Today I signed a Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the Hodgman Liberal Government which will lead to a significant transformation of the Burnie CBD and greatly improve educational opportunities for the region.
The MoU is the result of many months collaboration between the Tasmanian Government, UTAS, TasTAFE, Burnie City Council and the Cradle Coast Authority, and will be financially supported by sharing in our $60 million Northern Cities Major Development Initiative.
The Liberal Government is dedicated to the educational aspirations of not only young Tasmanians, but all Tasmanians, to provide them with the best possible opportunity to get a job and live a fulfilling life.
The signing of the MoU is an important first step towards the University of Tasmania developing a contemporary campus that will enhance learning opportunities in Burnie and the broader North West region.
The proposed future university campus at Burnie’s West Park will allow for more course offerings, increased enrolments and a greater collaboration with TasTAFE to build a stronger partnership in post-school education.
Moving the university’s campus and new contemporary teaching facilities to West Park will lead to another wave of economic growth for Burnie and the region, generating millions of dollars in construction work and hundreds of jobs.
The project will also be a catalyst for much needed next stage revitalisation of Burnie’s CBD, with a vibrant student population, investment opportunities and increased economic activity.
The University of Tasmania currently contributes around $1.7 billion to Tasmania’s economy, employs 6,000 staff, educates 30,000 students every year and invests significant amounts in infrastructure. This MoU is the start of even more growth across all of these areas in the North West.
The Office of the Coordinator-General is in close collaboration with all partners to strategically drive this infrastructure investment project and all the opportunities it presents for the North West region.
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