Through initiatives such as the Community-University Partnerships (CUP) Grants Program, Charles Sturt University (CSU) supports the development of its regional communities through contributions to Indigenous, cultural, economic, sporting and other activities while building higher education aspiration and awareness.

Ms Linda Breen, Acting Director Government and Community Relations said, "Charles Sturt University's mission is to advance higher education opportunity and research that meets the particular needs and aspirations of the people of regional Australia.

"The Community-University Partnerships (CUP) Grants Program is one such initiative that aims to cultivate strong, relevant and collaborative partnerships designed to build higher education aspiration and awareness, particularly amongst young people in our rural and regional communities."

With a focus on supporting young people in the Bathurst, Orange, Wagga Wagga, Albury-Wodonga, Dubbo and Port Macquarie regions, CSU's CUP Program has already produced a positive impact by facilitating projects that local community groups and individuals would not otherwise have had the resources to undertake.

Implemented in 2014 to improve the way the University supports its communities, the Program provides much needed funds to an increasing number of Indigenous, arts/culture, sporting, educational and other community groups in CSU's regions. Funding granted in 2015 is expected to exceed $200,000.

"The University's sponsorship of the many initiatives and projects has resulted in real benefits not only for the recipient but for the broader community by building skills and supporting important activities that encourage development and sustainability of regional and rural communities," Ms Breen said.

By providing support and much needed funds to community groups and individuals, innovative practices have resulted that showcase the wealth of skills and practices of regional communities.

"CSU's primary purpose is to be at the service of its communities and deliver high quality degree-level education, research and engagement within these communities. We are committed to the continuance of the CUP Program as a way of supporting initiatives that assist the development of its communities.

"The CSU CUP Program evidences good practice in community engagement and may even be applied by other higher education institutions, particularly those in regional areas."