A new Regional University Study Hub has officially opened in St Helens, Tasmania, in a move aimed at improving access to higher education for students living in regional Australia.
The facility, known as the Country Universities Centre Eastern Tasmania hub, is located at 48 Cecilia Street in St Helens and will provide study spaces, academic support and technology access for students enrolled in universities or vocational education and training programmes. The centre allows learners to pursue their studies without leaving their local community.
Education officials say the hub addresses a longstanding gap in university participation between metropolitan and regional areas. While nearly half of young Australians hold a university degree, participation rates remain significantly lower in regional and remote communities. In St Helens, only about 17 percent of young people have a degree.
Research shows that university participation increases in communities where Regional University Study Hubs are established, as they provide learning support, reliable internet access and academic guidance.
The new hub forms part of the Australian Government’s A$66.9 million initiative to more than double the number of University Study Hubs nationwide. The programme aims to expand education access and strengthen skills development in regional areas.
Local leaders and education advocates say the facility will support students of all ages, strengthen workforce skills and help drive economic growth in Eastern Tasmania.
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