Land has been secured for the new Queensland Academy for Health Sciences in Rockhampton, another important step to its scheduled opening in 2028.
The Academy – a partnership between the Albanese Government, the Crisafulli Government and Central Queensland University – will fast track high-achieving local students in Years 10-12 into careers as doctors, nurses, paramedics and allied health professionals.
The Albanese Government is investing $80 million towards the $95 million Academy.
This is an investment that will strengthen Medicare and boost the pipeline of health workers in regional Queensland.
Through the Academy’s partnership with Central Queensland University, students will be able to earn credit towards university health science degrees while still at school, helping them pursue careers in health without leaving their families or community.
The Academy will be located at 550-554 Yaamba Road, Norman Gardens, adjacent to Central Queensland University’s Rockhampton North campus.
Under legislation the Albanese Government has before the Senate now, Central Queensland University could also receive up to $260 million in extra funding over the next decade.
This will create more opportunities for the people of Central Queensland, help them study closer to home and build the skilled workforce the region needs.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:
“Securing this site is another important step towards making the Rockhampton Health Sciences Academy a reality.
“This Academy will help more young people in Central Queensland become the doctors, nurses, paramedics and other health professionals the region needs.
“We’re putting in $80 million to help make that happen. And up to a quarter of a billion more to help more people from Central Queensland get a crack at uni.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government of Australia Catherine King:
“The Albanese Government is delivering the infrastructure and facilities communities in Central Queensland need.
“This health sciences academy is part of our landmark investment in Central Queensland, alongside the $7.2 billion being invested by the Albanese Government in the Bruce Highway safety upgrade.
“This means more Queenslanders can study in their homes state and with our $7.2 billion investment in the Bruce Highway safety upgrade they will get their safely.”
Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Education and Minister for Arts John-Paul Langbroek:
“This was an election-commitment and we’re proud to be delivering it.
“It’s a huge investment and an exciting prospect for the students who will attend the new academy, with even broader benefits for the region.
“The academy will work in collaboration with health providers, education leaders and tertiary institutions and will help address regional Queensland’s growing demand for health workers by preparing students for careers in health.”
