Students from The University of Western Sydney will invite federal politicians to hear how the deregulation of fees proposed in the federal budget will affect them.
UWS Greens on Campus member Eliza June said the event would give the government and students a chance for dialogue, and students a platform to be heard rather than spoken at.
The university last week announced it would freeze fees for students who enroll or commence study at its campuses this year, and consult with government and students to put a fair fee structure in place for 2016.
Ms June said she was proud of the university’s decision to work in the best interest of students from the region, but believes the fee freeze is only a temporary stopgap.
“The way in which the university’s decision was announced leaves some ambiguity about how it will affect domestic students enrolling in classes for 2015,’’ she said.
‘‘It also failed to mention international students, who already face incredibly inflated fees to study in Australia.
“There are clearly some issues that need clarification.
“The government’s decision to deregulate fees and increase the interest rate on HELP loans will have a damaging effect for all university students, but the students at UWS – many of whom are from low socio-economic backgrounds – would be hit the hardest,’’ she said.
‘‘We’re glad that the university’s administration has recognised that, and are doing what they can to offset that damage”.
An event organiser said the date of the forum is yet to be determined, but would likely be in August.
