New Regional University Study Hub opens in St Helens
A new Regional University Study Hub (RUSH) officially opened today in St Helens Tasmania, bringing university closer for local residents.
Nearly half of young people in Australia have a degree but not in regional and remote Australia. In St Helens, only around 17 per cent of young people have a degree.
The evidence shows that where Regional University Study Hubs are, university participation goes up.
The new Country Universities Centre (CUC) Eastern Tasmania is located at 48 Cecilia Street, St Helens and will offer support services and study facilities for local students enrolled at any university or vocational education and training provider, without them having to leave the community.
The new location is part of the Australian Government’s $66.9 million investment to more than double the number of University Study Hubs across the country.
For more information: Regional University Study Hubs - Department of Education, Australian Government
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:
“Today, almost one in two young people have a university degree. But not everywhere. Not in the outer suburbs and not in regional Australia, or communities like St Helens.
“In the years ahead more jobs will require more skills.
“The Government has set a target that by 2050, 80 per cent of workers will have a TAFE or university qualification.
“To hit that target we have to break down that invisible barrier that stops a lot of people from the bush getting a crack at going to university.
“The evidence is that where Study Hubs are, university participation goes up. That’s why we are doubling the number.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles:
“The opening of the St Helens Regional University Study Hub is a great opportunity for students in Tasmania’s East Coast to pursue their university or VET course while remaining connected to family, friends and their community.
“From the cities to the regions, the Albanese Government is focused on backing Australians to get the qualifications they want – to play their part in the careers we need now and for the future.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Lyons Rebecca White:
“This new study hub in St Helens is about making sure where you live doesn’t determine how far you can go.
“I know how much this space will mean for local students wishing to further their education. It will make it possible to stay in their community, stay connected to family and support networks while studying.
“Whether you are a school leaver, returning to study later in life or looking to build new skills, the doors of the hub are open. I am really proud of the investment our government is making in regional Tasmania.”