The University of Canberra faces a second dispute with the campus branch of the National Tertiary Education Union, which says management has failed to consult over the plan to amalgamate research institutes with faculties (CMM March 9).

“Legally, consultation cannot be a rubber stamp but must mean you have an opportunity to influence decisions,” NTEU organiser Jane Maze tells staff.

According to VC Deep Saini, the plan is necessary to address shortfalls in postgraduate and international enrolments by increasing research-informed teaching. CMM hears the UniCanberra community is less opposed to the plan than somewhat sceptical about its efficacy and annoyed with the way it is being introduced.

The new dispute follows protests over management’s voluntary staff separation plan, (CMM March 2), which the union says involves “confusing and misleading information” on staff payouts.

Both set a tone for enterprise bargaining, which will occur this year.