Show 16/5
- Liz and Teishan put on our monocles and inspect the latest Federal Budget’s consequences for higher education, students, and welfare recepients more broadly. While some students will benefit from measures like the increase in the amount their parents can earn before they’re eligible for the payment, others are not so fortunate. It’s now much more difficult for many people to qualify for Youth Allowance through work.
Disturbingly, all under-17s and under 20-s without a year 12 pass or equivalent will no longer be eligible for welfare benefits unless they are in full-time work or study — effectively cutting unemployment benefits for one of the most vulnerable sectors of the population. Treasury says they should be in school; critics say it’s punitive and a cynical attempt to deflate youth unemployment figures, sure to rise in this time of recession. One text message sent to the NT News sums it up: “All those texts about the merits of Learn or Earn. I would think that the Govt would lead the World by adding a third option – or be conscripted!” Indeed.
The cap on the number of publically funded university places has been removed, with the government pledging to fund as many places as institutions attract applicants. The adoption of this supply and demand model may have negative consequences for small and regional higher ed providers.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/05/14/2570264.htm?site=riverina
http://www.abc.net.au/am/content/2008/s2557807.htm
- We take a blowtorch to the police response to the growing problem of violence against Indian students, especially in Melbourne’s western suburbs. A new Victoria Police helpline has been set up to give advice for those at risk; unfortunately, this advice takes the form of telling Indian students to be less conspicuous. One handy tip is to avoid talking loudly in one’s native language on public transport! The Federation of Indian Students of Australia have slammed the police response for failing to acknowledge and tackle the root cause of the attacks — racism.
We also plugged a few cool things that are happening soon, like the “Share Your Shame” open mic queer stand-up and storytelling night put on by the Revolting Queers collective. If you love open mic nights but hate the queerphobia, sexism and racism that permeates stand-up culture, this is for you. It’s at Barricade Books (62 St George’s Rd) from 7 pm on Thursday the 28th of May. $2 entry, BYO drinks if you want. Call Tracey on 0402926775 for more info.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=183900775486
Cheers, and don’t forget to watch Eurovision! Personally, I think Estonia are in with a chance…
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