Bringing uni to the outer suburbs: Applications open for new Suburban University Study…
Applications are now open to establish up to 14 Suburban University Study Hubs, which will give more people from the outer suburbs of our major cities access to tertiary education.
The Albanese Government is investing $66.9 million to double the number of University Study Hubs across the country and bring the Hubs to the outer suburbs of our major cities for the first time.
This builds on the 34 existing Regional University Study Hubs located across the country. In 2023, these Hubs supported almost 4,000 students.
The Suburban University Study Hubs will be established in outer suburban areas without a significant physical university campus and where the local population has a low rate of university qualifications.
The Hubs will provide spaces to support students, including those from low socio-economic backgrounds, First Nations students and people with disability.
Eligible organisations are now invited to apply, with applications closing at 5pm AEST, 29 July 2024.
Applications will be evaluated by a panel from various government agencies as part of a competitive process, with new Hubs expected to be operational in the first half of next year.
This builds on the 10 new recently announced Regional University Study Hubs funded in response to the Australian Universities Accord Interim Report, plus funding to support two existing Country Universities Centres located in New South Wales.
More information about the Suburban University Study Hubs program and how to apply can be found here.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:
“Today, almost one in two young people in their 20s and their 30s have a university degree. But not everywhere. Not in the outer suburbs and not in regional Australia.
“I want more young people to get a crack at going to university and we know that postcode is a massive barrier for young people getting that chance.
“The evidence is that where University Study Hubs are, university participation goes up that’s why we will establish up to 14 Suburban University Study Hubs for the first time.
“Bringing university closer to where you live will encourage more people who otherwise might decide not to go to university at all to give it a crack.
“I encourage eligible organisations interested in setting up a Suburban University Study Hub in our outer suburbs to apply.”
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Education and Regional Development Senator Anthony Chisholm:
“We know these hubs work, almost 4,000 students have used the Regional University Study Hubs to further their studies and now we’re bringing them to the outer suburbs.
“The suburban hubs will follow the same model as those in our regions and will remove barriers for more students so they can access a high-quality tertiary education.
“Each hub creates a campus-like environment where students can access support, the latest technology and be part of an engaging learning environment to help them achieve their academic goals, without having to leave their community and head into the city.
“Every student deserves to have access to a world-class education no matter who they are or where they live. The Albanese Government is committed to ensuring access to Australia’s universities is fairer and more equitable.”