Equal access to higher education on the agenda for Isaac

Calls for quality higher education programs to be delivered locally in Queensland’s rural, regional and indigenous communities are to set to gain traction in Cairns.

Isaac Regional Council is looking for support from 76 other Queensland local governments to vote for its motion for the regional university centres program to be established and funded in key areas.

Mayor Anne Baker said higher education programs in local government areas will significantly support the current and future industries. 

“The world as we know it is changing and we need to ensure our communities remain sustainable, liveable and thriving,” Mayor Baker said.

“A critical factor for social sustainability in regional Queensland is equal access to university programs which means our kids and community can remain in region to do their tertiary study.

“Re-opening the funding program will help create pathways to rural and regional success for everyone who chooses to live and work in communities like the Isaac region.

“It will give residents a step up as opportunities arise as jobs evolve in new industries.”

Statistics have regularly shown that those who live in rural, regional and indigenous areas are 50 per cent less likely to gain a Bachelor qualification compared to their metropolitan counterparts.

Mayor Baker said nurturing the aspirations of young people in rural, regional and indigenous communities is critical for future regional sustainability.

“Less distractions, closer to nature, a strong sense of community and the laid back lifestyle are the positive benefits studying in regional areas,” Mayor Baker said.

Isaac Regional Council in partnership with Balonne Regional Council and South Burnett Regional Council that the LGAQ calls on the Federal Government to further expand its support for the Regional University Centres Program to strengthen and expand the program.

These centres are able to identify and map the current and future skills in their communities as they are governed by local community representatives who are keen to improve the liveability and opportunities for rural, remote and indigenous regions.

The motion is set to go before the 126th Local Government Association of Queensland’s 2022 Annual Conference on 17-19 October at Cairns Convention Centre.

Visit https://www.isaac.qld.gov.au/homepage/283/lgaq-conference for more information on Isaac Regional Council’s motions.

Published: 18th October 2022