Southern Cross University is set to benefit from a Gillard Government grant of $32.1 million for its “Partners for the Future” project.
The Gillard Government has announced it will invest $377 million in new state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities at university campuses across the nation.
The investment is part of the Government’s commitment to removing the barriers to higher education and opening the doors of Australia’s universities to all students, no matter where they live.
The project includes the construction of SCU College on the University’s Gold Coast campus, which will incorporate flexible teaching spaces, learning commons facilities, and dedicated amenities and study spaces.
Member for Richmond, Justine Elliot, said the Partners for the Future project will have a strong focus on face-to-face delivery, including intensive block modes for those students unable to attend campus on a regular basis.
“This is good news for students and good news for our local economy,” Ms Elliott said.
The University’s Personal Learning Environment IT infrastructure will also be upgraded and expanded across the new SCU College network.
“This project will help Southern Cross University take the next step in its development as a regional university to strengthen its appeal to a wider range of students,” Member for Page, Janelle Saffin said.
“In partnership with North Coast TAFE and the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE, SCU College will deliver transition programs from the new building at the Gold Coast campus, and across the University’s catchment area, targeting high growth, high need communities.
“The project will have an immediate impact on the north coast region of New South Wales and the Gold Coast region.”
Minister for Tertiary Education, Senator Chris Evans, said the Gillard Government’s investment will help thousands more students who have studied vocational or trade qualifications take the extra step to get a university degree.
“We are committed to removing the barriers for Australians who aspire to gain a university education,” Senator Evans said.
“Next year, under the student-demand driven funding system, caps on student places will be removed, opening up opportunities for more Australians to participate in higher education.
“The learning environments for our students are being transformed and modernised as a result of the Government’s focus on skills and training.
“We are determined to build a highly skilled workforce, ready to meet the challenges of a modern, diverse economy.
“A university education is a ticket to greater career choice and to high skilled and high paid jobs.”
