ANDREW Barr says the University of Canberra Amendment Bill 2015, introduced today, will help the University of Canberra by modernising its legislation in relation to governance and expanding its functions, so that it can develop additional sources of income, for example from commercialising property and developing its campus in the coming years.

“Consistent with my Government’s plans to diversify the economy and to foster development of the higher education sector as an area in which we have a competitive advantage, I am committed to boosting economic growth and facilitating major projects and job opportunities. By removing some unnecessary constraints on the University and amending the University of Canberra Act to clarify, modernise and adjust functions and governance, we will pave the way for the UC to achieve the vision set out in its Masterplan,” Andrew said.

“The Bill broadens the functions of the University, for example by allowing it to develop property and by making it clear it can provide cultural and sporting services. This will help the University to pursue worthwhile new developments and better support its emerging activities.

“The Bill also modernises how the University is governed, for example by allowing the University Council to delegate more broadly and by providing for the filling of casual vacancies on the Council.

“The UC has a proud history of educating and helping shape our community. The UC has a world ranking for the second consecutive year in the QS World University rankings, cementing its position in the top five per cent of universities and research institutions internationally.

“This Bill will be the first in a suite of legislative amendments planned over the next six months to enable wider uses and greater development of the Bruce campus, including more commercial development of university property. Expanding the UC’s functions will clarify that the University may provide services to benefit the broader community. Facilitating commercial development of its property will create a greater range of economic opportunities and stimulate economic activity in the ACT region.”