University of Canberra and ACT govt strengthen links

10 September 2008: University of Canberra Vice Chancellor Professor Stephen Parker and ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will strengthen the collaboration and cooperation between the ACT Government and the University of Canberra.

“This document we sign today builds on the already strong relationship between the ACT Government and the University of Canberra and commits us to working more closely together to address skills demands, explore research partnerships and promote the economic development of Canberra,” Mr Stanhope said.

“Whilst the MOU itself is a broad statement of commitment, each ACT Government agency will work closely with the University of Canberra to establish projects and partnerships.

“This MOU builds on the ACT Government’s significant support for University of Canberra – most recently a $2.075 million funding package announced in this year’s budget.

“At a time when the ACT is dealing with the local impacts of the national skills shortage the ACT Government is committed to working in partnership with the ACT’s tertiary sector to build our research capacity and address the skills demands of the Canberra labour market.”

The MOU establishes a basis for collaboration and cooperation between the ACT Government and the University of Canberra to:
•    provide research based support and expert analysis for public policy development, implementation and review;
•    establish partnerships in research and work integrated / industry based learning;
•    address professional skills demands in the Canberra labour market including provision of professional development for ACT Public Service employees; and
•    promote the economic development of Canberra.

Professor Parker said the MOU would be governed by a working group, co-chaired by the University of Canberra and the ACT Government with secretariat services provided by the University. The group is expected to meet quarterly.

“As the university that bears the name of the nation’s capital, the University of Canberra takes it role to serve the people of the capital and region very seriously,” Professor Parker said.

“As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, it is important for the University of Canberra, Australia’s Capital University to reaffirm its commitment to Canberra. This agreement will provide a strong foundation for future cooperation between the ACT Government and the University of Canberra.”

Future developments under the MOU are likely to build on ACT 2020 Summit themes around excellence and innovation in education and sustainable planning and design.