Dr Ziggy Switkowski, Former Telstra CEO

In an move that is polarising opinion, UoM have appointed former Telstra CEO Ziggy Switkowski to Chair the VCA Review Committee.

Ziggy has never worked as an artist, nor as an artist educator, nor had a he run an arts business, but he does have exposure to non-UoM opinions through his role at the Australian Major Performing Arts Group. He has also had a very successful corporate career and headed a review into the nuclear industry. Perhaps it’s good to have someone who can come to VCA with fresh eyes? Or is he not qualified for this crucial role? What do you think? Post your comments below

We wait to see who will form the rest of the Review Committee as to whether UoM are really interested in giving Mr Switkowski and Ms Delahunty colleagues from a range of viewpoints

You can read the University of Melbourne Press Release here

You can also read a recent article from  09-11-26 in The Age

Peter Garrett Parliament Photo

Peter Garrett in 2005 as Shadow Minister for the Arts… (from http://www.petergarrett.com.au/62.aspx)

VCA is a world-class institution that has trained generations of Australian artists with a proud tradition of merit-based entry.

The HECS hikes at VCA mean that many of Australia’s future artists may be put off studying their field.

This is a terrible blow for the Australian arts community which has been enriched over the years by VCA.

It is amazing what an election can do…

This is yet more evidence that the Howard Government’s policy of making students and their families pay the price for $5 billion cuts to universities is culturally and economically irresponsible..

In 2009 Minister Garrett was quick to claim it’s “not my portfolio”…

Peter Garrett Letter "Not My Portfolio"

Let him know how you feel here…

OR

Send him a letter at:

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts
PO Box 6022
Parliament House
Canberra ACT 2600

More discussion on Facebook