The federal government will fund a new Regional University Study Hub in Victor Harbor, to be located at the local TAFE campus. 

The new hub is part of a $16m announcement to open 10 new Regional University Study Hubs around Australia this year, bringing university closer to students living in the regions.

There are currently 34 existing Regional University Study Hubs located across the country, including six in South Australia, and the government says evidence shows that where they are, university participation and completion goes up.

They support more than 3,400 students, studying more than 1,000 different courses, through more than 200 tertiary education providers.

The South Coast Study Hub in Victor Harbor is expected be available to students over the next 12 months.

Senator for South Australia Penny Wong says Victor Harbor is a great place to live, and also a great place to study.

“Today’s announcement to fund a new Regional University Study Hub in Victor Harbor will open the door for students across the Fleurieu Peninsula that want to go to uni.

“Every young Australian who wants to further their study should be able to do so, regardless of where they live.

“Bringing tertiary education closer to the students in regional SA will encourage aspiration and inspire more children to be the first in their family to get a degree.”

Assistant Minister for Education and Regional Development Senator Anthony Chisholm says people from regional, rural and remote Australia are almost half as likely to obtain a university degree compared to those in the city.

“The expansion of the Regional University Study Hub network will remove barriers for more students so they can access a high-quality tertiary education.

“These hubs create a campus-like environment where students can access support, the latest technology and be part of an engaging learning environment to help them achieve their academic goals, without having to leave their community.”

Business Victor Harbor (BVH) has welcomed the announcement.

"This is a great achievement by all who have been advocating for a University Study Hub in Victor Harbor, that supports the Fleurieu region," says BVH Executive Officer Colin Shearing.

He says BVH, Regional Development Australia and City of Victor Harbor have been lobbying for the past three years and the initiative was long overdue for the region.

"Having a Regional University Study Hub provides excellent opportunities for our local business community, including their local supply chains, and supports investment and attraction within Victor Harbor and the greater Fleurieu region." 

A timeframe for opening the study hub has not yet been announced.