Did you know that based on new data, residents in the Inala-Richlands area have been 15 percent less likely to hold a degree than the national average?
Read: New Inala Study Hub: Bringing University Education Closer to Home
To address this, the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) launched its Suburban University Study Hub (SUSH) in Inala on Wednesday, 19 March 2025, as part of a national initiative to improve access to higher education for students in outer metropolitan areas.
The initiative aimed to remove barriers to university education by providing resources and guidance to those looking to further their studies. The Inala SUSH, one of 15 suburban sites chosen to improve educational access in outer metropolitan areas across Australia, will welcome students from any higher education institution and is set to open by late 2025.
The event, held at the Inala Civic Centre, featured UniSQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Karen Nelson and Federal Member for Oxley, the Hon Milton Dick MP, who outlined how the new study hub would support students and the local community.
Professor Nelson said higher education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance.
“The Inala Suburban University Study Hub will not only provide a dedicated space for learning but will also offer essential wrap-around support to ensure students can complete their studies and transition successfully into the workforce.
“The application for the hub was a result of strong community advocacy with support from all levels of government, local high schools, Griffith University, and TAFE Queensland.”
Local UniSQ students Anis Mihrashahi and Zack McSweeney also spoke at the launch, sharing their experiences and highlighting the positive impact the hub would have on students from the region.
“This study hub will provide a place where students can receive help, mentorship and a place of concentration. Instead of travelling over an hour to some universities, this hub allows students to stay close to home,” said McSweeney.
Mihrashahi, on the other hand, shared that growing up in Durack meant that traveling to study locations was often time-consuming. However, the proximity of UniSQ played a significant role in his decision to attend the university.
“The study hub will provide a central location for students to go and study, and they can also access support and mentorship to aid them with their assessments,” said Mihrashahi.
Both students emphasised the importance of accessible education and how the new facility would not only increase the productivity and learning abilities of most students, but also boost their connection with the community.
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The Inala Suburban University Study Hub is part of a broader effort to create more educational opportunities in outer metropolitan areas, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed in higher education.
Published 24-March-2025