Federation University seeks funding for Wimmera growth plan

Federation University Australia is calling for the major federal political parties to back a $28 million skills investment package in the Wimmera Southern-Mallee to boost TAFE capacity, support community wellbeing and expand access to education to support the region’s economic development and resilience.

The push is part of a bold new plan to enhance regional communities across Victoria by improving local training and creating job opportunities in key industries like renewable energy, engineering, agriculture, construction, education, and healthcare. 

Federation's 2025 Election and Policy Priorities includes creation of the Wimmera Southern Mallee High Growth Community Partnership. This initiative will strengthen ties with local government, industry, and education providers to retain the local workforce and address skill shortages. 

Federation University Pro Vice-Chancellor VET & University Pathways / Chief Executive TAFE, Darren Gray said, “Without accessible education, the Wimmera community won’t have the skills and future workforce to support industry transitions or build resilience”.

Mr Gray says WSM is a hub for agriculture, renewable energy, and emerging industries, but without targeted investment in education and workforce training, regional businesses will struggle to secure local talent. 

"Everyone deserves the chance to get a qualification for in-demand jobs, no matter where they live. Investing in the Wimmera region will help Federation grow, support local industries, and give students a strong foundation for their careers, encouraging them to stay and contribute to their community," Mr Gray said. 

“Major projects – like the proposed SEC Renewable Energy Park and Wimmera Mineral Sands – will increase population growth and the demand on skills. I want to make sure the Wimmera has the skills to make real choices on each of these proposals and can maximise the benefits for its communities."

"As a dual sector education provider who offer both TAFE and university courses, we see the benefits of accessible local education in regional areas.” 

“We recognise every dollar is important which is why we are asking government to back our partnership approach to deliver this outcome hand-in-glove with the community. More investment in regional universities is needed to address skill shortages and ensure people can study close to home and their communities, and this partnership will ensure it is money well spent."

Federation University’s other proposals for the Wimmera, addressed by the WSM High Growth Community Partnership, include:
-    $5.5 million to develop regional learning hubs and mobile rural student support centres to boost support for Wimmera students
-    $3 million to provide 200 rural students in the Wimmera with high-speed satellite internet access and on-campus accommodation for practical training  
-    $6 million investment in Federation's Wimmera Campus to upgrade workshop and training facilities, with upgrades to construction facilities, 
-    100 Local Engineering TAFE-to-Higher Education Scholarships worth $6 million to incentivise Federation TAFE engineering graduates to pursue higher education qualification to meet the growing demands of the Wimmera engineering sector
-    $3 million for an Ararat Student Nursing and Allied Health Clinic and a $5 million investment for a student-led mental health clinic to further strengthen community resilience and wellbeing

“This isn’t just about training more nurses or engineers,” Mr Gray said.

“Without a skilled local workforce, regional industries like advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and healthcare struggle. A strong regional education sector makes the parts of Australia outside of big cities more liveable and prosperous."

"With 70 per cent of students who study regionally staying in the area, and 74 per cent of those who leave not returning, our place-based training model encourages people to remain in the region, supporting the local economy and workforce."

“I would like to acknowledge Martha Haylett MP and Minister Gayle Tierney for their support and advocacy for Federation’s network of campuses across Western Victoria. I would also like to thank Dan Tehan MP for his interest in Federation’s work to support our students in the region.”

Federation University Australia’s Election and Policy Priorities 2025–2028 paper is available at: https://www.federation.edu.au/siteassets/files/about/our-structure/governance/federation-election-and-policy-priorities-2025-to-20282.pdf