Community & Business
19 September, 2025
Uni centre success attracts funding
THE success of the Tablelands University Centre has convinced the regional council to financially support the hub for the next three years.
TRC has provided the university centre with $45,000 over the past three years, but will now increase that support to $20,000 annually for the next three years.
Vocational Partnerships Group Inc (VPG) was awarded funding under the Australian Government’s Regional University Centres program to establish the hub which opened in March 2023 and, since then, has reported 218 students being registered of which 68% were from 15-25 years of age.
The centre also reported that 64% of students using its services were the first in their family to study; 26% were First Nations students; 30 students were parents; and 64% of students were female.
A student survey revealed that 95% of students think the university hub makes it easier to stay, study or work locally; 91% believe the centre improves their academic success; and 100% feel supported by staff.
A report to council stated that the Tablelands University Centre was one of 56 similar hubs in Australia and while the Australian Government provided base funding for the centres, there was an expectation that local communities would contribute 30% of the operating costs.
VPG chief executive officer Maryanne Tranter said the extended partnership with TRC allowed continued focus on student support.
“Council’s continued investment gives students confidence their education is valued locally,” she said.
“This three-year commitment allows us to plan ahead and deliver the support regional students need to pursue their career goals at home. We’re incredibly grateful for council’s investment and commitment to keeping talent in the region.”
The TUC operates seven days a week from 5am to 10pm, offering facilities and wraparound support for registered post-secondary students enrolled in any Australian tertiary institution, at no cost.
