The Morrison Government will provide funding to help establish the Country Universities Centre (CUC) Ovens Murray, creating more opportunities for local students to pursue tertiary education studies in regional Victoria.
The Australian Government will provide more than $2.5 million to establish a main campus in Wangaratta and satellite centres in Mansfield and Corryong - fulfilling an election commitment to establish a Regional University Centre in Wangaratta.
This project will be funded through the Government's $74.2 million Regional University Centres program.
Minister for Education and Youth Alan Tudge said the CUC Ovens Murray centre would be crucial in delivering more opportunities for regional and rural students in Wangaratta.
"We're committed to ensuring that Australian students have access to the best possible education, no matter where they live," Minister Tudge said.
"CUC Ovens Murray will enable local students to pursue tertiary education and training opportunities without having to relocate or move from home.
"This will help to address skills shortages in these communities and help strengthen regional economies in Victoria."
"The Australian Government is committed to improving opportunities for students in regional and remote communities to access tertiary education and gain job-ready qualifications," Minister Tudge said.
Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education Andrew Gee said the Regional University Centres met a demonstrated gap in support for country communities.
"Australians who live in our major cities are twice as likely to be university educated as regional students," Minister Gee said.
"The Government's investment in Regional University centres is boosting access to tertiary education opportunities, ensuring students from key regional centres throughout Australia have access to the same opportunities as their city cousins."
Senate Leader and Victorian Senator Bridget McKenzie said the Government is committed to providing regional and rural residents with better access to tertiary education.
"Whether you live in Melbourne or in a regional Victorian town, it is vital everyone has the opportunity to learn new skills. Geography should not be a determinant of your educational attainment," Senator McKenzie said.
"I am confident the establishment of this Regional University Centre in Wangaratta will equip local students to expand their abilities and secure jobs."
CUC Ovens Murray will be one of 26 centres established under the Regional University Centres Program, located in all states and the Northern Territory.
