31 March 2015: The University of Canberra congratulates ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr on his vision for the future of Canberra and the "vital" role that higher education will play in making this city a true "knowledge capital".
During his Canberra Business Chamber 2015 'State of the Territory' address today at the National Press Club, Mr Barr noted the importance of the Assembly passing the University of Canberra Amendment Bill last week, which will enable the University to diversify, grow and create jobs.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Stephen Parker welcomed Mr Barr's commitment to support ACT universities to become thriving campuses that attract employment and collaboration.
"We are delighted with the Chief Minister's commitment to tertiary education and in particular to ensuring the development of our own University," Professor Parker said.
"The passing of the University of Canberra Amendment Bill last week was an important step that will allow us to kick off a comprehensive investment plan of at least $1billion to develop and expand our Bruce campus."
Investment proposals include preliminary agreements concerning residential housing, aged care and independent living providers. Other potential investments include a technology park that will strengthen the University's applied research, and private health facilities that would cluster near the new University of Canberra Public Hospital, construction of which is due to commence in early 2016.
Professor Parker said the University would use its land for the benefit of the campus and wider community, cementing the University as a vital component of the nation's capital.
"Higher education is changing at an increasing pace. We need to stay ahead of the game and become a University and a campus of the future. These developments will help us become an internationally well-regarded, financially sustainable and competitive University operating for the benefit of the ACT community."
- Professor Parker is available for interview.
Contact the University of Canberra media team:
Claudia Doman: 0408 826 362
Amanda Jones: 0409 140 415