Oakeshott welcomes $14.6m University Grant
AUSTRALIA’S largest non-metropolitan university, Charles Sturt, is about to make its presence known in Port Macquarie.
Independent Lyne MP Rob Oakeshott has welcomed a $14,676,187 federal grant towards the cost of a Regional University Centre at Port Macquarie. It is part of a $22.4 million grant to Charles Sturt to expand its presence on the NSW Mid-North Coast and at Wangaratta in Victoria. Charles Sturt will make a $1,487,422 contribution towards the cost of the Port Macquarie centre.
“This multi-million dollar expansion for the university in Port Macquarie will bring about major economic and social opportunities, not only for students but for the entire region,” Mr Oakeshott said.
“In a few short years we’ve come a long way in providing young people, and mature-age students, with greater access to higher education options in their home town.
“That’s great news for families, great news for those who want a degree without moving away, and great news for the Mid-North Coast’s economy.
“Today’s funding announcement also is a major step forward in addressing the poor access and participation rates that traditionally plague regional, indigenous and less affluent communities,” Mr Oakeshott said.
“There is a 25 per cent difference in the access and participation rates for metropolitan and regional students, for non-indigenous and indigenous students, and for affluent students and poor students.
“Today marks a serious step towards addressing this policy failure of the past, particularly on the Mid-North Coast,” Mr Oakeshott said.
Charles Sturt University has worked with North Coast Institute of TAFE to deliver degree programs in Port Macquarie since signing a memorandum of understanding 18 months ago.
Its degree program will now expand to include creative industries, accounting and business studies, health and rehabilitation science, teaching, education, early childhood and social work.
“Universities are local drivers of economy,” Mr Oakeshott said.
“I am delighted Charles Sturt University and the federal government have made what is a hugely significant commitment to our community.
“This is a welcome step for education and economic outcomes on the Mid-North Coast, and we will continue to chase more,” Mr Oakeshott said.
ENDS Media Contact: Sharon Fuller – Ph. 0429 787320
