ANU to impose $132 fine for traversing Pop-Up without purchasing a flat white

From April 16, ANU students will be subject to an on-the-spot fine of $132 if they attempt to enter the temporary Braddon-style student hub without purchasing a beverage from one of the many affiliated businesses.

The fine follows a notable plateau in university revenue from the food outlets provided between Ellery Crescent and the Copland and Haydon-Allen buildings, which together host over 50% of classes and lectures.

The University has issued an unofficial statement explaining the fine: “The village was established to fill in for Union Court, a student retail centre that was incidentally situated on a spacious network of foot- and bicycle paths,” an anonymous ambassador has said. “It’s frankly disappointing to see students using it as a thoroughfare.”

Amid protests from student activist groups and several members of staff, the ANU has issued reassurances that the policy will not impose any kind of financial burden on students. “There are plenty of affordable options for students who find themselves in the Pop-Up on a frolic of their own,” said the faculty, citing the $3.50 short black at Coffee Lab as a budget-friendly alternative for less affluent students.

It is yet to be confirmed whether the Bakery has clearance to advertise its 300ml Dare Iced Coffee, priced at $3.00 per unit, as a viable coffee product under the new policy.

ANUSA is currently lobbying for the fine to be waived for students carrying beverages from other cafés within the ANU, though the ANU executive has declined to respond at this time.