La Trobe University has strengthened its educational partnerships and commitment to delivering improved access and greater participation for underrepresented students in the Goulburn Murray.
Senator for Victoria Jana Stewart visited the Rumbalara Football Netball Club in Shepparton on May 8 and met with the Goulburn Murray Tertiary Education Partnership comprised of La Trobe University, the University of Melbourne and GOTAFE.
The partnership is focused on the need for effective outreach programs and innovative pathways into tertiary education as a means of achieving an uplift in aspiration and attainment for First Nations students and people from low socio-economic backgrounds.
La Trobe's Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell thanked Senator Stewart for visiting the region and the positive steps the federal and state governments are taking to increase opportunities for regional students.
"La Trobe University will expand on its established connections with the University of Melbourne and GOTAFE and we look forward to achieving our shared goals of building aspiration, alternative pathways to education and collaborative research opportunities," Professor Farrell said.
Senator Stewart, a Mutthi Mutthi and Wamba Wamba woman who grew up in regional Victoria and studied at La Trobe University, said the partnership will make it easier for young people living outside the major cities to access high-quality education and training.
"The Goulburn Murray Tertiary Education Partnership is a big step to ensuring traditionally underrepresented cohorts - like First Nations and country students - get the same opportunities as anyone else looking to upskill," Senator Stewart said. "Your postcode shouldn't determine your access to education.
"La Trobe University, GOTAFE and the University of Melbourne are setting the example for other institutions in removing barriers for students in regional Victoria who want to pursue tertiary education, while giving them the choice to stay close to their family, friends, and community."
La Trobe and the two partners have endorsed the Australian Universities Accord and its support for regional initiatives, including outreach and transition programs, which are relevant to the education providers and align with local needs.
"This partnership supports the Albanese Government's goals, identified through the Australian Universities Accord, to significantly increase tertiary education opportunities for students in regional areas," Assistant Minister for Education, Anthony Chisholm, said.
"Improving pathways for regional students to further their education is the key, that's why partnership initiatives like the Greater Shepparton Teaching Academy of Professional Practice are so crucial, because they focus on helping final year university students refine their skills before they enter the workforce."
