU is seeking a collective agreement that would increase rights for casual staff and put limitations on the use of contracts. It is disappointing that rather than negotiate in good faith, the Vice-Chancellor and her negotiating team have decided to engage in mass sackings.
“Such a large number of job losses can only mean increased workloads for remaining staff.”
“This decision by the Vice-Chancellor is a serious blow to higher education opportunities for students from the Western Suburbs. There is no doubt that student services will be affected, and diversity of courses will reduce.”
“Staff at VU have been left with no other choice but to take industrial action. The Vice-Chancellor and senior management have consistently failed to negotiate seriously, and have refused to treat the bargaining process with respect.”
“Victoria University’s Vice-Chancellor can turn this around by coming to the negotiating table in good faith, and give up her reckless and derisory attitude towards collective bargaining and staff.”
VC Media Release
In order to discuss this current situation, it will be good for us to know what has been happening. I have been searching the web for media releases and newspaper articles on this issue. I will provide link so you can read the entire article. Let me start from the beginning.
On 17 October, Vice Chancellor Professor Elizabeth Harman announced that Victoria University will undertake a program of targeted and voluntary redundancies over the next six months. This is an extract of the media release. For full media release please go to: http://www.vu.edu.au/About_VU/Media_Releases/VU_to_future_proof_itself_for_new_competitive_education_environment/indexdl_93897.aspx
VU to future proof itself for new competitive education environment
17 October 2008
"While the University has been consistently returning a surplus each year, we need to rebalance our budget if we are going to have the means to invest in new facilities and services to meet the growth demands of the western region of Melbourne."
"This is a matter of pre-emptive action and sound financial management. Without action now, we could face difficulty by 2010 - which would short-change the communities we serve."
"We are making substantial budget savings across the University and while this will include non-salary savings, cost reductions can only be achieved by substantial savings on salaries. At 65 per cent, salaries are by far the largest component of VU's expenditure."
"The bulk of the savings, $16.5 million will be made in Higher Education faculties where there is a concentration of small units and courses. We expect these to be adversely affected also by Australia's declining population of school leavers - forecast to be 5 per cent over the coming decade."
"Vocational and Further Education schools will make a small contribution of $2 million in 2009 as they gear up to provide more training."
"Administrative areas that support the main education and research functions of the University will contribute salary savings of a further $8.5 million."
On 17 October, Vice Chancellor Professor Elizabeth Harman announced that Victoria University will undertake a program of targeted and voluntary redundancies over the next six months. This is an extract of the media release. For full media release please go to: http://www.vu.edu.au/About_VU/Media_Releases/VU_to_future_proof_itself_for_new_competitive_education_environment/indexdl_93897.aspx
VU to future proof itself for new competitive education environment
17 October 2008
"While the University has been consistently returning a surplus each year, we need to rebalance our budget if we are going to have the means to invest in new facilities and services to meet the growth demands of the western region of Melbourne."
"This is a matter of pre-emptive action and sound financial management. Without action now, we could face difficulty by 2010 - which would short-change the communities we serve."
"We are making substantial budget savings across the University and while this will include non-salary savings, cost reductions can only be achieved by substantial savings on salaries. At 65 per cent, salaries are by far the largest component of VU's expenditure."
"The bulk of the savings, $16.5 million will be made in Higher Education faculties where there is a concentration of small units and courses. We expect these to be adversely affected also by Australia's declining population of school leavers - forecast to be 5 per cent over the coming decade."
"Vocational and Further Education schools will make a small contribution of $2 million in 2009 as they gear up to provide more training."
"Administrative areas that support the main education and research functions of the University will contribute salary savings of a further $8.5 million."
Things we can do 5
If you are familiar with facebook and prefer that to the blog, please check this for more students supporting the VU staff
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=31172679982
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=31172679982
Things we can do 4
We can attend the council meeting. I have just received via email an observer's pass to attend the meeting. Hope to see you there
Date: 27 October 2008, Monday
Time: 5.00 pm for 5.30pm start
Place: Sunshine Campus Convention Centre
Date: 27 October 2008, Monday
Time: 5.00 pm for 5.30pm start
Place: Sunshine Campus Convention Centre
Things we can do 3
We can write to our Vice Chancellor. We can express the positive impact our learnings have had on our lives. Outline the many good qualities of your lecturers and the unit of studies. Outline the support we received. Outline how our learnings have challenged our thinking, actions and behaviors. Let our VC know that if we lose our department (social work) it will be THE BIGGEST MISTAKE EVER. Let's argue our case, using all the skills and knowledge we acquired this semester.
Remember to attack the issue and not the person! Remember anti-oppressive practice!
VU Vice Chancellor: Elizabeth.Harman@vu.edu.au
Remember to attack the issue and not the person! Remember anti-oppressive practice!
VU Vice Chancellor: Elizabeth.Harman@vu.edu.au
Things we can do 2
We can write to our local MP, state and federal minister. You can locate the name of your electorate and your Member of Parliament through www.aec.gov.au and you can then Google further details such as their local office site, email address etc.
A few examples
The Hon Julia Gillard MP
Minister for Education
Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations
Minister for Social Inclusion
Electorial Office:PO Locked Bag 14Werribee Vic 3030 Fax: (03) 9741 6213 And/OrMinisterial Office:PO Box 6022House of RepresentativesParliament HouseCanberra ACT 2600Fax: (02) 6273 4115
Email: Julia.Gillard.MP@aph.gov.au
The Hon Bronwyn Pike MP
Minister for Education
Electorate Office: 146-214 Peel St, North Melbourne 3051Ph: 9328 4637Fax: 9326 8747 And/orMinisterial Office:Level 12 Treasury PlaceEast Melbourne VIC 3002Ph: 9637 3196Fax: 9637 2800
Email: bronwyn.pike@parliament.vic.gov.au
Local federal members:
Nicola.Roxon.MP@aph.gov.au (MHR for Gellibrand)
Bill.Shorten.MP@aph.gov.au (MHR for Maribyrnong) Local state member
Marsha.Thomson@parliament.vic.gov.au State Minister for Education
A few examples
The Hon Julia Gillard MP
Minister for Education
Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations
Minister for Social Inclusion
Electorial Office:PO Locked Bag 14Werribee Vic 3030 Fax: (03) 9741 6213 And/OrMinisterial Office:PO Box 6022House of RepresentativesParliament HouseCanberra ACT 2600Fax: (02) 6273 4115
Email: Julia.Gillard.MP@aph.gov.au
The Hon Bronwyn Pike MP
Minister for Education
Electorate Office: 146-214 Peel St, North Melbourne 3051Ph: 9328 4637Fax: 9326 8747 And/orMinisterial Office:Level 12 Treasury PlaceEast Melbourne VIC 3002Ph: 9637 3196Fax: 9637 2800
Email: bronwyn.pike@parliament.vic.gov.au
Local federal members:
Nicola.Roxon.MP@aph.gov.au (MHR for Gellibrand)
Bill.Shorten.MP@aph.gov.au (MHR for Maribyrnong) Local state member
Marsha.Thomson@parliament.vic.gov.au State Minister for Education
Things we can do 1
We can send emails / letters to the VU staff. Let them know we are thinking of them and their families. We can let them know we support them. We can listen to them. We can encourage them. Remember those skills we learned this semester? Remember those 'tensions' and issues of power. Remember, sometimes it's not black or white... it's gray. Maybe there are opportunities to put them to good use.
(I think, my lecturer would be proud of me for saying this :))
(I think, my lecturer would be proud of me for saying this :))
Draft Template
Here is a template drafted by a fellow student (used here with her consent. Thanks).
[Student Address]
23 October 2008.
[Name of Elected Federal MP for your area],
Federal Member of Parliament,
[your electorate name] Electorate,
[address of MPs office in electorate]
[postcode].
(you can google this info once getting name from AEC).
Dear [MP’s name],
I am a resident of the [your electorate name, (look up in AEC website)] Electorate, who currently studies at Victoria University. I am studying [year in your degree] year of a 4 year Undergraduate Social Work Degree and am extremely concerned by the imminent cuts to staffing at Victoria University. I understand that effectively 1 in every 5 staff members, or 400 staff in total, will be cut from VU courses, and that smaller courses will be lost to the students of VU.
Victoria University was established to be accessible and to accommodate the learning needs of students who come from very diverse backgrounds and experiences. This had the flow on effect of encouraging professional employment and opportunities for individuals and families to not only improve their life prospects and escape the poverty trap, but also to reduce their dependency on social security payments, and to instead contribute to the economy through gainful employment.
VU gave hope to the community, hope to families that through appropriate education their children may have greater opportunities in life and a very realistic chance that they would be offered a place at a local campus in a wide variety of courses offered. The variety of courses and pathways catered to the needs of students who live or work in the western suburbs and therefore encouraged engagement in higher education and meaningful activity. Many of these students cannot afford a lot of travel on a daily basis, nor to live away from home in order to access a university education. Furthermore, many students both work and study within the western region and contribute to and strengthen local community.
Welfare and social work are key services to the western suburbs and many students complete the field education component of their studies within this region, and some then gain employment at these workplaces on completion of their placements; unpaid placements which amount up to a year’s worth of free service to the community. The Social Work course at VU sends students into the community field education placements each year, therefore creating strong and viable community links. If my course, or indeed staff from within it, were lost from VU, our service and contribution to the community would also be largely lost. Furthermore the welfare sector in the West may struggle to find employees and to provide the services required by residents. I believe the loss of jobs especially across social work and welfare related courses will prove to be detrimental not only to students but also to the western suburbs, and the economy over the longer term.
If major cuts occur Victoria University will no longer be a “New School of Thought” within the western suburbs of Melbourne. Such action will exclude many disadvantaged students from obtaining tertiary qualifications.
I appeal to you to lobby in support of retaining staff and courses at all campuses of Victoria University, particularly in the areas of Social Work and Welfare, and on behalf of many VU students who live or work within your electorate.
Yours sincerely,
[Student name]
[Student Address]
23 October 2008.
[Name of Elected Federal MP for your area],
Federal Member of Parliament,
[your electorate name] Electorate,
[address of MPs office in electorate]
[postcode].
(you can google this info once getting name from AEC).
Dear [MP’s name],
I am a resident of the [your electorate name, (look up in AEC website)] Electorate, who currently studies at Victoria University. I am studying [year in your degree] year of a 4 year Undergraduate Social Work Degree and am extremely concerned by the imminent cuts to staffing at Victoria University. I understand that effectively 1 in every 5 staff members, or 400 staff in total, will be cut from VU courses, and that smaller courses will be lost to the students of VU.
Victoria University was established to be accessible and to accommodate the learning needs of students who come from very diverse backgrounds and experiences. This had the flow on effect of encouraging professional employment and opportunities for individuals and families to not only improve their life prospects and escape the poverty trap, but also to reduce their dependency on social security payments, and to instead contribute to the economy through gainful employment.
VU gave hope to the community, hope to families that through appropriate education their children may have greater opportunities in life and a very realistic chance that they would be offered a place at a local campus in a wide variety of courses offered. The variety of courses and pathways catered to the needs of students who live or work in the western suburbs and therefore encouraged engagement in higher education and meaningful activity. Many of these students cannot afford a lot of travel on a daily basis, nor to live away from home in order to access a university education. Furthermore, many students both work and study within the western region and contribute to and strengthen local community.
Welfare and social work are key services to the western suburbs and many students complete the field education component of their studies within this region, and some then gain employment at these workplaces on completion of their placements; unpaid placements which amount up to a year’s worth of free service to the community. The Social Work course at VU sends students into the community field education placements each year, therefore creating strong and viable community links. If my course, or indeed staff from within it, were lost from VU, our service and contribution to the community would also be largely lost. Furthermore the welfare sector in the West may struggle to find employees and to provide the services required by residents. I believe the loss of jobs especially across social work and welfare related courses will prove to be detrimental not only to students but also to the western suburbs, and the economy over the longer term.
If major cuts occur Victoria University will no longer be a “New School of Thought” within the western suburbs of Melbourne. Such action will exclude many disadvantaged students from obtaining tertiary qualifications.
I appeal to you to lobby in support of retaining staff and courses at all campuses of Victoria University, particularly in the areas of Social Work and Welfare, and on behalf of many VU students who live or work within your electorate.
Yours sincerely,
[Student name]
26 October 2008
The Australian 17 Oct 2008
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,24510896-12332,00.html
Victoria University to cut 250 jobs
October 17, 2008
UP to 250 jobs are expected to be cut at Victoria University in the next six months.Vice-chancellor Elizabeth Harman today announced the university will “undertake a program of targeted and voluntary redundancies”. The increasingly competitive nature of Australian universities and poor enrolments in unpopular courses are being blamed for the decision. “Victoria University wants to be ready to embrace the new challenges and opportunities this will bring in 2009,” Professor Harman said on the university's website. She said staff would be lost in small units and courses that were failing to attract student numbers.
But the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) has called on Professor Harman to resign, calling the announcement the largest job cut in Australian university history. “The university management must be held to account for this disaster,” Matthew McGowan, NTEU Victorian Division Secretary said. “Both the state and federal governments must intervene to protect the future of education in the western region of Melbourne.”
Victoria University to cut 250 jobs
October 17, 2008
UP to 250 jobs are expected to be cut at Victoria University in the next six months.Vice-chancellor Elizabeth Harman today announced the university will “undertake a program of targeted and voluntary redundancies”. The increasingly competitive nature of Australian universities and poor enrolments in unpopular courses are being blamed for the decision. “Victoria University wants to be ready to embrace the new challenges and opportunities this will bring in 2009,” Professor Harman said on the university's website. She said staff would be lost in small units and courses that were failing to attract student numbers.
But the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) has called on Professor Harman to resign, calling the announcement the largest job cut in Australian university history. “The university management must be held to account for this disaster,” Matthew McGowan, NTEU Victorian Division Secretary said. “Both the state and federal governments must intervene to protect the future of education in the western region of Melbourne.”
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