The innovative step of amalgamating CQUniversity Australia and Central Queensland Institute of TAFE drew significant support this week from leading local economic and industry developers.

The proposed amalgamation - according to the Mackay Area Industry Network - remains an industry priority.  MAIN members were involved in the development of the CQUniversity Knowledge Village concept, and the relocation of TAFE from Paget to CQUniversity campus, and fully support the dual sector concept as innovative approach to training & development, and skills retention in our region.

"MAIN represents over 100 organisations. Innovation and education are high on our collective agendas. Industry wants stronger relationships here in Mackay to develop capacity and capability by providing a highly skilled workforce in the region, and breaking down the barriers between vocational and higher education," said MAIN Managing Director Narelle Pearse.  "It's about creating strong career paths through education."

"CQUniversity and CQIT, as one entity, will transform education and training here in Mackay. Their coming together aligns with the strategies MAIN is developing in the region for skills attraction and retention, and MAIN members see this as one of the most important developments for industry, and have already voiced their support to the Minister for Mines & Energy," added Pearse.

Echoing Premier Anna Bligh's description of the proposed merger as "one of the most exciting developments in post-school education" Regional Development Australia Mackay Whitsunday said it would lobby both state and federal governments to support the amalgamation.

"This [is] a proactive opportunity for our region," said CEO Rebecca Andrews. "It directly addresses the significant challenges our high-growth region faces, including attracting and retaining a skilled workforce. It will bring people and services to the region and opportunities for future generations."

CQUniversity proposals for funding ($80million) and amalgamation are currently being considered by the federal and state governments.

"I believe this partnership with TAFE will not only benefit industry, but Mackay on the whole," explains CQUniversity Mackay Head of Campus Dr Pierre Viljoen. "In many respects it raises the profile of tertiary education in the region and the central role education, at this level, has to our community's sustainable development."

CQUniversity Vice-Chancellor Scott Bowman said the amalgamation of CQIT and CQUniversity - widely supported by the community and industry alike -  was a bold, responsible move forward for both levels of government to make.

"Mackay is a major part of a booming region that has well over $100 billion in major energy, ports and mining developments underway. Our industries and communities, in support of the merger, are saying that an amalgamation will deliver higher education and employment outcomes they need," Professor Bowman added.