Townsville capitalises on new funding for international education

Three new projects to improve the experience for students in Townsville will be backed with $316,000 through the Palaszczuk Government’s International Education and Training Partnership Fund.

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said Townsville would receive the largest allocation of any region in Queensland in the latest round of funding delivered by Study Queensland.

“We’re providing $158,000 for three new Townsville projects, with an extra $158,000 in co-contributions also provided by Townsville City Council and stakeholders,” he said.

“These projects will target new student markets in China, the United States and Singapore to grow the student base in North Queensland.

“The government has recognised Townsville’s potential for growth as a hub for international students. That’s why we’re investing in this sector in North Queensland – to improve the student experience and create more jobs for locals.”

Ministerial Champion for International Education Kate Jones said today’s announcement was an important part of the government’s $25.3 million International Education and Training Strategy.

“We’ve got some of the world’s best educational institutions in some of the most picturesque visitor destinations on the globe – that’s why it makes sense for us to invest in international education in Queensland,” she said.

“The funding announced today is for projects that will improve the student experience at student hubs throughout Queensland.

“Seventy per cent of the projects funded are based in regional Queensland which is a testament to the strength of the sector across the state.

“This isn’t just about diversifying the Queensland economy. We want to attract some of the best global talent to Queensland to learn and train in our world-class institutions.

“International education and training supports more than 21,000 jobs across Queensland with more than 120,000 students enrolled each year.

“The Palaszczuk Government will continue to invest in this sector to ensure these numbers grow in the future.”

Townsville Deputy Mayor Les Walker said Townsville is an ideal study location that offers world-class education and an attractive tropical lifestyle to international students. 

“Townsville City Council is investing towards bringing up to 1000 more international students to study in our city – which helps boost our economy and create jobs for locals,” Cr Walker said.

“Townsville is home to a range of world-class education institutions to provide quality study opportunities for international students.

“Our tropical city provides students with an attractive lifestyle and great study options that you can’t get anywhere else.”
 
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