Labor tries to sneak in student tax, again!

The Australian Liberal Students’ Federation (ALSF) today condemned the decision of the Rudd Labor Government to push ahead with a $250 tax on university students while media attention was directed at their flawed ETS and controversial allegations against Labor Premier Mike Rann.

“While the media are focussing on Labor’s failures in other areas, the Rudd Government is trying to sneak through their unfair tax,” said ALSF President Alex Butterworth today.

Debate began on the Higher Education Legislation Amendment (Student Services and Amenities) Bill in the House of Representatives today. If passed, the bill will allow universities to charge students a compulsory student union fee of up to $250 per year, regardless of ability to pay or willingness to use the services.

“Year 12 students and returning university students may be surprised to find themselves slugged with this tax if the new bill is successful in the Senate."

“In the middle of a financial crisis, with the worst graduate employment market in a decade, students simply cannot afford this unfair tax. It's no wonder that they're trying to sneak it through,” said Mr Butterworth.

The ALSF remains hopeful that crossbench senators will again join the Liberal Party in standing up for the rights of students by blocking this bill a second time.

Media Enquiries:                  Alex Butterworth

+61 418 264 020

abutterworth@alsf.org.au

www.alsf.org.au

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