Katanning Regional University Hub now open for students

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Freya Lucas

Apr 02, 2025

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A newly opened Regional University Study Hub in the West Australian community of Katanning has been established with a view to improving the rate of tertiary education for residents of the town and surrounding areas.

Current statistics show that only 12.9 per cent of young people in Katanning have a degree, well below the national average of nearly 50 per cent. Evidence shows that where Regional University Study Hubs are established university participation goes up.

The new Study Hub in the centre of Katanning will provide student support and facilities for students who are studying a university or TAFE course - including courses in early childhood education and care - without them having to leave their community.

The hub will be operated by Regional Development Australia Great Southern who operate the existing Great Southern Universities Centre in Albany which has supported over 400 students since opening.

So far, the Katanning Study Hub has 12 registered students. Katanning is one of Western Australia’s most multicultural regional areas.

“The hubs in Broome, Albany and Geraldton have changed the lives of hundreds of students. Now Katanning locals will get the same opportunity,” Assistant Minister for Education, Regional Development, and Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Anthony Chisholm said.

“Around 44 per cent of students who are registered at the existing Hubs across the country are the first in their family to attend university, which is fantastic to see.”

There are now 56 Regional University Study Hubs located across the country.45 of these Hubs are open with the other 11 Hubs expected to open during 2025.

This builds on the recent announcement for 15 Suburban University Study Hubs, located in the outer suburbs for the first time.

For more information please use the following link: Regional University Study Hubs

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