The Country Universities Centre Norfolk Island (CUCNI) is progressing steadily, with all key positions now successfully filled. Following a strong response from both local and mainland applicants, the recruitment process has been completed.
We’re pleased to announce Sally-Ann Thompson’s appointment as Centre Manager for CUC Norfolk Island, commencing 1st September 2025. With extensive educational leadership experience and local knowledge, Sally will strengthen the CUC’s commitment to bringing quality tertiary education opportunities to Norfolk Island families and the broader regional community.
The fit-out and project management of the Centre is also moving ahead, with contractors appointed and preparations underway to ensure the Centre is ready for its anticipated September 2025 opening.
Once operational, CUC Norfolk Island will provide important opportunities for casual and volunteer roles, offering learning and technical support to students and strengthening local access to tertiary education.
Click the link to read Norfolk Island’s CUC media release.
Update 24/06/2025
The Australian Government has announced the creation of a Regional University Study Hub on Norfolk Island, led by Regional Development Australia Mid North Coast (RDAMNC). This new initiative, the Country University Centre Norfolk Island (CUCNI), marks the first time island residents will have access to university-level education locally. Part of a $66.9 million national investment, the new hub is one of 10 Regional University Study Hubs designed to bring tertiary education closer to regional, rural, and remote communities. The hub offers new opportunities for young people and mature-aged students, enabling them to study without leaving home and pursue career or educational advancement in their own community. The CUCNI Board, including David Buffett, Sharon Nicol, Mary Christian-Bailey, Margaret Christian, Gaye Evans, Susan Prior, Chris Ronan (CUC), and Madeleine Lawler (RDAMNC), is dedicated to supporting Norfolk Island’s educational growth and ensuring residents have the same access to higher education as those on the mainland.
For additional information, read RDAMNC’s Media Release of the CUCNI.
Update 04/02/2025
Throughout the year, our team at RDA MNC has engaged with local residents, stakeholders, and state government representatives to develop a Countries Universities Centre (CUC) on Norfolk Island. In October 2024, we finalised and submitted the application for the construction of this new facility to Regional University Study Hub. We are eager to keep the community updated on the progress of our application. Our goal is to ensure that the residents of Norfolk Island gain access to state-of-the-art tertiary education services, similar to those available on the mainland.
Update 29/11/2024
During the very early stages of the recent Residential Visit on Norfolk Island by RDAMNC CEO, Madeleine Lawler, the repeat challenge of access to vocational education and training and higher education for Norfolk Islanders was raised. The team has initiated a Regional University Study Hub Grant application with the Country University Centre team in order to improve access to post-secondary education on Island.
Update 4/7/2024
Visit our update – CUC for Norfolk Island – RDA & CUC Board need your support – Regional Development Australia – Mid North Coast NSW (rdanorfolkisland.org.au) – for how you can support this.
More information will be shared once this project progresses.