This will likely hit UniSuper's bottom-line. I just know that in an effort to reduce costs and save the company they will layoff alot of people including the team that pushed for 3rd-party backups. The same team that is saving their ass right now.
I had the exact same experience. First, I tried to ask a question and couldn't for some reason (it was ~10 years ago). Then in an attempt to gain points that would allow me to ask questions (I think that was my issue) I kept getting rejected.
At the time I was active on Experts Exchange but, they were moving to a paid model. I thought I could find community on SO. You're right it does feel like a slap in the face. I hate all of Stack because of SO.
A connoisseur of Pink Floyd, technology, with a hint of politics. I have never been lost but, many times I did not know where I was. Forever seeking balance.