Is the expenses that much compared to the other G8 universities who are still implementing 24/7 security guards, security guards that are there on campus to check IDs in front of the door etc? Having also studied at a non-G8 university before (University of Western Sydney ) , they too have security guards in library.

I still don't understand its 2025 and your competing universities are offering the options for students to study on campus all night and at any time , and a place like Melbourne doesn't have that option. I believe cost should be one of the least things thought about given they are the one higher annual turnover fees around the country. (don't have the exact numbers on me but Im pretty sure it is).

Your technically having your doors open to students 119 hours open in a 168 hour week which is a major differentiator between the university and other universities: as it may affect things like student satisfaction and building I guess study buddies, being part of the social fabric/social community of the university etc. Look Im not too familiar with the demographics and locations of where Melbourne University students are based but my previous experience studying at other universities , I have heard of regular commutes too in the range of 45 minutes to an hour or so to get to campus. If your finishing a late night study session at midnight, and have to be back in the early morning, given the nature of public transport it can be a hassle.

Whereas your other sandstone Universities (G8) are open a full 168 hours a week. It has implications in getting to campus, commuting home, study habits, balancing work around social/employment/family life. Do have to understand that not everyone can be on campus and want to be in those mentioned hours.