Marine science students and researchers will have access to better facilities and a new centre in Queenscliff, thanks to the state government.
Deakin University’s Queenscliff Marine Science Centre was upgraded to provide hands-on learning opportunities, enhance marine research and benefit local industries and communities.
Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney said students could gain skills in priority areas like sustainability, environmental protection and climate change resilience.
“This new centre not only opens doors for students and researchers, but it establishes Victoria as a leader in marine science and sustainability studies,” she said.
“Water management is an essential part of the clean economy and by backing projects like this we’re not just supporting universities; we’re supporting jobs and a more sustainable future.”
Deakin University received $2 million in funding from the state government’s Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund for the facility and an Integrated Water Management Plan.
Partnerships deputy vice-chancellor Dr David Halliwell said Waurn Ponds’ water management system supported biodiversity, improved water quality and provided cutting-edge sustainability research.
“This investment helps enable some of Deakin’s key education and research priorities to create smarter technologies and enable a sustainable world.”
“We’re passionate about providing the best opportunities for experiential learning and applied research to empower the next generation of guardians to our waterways.”
The centre featured an aquarium and high-performing computer labs to help deliver Deakin’s Bachelor of Marine Science, the state’s only dedicated undergraduate marine science degree.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the facility helped “position the Bellarine region at the forefront of marine science education”.
More information about the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund is available at vic.gov.au/projects-funded-victorian-higher-education-state-investment-fund
