Bill Shorten pushes University of Canberra-CIT merger by 2029
UC Vice-Chancellor Bill Shorten proposes merging the University of Canberra and Canberra Institute of Technology, with the combined entity ready by 2029.
The merger would require an ACT Government decision in April 2027, leaving just under two years to set up before the 2029 academic year. Shorten says the move would let the merged institution offer everything from Cert II to PhD, filling gaps CIT can't cover and meeting employer needs amid Australia's shortage of tradies.
The submission to the Legislative Assembly committee got 48 mostly supportive responses. CIT has faced budget problems and governance issues for years.
Shorten argues a merger would give it financial security and clearer oversight. The new body would create a single front door for students, more courses, more pathways, and a campus south of the lake.
Shorten said CIT's vocational courses would keep separate fees and pay conditions. Chief Minister Andrew Barr backs the idea.
Shorten says UC is now talking to the Greens, Liberals, and crossbench members whose Assembly votes would be crucial.
- 48, mostly supportive
- Supportive submissions
- April 2027
- Government decision date
- 2029 academic year
- Combined operations start
- Chief Minister Andrew Barr
- Key backer
Why it mattersThis would reshape Canberra's entire post-secondary education landscape and could ease the region's skills shortages.
AustraliaACT students and employers would have access to a unified provider offering broader course options from trade certificates to university degrees.
