Flinders Shire Council announces new Regional University Study Hub in Hughenden
Flinders Shire students will for the first time be offered the chance to succeed in their tertiary studies without the need to relocate under a new initiative announced today through the Australian Government.
Flinders Shire Council is proud to announce the establishment of the Hughenden Country University Centre (CUC), made possible through the Australian Government’s Regional University Study Hubs program.
The Council has been successful in securing $639,000 over four years to support the establishment and ongoing operation of the Centre, which will significantly improve access to tertiary education for students in regional and remote areas.
Located in a purpose-built space above the Flinders Shire Library, the Hughenden Country Universities Centre (CUC) will provide students with access to modern study spaces, computer facilities, and high-speed internet.
The Centre will also employ a dedicated staff member to offer pastoral support, study advice, and assistance in accessing student services, ensuring that local students have the resources and guidance they need to succeed in their studies without having to relocate.
Flinders Shire Mayor Kate Peddle welcomed the funding and the opportunity it presents for the Hughenden community.
“The establishment of the Hughenden Country University Centre is a significant advancement in educational opportunities for our Shire,” said Mayor Peddle.
“In recognition of the importance of this initiative, last year the newly-elected Council took the necessary steps to revamp a previous application and engage external partners Powerlink and Iberdrola to continue its advocacy.
“Critically, we identified a space that would not require the extensive capital investment outlined in the original plan.
“We are delighted that our renewed application received support from both the Minister and our local member the Hon Bob Katter MP, resulting in the funding needed to bring this important project to fruition.”
Mayor Peddle said that as part of the transition, Council has moved its council meetings back to the old boardroom, allowing the space above the library to be transformed into a Country University Centre.
“Partnerships are so important, and we are always aiming to build positive ones that will complement our Shire – this process was no different,” said Mayor Peddle.
“We look forward to getting the signs up and welcoming our student residents to this valuable resource.
“This initiative ensures that our students can pursue higher education without leaving home, maintaining local connections and contributing to the long-term growth of Hughenden and the wider region.
“It’s an exciting step forward for our Shire. Thank you to everyone for your continued support as we strive to enhance our community."
The Hughenden CUC will be affiliated with the Country Universities Centre network, joining a growing number of Regional University Study Hubs across Australia that support students in rural and remote areas.
The 10 newly-announced Hubs, including Hughenden, are expected to be operational by mid-2025, further expanding access to tertiary education in regional Australia.
“Today, almost one in two young people in their 20s and their 30s have a university degree. But not everywhere. Not in the outer suburbs and not in regional Australia,” said Federal Minister for Education Jason Clare.
“That’s why we are doubling the number of University Study Hubs, to bring university closer to them.
“We know they work. The evidence is they increase the number of people going to uni degree.
“Bringing university closer to where you live will encourage more people who otherwise might decide not to go to university at all to give it a crack.”
Flinders Shire Council acknowledges the support of the Australian Government’s Department of Education and the advocacy of the Hon. Bob Katter MP in securing this funding.
It also extends its appreciation to project partners and supporters, including:
- Country University Centre Central
- Powerlink
- Iberdrola
- Kennedy Energy Park
- Renewable Energy Partners
- Hughenden State School
- Hughenden Chamber of Commerce
- Mount Isa to Townsville Economic Development Zone (MITEZ)
- Flinders Training Centre
- Rainbow Gateway
- HIPCo
- Townsville Hospital and Health Service
- Cameron Downs State School
- And many other local community supporters and organisations.
For more information about the Regional University Study Hubs program, visit: www.education.gov.au/regional-university-study-hubs.
