The construction of a new campus facility at James Cook University could result in opportunities for apprenticeships in Townsville – with the project set to create over 580 jobs.
Worth $80 million, the initiative is being financed through a $47 million investment by the federal government as part of the regional priorities round of its Education Investment Fund.
The new structure will be called The Science Place and is expected to nearly double the number of students enrolled in science, technology, mathematics, engineering and health courses.
Around 530 building jobs will be generated in North Queensland during the construction phase, while 51 full-time university staff positions are likely to be created to cope with the growth in enrolments.
Treasurer Wayne Swan said the initiative will provide various training opportunities and help to support increased participation, boosting skills across the region.
“Our substantial commitments to building up tertiary education facilities will continue to open vital doors for our universities during the Asian Century,” he explained.
The facility will replace two existing buildings on the campus and will incorporate cross-regional education delivery and National Broadband Network access.
Other features include audio-visual and video-conferencing facilities, computer labs fitted with visualisation technology and teaching spaces.
