Goulburn Murray Tertiary Education Partnership improving pathways for students in regional areas
Assistant Minister for Education Anthony Chisholm has congratulated the Goulburn Murray Tertiary Education Partnership between the University of Melbourne, La Trobe University and GOTAFE on its work to improve access and create greater participation for underrepresented students in the region.
The University of Melbourne, La Trobe University and GOTAFE have campuses in the Goulburn Murray region, which hosts the largest Indigenous population and the largest multicultural community in regional Victoria.
University of Melbourne Vice Chancellor Professor Duncan Maskell said he welcomed the Universities Accord Final Report’s focus on partnerships and on the need for effective outreach programs, and innovative pathways into and through tertiary education.
“The quick work to find solutions to local education, training and workforce development challenges has spurred all the institutions involved and community into action,” Professor Maskell said.
“There is now a chance for the government to build on this solid base to elevate a thriving regional community by creating forums, events and information for families, young people and employers to understand workforce opportunities, ambitions and community-led research projects.”
Assistant Minister Chisholm welcomed the partnership between La Trobe University, GOTAFE and the University of Melbourne, which aims to improve access and create greater participation in tertiary education for First Nations students and people from low socio-economic and diverse backgrounds.
“This partnership supports the Albanese Government’s goals, identified through the Australian Universities Accord, to significantly increase tertiary education opportunities for students in regional areas.
“Improving pathways for regional students to further their education is the key, that’s why partnership initiatives like the Greater Shepparton Teaching Academy of Professional Practice are so crucial, because they focus on helping final year university students refine their skills before they enter the workforce.”
Senator for Victoria Jana Stewart, a Mutthi Mutthi and Wamba Wamba woman who grew up in regional Victoria, attended the showcase and said the partnership would make it easier for young people living outside the major cities to access high-quality education and training.
“The Goulburn Murray Tertiary Education Partnership is a big step to ensuring traditionally underrepresented cohorts – like First Nations and country students – get the same opportunities as anyone else looking to upskill. Your postcode shouldn't determine your access to education."
“La Trobe University, GOTAFE and the University of Melbourne are setting the example for other institutions in removing barriers for students in regional Victoria who want to pursue a tertiary education, while giving them the choice to stay close to their family, friends, and community.”
The Partnership, established in 2019, aims to facilitate collaboration with multiple stakeholders to create education aspiration and pathways to study, build workforce skills and capabilities, and undertake collaborative research around challenges and opportunities for the region, including improving workforce attraction, retention, and development.