More than 200 staff members at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) are facing job losses as part of a proposal aimed at saving the institution approximately $85 million annually. University executives announced plans to cut 209 full-time equivalent professional roles, a move that follows the recent announcement of reductions in around 160 academic positions last month.
The proposed job cuts are currently under consultation. If implemented, the plan includes making redundancies across various departments, including 97 positions in faculty support, 22 in student support and administration, 28 in the learning and teaching unit, and 13 in the library. This shift comes as UTS seeks to address its financial challenges, having recorded a deficit of $78 million last year.
Financial Challenges Prompt Major Changes
UTS executives argue that these changes are essential for stabilising the university’s finances. Vice Chancellor Andrew Parfitt stated that the strategy is designed to reduce duplication and streamline operations, allowing the university to focus resources on its most impactful areas. “Our approach to savings has been informed by a strategic, considered approach to optimise how we operate rather than salary savings alone,” Parfitt noted in an email to staff.
In a controversial decision, UTS plans to transition to electronic journals and e-books, reducing the need for physical books and journals. The proposal outlines that this transition will lead to a significant reduction in tasks associated with managing physical items, such as receiving and processing deliveries.
Despite the financial rationale, the proposal has drawn criticism, particularly regarding the planned cuts to certain academic courses, including teaching degrees. The New South Wales government has expressed concerns, highlighting the potential negative impact on educational offerings.
Staff Reactions and Union Concerns
Staff at UTS have voiced significant anxiety regarding the proposed cuts. During meetings held across campus to inform employees, many expressed frustration and a lack of faith in the university’s management. Andreas Dalman, president of the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) NSW UTS branch, reported a tense atmosphere, noting that many staff felt their alternative proposals to mitigate job losses were dismissed. “People were saying there had been a lack of transparency,” Dalman stated.
Union representatives, including CPSU NSW branch assistant secretary Troy Wright, have called for accountability from the university’s executive team. Wright remarked, “If any other organisation had got into this much financial trouble, you’d see those at the top held to account, yet the executive team at UTS are seemingly immune from responsibility.”
As the consultation period continues, staff remain uncertain about their futures and the broader implications of the proposed changes. UTS is also exploring $20 million in non-staff savings as part of its Operational Sustainability Initiative, further complicating the financial landscape.
Numerous universities across Australia have announced similar job cuts in recent months, including the Australian National University, Macquarie University, and the University of Newcastle, reflecting a challenging period for higher education institutions facing financial strain.
The unfolding situation at UTS underscores the delicate balance between financial sustainability and the need to support staff and maintain educational quality in an increasingly competitive environment.
