23 September 2025
The Greens are alarmed at reports that 30 staff, including six internationally recognised marine scientists who are researching South Australia's toxic algal bloom, are set to lose their jobs under a proposed restructure at Flinders University. The announcement comes after the major parties last week voted down a Greens bill to cap the salaries of Vice-Chancellors in line with the Premier.
Quotes attributable to Robert Simms Greens MLC
“These proposed cuts will strip students of access to expert scientists and educators and decimate research capacity. Universities can’t provide high-quality education and research while dismantling the departments that make it possible. I urge Flinders to reconsider this move.”
“It’s appalling that these sorts of decisions are being led by Vice-Chancellors who earn exorbitant salaries. It’s a slap in the face to staff who are facing the prospect of losing their jobs.”
Quotes attributable to Melanie Selwood, Lead Upper House candidate:
“Axing this many scientists right now is like turning back the fire trucks in the middle of a bushfire. South Australia is facing the biggest environmental catastrophe in its history, and we need every bit of expertise we have.”
“If these cuts go ahead, it will be a huge setback in our ability to understand and protect our environment. We can’t afford that when climate change is accelerating the risks to marine ecosystems and our coastal communities.”