Senator Eric Abetz

“The cost of going to University will substantially increase if Labor is re-elected, Opposition Leader in the Senate,” Senator Eric Abetz said today.

“Whilst Labor has been very quiet during this election campaign, they are committed to levying a compulsory fee on each and every student, irrespective of the length of time they spend on campus or their capacity to pay.”

“This fee would be about $250 per annum and would amount to about $1,000 for the average degree and would further impact on the cost of living for students who are already struggling to cope under Labor with the increased cost of rent, food and electricity.”

“This money will either have to be paid up front, or be included in the student’s Higher Education Contribution Scheme debt. In these circumstances, it will earn interest and cost even more.”

“In the past, many parents paid their young students’ Compulsory Student Union fee. When the Howard Government lifted this burden from families, it was most welcome,” Senator Abetz said.

“In the five years since, students have been graduating; getting high class degrees and their qualifications have not been diminished in any way, shape or form.”

“Labor and the Greens are intent on reintroducing the compulsory levy on all students, simply to help bankroll Labor and Green parties whose activists on campus spend more time playing politics, rather than studying.”