MS TIERNEY (Western Victoria—Minister for Training and Skills, Minister for Higher Education) (12:17): This morning it was my pleasure to announce the Andrews Labor government’s $44.6 million investment in RMIT’s CBD north precinct activation project. Through our $350 million Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund we are helping universities to realise their longstanding goals, establishing partnerships that drive innovation and growth and ultimately support our social and economic recovery.
This project focuses on four complementary work streams, including $14.4 million for capital works and research. This will include the establishment of a new multifaith and wellbeing centre and an Asian trade and innovation hub. There is also $13.9 million for social innovation in health, justice and community services. This will support collaborative research on issues such as gender equity, cultural diversity and crime prevention. In addition, there is $6.6 million for the digital business transformation project and $9.7 million for the future industry transformation project, which includes a space industry hub to connect businesses with global space technology opportunities. These projects will see the northern end of the CBD undergo a major transformation. A new master plan for the area will see the creation of a public open space, including a green spine linking the CBD to Parkville, Carlton and the Queen Victoria Market. The projects are expected to support the creation of around 130 jobs.
I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the work of Martin Bean, who will soon be stepping down as RMIT’s vice-chancellor. Under his stewardship RMIT has grown into a recognised global leader in multisector tertiary education. I wish to thank him for his dedication and service to tertiary education in Victoria, and I look forward to seeing his vision in the CBD for the north site come to life.
