Murdoch to offer redundancies

Murdoch University has informed staff it will begin offering voluntary redundancies as part of efforts to seek $25 million in cost savings ahead in 2021.

That news comes two months after vice-chancellor Eeva Leinonen told staff that, even after reducing expenditure by $30 million this year, salaries represented about 62 per cent of the university’s cost base.

A proposed pay freeze for staff was reportedly voted down shortly after, with more than two-thirds of staff believed to have rejected the deal.

Informing staff of the news this afternoon, Professor Leinonen outlined several proposals the university may yet consider, including changes to the academic workload model, changes to unit, course and discipline offerings, as well as a review of professional staff requirements.

Staff will be offered voluntary redundancies from today, though, with applications open until next Friday.

Applicants will be advised on the outcome from November 30.

“It is clear that to respond to the financial challenges we have as a university, we will need to reflect on our strategic delivery and adapt the way we deliver on our priorities,” Professor Leinonen said.

She said a range of information and resources will be made available to staff over the coming weeks.

“I fully appreciate that this is a very difficult and uncertain time for the university and for all of you,” Professor Leinonen said.

“I thank you for your continuing support.”

Murdoch University employs 3,282 people, as per Data & Insights, with revenue totalling $407 million.