A rally against job cuts at Southern Cross University will take place in the Plaza at the Lismore campus today at 12.30pm.
Lismore Greens candidate Adam Guise said he was shocked to learn about the ‘dire financial situation ’ that had resulted in 50 staff layoffs, with more expected.
‘This is an awful state of affairs for the staff who have been made redundant, and a blow to our region which depends on the university,’ Mr Guise said.
‘I call on the Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan to intervene and assist Southern Cross University and to stem the loss of jobs which threaten people’s livelihoods, educational standards and the regional economy,” Mr Guise said.
‘Mr Hogan’s Liberal-National government sided with Labor in 2013 to cut $2.3b of funding from universities. Now this Liberal-National government intends further cuts, wants to increase student fees and cap university places.
‘Southern Cross University is one of the major employers in Lismore and our region. Staff cuts will have devastating impacts on our regional economy and lead to a decline in the quality of courses. The loss of 50 jobs already at the University will result in a total estimated loss of $12.55m to the region.
‘Staff are calling for an independent inquiry into Southern Cross University’s finances.’
