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David Littleproud urges Federal Labor government to prioritise regional areas in new university study hubs rollout

Leader David Littleproud urges the Labor government to prioritise regional areas for 20 new Study Hubs. Seek dialogue with Minister Jason Clare.

By news@gippsland - 27th July 2023 - Back to News

Leader of The Nationals and Maranoa MP David Littleproud is calling on the Federal Labor government to give a guarantee that its 20 new Regional University Study Hubs will be based in the regional and remote areas that need them most. Based on the Regional University Centres Program, which was introduced by the former Coalition government, the Labor government recently announced it would add another 20 sites to the existing 34 delivered by the Coalition.

David Littleproud calls on Labor government to ensure 20 new Study Hubs prioritise needy regional and remote areas

Regional hub location

However, the Labor government stopped short of revealing where any of the new hubs would be located. Mr Littleproud said that while he welcomed the announcement, it was important to ensure the new hubs were based where they were needed most.

"While the Labor government deserves credit for following the Coalition in this announcement, it is important that these new hubs are rolled out in the right areas. The Nationals are more than happy to get around the table with the Labor government and Minister for Education Jason Clare and iron out where these new Regional University Study Hubs would be best placed."

"It's important that we have an open conversation about this roll out to ensure those in regional communities get their fair share when it comes to opportunities for higher education," Mr Littleproud said.

Transforming regional education

The Maranoa electorate is home to Regional University Study Hubs in Roma, Goondiwindi, and St George-Dirranbandi, all of which Mr Littleproud said were delivering excellent results to regional Queensland.

"These hubs are changing lives across regional Australia and keeping our young people in the bush. With these facilities in place, regional residents can pursue higher education without leaving their homes and in turn are more likely to stay, helping regional areas combat key skill shortages," Mr Littleproud said.

Pictures from Federation University website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Wellington Shire Council is backing Rural Councils Victoria’s campaign for greater investment in rural infrastructure, including roads, community facilities and a proposed $1 billion regional productivity and growth fund.
• Local operators Samantha Holmes and Brett Savory take over Eagle Point Foreshore Hub, bringing new food offering and fresh investment
  Samantha Holmes and Brett Savory have taken over Eagle Point Foreshore Hub, renaming its café The Nest, offering local produce, dining, takeaway and catering while supporting community connections.
• Nationals demand stronger policing as rising Latrobe Valley crime fuels growing community safety concerns and frustration
  The Nationals say rising Latrobe Valley crime and fewer police officers demand urgent Labor government action, calling for stronger policing, tougher laws and better resources to restore community safety.
• Nationals and Liberals pledge $5M Traralgon Tennis Centre upgrade to secure major international events and regional economic benefits
  The Nationals and Liberals have pledged $5 million to upgrade Traralgon Tennis Centre, aiming to secure the Junior International and attract major events benefiting the Latrobe Valley economy.
• RACV survey highlights Gippsland highways among Victoria’s most concerning roads, prompting renewed calls for improved safety
  RACV’s 2026 survey ranks Gippsland highways among Victoria’s most concerning roads, citing potholes, poor surfaces and safety issues. Nationals MP Danny O’Brien has outlined a $5 billion regional roads commitment.