CUC Western Downs opens improving education access

Country Universities Centre Western Downs (CUC WD) has opened its doors to students. The new centre is part of the Regional University Study Hubs Network, which supports students in regional, rural, and remote communities by providing access to high-quality study facilities, technology, academic assistance, and a supportive learning environment.

‘’We are incredibly excited to have achieved this huge step forward in Tertiary Education access for the people of Chinchilla and the Western Downs. Funding from the Australian Government along with incredible support from our Foundation Industry Partners has allowed us to establish the Western Downs’ first Country University Centre. The opening of the CUC WD delivers on Community, Chinchilla Community Commerce and Industry and Western Downs Regional Council’s visions from multiple Strategic and Economic Development Plans”, said Robyn Haig, Director of the CUC WD Committee & Director of Regional Development Australia Darling Downs and South West.

“As a local business that employs tertiary-qualified professionals, we’ve always faced challenges in attracting qualified candidates and retaining those who leave to pursue further studies in our region. The opportunity for students to access tertiary education and support through the CUC Western Downs is a great advancement, benefiting both aspiring students and the local businesses that aim to hire them”, said Matthew Burke, Director of EnVision Partners and Director of the CUC WD Committee.

The CUC WD will allow local students to pursue university-level education from the university of their choice without the need to relocate to metropolitan areas, reducing barriers such as travel costs and accommodation expenses.

“Tertiary Education is something that escapes many people due to location and circumstance. Having a viable pathway for our students and extended community, right here in The Western Downs, is something that will change the way Tertiary Education is looked at and promoted by educational institutions across the region. The ability to study local, work local and stay local, is something that I know will appeal to many secondary school graduates”, said Rob Burke, Principal Chinchilla State High School and Director of the CUC WD Committee.

The Chinchilla hub has been developed with support from the Commonwealth Government, the Chinchilla Community Commerce and Industry (CCCI), and valuable industry partners highlighting the collaborative effort to improve education accessibility in the region.

With a focus on providing flexible learning spaces, student support services, and a connected local academic community, the centre will change the educational landscape for the Western Downs.

“As the Manager of CUC Western Downs, I am dedicated to delivering exceptional service and support to students throughout our region, ensuring they achieve their educational goals and experience success”, said Alexandra Rummenie, Manager of the CUC Western Downs.

“The new Regional University Hub allows local students and upskilling employees the opportunity to undertake higher education right here in the Western Downs. Online learning is the way of the future and through expanding the region’s higher education opportunities, we are encouraging students to learn, live and work local boosting our economy and strengthening our communities”, said Andrew Smith, Mayor Western Downs Regional Council.

If you would like to see the facilities, the Centre is open from 9am-5pm. Please contact the staff for a tour.