2006 Media Releases
Monday, 11 December 2006
La Trobe University to maintain presence in Regional Centres
The La Trobe University Council today decided that the University will maintain a sustainable presence at Bendigo, Albury-Wodonga, Mildura and Shepparton.
The decision follows an extensive review of the University’s regional operations.
‘While a final report detailing future strategies for the University’s regional operations will not be presented to Council until early 2007, Council determined that an early statement confirming the University’s intentions was important,’ Mrs Sylvia Walton, La Trobe Chancellor, said.
The Chair of the Regional Review, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Development), Bob Goddard, said the Regional Review Working Party received 218 submissions.
‘Many of those consulted identified the inadequate level of Federal funding for regional operations as a key issue. We received very strong support among our regional communities to assist the University in addressing this issue,’ he said.
‘Many in our regional communities are doing it tough at the moment and a vibrant university presence can make a substantial contribution to the quality of life in our regional centres.
‘In partnership with our regional communities in the lead up to next year’s Federal election we plan to seek the support of both major parties for better regional funding.’
Mr Goddard said the University will soon commence a feasibility study into the establishment of an Institute for Water Research based at its four regional centres.
‘The building of research capacity in our regional centres, particularly around such a key issue, would make a major contribution to regional well being.’