The Liberal and Nationals Government will provide Geraldton Universities Centre with a further four years funding to ensure it will continue to offer students in Geraldton the opportunity to participate and succeed in furthering their education.
Geraldton Universities Centre is one of 16 Regional University Centres, covering 24 sites around Australia, that will receive a share of up to $27.9 million over four years.
People in regional Australia are less than half as likely to complete a university degree compared with people in cities. Regional University Centres are helping communities across Australia to reverse this trend.
The centre supported 267 students to pursue a tertiary education at institutions across Australia in 2021.
Minister for Regional Education, Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie said extending funding for a further four years would enable the Geraldton Universities Centre to continue supporting its students and the broader community until June 2026.
“I am delighted that over 660 students have studied at the centre since 2018,” Minister McKenzie said.
“The centre has agreements with several universities, including a partnership with Curtin University, to provide ongoing support for the Indigenous Tertiary Enabling Program.
“We are extremely proud of the Regional University Centre program, which enables aspiring students from regional Australia to be supported while undertaking study by distance with any Australian tertiary provider.
“These Centres make a real difference to our students, as they no longer have to leave their friends and families to pursue further education and can remain at home while studying, where their skills can boost local communities and economies, which is part of our plan for a strong economy and a stronger future.
“Our government is investing almost $20 billion in higher education in 2022 – this is 32 per cent higher than under Labor.”
The Nationals WA Candidate for Durack, Ian Blayney welcomed the announcement and said Regional University Centres’ offer students access to high-speed internet, dedicated study spaces, computer facilities and importantly, administrative and academic skills, as well as supporting their wellbeing.
“All Australians, no matter where they live, deserve access to high-quality education and these Centres offer the facilities and support local students need to access a tertiary education, which helps to level the playing field with their city counterparts,” Mr Blayney said.
