University of Canberra has revealed it's in a better financial position compared to the beginning of the pandemic.
University of Canberra vice-chancellor Professor Paddy Nixon told staff on Thursday the original estimated shortfall of $32.9 million had been reduced to $11.9 million.
He said this was due to the earlier start date of semester one, which enabled more international students to arrive before travel restrictions came in, as well as staff efforts to reduce costs and leave liabilities.
"The University will continue with our phased approach for a Roadmap to Recovery, focusing on reducing leave liability, cost savings, executive pay cuts, and improving productivity," Professor Nixon said in a statement.
"We believe we will be able to steer this course into 2021, until we have greater clarity on domestic student numbers, international student returns, and the impact of the Jobs-Ready Graduates Package on university funding.
"This is expected in March 2021."
The university originally predicted a revenue decrease of $60 million in 2021, but this has been revised down to $27.6 million.
Many casual staff at the university have had their hours reduced in semester two, particularly in faculties which have felt the greatest loss of international students.
Staff are being encourage to take leave to reduce liabilities on a voluntary basis.
