La Trobe University and Greater Shepparton City Coul have reaffirmed their shared commitment to the region’s future, signing a new five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration across education, research, workforce development and regional growth.
The renewed agreement provides a framework for the two organisations to work together on initiatives that support Greater Shepparton’s economic, social and community development while creating opportunities for students, researchers, industry and the broader community.
The renewed partnership will build on the momentum created by La Trobe University’s redevelopment and expansion of its Shepparton campus, a nearly $20 million investment that delivered new teaching, research, clinical learning, industry collaboration and community spaces to support students and respond to the region’s workforce needs.
The MOU identifies key areas for cooperation, including sustainable regional growth, teaching and research priorities relevant to Greater Shepparton, work-integrated learning and student internships, and stronger connections between education, industry and the community.
The partnership roadmap will put these priorities into practice, including better aligning education and skills with local workforce needs, connecting businesses with La Trobe expertise, students and research, and developing applied research that responds to regional priorities and opportunities.
La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Theo Farrell, said the new MOU would help strengthen the University’s long-term commitment to the region.
“La Trobe has deep roots in Greater Shepparton and we are proud to play an active role in shaping the region’s future alongside Council, industry and the community,” Professor Farrell said.
“By bringing together local knowledge with La Trobe’s education, research and innovation expertise, we can strengthen skills, create new opportunities and help more people study, work and build their futures locally.”
Greater Shepparton City Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Fiona Le Gassick, said the renewed partnership recognised the vital role education plays in building a strong and prosperous regional community.
“La Trobe University has been an important partner in the growth and development of Greater Shepparton for many years, and this renewed agreement reinforces our shared commitment to creating opportunities for our community and our industries,” she said.
“Through this partnership, Council and La Trobe University will continue working together to support local students, strengthen our workforce, foster innovation and research, and reinforce Greater Shepparton’s role as a thriving regional city and critical hub for north-east Victoria.”
The partnership will be guided by a joint steering committee comprising representatives from both organisations, helping to coordinate activities, monitor progress and identify future opportunities for collaboration.
The Memorandum of Understanding will remain in effect for five years.
