Industrial action – October 16, 2003

Staff unions have called a day of industrial action on October 16, 2003 to protest against the Commonwealth Government’s Higher Education Workplace Relations Requirements.

It is clear that there is widespread concern and anger at the Government’s proposals to tie much needed additional funding for universities to the Government’s workplace reform agenda. The University of Queensland and many others have expressed opposition to this proposal. UQ supports the Australian Vice-Chancellors’ Committee’s (AVCC) call on the Government to remove the Higher Education Workplace Relations Requirements from the higher education reform package currently under consideration.

UQ’s position is that disruption to the normal work of the University, and in particular to teaching and research, should be minimised as much as possible. No classes have been cancelled by the University and no building has been closed down. However, students and staff should expect that there may be some disruption to normal services.

Staff unions have notified UQ that picket lines will be established at all key entrances to the St Lucia campus, including on Sir Fred Schonell Drive at the multi-level car park, Chancellor’s Place and roads leading to this point, and the City Cat and Dutton Park Ferry landings. There may be picket lines at the entrances to some campus buildings.

Pickets are entitled to hand out leaflets and to talk to members of staff coming on to the campus or entering those buildings about the situation. The University has been advised, however, that, in accordance with the law, no person will be prevented physically from going about their legitimate work and responsibilities should they decide to do so.

Professor Margaret Gardner
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
The University of Queensland

October 15, 2003