Liberals Leaving Young Australians Behind

The National Union of Students is appalled by the Government’s higher education plans that will leave young Australians far worse off than generations before us.

“It seems our education is nothing more than a budget burden for the Liberals,” Said NUS President, Sophie Johnston, “Higher Education has consistently been the first on the chopping block, despite being essential to the economy and central to ensuring opportunities for future generations.”

The Liberal’s plans to increase fees by thousands, while they rip billions of dollars of funding from the sector will make it even harder for young Australians to access university.

“The government has failed us on housing, they’ve failed us on jobs and growth, they’ve failed us on wages, and now they’re trying to rip away our future by attacking our education.” Said Ms Johnston.

“This generation is already faced with a severely insecure job market, low wages and a housing market that is in crisis,” Said Ms Johnston, “This proposal will make a bad situation much worse and could leave young people with a lifetime of serious debt.”

Higher Education is Australia’s third largest export and despite expending around 0.7% GDP, Australia returns around 8% GDP from the sector.

“It is beyond bizarre that the government would ignore the overwhelming spillover benefits of education” Said Ms Johnston, “Investing in an educated nation boosts productivity, creates jobs for those who never went to university, and ensures Australia is a socially responsible nation.”

“The Government desperately needs to start listening to its’ young people; with almost 70% of new voter enrolments 18-24 year olds, the Liberal’s could have just kicked an own goal in the next election if they continue to attack our future.” Said Ms Johnston.
Sophie Johnston National President | National Union of Students