UniSC Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Helen Bartlett welcomed today’s announcement by the Federal Government to fund 120 new student places across engineering, education and health at the Moreton Bay campus and Redlands in 2024.

“While we were not successful in gaining all of the additional government funded student places we applied for, I am pleased that the Government has recognised the further contribution UniSC can make in addressing Australia’s skills shortage challenges by increasing and expanding university participation rates in the Moreton Bay region, one of Australia’s fastest growing local government areas,” Professor Bartlett said.

“I look forward to welcoming the additional students in 2024 and to continuing our contribution towards eliminating or reducing barriers to participation in higher education in our regions.

“I would also like to thank our government and industry supporters in the Moreton Bay region, including the Moreton Bay Regional Council, Regional Development Australia Moreton Bay, Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism and local federal and state MPs who supported our application to the Federal Government for these additional places.

“Improving the skills and training of our workforce is central to our social and economic prosperity.

“Universities boost economic output, employment, wage levels and industry productivity.

“A 2020 Nous report found that regional universities like UniSC contributed $2.4 billion towards gross domestic product in their catchments, and that 7 out of 10 graduates remained in regional Australia.

“This is a positive step in recognising the vital role UniSC plays in enriching our regions, connecting with our communities and creating opportunities for all,” she said.