- Published:
- Sunday 20 November 2016
The Latrobe Valley will get its own Hi-Tech Precinct to create jobs and open up the best work and education opportunities for local students, thanks to a $17 million investment from the Andrews Labor Government.
Based at the Federation Training site, it will bring together the new Morwell Tech School with Federation University, Federation Training, private tenants, and leading global tech firm Fujitsu as the likely anchor tenant.
The purpose-built precinct will promote innovation, productivity and job creation with a focus on growing sectors in Gippsland such as new energy, health, food and fibre and professional services.
Its construction is expected to create at least 80 new jobs, with hundreds of ongoing full time jobs to follow.
Fujitsu will look to establish a service centre operation and will help drive the ‘open innovation laboratory,’ where Gippsland’s research, business and education communities can access Fujitsu’s computing and data analytics capabilities – the first time this ground breaking approach has been implemented in Australia.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been developed to guide collaboration between Fujitsu, the Victorian Government, Federation Training and Federation University.
The MoU provides a framework for the development of the precinct, the establishment of Fujitsu jobs and an Open Innovation Concept to be integrated into the Precinct and the Morwell Tech School.
Quote attributable to the Premier Daniel Andrews
“We will always put people first in the Latrobe Valley – this Hi-Tech Precinct will link industry with students, creating more jobs where they’re needed most.”
Quote attributable to the Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan
“For the last two years we’ve delivered on the things that matter most to people – now, local students will be better able to access further study or training while gaining valuable work experience.”
Quote attributable to the Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
“We’re working to make sure students in the Latrobe Valley have access to training at this precinct that aligns with the needs of local industry now and in the future.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
"This is another exciting step towards giving locals the best opportunities to study, work and live in the region."
Quote attributable to Fujitsu Vice President - Sales Glen Grant
“We’re excited to be involved in the development of a business case for the Hi-Tech Precinct with a view to providing job opportunities in the Latrobe Valley, benefitting businesses and the community in the region.”
Quote attributable to Federation University Australia Vice-Chancellor Professor David Battersby
“We look forward to working with all partners to enhance the education and business opportunities of the region. FedUni is proud to be the University for the Latrobe Valley.”