Country Universities Centre (CUC) Western Downs officially opened in Chinchilla, Queensland.
CUC Western Downs is the ninth hub to open in Queensland with 3 more to open later this year.
The hub brings tertiary education closer to home for students who currently have to travel over 150km each way to attend university. It will provide study spaces, fast internet, printing facilities, computers, and free student support, including academic skills advice.
The hub is expected to support students from underrepresented backgrounds, as well as the current workforce to upskill and reskill to meet future workforce needs.
Student Nick, who is studying a Bachelor of Education (Secondary), said the hub brings him closer to completing his degree.
“I’m grateful for this new University Centre here in Chinchilla – a quiet well-resourced space that makes focused learning possible, away from the beautiful chaos of life with three children at home,” Nick said.
“Already this space has been a welcome addition to the study routine and will certainly help bring my degree closer!”
There are 56 Regional University Study Hubs located across Australia, with 44 hubs currently open and operating. The remaining 12 hubs are expected to open during 2025.
In Semester 2 2024, the hubs supported over 5,200 students, a 32 per cent increase in the past year. The program has supported over 15,200 students since its establishment.
Visit Regional University Study Hubs to find out more about the program.