The 2009 Federal Budget has delivered $35 million for the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) Building, which will bring together University of Newcastle and Hunter New England Health researchers in a world class health research facility.

The HMRI Building based at Rankin Park will house 450 researchers working at the cutting-edge of health and medical research delivering benefits for the Hunter and nationally.

Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kevin McConkey, said the Government’s significant commitment to bring higher education to the forefront of the future of Australia should be applauded.

“The Government’s student-centred higher education initiatives are to be commended. The increased funding for scholarships and income support are particularly important to help address the significant financial pressure our students face.

“Extending student income support to Masters by coursework programs reflects the genuine need for the workforce to continue to engage in study to improve productivity.

“The Government’s commitment to improved indexation for universities will help ensure that quality will be maintained as more students participate in higher education.

“Greater emphasis on access and equity to higher education are central to the future of the nation, and the Government’s initiatives to assist the access and retention of low socio-economic students will raise performance in this area.

“The University of Newcastle is one of the largest providers in the country of access to higher education for people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Further assistance to support our efforts is welcome.

“This is a strong budget for research and innovation in higher education. There are clear incentives for industry and universities to work together on major research activities. In particular, the Clean Energy Initiative is one that the University is well placed to take advantage of.

“The Government’s emphasis on improving teaching and learning quality in universities will contribute to greater learning for students, and as a result, deliver significant benefits for local students.

“The Budget initiatives will transform the higher education sector over the next four years. The University of Newcastle is in a very strong position to maximise the opportunities that will become available.