Students split on Work for HECS idea

by Andrea Elliott

April 29, 2008

FOLLOWING the recent 2020 summit, the idea of reducing students’ HECS debts in return for community service has got WA students talking.

The summit held on April 19 and 21 came up with the idea of exchanging a reduction in student debts for voluntary work on environmental, public safety, education or disaster relief projects. Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said the idea was worth looking into.

The idea is good in theory, but flawed in practice, says 24-year-old law graduate, Wesley Elliott.

 “I would not participate in unpaid work, simply because I rely on paid employment to get me through day to day living expenses,” Mr Elliot said. “I think this initiative widens the gap between the have and have nots and it is poorer students who will be disadvantaged.”

Currently saddled with a $12,000 HECS debt, Mr Elliot believes a proposed reduction of $5000 would not be enough.

“Although I would not personally take up this option, I do believe it is important to get the ball rolling on this issue,” he said. “There is still a lot of work to be done and incorporating work experience relevant to the degree would make it more attractive.”

According to Rachael Hughes, a 21-year-old media student, the idea of working off a uni debt is a good idea that needs to be fine tuned.

“I support the idea of reducing my debt as soon as possible because I find it really daunting to think I’m coming out of uni with so much money to pay off,” Rachael says. “I think it is good the government is thinking of different options and better incentives to pay off debt.

“Although I support the idea, my personal circumstances mean I would have to choose paid work over volunteer work, but if the plan was able to accommodate both I would  certainly look into it.”

Angela Grigson, a 21-year-old accounting student, said the plan would not help her.

“I pay my fees upfront and get a 20 per cent discount, which equates to about $5000 over my degree,” she said. “I’m better off paying my fees off up front than working 1700 hours for the same reduction.

“I’m not a community-minded person and would not want to do community service.”