‘We’re making good progress’: ANU vice-chancellor says cost cutting going to plan

The head of the Australian National University said there was “good progress” towards cutting costs so that the ANU could live within its means.

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“For many years, we have been spending more than we earn,” ANU Vice-Chancellor Genevieve Bell said.

But she added: “Through the hard work of our community, we’re making good progress towards meeting our cost base reductions.”

She cited the methods, including “implementing hiring controls” and “managing accumulated excess leave”.

“And we’ve offered people the opportunity to leave the University through a Voluntary Separation Scheme.”

Under the Renew ANU plan, the aim was to cut $250 million of expenditure by the start of 2026. That would include $100 million from the salary bill.

“To ensure we continue fulfilling our mission,” the plan’s stated aim was, “the University must reform to put us on a financially sustainable footing. We will better align key areas, becoming more efficient and effective to help ensure our long-term viability.”

But it’s been a painful process, and with some way to go. At times, Professor Bell has seemed embattled.

The changes she’s trying to drive through have involved staff posts being cut, with compulsory redundancies, but also a radical shake-up of departments.

Both measures have caused strong reactions from staff. Uncertainty about the future shape of the university (which has a national role, unlike that of other universities) has exacerbated opposition, according to some academics. There has been uncertainty about who will remain at the end of the process – what some academics called a “hunger games” type of competition.

They said that the School had “established a national and international reputation for excellence in research and teaching, producing future leaders not just in Australia but internationally”.

The signatories of a letter to university leaders said that the proposed changes would “do major harm to a world-renowned institution by damaging ANU’s national mission”.

Many have alleged that consultation has been inadequate.

Professor Bell rejected that. The period for consultation has just been extended by two weeks.

In her statement, she said that hard choices had to be made, and suggestions and consultation was welcome. “We welcome and encourage a diversity of views to shape the final plans and the future of the national university,” she said.

“There is no easy fix to address the challenges faced by ANU, but living outside our means is not a responsible financial position, and we continue to be grateful for the ongoing engagement of the University and broader community to help support us through this period.”

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