La Trobe University has welcomed the Australian Government's announcement today (16 November) that it will establish a Suburban Study Hub in Epping and Broadmeadows, enabling more students in Melbourne's north, including from disadvantaged communities, to participate and succeed in higher education.
Following extensive community consultation, La Trobe University led an Expression of Interest (EOI) in collaboration with TAFE, local government and community partners focussed on addressing the needs of the local community for dedicated study facilities and wrap-around support in Melbourne's north.
La Trobe Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said that doubling higher education participation and attainment by 2050 as outlined in the Universities Accord will require significant effort and generational change, and that the new Suburban Study Hub in Melbourne's north will play a vital role in helping achieve that goal.
"I am delighted that the Australian Government has committed to establishing a Northern Suburbs Study Hub in one of the nation's fastest growing regions,' Professor Farrell said.
"By providing access to resources beyond ordinary business hours and fostering an environment of academic support, our ambition is for the hub to play a crucial role in building readiness and aspiration for tertiary-level study, including for disadvantaged communities, as well as helping to meet critical skills needs in the region.
"We look forward to working in collaboration with the Government and our partners to finalise the arrangements."
Melbourne's outer north is projected to accommodate an additional 102,000 homes by 2060, or around 318,850 people. La Trobe University is committed to working with those communities to ensure they have the skills and training they require.
"Today's announcement is another step to supporting students in Melbourne's northern suburbs. We look forward to further opportunities to partner with the community to meet this growing need," Professor Farrell said.
The establishment of the Northern Suburbs Study Hub is subject to negotiation of a final grant funding amount from the Department of Education.
