• NSW Government contributing $100 million for round three of Stronger Country Communities Fund
• Charles Sturt welcomes the establishment of a regional youth portfolio
• Charles Sturt supports announcement of 4600 new teachers for NSW schools

Charles Sturt University (Charles Sturt) welcomes the announcement today by Deputy Premier the Hon. John Barilaro MP and Minister for Regional Youth the Hon. Bronnie Taylor MLC that the NSW Government has allocated $100 million for round three of the Stronger Country Communities Fund.

The funding will be invested in projects and programs in the regions, including $50 million aimed at supporting young people.

The funding is part of the establishment of the NSW Government’s Regional Youth portfolio which will deliver a regional youth strategy and is intended to provide a voice for young people in the regions.

Charles Sturt’s Strategic Adviser – Regional Engagement and Government Relations the Hon. Fiona Nash said the announcement will further opportunities for the region’s youth.

“Charles Sturt has more than 800 people aged 25 or under enrolled in study,” said Ms Nash.

“With the announcement of this investment, there will be a focus on creating more opportunities for them.

“We look forward to working in partnership with the Minister for Regional Youth and we continue to be committed to providing education, research and entrepreneurial oppportunities for the incredible young people who live and work in our vibrant regions.”

Charles Sturt also welcomes NSW Premier the Hon. Gladys Berejiklian’s announcement on 17 June that the NSW Government is investing in 4600 new teachers for NSW schools over the next four years.

The announcement demonstrates the Government’s commitment to creating quality learning opportunities for children and young people across the country.

An increase to the teacher workforce is a necessary component of the provision of high-quality education for all students in Australia.

The additional teacher places will assist to meet the increase in school enrolments and address the aging teaching workforce needs and could really benefit hard-to-staff rural and regional schools.

CSU has a long history of supplying  teachers who go on to work and reside in regional and remote communities across the country.

Charles Sturt remains committed to the delivery of first-class university trained and qualified teachers and the upskilling of current teachers.