SHARED TAFE-UNI FACILITIES OFFICIALLY OPENED AT CABOOLTURE

Caboolture’s position as a hub for higher education and training was boosted today with the opening of new facilities in a multi-million dollar shared university and TAFE campus.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the decision be Caboolture’s two main tertiary education and training providers – Brisbane North Institute of TAFE and the Queensland University of Technology – to share one site had brought major benefits.

“The shared campus provides students with more study pathways and opportunities to continue their learning journey locally,” Mr Welford said.

“It is reinvigorating campus life in Caboolture, with nearly 1300 students already enjoying the benefits of their expanded learning areas and opportunities.

“The two institutions have established a partnership on the campus to identify more study and employment pathways for students.

“For example, Brisbane North Institute of TAFE launched its Diploma of Enrolled Nursing at the Caboolture campus this year, and this has direct links with QUT’s Nursing degree offered at the same campus.

“With its own community hospital and associated health care providers, Caboolture offers multiple employment opportunities for these graduates.

“It’s also helping meet the need for more skilled workers in industries such as aged care and nursing.”

Mr Welford joined Federal Minister for Vocational and Further Education, Andrew Robb, at the campus today to open the new J block.

“This stage of the project included the construction of two lecture theatres, a multi-purpose dance/drama room, five new teaching and learning spaces, a QUT student centre and spaces for QUT administration and academic staff,” he said.

The State Government has contributed $2.6 million to the project, while the Commonwealth provided $5.9 million.

Mr Welford said the co-location of the two institutions was typical of the State Government’s forward-thinking and innovative approach to education and training in the Smart State.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000