The Minerals Council of Australia commends the recent announcement by Minister for Education Jason Clare that the Federal Government will extend the Regional University Hubs program to provide an additional ten Study Hubs for regional Australia.
The new study hubs represent a significant investment in the future of regional and remote communities, particularly in Western Australia and Queensland, ensuring greater access to tertiary education and support the continued growth and sustainability of the mining sector, which is a cornerstone of the Australian economy.
Mining is a key driver of Australia’s prosperity, employing nearly 300,000 individuals in highly skilled and secure jobs, with around 70 percent of these roles based in regional areas.
Regional University Study Hubs provide vital support for students in remote areas, offering spaces to collaborate, access to technology, and a range of administrative, academic and student support services.
The new hubs will enhance the accessibility of tertiary education for regional candidates, increasing opportunities, choice, and pathways to employment in critical sectors such as mining.
Skills shortages remain an ongoing issue, posing a risk to uninterrupted operations within the mining sector.
The Regional University Study Hubs play an important role in mitigating these challenges by providing opportunities for skills development and training in a supportive and conducive environment.
