(Dean Shahin reporting on the student protest against cuts on staff on the 22nd of May, Image taken from Video filmed by Lamisah Raihan)
On the 22nd of May 2025, student activists gathered in protest outside building EA on Western Sydney University’s Parramatta South campus. The protest marked exactly one month since Western’s Vice Chancellor, George Williams, released an official statement on the 2026 budget position. Universities across Australia such as the University of Tasmania, University of Wollongong and now Western, are due to face significant funding challenges in 2026. University staff cuts are consequence of recent international student policy decisions, economic conditions, and the lasting effects of COVID-19.
Williams’ official statement outlines a predicted $79 million dollar deficit for 2026 and claims to have no choice but to cut 300–400 positions. This comes after Australian National University’s decision to cut 638 jobs. However, Keira Fairley of the “Stop_WSU_Cuts” group told W’SUP News on the 22nd of May:
‘Students should not pay for management’s failing business model and that universities should be institutions that prioritise education, not business’.
Following Stop WSU Cuts’ advocacy, over 400 signatures have been collected to oppose forthcoming job cuts. The group also claims that academics have alleged to be operating at 140%, allowing less time to assist students’ learning and development. Williams’ confirmed in the budget statement that his salary and senior leader’s pay has been frozen.
Williams’ statement confirms the University’s Senior Executive Leadership team has been reduced from 8 to 6 positions and hiring has strict limitations. During Thursday’s protest, the WSU Cuts team brought attention to Western’s appointment of Geoff Lee as New Deputy Vice-Chancellor Western Sydney and External Engagement in May 2025. Lee formerly worked as Liberal state Minister of Education and as Minister of Correction in New South Wales.
Western security had been instructed not to comment on the protest. However, Williams acknowledged the impacts of the job cuts, mentioning in the statement:
‘I know this is about people and the real impact on people’s lives, and I feel a heavy responsibility in taking these actions’.
