An interim report into Victoria’s population growth says Warrnambool should be promoted widely as a university town to encourage new students and additional courses to the city’s existing university campus.
The Victorian Population Policy Taskforce pointed to the great university towns of England and the United States and says Warrnambool should be promoted along with Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo to attract students, particularly those from overseas.
South West Coast MP Roma Britnell said with Deakin announcing a new Agricultural Commerce degree at the Warrnambool Campus next year, the city was in the right position to be a major player in education.
“We have a world class university in Deakin delivering high quality tertiary courses right here in our backyard,” she said.
“Deakin have said they are committed to Warrnambool and by adding an agriculture based course shows they are prepared to tailor their offerings to suit the region’s major economic base and driving force.
“We have and enviable lifestyle options that are so attractive to international students form congested cities. The air is clean, there is open space and you can be at the beach five minutes after class is finished.”
Mrs Britnell said through the Victorian Population Taskforce, The Liberal and Nationals Coalition is showing its commitment to growing the whole state, not just Melbourne. This isn’t just a glossy brochure.
“This will be a comprehensive plan for how we grow our state which will be supported by strong policies,” she said.
“We have a vision and we have a plan. I’m advocating strongly with my colleagues to make sure South West Coast is seen as a serious option when it comes to population policy.”
