ANUSA President Speaks Out for Students in Senate Public Hearing

ANUSA is proud to share that President Will Burfoot appeared before a Senate public hearing examining the governance of Australian higher education institutions on 12 August 2025.

This hearing examines how universities are run — from decision-making transparency and financial accountability to how governance impacts teaching quality, campus life, and student wellbeing.

Will shared the impacts the cuts are having on students; with class sizes growing significantly, participation is much more difficult, tutorial frequency has diminished. Research students have lost supervisors and support staff. Courses you had planned to study are no longer being offered. "These are all regular experiences of an ANU student. This is the reality we are facing” said Will during the hearing.

Will also addressed the governance structure of ANU, raising concerns about limited access to information for council members, and an environment that doesn't consistently promote accountability and transparency. "If the ANU cannot model transparent, accountable governance that puts education and research first, then the governance framework for the entire higher education sector is broken."

ANUSA believes that a strong student voice is essential for ensuring universities are responsive to the needs of their students and focused on delivering high-quality education. The appearance before the Senate underscores ANUSA's commitment to advocating for improved governance, increased transparency, and a better university experience for all ANU students.