Liverpool has taken the first steps towards establishing a second university in the city centre, with the launch this week of Western Sydney University’s innovative Launch Pad in Moore Street.
Liverpool mayor Ned Mannoun said the Launch Pad continued the momentum of the Great South West of Sydney in establishing itself as an education hub offering a wide range of opportunities.
“The Great South West is placing itself at the forefront of education in Sydney with two universities establishing themselves in Liverpool,” Mayor Mannoun said.
“The launch earlier this month of the University of Wollongong’s campus in Liverpool followed by the arrival of the Western Sydney University’s Launch Pad brings tertiary education to our doorstep and cuts extensive travelling time to other centres.”
“The Western Sydney University Launch Pad is ideal for post graduate work, start-ups and new innovators and means our young people can now study close to home at two of Australia’s most prestigious universities. Liverpool is maturing before our eyes into a prosperous attractive city that harnesses the talent of our population.
“We cannot underestimate the importance of universities in a city. University cities have higher levels of growth and prosperity, and make the aspirations of our young people much more achievable.”
Liverpool City Council Acting CEO Michael Cullen said the mayor, councillors and council staff had all played an important role in attracting Western Sydney University and University of Wollongong to Liverpool.
“This has been a tremendous achievement and puts Liverpool in a great position in years to come,” Mr Cullen said.
NSW Minster for Industry, Resources and Energy Anthony Roberts, said the State Government’s funding contribution to WSU Launch Pads in Penrith, Parramatta and now Liverpool was an investment in the future.
“The Liverpool Launch Pad is a state-of-the-art smart business centre that offers access to resources that will drive innovative practices in this major growth centre of South Western Sydney,” he said.