Andrew Norton (a very well regarded commentator on tertiary education) has a very good post on his blog – it outlines the failings re-intent of the Bills with foreign residents and students with ABNs skirting around donation rules. It is also asks how foreign students – who are paying us for their education, can complain and interact with their provider (university’s as arms of the Federal Education Department), and provider of their services -the State Government.
It raises inconsistencies between the Victorian and Federal Bills and the fact that Australian citizens who may well be operating against our interest are given far greater lee way than students who wish our system well. Not a well thought plan.
other links
Government to certify groups it approves to not impose burden – ABC.net.au – 25th June
Government tries to ‘fix’ outrageous effects of foreign influence Bill – SMH – 25th June
Government and ALP handshake the Bill through – Peter Hartcher in SMH – 24th June
Fears that Bill will criminalize Journalism – The Guardian 5th June
Journalist Union wants set standard of Public Interest and protections – The Guardian 6th March