The locations for the first 10 Suburban University Study Hubs (SUSHs) designed to make tertiary education more accessible to Australians in the outer suburbs were revealed earlier today. This initiative, part of the Universities Accord recommendations, marks a significant step in reducing educational disparity and bringing universities closer to communities as part of the government’s broader education reform agenda.
The reforms include fixing HECS indexation, wiping $3 billion in student debt, and introducing support measures for teaching, nursing, and social work students. By 2025, the government plans to invest $66.9 million into establishing 20 new regional hubs and 14 suburban hubs, ensuring education becomes more inclusive and accessible across Australia.
The Suburban University Study Hubs will be established in Broadmeadows, Epping, and Melton in Victoria.
“Education has the power to change lives and I wholeheartedly welcome Broadmeadows having its own University Study Hub. The Hub will make learning easier and more accessible for all our young people to reach their full potential,” Maria Vamvakinou MP told Neos Kosmos.
“Research shows where these hubs are, university and TAFE participation, go up. This Hub can only bring good to the community.”
Meanwhile, Macquarie Fields and Kurri Kurri will be among the locations in New South Wales; Elizabeth in South Australia; Strathpine in Queensland; Sorrell in Tasmania; and Armadale, Ellenbrook, and Mandurah in Western Australia. These locations were selected through a competitive process aimed at addressing areas with low university participation rates.
“Almost one in two young people in their 20s and 30s have a university degree today. But not everywhere. Not in our outer suburbs and not in regional Australia. That’s why we are doubling the number of University Study Hubs, to bring university closer to them,” Minister for Education Jason Clare said.
The government’s initiative aims to establish a total of 14 Suburban University Study Hubs, with an additional four to be announced soon, alongside 20 new Regional University Study Hubs. The hubs provide campus-style facilities and support services for students pursuing university or TAFE courses, allowing them to study without relocating.
“Where you live shouldn’t decide whether or not you can get a degree,” Assistant Minister for Education and Regional Development, Senator Anthony Chisholm, added. “These suburban hubs will save students from needing to commute or move away, giving them a chance to focus on their studies close to home.”
The success of Regional University Study Hubs, which have supported over 4,500 students nationwide, has inspired this suburban expansion.
Evidence suggests these hubs significantly boost university participation and completion rates. By mid-2025, the 10 suburban hubs are expected to be operational, complementing the existing 46 regional hubs, five of which will open by Semester 1, 2025.
