University of Queensland in Australia submits transition plan application for student union
The University of Queensland in Australia has submitted an application to the Department of Education for approval of a transition plan for the University of Queensland Union (UQU). The university cited concerns over the union's compliance with corporate governance requirements, ABC News Australia reports.
The university's position
A university representative said that UQ had not proposed cutting UQU's funding. According to the representative, the transition plan is intended to give the university and the student union an opportunity to jointly introduce improved governance standards, while funding should remain in students' hands.
UQ's 2025 Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) allocation report states that the university assessed the union as having failed to meet the requirement to implement and comply with corporate governance policies and procedures. The Department of Education confirmed receipt of UQ's application.
Funding and the union's position
Australian legislation allows higher education institutions to charge students the SSAF for student services and infrastructure. Universities must direct at least 40% of these funds to student-run organizations. UQU received a total of $9.2 million in 2025.
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Transition plans may be used if a university considers that allocating at least 40% of SSAF revenue to student organizations does not comply with government guidelines. UQU said that the university is seeking to influence the union's independence and funding because of its social and political positions.
UQU President Alyssa Roser said that student money should remain in students' hands. She also expressed the view that an independent union cannot properly oversee the university if it uses the financial relationship to influence the union's work.
The university did not disclose the content of the recommendations provided to the union or the specific governance concerns. At the same time, UQ said it supports lawful freedom of speech and is ready to work constructively with UQU in the interests of students.
