Abbott govt threatens unis with further research cuts

The Australian Greens are calling on the Abbott government to stop jeopardising the future of public education after reports that universities are bracing for a further 10 percent cut to research funding.

Greens spokesperson for tertiary, technical and further education said: "Yesterday's news was that the Abbott government may go ahead with its 20 per cent cut to university funding despite the legislation being blocked, and today it's the 10 per cent cut to the Research Training Scheme.

"It is shameful that Australia is ranked 34 out of 35 in the OECD when it comes to tertiary education funding.

"Education Minister Christopher Pyne has realised he is not going to get his way through the democratic process and so is pressing ahead with his reckless policies that damage the future of our universities via other ‘options'.

"The Abbott government needs to immediately rule out any further cuts to public universities including research as long as the legislation remains stranded in the Senate.

Contact - Brami Jegan for Lee Rhiannon 0487 350 880