The Coalition Government will provide Country Universities Centre Snowy Monaro in Cooma with a further four years funding to ensure it will continue to offer students in Cooma the opportunity to participate and succeed in furthering their education.
Country Universities Centre Snowy Monaro is one of 16 Regional University Centres, covering 24 sites around Australia, that will receive a share of up to $27.9 million over four years.
People in regional Australia are less than half as likely to complete a university degree compared with people in cities. Regional University Centres are helping communities across Australia to reverse this trend.
The centre supported 103 students to pursue a tertiary education at institutions across Australia in 2021.
Minister for Regional Education, Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie said extending funding for a further four years would enable the Country Universities Centre in Cooma to continue supporting its students and the broader community until June 2026.
“I am delighted that nearly 500 students have studied at the centre since it opened,” Minister McKenzie said.
“We are extremely proud of the Regional University Centres program, which enables aspiring students from regional Australia to be supported while undertaking study by distance with any Australian tertiary provider.
“These centres make a real difference to our students, as they no longer have to leave their friends and families to pursue higher education and can remain at home while studying, where their skills can boost local communities and economies, which is part of our plan for a strong economy and a stronger future.
“Our government is investing almost $20 billion in higher education in 2022 – this is 32 per cent higher than under Labor.”
Senator for NSW, Jim Molan AO DSC welcomed the funding and said the centre is a key component of the Coalition Government’s commitment to improving higher education participation and attainment in regional and remote Australia.
“The centre is generating new opportunities for the local community by providing them with the services and supports they need to undertake further studies without having to leave the community,” Mr Molan said.
The Liberal candidate for Eden Monaro, Dr Jerry Nockles also welcomed the announcement and said Regional University Centres offer students access to high-speed internet, dedicated study spaces, computer facilities and importantly, administrative and academic skills, as well as supporting their wellbeing.
“All Australians, no matter where they live, deserve access to high-quality education, and these Centres offer the facilities and support for local students that helps to level the playing field with their city counterparts,” Dr Nockles said.
Only a Coalition Government can be trusted to keep the economy strong and secure a stronger future for regional Australia.