City and La Trobe sign memorandum of understanding

The City of Greater Bendigo and La Trobe University have demonstrated a mutual desire to work closely together on initiatives and projects that will benefit the wider Bendigo and central Victorian region.

A  Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed today by City of Greater  Bendigo Mayor Cr David Jones and La Trobe University Vice Chancellor  Professor Paul Johnson in front of invited guests at a reception in the  Bendigo Town Hall.

City  of Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr David Jones said it is the City’s role to  advocate on behalf of the community and the MOU details a strong  commitment by both organisations to work together.

“The educational, economic and social benefits that come from having a campus of La Trobe University in Bendigo are enormous.  The University with some 4,000 students plays an extremely important role in the life of our region.”

“We  are entering into the MOU at a very important stage in the further  development of higher education in regional Victoria particularly in  Bendigo.

“Council  recognises La Trobe’s efforts to become a leader in research and  teaching and notes the University’s new Strategic Plan 2008-2012 which  details a strong vision for regional campuses including Bendigo,” said  Cr Jones.

La  Trobe University Vice Chancellor Paul Johnson said he is delighted that  the two organisations share a commitment to higher education.

“The  City of Greater Bendigo’s Community Plan, Council Plan and various  strategic and policy documents indicate the Council’s strong support  for higher education. The fact that both a Councillor and a Director of  the City are members of the University’s Regional Advisory Board  reflects that commitment

“The  Memorandum of Understanding further cements the already well  established collaboration and enhances our progress towards a mutual  goal – that of positive outcomes for the Bendigo and central Victorian  community,” said Professor Johnson.

Professor Johnson said the MOU fits well with the University’s mission.

“La  Trobe University has a distinct mission to serve the community by  engaging in relevant and inclusive research and teaching. Our aim is to  produce graduates who are rounded citizens as well as trained  professionals.”

By signing the MOU both organisations have renewed a commitment to each other and to the Greater Bendigo community to:-

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  • Develop Bendigo as a centre of regional health providers;
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  • Address climate change through research opportunities for academics and by supporting business innovation;
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  • Advance the vibrancy of View Street Arts Precinct;
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  • Promote the university’s conference and other facilities for major events and to business and the wider community;
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  • Development of additional student accommodation on campus and/or within the CBD;
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  • Further development of the Central Victorian Innovation Office;
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  • Further development of the Australian Military Mobility Centre;
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  • Encourage access to Council owned venues and resources such as the Town Hall, Exhibition Centre, Art Gallery and The Capital;
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  • Develop  La Trobe University as the primary research service provider in an  effort to develop local higher education critical mass;
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  • Collaborate on industry specific conferences, forums and programs;
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  • Support for strategies and programs proposed by both organisations for funding purposes;

Media Inquiries:
Ros Manning - City of Greater Bendigo 5434 6114
Zerin Knight – La Trobe University 5444 7375 or 0428 463 161

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