Students in the Ballarat region will benefit from the expertise of local technology experts in an innovative hub co-located with the brand new Ballarat Tech School.
Minister for Education James Merlino today announced that the Labor Government will provide an additional $543,000 to house the community-run Future Innovation Community Space.
Federation University Australia hosts the Tech School in its SMB Campus and currently partners with Ballarat Hackerspace, whose members meet and share technology expertise and specialist equipment with the wider community in an existing classroom on campus.
The funding will be used to create a fit-for-purpose workspace and give students and community members the opportunity to extend their learning with experts who have real-world experience in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The Future Innovation Community Space will open in mid-2018 and have a prominent street presence on Albert Street, with a dedicated entrance to encourage community interest and participation in new technologies.
The Ballarat Tech School will open in early 2018, with students from 15 partner schools able to access the facility free of charge during school hours boost their skills and solve real-life problems using the latest technology.
The Labor Government has set targets to boost performance in STEM subjects as part of its plan to make Victoria the Education State.
For more information on Ballarat Tech School, its partner schools and other projects underway across Victoria, visit
Quote attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino
“This fit-for-purpose community technology space will give Ballarat students an environment they can thrive in and learn about the emerging jobs of the future.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight
“This funding boost will ensure local students have access to the equipment, expertise and skills they will need as technology, employment and our economy changes.”
Quotes attributable to the Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard
“We want students and the broader community to have the best learning opportunities available in their own community – that’s why we’re building this new Innovation Hub in the heart of Ballarat.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020