General News
24 April, 2025
University's million-dollar plan
Federation University is calling for major federal political parties to back a $28 million skills investment package in the Wimmera Southern Mallee (WSM) to help boost TAFE capacity, support community wellbeing and, expand access to education to support the region's economic development and resilience.
The recent development of the Wimmera Southern Mallee High Growth Community Partnership aims to strengthen ties with local government, industry and education providers to retain the local workforce and address skill shortages in key industries including renewable energy, engineering, agriculture, construction, education and healthcare.
Federation University pro vice-chancellor VET and university pathways / chief executive TAFE Darren Gray said without targeted investment in education and workforce training, regional businesses will struggle to secure local talent.
"Everyone deserves the chance to get a qualification for in-demand jobs, no matter where they live," Mr Gray said.
"Investing in the Wimmera region will help Federation grow, support local industries, and give students a strong foundation for their careers, encouraging them to stay and contribute to their community."
The partnership proposal includes a $6 million investment to upgrading workshops and training facilities at Federation's Wimmera Campus in Horsham and $5.5 million to develop regional learning hubs and mobile rural student support centres to boost support for Wimmera students.
It also includes $3 million for an Ararat student nursing and allied health clinic and $5 million investment for a student-led mental health clinic to further strengthen community resilience and wellbeing.
Another $3 million will be set to provide 200 rural students in the Wimmera with high-speed satellite internet access and on-campus accommodation for practical training.
"I want to make sure the Wimmera has the skills to make real choices on each of these proposals and can maximise the benefits for its communities," Mr Gray said.
"As a dual sector education provider who offer both TAFE and university courses, we see the benefits of accessible local education in regional areas.
“This isn’t just about training more nurses or engineers.
"With 70 per cent of students who study regionally staying in the area, and 74 per cent of those who leave not returning, our place-based training model encourages people to remain in the region, supporting the local economy and workforce.
“I recognise every dollar is important which is why we are asking government to back our partnership approach to deliver this outcome hand-in-glove with the community."
Mr Gray acknowledged Martha Haylett MP and Minister Gayle Tierney for their support and advocacy for the university's network of campuses across Western Victoria.
"I would also like to thank Dan Tehan MP for his interest in Federation’s work to support our students in the region," he said.
"More investment in regional universities is needed to address skill shortages and ensure people can study close to home and their communities, and this partnership will ensure it is money well spent."
