- Partnership confirmed between South Regional TAFE and Edith Cowan University
- Shared facilities and coordinated industry engagement to be explored
- Part of the Cook Labor Government’s record investment in WA’s future workforce
A new partnership between South Regional TAFE (SR TAFE) and Edith Cowan University (ECU) will help create stronger pathways between vocational education and university study for students in the South West.
The two institutions have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that formalises their commitment to working together to improve access to tertiary education and support regional workforce development.
The partnership will explore opportunities to:
- strengthen pathways between vocational education and higher education programs;
- increase collaboration between the two institutions;
- coordinate industry engagement activities;
- investigate shared use of facilities; and
- promote tertiary harmonisation initiatives across the South West.
The collaboration aligns with recommendations of the Australian Universities Accord, which encourages greater integration across Australia’s tertiary education system.
The model will promote integration in both directions between Vocational Education and Training and higher education, ensuring that both sectors contribute to State and national skills priority areas.
The partnership will also investigate the establishment of shared learning and engagement spaces at SR TAFE campuses in Bunbury, Margaret River, Harvey and Collie.
SR TAFE and ECU are co-located within the Bunbury Education Precinct.
As stated by Skills and TAFE Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
“This partnership is an exciting opportunity to strengthen connections between vocational education and university study in regional Western Australia.
“We want students to have flexible pathways that help them gain the skills and qualifications they need for rewarding careers.
“By bringing together two of the South West’s largest tertiary education providers, this collaboration will make it easier for people to move between TAFE and university and access new opportunities closer to home.
“The Cook Labor Government is supporting innovative approaches that improve outcomes and help meet the workforce needs of our regions.”
As stated by Tertiary and International Education Minister Dr Tony Buti:
“This partnership reflects the future direction of Australia’s tertiary education sector, where universities and vocational education providers work more closely together.
“The South West is well placed to pilot new approaches to tertiary harmonisation, helping create clearer pathways for students and stronger links between education providers and industry.
“I commend South Regional TAFE and ECU for their leadership and commitment to improving opportunities for regional students.”
As stated by South West Minister Don Punch:
“This partnership is about making it easier for people in the South West to get the skills and qualifications they need for the jobs of the future.
“Whether a student starts at TAFE, university, or moves between the two, we want them to have clear and flexible pathways that help them achieve their goals close to home.
“By bringing together South Regional TAFE and Edith Cowan University, we’re strengthening our regional education system and helping ensure local industries have access to the skilled workforce they need.”
