Bringing university closer to more regional Australians: Applications open for new Regional University Study Hubs

Applications are now open for 10 new Regional University Study Hubs to be established around Australia, giving more students from the bush access to tertiary education.

The Albanese Government is investing $66.9 million to double the number of University Study Hubs across the country and bring the Hubs to the outer suburbs of our major cities for the first time. 

In response to the Universities Accord Interim Report, the Government will establish up to 20 additional Regional University Study Hubs, and up to 14 new Suburban University Study Hubs.

Applications are opening today for the first round of 10 additional Regional University Study Hubs, a second round for the following 10 will open at a later date.

This builds on the 34 existing Regional University Study Hubs located across the country. In 2023, these Hubs are supporting more than 3,400 students, studying more than 1,000 different courses, through more than 200 tertiary education providers.

The Regional University Study Hubs will provide spaces to support students, including those from low socio-economic backgrounds, First Nations students and people with disability. 

Eligible organisations in regional and remote Australia are now invited to apply. Applications are due by 5pm AEDT, 15 December 2023.

Applications will be assessed by a panel as part of a competitive process, with the new Hubs expected to be operational from mid-2024.  

More information about the Regional University Study Hubs program and how to apply can be found here.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare: 

“Today, almost one in two young people in their 20s and their 30s have a university degree. But not everywhere. Not in the outer suburbs and not in regional Australia. 

“The Accord Panel makes it clear that we need more people from the regions and outer suburbs to get a university qualification. 

“I want more young people to get a crack at going to university and we know that postcode is a massive barrier for young people getting that chance.  

“The evidence is that where University Study Hubs are, university participation goes up that’s why we will establish up to 20 additional Regional University Study Hubs.

“Bringing university closer to where you live will encourage more people who otherwise might decide not to go to university at all to give it a crack.” 

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Education and Regional Development Senator Anthony Chisholm: 

“This program removes barriers for students in regional and remote areas who want to peruse a tertiary education, while keeping them in the communities they love.  

“From Cape York, to the Kimberley and then down to the Spencer Gulf, people of all ages are using these Regional Hubs to achieve their academic goals. 

“I encourage eligible community organisations to submit applications to establish a Hub in their region. These hubs are a great way for people to access and study a wide range of courses from educational institutions across Australia without having to leave their communities.”