Southern Cross University plans $38 million project at Lismore campus

Southern Cross University has welcomed the announcement of $28 million through the federal government’s Education Investment Fund (Regional Priorities) for the development of a Science and Engineering Precinct and a new Learning Centre at the Lismore campus.

The funding has been announced today (January 24) by the federal Minister for Tertiary Education Senator The Hon Chris Evans.

The total cost of the project, including capital works and equipment, will be $38 million. The NSW State Government is also contributing $258,300 to the project.

“This is a very exciting day for Southern Cross University and for our community. This new development will transform our Lismore campus. It enables us to increase the range of courses we offer in the science and engineering field, providing further opportunities for students within our region,” Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Lee said.

“We will also build a new Learning Centre to replace our current library. This will be located in the heart of the Lismore campus, near the student plaza and will include flexible and contemporary learning spaces, continuing our commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.”

Professor Lee said the current library, which is located adjacent to existing specialist science research facilities, would be repurposed into a Science and Engineering Precinct.

The University is offering a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Civil Engineering from this year and this new development will enable new branches of engineering, and courses in science and regional planning to be introduced in the coming years.

“I would like to thank Janelle Saffin, the federal Member for Page, for her strong support of this very significant project for Lismore and our region. This funding is evidence of the strength of our University and the important contribution we are making to the region.”

Professor Lee said a significant amount of planning had already been undertaken and the University would be moving quickly to progress the development. It is anticipated the facilities will be completed in 2015.

“We are investing heavily in all our campuses, from Coffs Harbour to the Gold Coast, to ensure we provide educational opportunities that support the needs of our communities. We have a strong commitment to teaching and research excellence and look forward to continued growth,” he said.

Photo: An artist's impression of the new Learning Centre planned for the Lismore campus.