Tony Abbott says Government has 'no plans' to scrap university amenities fee
Prime Minister Tony Abbott has moved to calm concerns the Federal Government is planning to scrap the university student amenities fee, saying there are "no plans for change in this area".
Education Minister Christopher Pyne triggered reports yesterday that the fee would be abolished by confirming that the Coalition is "opposed" to the measure.
Universities and student groups swiftly criticised any suggestion that the fee would be axed, saying it would put more pressure on university budgets and "devastate" campus life.
But Mr Abbott has indicated that while the Government does not support the fee, it is too busy to deal with it soon.
"I have to say that there is a lot on our plate," he told the media in Melbourne.
"We are going to be a very busy and active government over the next few years and this is not a priority for us.
"We have no plans for change in this area at this time."
The fee is collected by universities who then pass on the money to student unions to provide various services on campus, including recreation and sporting facilities, subsidised childcare and student welfare and career advice.
Mr Abbott made the comments at his second media conference since being sworn in last week.
He also confirmed that former chairman of the ABC and the Australian Securities Exchange Maurice Newman would be appointed head of the Prime Minister's new Business Advisory Council.
The Coalition promised to establish the council, which will meet three times a year, to advise the Government on "developing the economy".
"You cannot have a cohesive society without a strong economy and you cannot have a strong economy without strong and profitable private businesses," Mr Abbott said.
The council will include, amongst others, representatives from the Manufacturing, Agricultural, Services, Education and Resources sectors of the economy.
More to follow. http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-26/abbott-says-govt-has-no-plans-to-scrap-uni-amenities-fee/4982470
