Bill to stop University of Tasmania selling Sandy Bay campus tabled in state parliament

Legislation to ban UTAS selling off land at its Sandy Bay campus has been tabled in the state parliament. The move has drawn the ire of the university.

University of Tasmania building and signage, Sandy Bay Campus. Picture: Richard Jupe

The University of Tasmania says it is disappointed that the government did not consult with it over legislation to ban the sale of land at its Sandy Bay campus.

The Liberals pledged to pass laws requiring the approval of both Houses of Parliament for land sales during the recent state election.

It followed a 2022 elector poll of Hobart City council ratepayers which recorded 74 per cent opposition to the university’s relocation into the CBD.

The legislation was tabled in parliament on Thursday.

UTAS Vice Chancellor Rufus Black. Picture: Chris Kidd

University of Tasmania Pro Vice-Chancellor (South) Professor Nicholas Farrelly said it came as a surprise.

“We are disappointed we were not given the opportunity to see the legislation and engage

in proper consultation before it was tabled in parliament,” he said.

“The legislation places unnecessary constraints on the University at a time when we are

navigating a complex financial environment and major reforms to the higher education

sector.

“We have made our initial concerns clear to the government.

“Now we can see the legislation, we will consider its implications carefully and look forward to constructive conversations on the path ahead.”

The university’s annual report, also released on Thursday, showed a net deficit of $10m deficit for the 2023 calendar year reflecting reduced revenue and increasing expenses.

“Careful management of our finances is an ongoing task as the volatility in the national higher education sector, particularly in relation to international students, continues in 2024,” Deputy Vice-Chancellor Craig Barling said in a letter to staff.

Minister for Women and Prevention of Family Violence, Madeleine Ogilvie. Picture: Chris Kidd

Member for Clark Madeleine Ogilvie said the legislation tabled on Thursday would enable parliament to take into account community sentiment when determining the university’s future.

“The Tasmanian Government respects the rights of the University to choose where it establishes its facilities, however, we have also listened to the community,” she said.

“As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we are ensuring the community view is considered when it comes to the University’s Sandy Bay Campus.

“The University has a long and proud history as the only tertiary institution in our state.”

The University’s plans to relocate have been hit be a series of setback including the Covid pandemic and a drop in the number of overseas students.

In April is announced plans to sell off it's the Mid City and Fountainside hotels, bought in 2018 and 2019.

Ms Ogilvie said keeping the university’s presence at Sandy Bay was important.

“This land was originally gifted to Tasmanians for the purpose of education in 1951 and we are committed to ensuring the community has a voice in its future,” she said.