Geraldton Universities Centre funded for another four years under Coalition Government

University students would continue to have the option to study in Geraldton for at least another four years if the Coalition is re-elected, it was announced this week. Federal Minister for Regional Education, Senator Bridget McKenzie, was in the Mid West this week to speak with constituents in the lead up to the Federal election. The Minister on Thursday said the Coalition would provide Geraldton Universities Centre with funding for at least the next four years if re-elected. The Geraldton campus is one of 16 regional university centres in Australia that would receive a share of up to $27.9 million over four years under the election promise. Ms McKenzie said the Geraldton centre allowed students to access higher education without having to leave their homes. “We are extremely proud of the regional university centre program, which enables aspiring students from regional Australia to be supported while undertaking study by distance with any Australian tertiary provider,” she said. “These centres make a real difference to our students, as they no longer have to leave their friends and families to pursue further education and can remain at home while studying, where their skills can boost local communities and economies, which is part of our plan for a strong economy and a stronger future.” The Nationals WA Candidate for Durack Ian Blayney welcomed the announcement and said the Geraldton centre gave students access to high-speed internet, dedicated study spaces, computer facilities and administrative and academic skills. “All Australians, no matter where they live, deserve access to high-quality education and these centres offer the facilities and support local students’ needs to access a tertiary education, which helps to level the playing field with their city counterparts,” he said. The Geraldton centre supported 267 students to pursue a tertiary education at institutions across Australia in 2021.