La Trobe University Partners with University of Melbourne and GOTAFE to Enhance Participation

La Trobe University has reaffirmed its commitment to providing underserved students in the Goulburn Murray with enhanced access and increased involvement through its educational partnerships. On May 8, Senator Jana Stewart of Victoria met with representatives of the Goulburn Murray Tertiary Education Partnership, which is made up of GOTAFE, La Trobe University, and the University of Melbourne, at the Rumbalara Football Netball Club in Shepparton.

The alliance aims to raise the aspirations and attainment of First Nations students and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds by providing them with new pathways into postsecondary education and effective outreach activities.

Professor Theo Farrell, Vice-Chancellor of La Trobe University, expressed gratitude to Senator Stewart for coming to the area and for the constructive actions that the federal and state governments are doing to expand possibilities for students in the area.

“La Trobe University will expand on its established connections with the University of Melbourne and GOTAFE and we look forward to achieving our shared goals of building aspiration, alternative pathways to education and collaborative research opportunities,” Professor Farrell said.

The collaboration, according to Senator Stewart, a Mutthi Mutthi and Wamba Wamba lady who attended La Trobe University after growing up in a rural area of Victoria, will make it simpler for young people to get access to top-notch instruction and training.

“The Goulburn Murray Tertiary Education Partnership is a big step to ensuring traditionally underrepresented cohorts – like First Nations and country students – get the same opportunities as anyone else looking to upskill,” Senator Stewart said. “Your postcode shouldn’t determine your access to education.

“La Trobe University, GOTAFE and the University of Melbourne are setting the example for other institutions in removing barriers for students in regional Victoria who want to pursue tertiary education, while giving them the choice to stay close to their family, friends, and community.”

The Australian Universities Accord and its support for regional activities, such as outreach and transition programs, that are pertinent to education providers and meet local needs have been endorsed by La Trobe and its two partners.