AUSA Challenges New Government to Keep Promises to Students
Auckland University Students’ Association (AUSA) is challenging Labour, New Zealand First and the Green Party to stick
to their promises to transform the tertiary education system.
“After years of successive governments underfunding the tertiary sector and under supporting students, we are pleased to
see a coalition government made up of parties that have recognised that new models of funding students and the tertiary
sector are needed”, says AUSA’s Education Vice-President Jessica Palairet.
“It is becoming more and more apparent that the current loan system is unreasonable and unsustainable, and it’s
encouraging to see the Labour, New Zealand First and the Greens recognise that through their free tertiary education
policies”.
“However, while fees and debt are key issues facing students, the new government should also focus on alleviating
student hardship day-to-day. Affording to live in Auckland is a more immediate and challenging issue for most students
than their debt: the work doesn’t stop at student fees”.
“We look forward to the new Labour Government and opportunity it presents for progressive, student-centred tertiary
policy”.
ENDS