G21 plea for more cash for Deakin

A REGIONAL lobby group is calling for “much improved” federal funding for Deakin University, claiming the institution will be essential in rebuilding the region postCOVID-19.

G21 chief executive Elaine Carbines said the Geelongheadquartered university would help battle an economic downturn — much like it did following the closure of several large local manufacturers in the past decade.

But despite its crucial role in the economy, the university has been left to struggle with minimal federal government support, Ms Carbines said.

“While the Federal Government provided a type of ‘rescue package’ to universities, it will make little difference to Deakin,” she said.

“The package will not alleviate Deakin’s challenges this year or next.”

Deakin this week announced it will make 300 positions redundant in a costcutting drive to counter massive financial losses brought on by the coronavirus crisis. The university says its operating revenue could fall by $250 million to $300 million next year.

Ms Carbines said the Federal Government’s COVID-19 JobKeeper program should now be extended to include the higher education sector after the revelation the scheme would cost $60 billion less than expected.

“Universities rely on international students for a significant part of their revenue,” she said.

“Given that revenue from international students is one of the most important means of the Australian economy earning overseas income, it is disappointing that more substantial federal government assistance was not made available.”