Landmark UTAS MoU

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding today between the University of Tasmania, TasTAFE, the Tasmanian Government, and Launceston City Council will transform Launceston and greatly improve educational opportunities.

It is also a significant and important first step towards the University of Tasmania developing a contemporary campus that will change Launceston for the better.

It is fitting that this process is commencing as the university marks its 125th year in the state.

If realised, the future university campus at Inveresk, in the heart of Launceston, will allow for more course offerings, increased enrolments and a greater collaboration with TasTAFE, to build a stronger partnership in post-school education.

It will also be a catalyst for much needed revitalisation of Launceston’s CBD, with a vibrant student population, investment opportunities and increased economic activity.

Education is without doubt one of our greatest opportunities to determine and change the social and economic future of our state.

We firmly believe that education gives Tasmanians the very best chance of getting a job and living a fulfilling life, which is why my Government is so determined to lift our state’s education outcomes.

Moving the university’s campus to Inveresk will also to lead an economic revolution for the city.

The university already contributes around $1.7 billion to our economy, employs 6,000 staff and educates 30,000 students every year. It also invests hundreds of millions in infrastructure. This MoU is the start of even more growth across all of these areas.

As part of the MoU, the Government will consider changing the requirements of the land where the university is situated at Newnham, to open it to development and investment.

This will unlock the prime parcel of land to the potential for tens of millions in housing development, investment and a construction boom.

It will also help to financially underpin the university’s future developments in the heart of Launceston.

The MoU is the result of many months collaboration between the Government, UTAS, TasTAFE and the Launceston City Council, and will be financially supported by sharing in our $60 million Northern Cities Major Development Initiative.

Tasmania is heading in the right direction, but it’s important we build on that momentum in the upcoming State Budget with investments like this.
Will Hodgman, Premier