Govt's in-principle support for Curtin Uni's bid to establish satellite campus at Midland's Westrail workshops

19/8/94

The State Government has announced its in-principle support for Curtin University's bid to establish a Federally-funded satellite campus in the precinct of the old Westrail workshops in Midland.

Education Minister Norman Moore said today he was writing to Federal Employment, Education and Training Minister Simon Crean, seeking a commitment of Commonwealth funding for the project.

Mr Moore said Curtin University was seeking up to $19 million to be allocated by the Commonwealth from 1997, for the new campus.  The Commonwealth planned three years ahead and was now considering the 1997 funding round.

"Curtin University in Bentley is currently bulging at the seams with students and the establishment of a satellite campus in the growing eastern suburbs makes considerable sense," Mr Moore said.

"Mr Crean was over here recently electioneering for the Labor party and it is time for the Commonwealth to demonstrate its support for the work which has already been done by the State Government in finding the most efficient use of the old workshops."

Planning Minister Richard Lewis had instigated a study into possible uses of the former Westrail facility, and State Cabinet was shortly expected to consider a range of options for the future management of the site.

Mr Moore said the Education Policy and Coordination Bureau had also been working in conjunction with Curtin University, to advance the idea of the new campus.  The Minister had spoken with representatives of the Swan Shire, indicating his support for the project.

"The State Government will continue to work towards using the old workshops for the maximum benefit of people in the eastern suburbs," he said.

Media contact:  Ross Storey  321 1444   222 9595