Western Sydney University is proud to launch Fairfield Connect, a cutting-edge study hub that will support students and the community of Western Sydney, enhancing accessibility to higher education.
Launched alongside the release of the Australian Universities Accord Final Report in the Fairfield CBD today, Fairfield Connect responds to one of the report’s pivotal recommendations to boost the number of university Study Hubs in regional and outer metropolitan areas, making higher education more accessible for all Australians.
Western Sydney University recognises the expanded potential that partnership brings to the Fairfield region. Partnering with Western on Fairfield Connect is the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the University of NSW (UNSW). The three universities are committed to working together through Fairfield Connect, to boost higher education attainment in Western Sydney – one of the most socially, economically and culturally diverse regions in Australia.
The hub will offer students and the community access to facilities including computers, high-speed internet, and advanced video-conferencing capabilities. Western Sydney University will deliver valuable resources and support services for adult literacy, career development, and employability enhancement.
Chancellor, Professor Jennifer Westacott AO and Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO made the announcement joined by Federal Minister for Education and Member for Blaxland, the Hon. Jason Clare MP, and Professor Mary O’Kane AC, Chair of the Accord panel.
Western Sydney University’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, said the launch of Fairfield Connect is an important step towards providing more opportunities and greater accessibility for the communities of Western Sydney.
“Fairfield Connect brings cutting-edge facilities and technology close to where students live and work. Situated in the heart of Fairfield, the facility is adding to Western Sydney University’s already strong presence across the region, including our world-class high-rise Bankstown City campus,” said Professor Glover.
“Designed to promote lifelong learning and community and business engagement, Fairfield Connect will be a hub for collaboration and innovation, including interaction with Western Sydney University’s leading business technology incubator Launch Pad, which will be embedded in the facility.”
IMAGE: Left to right: Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy and Member for McMahon, the Hon. Chris Bowen MP; Western Sydney University Chancellor Professor Jennifer Westacott AO; Federal Minister for Education and Member for Blaxland, the Hon. Jason Clare MP; and Western Sydney University Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Barney Glover AO.
