This decision was made in light of a new over-arching strategy to focus on the main campus network, its heartland being Wagga, Bathurst and Albury. However, the report did not mention recent changes introduced by the federal government that create an advantage for international students to study in regional universities

These relate to permanent residency, sponsor and visa options, and post graduate visas, thus making regional NSW more appealing to international students.

International students come to Australia for a number of reasons, including to gain a valued qualification, learn/practise their English, learn to fit in within another culture, become a global citizen with transnational mobility and prepare for a well-paid job here or overseas.

If CSU wishes to reinvigorate regional campus life, then it needs to do more than just increase student diversity by adding more international students to the mix.

For the mutual benefit of all students there needs to be more face-to-face offerings, tutorials and a vibrant social life on campus.

At present on-campus course offerings are limited. Course options would need to be increased and tailored to suit both local and international students.

To survive and flourish, regional universities must be attractive, welcoming, supportive and address the needs of all students.

Greater local representation of regional campuses is needed on the CSU Council to ensure appropriate actions are taken so that regional communities will benefit fully from the opening up of NSW to international students in the coming months.

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An interesting read from recent The Daily Advertiser articles where the peer review report into the North Wagga levee bank showed there was a lack of consultation between the original council-appointed consultant and the residents of North Wagga.

Apparently the remaining budget for the feasibility study is only $4496 and the council is suggesting consultation between the original consultants and the peer review consultant - $5000 will not cover this!

Why didn't the original consultant consult the North Wagga residents initially?

This is concerning in that there has been to date no consultation between Wagga's residents and the council-appointed consultant for the CBD masterplan.

When will this consultation take place and can the residents have a face-to-face meeting with these consultants so as they know the wishes of the affected residents, and not just the plans of specific councillors and their developer friends?

In council reports to councillors, the "Community, Leadership and Collaboration" objective is "we have strong leadership". I would like to suggest this strong leadership should include community consultation.

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