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.
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,” Mr Littleproud said.
“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.”
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.Authorised by David Littleproud, Warwick, Queensland
“These hubs are changing lives across regional Australia and keeping our young people in the bush,” Mr Littleproud said.
“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.”
