University of New England Student Association still not disbanded by NSW Fair Trading

An email circulated to students in July from UNESA gave no explanation as to why it would be terminated.

But, there appears to be more to the story, with the association still technically registered with NSW Fair Trading.

A UNESA member, who wishes to remain anonymous, said the association is the only independent voice for students.

“It is disappointing that UNESA leadership and the university have not been transparent with the actual status of the association and the available remedies to the notice received from NSW Fair Trading,” he said.

“It is crucial that students understand the actual status of UNESA with NSW Fair Trading and the simple remedies available to ensure a continued independent representative student association at UNE.”

The university has suggested other associations and representative groups remain open, however they are focused on specific areas of interest.

Fair Trading sought further information from the association about its status and ability to continue a department spokeswoman said.

“At present, the association’s registration has not been cancelled – Fair Trading will consider any submissions made before determining whether the association’s registration should be cancelled,” she said.

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UNESA representatives refused to comment on the matter, but the association will be canned by NSW Fair Trading for a lack of committee members and a failure to appoint a public officer.

No emails were sent to students at the university offering them the opportunity to take a place on the executive board to save the association.

NSW Fair Trading is taking submissions on the cancellation before it takes further action and a UNE spokeswoman said it was ready to support a student-led discussion on what form a new student body should take.

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