- Miles Labor Government to invest $2 million to open Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah
- The centres will provide more opportunities for regional Queenslanders to pursue diversify their skills and reduce the cost of accessing education.
- Clermont and Moranbah will join a nation-wide network of 21 communities across Australia with Country Universities Centres
The Miles Labor Government has announced $2 million to enhance educational access for Isaac residents living in the heart of coal and agricultural communities.
Thanks to this funding, Isaac Regional Council will establish two Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah, joining 21 other regional communities across Australia.
These centres are strategically designed to bridge the gap between regional students and campus resources.
Students will have access to comprehensive educational support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic guidance.
Whether they need assistance with coursework or study strategies, the centres will provide a safe and inclusive environment for learning.
The Isaac Country Universities Centres will bring like-minded students together, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
By studying with a parent education provider while using the regional centres as a campus, students can overcome geographical barriers.
Regional and rural students are currently 20% less likely to seek tertiary education compared to their metropolitan counterparts.
However, the changing job landscape demands that 90% of jobs in the next five years will require some form of degree or qualification.
The national job shortage has led some individuals to prioritise employment over education.
The Isaac Country Universities Centres aim to reverse this trend by providing accessible educational pathways.
With only 13% of Isaac residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher level of education, there is a clear gap in support for higher education and vocational study in the region.
These study hubs will play a crucial role in addressing this disparity and empowering residents to improve their prospects through education.
Quotes attributable to Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick:
"Every Queenslander deserves opportunity regardless of where they live.
"This means opportunity to have a safe and secure home, access to quality and safe healthcare, good meaningful employment, and the ability to improve themselves through education.
"That's why the Miles Labor Government is investing $2 million to help Isaac Regional Council establish two Isaac Country Universities Centres."
Quotes attributable to Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace:
"The Miles Labor Government proudly backs Queensland's regions, and this $2 million grant is another example of that.
"Both Clermont and Moranbah will directly benefit from these new facilities and I can't wait to see how the partnership with the Country Universities Centre grows.
"Earlier this year I was also proud to announce almost $40 million for the Isaac Regional Council to construct the Isaac Resources Centre of Excellence.
"Funded through the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund, this project will help advance technologies in the resources sector and enhance educational opportunities for the region."
Quotes attributable to Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea:
"As the cost of living continues to rise across the country, leaving home and the regions to access higher education is getting harder.
"Distance education can be challenging without the right support. This funding is about making sure our potential is not pre-determined by our postcodes.
"Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah will offer quality facilities, educational support, programming, and social networks for those undertaking university.
"Together we can ensure this access to opportunity is at our doorstep."
