As the largest provider of higher education to students from Far Western New South Wales, CSU Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Goulter said the University was acutely aware of the issues facing many of its students and their families affected by the drought.

“The communities in many of our regions are suffering considerable hardship due to the drought,” Professor Goulter said.

“The new drought resource page is a service the University wanted to provide not only to our existing students and their families, but our communities. We have brought together information that provides updates on the drought, applying for drought assistance, and information about services CSU can offer to both people considering tertiary study, and those already studying and facing hardship due to the drought. 

“For those considering tertiary study in 2003 CSU offers a range of flexible entry schemes which can take into account particular individual hardship circumstances, while our Division of Student Services has a range of financial assistance measures in place to assist students.

“This initiative will complement the latest Federal Government assistance package and add to the resources available to drought affected communities.”

For students wanting to study at CSU in 2003, the University has in place an existing special consideration scheme, which offers a five point bonus to prospective students from the CSU regions. However, in response to the exceptional pressures of the drought, Professor Goulter added special consideration will be given to students who are adversely affected, saying that the University was examining ways in which it could assist new and continuing students experiencing hardship due to the drought.

“Many of these students come from families who are under extreme financial pressure. For students this presents not only financial strain, but can lead to physical and emotional distress. Our Division of Student Services, in particular student equity officers will ensure students adversely impacted by the drought are offered access to services that will help them continue their studies.”