Adelaide University staff offered early retirement over revenue shortfall
Adelaide University faces a projected $90 million revenue shortfall. International enrolments fell 40 per cent below target.
Adelaide University merged in January backed by a $464.5 million state investment. Less than a year later, it's struggling with a revenue crisis.
International student enrolments are 40 per cent below target, creating a projected shortfall of around $90 million. The university blames federal policy changes that discourage international students.
The university is offering staff over 55 voluntary early retirement packages. These are available to those with five or more years of service.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Nicola Phillips warned staff to "carefully manage costs." The merger promise guaranteed no forced job losses before mid-2027.
But the university left the door open for future job cuts. The union said management is "trying really hard" to manage without breaking that promise.
Competitor Flinders University reported a 15 per cent increase in international enrolments this year. This suggests Adelaide's problem is specific to the merger.
- $464.5 million
- Government merger package
- $90 million
- Revenue shortfall projection
- 40 per cent below target
- International student shortfall
- 15 per cent increase
- Flinders University performance
Why it mattersUniversities dependent on international student fees face sudden income loss when federal policy changes. This forces difficult decisions about staff.
AustraliaAdelaide University's struggles show how federal changes to international student policy hit university budgets and job security in South Australia.
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