The Queensland State Government has announced its approval of the merger of Central Queensland University (CQU) and Central Queensland Institute of TAFE (CQIT).

 

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh said that the proposed merger will create Queensland’s first dual sector university.

 

“Combined there would be nearly 40,000 students making it one of the state’s largest educational institutions based right here in Central Queensland,” Ms Bligh said.

 

Ms Bligh said that the centre will deliver crucial vocational education for an emerging construction and gas boom that will bolster the state’s economy.

 

“The region is on the brink of a building and construction boom with $70 billion worth of developments expected to come on line in the next two years,” she said.

 

“It’s estimated the CSG and LNG industries will create 41,000 jobs over the next 20 years.”

 

Ms Bligh’s position was reiterated by CQU’s Vice-Chancellor and President Scott Bowman who praised the State Government’s decision, saying that the benefits to industry in the area will be significant.

 

"Industry was quick to realise the benefits of a dual-sector university - and they will be among the big winners - but this model will also have an enormous impact on all the other skills and services that keep our communities strong, healthy and vibrant,” Professor Bowman said.

 

 "Our University Council will maintain a keen interest in the detail of the merger arrangements, especially in terms of getting an ideal outcome for CQIT and CQUniversity staff and students.”

 

While the State Government has given its final approval, further due diligence and an agreed position on governance and operational issues will have to be completed.

 

The merger is subject to Commonwealth Funding under the Structural Adjustment Fund.