A spokesperson for the Association, Mr Geoff Wilson, said "Student housing services are being asked to bear the brunt of housing stress experienced by students. This stress arises from lack of affordability, discrimination in the private rental market, poor quality housing and lack of legislation for students sharing accommodation."

The conference heard that there was a need for a national body which could represent the views of student housing workers in relation to the numerous issues associated with student accommodation.

The conference resolved to seek recognition for SHOAA from the Australian Vice Chancellors Committee (AVCC) to ensure that the housing needs of students were being addressed at the broader policy level.

Geoff Wilson said, "It is incumbent on universities to realise the importance of housing for students as an access issue to tertiary education. Housing needs to be seen as part of a package of services and academic supports available to students."

The conference resolved to develop policies around issues such as the professional development of housing workers, homestay for students, legislative support for shared housing for students and housing for minority groups including kooris, students from non-English speaking backgrounds, students with disabilities and others who are socio-economically disadvantaged.

Geoff Wilson said, "If universities are going to be equitable and ensure access to tertiary education then a special emphasis needs to be placed on the affordability, accessability and availability of housing for students. Policy development at all levels of government and from universities is critical to ensure this occurs."

For further information please contact:

Geoff Wilson – Co-convenor and Media Convenor for SHOAA on (03) 52 272221

Maggie Mitchell – Media Working Group – SHOAA on (08) 9380 3547

Fairlie Taylor – Media Working Group – SHOAA on (08) 9380 3547