Uni Queensland staff will receive the 2 per cent pay rise scheduled for January, despite a $100m budget shortfall

New VC Deborah Terry told staff Friday the university had offset the COVID-19 caused revenue decline by “taking decisive action” including cutting expenses and deferring $220m in capex. Second semester student numbers, including internationals studying from overseas, are also up 2 per cent on last year.

However, Professor Terry warned “newly recruited” international students are down 30 per cent and a further fall is expected for first semester ’21, which will impact revenue “over the next few years.” (The university is not bullish about a return to on-campus teaching next year, CMM August 28).

The VC accordingly announces, “modest, but prudent cost containment measures,” specifically; * ending the three additional leave days between Christmas and New Year and asking staff to use their own leave, * a voluntary separation scheme, details in a fortnight.

“Compared to most other Australian universities, Uni Queensland is in a healthy position. I am confident that by working together we will weather this storm and emerge as a stronger university,” Professor Terry said.