A spectacular new centre in Shepparton is providing First Peoples-led education, employment, health and wellbeing programs for the entire community thanks to funding from the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins today joined Yorta Yorta Elders, Munarra Limited, students and partners at the opening of the Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence, built with a $30 million investment from the Labor Government.
The Centre offers pathways-based education with Yorta Yorta knowledge and culture embedded in its curriculum. This includes activities on Country that are proven to better academic and employment outcomes for First Nations students, and greater prosperity for the entire community.
Education pathways will be offered to a broad range of courses, including a Bachelor of Nursing, Diploma of Community Services and Case Management, and Certificate III in Early Childhood Education. This model provides a way into employment or further education via vocational courses.
The design of the campus in the Shepparton Sports Precinct celebrates First Nations culture and knowledge, featuring a distinctive Aboriginal flag on the roof. There is an Elders' lounge, yarning rooms, child-friendly study areas, and state-of-the-art teaching facilities. A learning landscape surrounds the Centre.
The Centre was built by Indigenous-owned company TVN On-Country and supported by a $6.65 million investment from the University of Melbourne. The project is the largest ever awarded by the government to a First Nations owned and operated company and created twelve new jobs.
As stated by Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins
"Thank you to the community for their ongoing determination to bring the Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence to life. This Centre is a symbol of the contributions and knowledge First Peoples bring to the Victorian community."
As stated by Kaiela Institute Executive Chair and Deputy Chair of Munarra Ltd Uncle Paul Briggs AO
"The Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence and the Rumbalara Football Netball Club are so unique they are nation leading. I am excited and optimistic about this investment's potential to deliver the future to Yorta Yorta and other First Nations including the people of south-eastern Australia."
As stated by University of Melbourne Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous) Professor Barry Judd
"Munarra represents much more than a physical space, it is laying the foundation for a future where Indigenous Australians' history, culture, and potential are not just acknowledged but integral to our nation's progress. This is about true parity and shared prosperity for all."
