NSW inquiry challenges Charles Sturt's case for 101 job cuts
A NSW parliamentary inquiry questions if Charles Sturt University is overstating its financial problems. The university cites these problems to justify cutting 101 jobs planned for early 2027.
Charles Sturt University told an inquiry in June it faced a $30.4 million operating deficit. Poor federal funding and fewer international students caused it.
The final inquiry report came out in September. The report found the university had actually reported rising revenue from both domestic and international students.
The inquiry said it remained unconvinced by Charles Sturt's financial figures. The university shared no detailed financial reasons with staff or the committee.
The proposed cuts would affect regional campuses in Albury, Wagga, Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo and Port Macquarie. Charles Sturt says its backlog of costs includes $70 million.
This covers overdue maintenance and upgrades of essential teaching and research infrastructure.
- $30.4 million
- Operating deficit claimed
- 101
- Jobs to be cut
- $70 million
- Infrastructure backlog
- 6 locations
- Regional campuses affected
Why it mattersIf a university's finances are stronger than it claims, the 101 job cuts could be unnecessary. They would damage education and student services. Transparency matters because these decisions affect staff livelihoods and regional communities.
AustraliaCharles Sturt serves regional New South Wales, a crucial provider of university education outside Sydney. Job losses at the university would weaken support services for regional students and strengthen teaching inequalities across the state.
Corroborated bydailyadvertiser.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
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