• MOU formalises an existing relationship between the three organisations
• Albury mayor states merging education precincts is beneficial for the city
• No organisation will be required to move premises as part of the MOU

Charles Sturt University (Charles Sturt) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with TAFE NSW and AlburyCity Council in an effort to strengthen the city’s development and education and business opportunities.

The MOU acknowledges the participating organisations agree to promote each other and the city, support infrastructure projects, collaborate on strategic direction, promote the liveability and sustainability of the city, and to integrate Charles Sturt and TAFE NSW initiatives within the city.

Charles Sturt’s Strategic Adviser – Regional Engagement and Government Relations, the Hon. Fiona Nash, said the MOU formalises an already strong relationship between the three organisations.

Ms Nash said the MOU will allow for long-term planning for the region, in particular the future of the Thurgoona campus, and how best to utilise the available land for the community.

“The more that different sectors across the region commit to working together, the better it is for the region,” she said.

“It sends a strong message we all want to work together and that we are aware of what other organisations in our region are doing.”

Part of the formalised partnership is to explore the city’s future 10-20 years down the track and consider how Charles Sturt can participate in and support future opportunities in the region.

AlburyCity mayor Kevin Mack said growing the region’s education sector is a collaborative effort.

“I don’t think we can do it alone,” Cr Mack said.

“We need to do it together.”

Cr Mack said Charles Sturt and TAFE both hold parcels of land that could lend themselves to a growth in Thurgoona and council has the ability to develop the land holdings.

“We are not educators, we are facilitators,” he said.

Member for Albury Justin Clancy welcomed the MOU and said TAFE NSW played a critical role in training the workforce of tomorrow in critical skills shortage areas.

“TAFE NSW is constantly innovating and speaking with industry and employers to ensure we are delivering the courses they need to not just survive, but to thrive with a highly skilled workforce,” Mr Clancy said.

“I’m proud of the role TAFE NSW plays in contributing to Albury’s knowledge economy and in helping draw new residents to our beautiful city."