by: Mine Racho
The “Regional University Study Hubs – Lived Lessons in Student Support” webinar, facilitated by Michelle Mosiere from DVE Business Solutions, brought together education leaders Caroline Phillips, Catherine Tydeman, and Dr. Jacinta Homann to explore how Regional and Suburban University Study Hubs (RUSH and SUSH) support underrepresented learners across Australia. These hubs are designed to improve access to higher education in isolated or underserved areas, functioning not just as learning spaces but as community anchors that bridge education, employment, and social support. A core theme was the importance of locally tailored models—each hub adapts its governance, programs, and services based on local demographics, workforce needs, and geography. Inclusivity is central, with many hubs avoiding the term “university” to welcome learners from diverse education backgrounds, such as TAFE and community training.
Cultural safety and responsiveness are especially critical, with dedicated programs and co-created environments for Indigenous students, as well as tailored support for neurodiverse and mature-age learners. The webinar emphasized wraparound support, where staff serve academic, pastoral, and logistical roles—often guiding students through complex university systems and connecting them with local services. Building trust through community engagement, hubs rely on informal outreach and family networks to boost participation and retention. The study environment is purposefully professional and tech-equipped, more structured than community centers, helping learners feel empowered and focused. Hubs also respond rapidly to local events—offering short courses or micro-credentials during employment shifts—and work closely with universities and industries to ensure relevant, timely support. In sum, these hubs are not just educational access points but transformational, community-driven spaces that foster equity, independence, and lifelong learning.
To watch the recording of the webinar, kindly input your contact information below:
