A major win for education on Kangaroo Island
We’re thrilled to announce that Kangaroo Island has secured funding for a Regional University Study Hub! Announced by the Hon Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education, this success follows a strong submission from Regional Development Australia Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island.
The hub is part of a $66.9 million national initiative by the Albanese Government to support regional students in accessing quality tertiary education. This is a big step forward for our community, offering new opportunities for learning, career growth, and workforce development.
Expanding access to tertiary education on Kangaroo Island
With funding now secured for a new Regional University Study Hub on Kangaroo Island, tertiary education will be more accessible than ever for local students. The hub will provide free study spaces, high-speed internet, and on-site support, reducing the barriers to higher education for regional students.
What the study hub offers
Located in Kingscote, the Kangaroo Island Study Hub will provide:
- 24/7 study spaces with high-speed internet
- On-site support during business hours
- A dedicated space to study, collaborate, and connect with peers
- No-cost access for students
By removing obstacles such as high travel costs, lack of study space, and limited support, this hub will empower more students to enrol in and complete tertiary education.
A community-driven initiative
This project is the result of strong local leadership and community engagement. RDA AHFKI led and funded the business case for the hub, working closely with Kangaroo Island Community Education, students, industry, local businesses, community groups, and Kangaroo Island Council.
By design Regional University Study Hubs are community-led and Kangaroo Island has again shown how strong its community is.
Not only have a group of residents been working together for several year on options for better access to tertiary education, when we consulted with the broader community, the message was clear they knew how important a Study Hub was to lifting tertiary education access and completion rates.
RDA Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island has worked hard to make the most of this excellent program and as a result we will now have two Regional University Study Hubs in the region.
Steve Shotton, Director, RDA AHFKI
The support from the Rural City of Murray Bridge has also been invaluable. Their experience in operating regional study hubs in Berri, Murray Bridge, and Victor Harbor will help fast-track the Kangaroo Island Study Hub’s opening, expected in July. A locally based staff member will be employed to support students on the island.
Strengthening regional workforce and growth
The Kangaroo Island Study Hub aligns with RDA AHFKI’s broader economic development priorities. By helping students gain the skills and qualifications needed in our region, we’re addressing workforce shortages and supporting local industries. This builds on the success of our South Coast Study Hub in Victor Harbor, further strengthening opportunities across our region.
The Rural City of Murray Bridge is ecstatic to receive news of funding for the Kangaroo Island Study Hub. This hub will be operated through the same model that oversees study hubs at Berri, Victor Harbor, and Murray Bridge and staffed by locals in each region. The Rural City of Murray Bridge is proud to enable this new hub and expand the opportunities for regional South Australians to access tertiary study.
Heather Barclay, CEO, Rural City of Murray Bridge
Looking Ahead
With the new Kangaroo Island Study Hub, we’re breaking down barriers to education and creating more pathways for students to succeed. This is a milestone moment for KI and a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and strong regional leadership.
Stay tuned for updates!