In a move that will see all CSU students benefit, Charles Sturt University (CSU) will take over all essential Student Association services with the introduction of Voluntary Student Unionism occurring in July this year.

 

“This is a progressive decision and I congratulate the University in taking this step and making the financial commitment to secure these services,” Jim Hackett, Chair of the University’s Steering Committee on VSU said today. ”It is indicative of how important the student experience is to Charles Sturt University.”

 

The move will see the University significantly increase its Student Services portfolio to take on the additional business, health, welfare, social, and recreational services.

 

“Most importantly we will ensure that all CSU students across the University’s campuses, including our large distance education student body can receive comprehensive and homogenous services, previously managed by the campus based Student Associations.”

 

Over 60 per cent of CSU students study by distance and until now it has been difficult to ensure their access to the same level of service as on-campus students. The University specialises in providing degree education to students who choose to study from their home or work location. “With VSU the University plans to provide an increased level of service to support these students,” Mr Hackett said.

 

The CSU Steering Committee into VSU has spent the past year assessing the business and delivery of services provided by its campus based Student Associations. As part of its commitment to its students the University will also introduce free membership to the CSU Student Association.

 

“It’s important that the voice and values of student associations are carried over and have a level of independence from the management of the University. Students contribute significantly to community life and the representation of student interests in the University. As our future business managers, leaders and decision makers having the opportunity to develop a representative voice is part of student life.”

 

Mr Hackett said the University is now working with the Student Associations to manage the handover of business and service management and ensure a smooth transition for these enterprises and services.

 

“We will be making a strong case to the Federal Government for the VSU funding they have available. As Australia’s largest regional University and a major provider of higher education to rural and remote communities we are seeking special compensation. Our campuses do not sit in large metropolitan cities with access to extensive childcare, legal and health services.

 

"We are also a significant contributor to our regional areas providing community based sporting activities and competition as well as a range of social and recreational activities."

 

University submissions to the Federal Government VSU funding pool are due in September 2006.