Hay Country University Centre

Earlier this month, Minister Clare made the welcome announcement of the establishment of a new Regional University Study Hub in the Hay community.

Hay was named as one of 10 new university study hubs across Australia after submitting a successful application.

To meet skills challenges of the future, the number of people holding a tertiary qualification needs to significantly increase, especially in underrepresented groups such as those from low socio-economic backgrounds, First Nations people and those from regional, rural and remote communities.

This study hub will bring university closer to students living in Hay, removing barriers such as distance and financial constraints.

The new hub is expected to be operational from May of this year and will be located at the TAFE Connected Learning Centre.

Study hubs provide student support and campus style facilities for students who are doing a university degree without having to leave their community.

Almost one in two young people in their 20s and 30s have a university degree but not in rural and regional Australia.

This study hub in Hay will mean more people will have the opportunity to stay in the local community, near their support networks while they undertake study.

The Hay Country University Centre will enable students in the Hay Shire to access tertiary education and succeed in their chosen area of study.

The Hay Country University Centre will provide the comprehensive wrap around supports required for tertiary students, ensuring more students gain qualifications that will benefit themselves and their local community.

As the Mayor, I am deeply committed to fostering educational opportunities in our local area, and I believe that the Country University Centre will play a pivotal role in making higher education accessible to students in Hay and its surrounding regions.