Port Augusta students pursuing social work degrees will soon have access to compulsory study blocks in their own region, eliminating the need for long-distance travel to complete their qualifications.
Flinders University will begin delivering social work intensives in Port Augusta from 2026, enabling students studying through Uni Hub Spencer Gulf to complete key components of their degree close to home with access to the same learning opportunities as their metropolitan peers.
Uni Hub Spencer Gulf Chief Executive Officer Anita Kuss welcomed the announcement as another strong demonstration of partner universities investing in regional students.
"Having Flinders University bring its social work intensives to Port Augusta is a fantastic outcome. It shows a real commitment to supporting students in the Upper Spencer Gulf and ensures people can pursue careers in areas our region really needs, without having to move away," she said.
The expansion of local study options follows similar initiatives already in place across the region. CQUniversity currently delivers residential schools for nursing in Port Pirie, while Flinders offers its Allied Health degree face-to-face at the Port Pirie University Centre.
"Our university partners are stepping up to provide more local opportunities," Ms Kuss said. "Adding social work intensives in Port Augusta is the next step in making sure students have genuine options to study and stay in their own community."
Beyond the immediate benefits to students, Ms Kuss emphasized that local delivery also strengthens the region's workforce in critical areas.
"We know the demand for social workers, nurses and allied health professionals is growing across the Upper Spencer Gulf. By providing local study options, we're building the pipeline of skilled professionals our communities need, while also supporting students to succeed close to home," she said.
Ms Kuss described the announcement as a great example of what strong partnerships can achieve, highlighting the broader impact on regional education and employment.
"It's about giving students the chance to study locally, succeed in their chosen career, and stay in the region they call home," she said.
The social work intensives will commence in Port Augusta in 2026, with further details to be announced by Flinders University.
To read the full media release, please click here
Photo: Social Work Tutor Tracey Davies (left) and social work student Shilo Pavlich
Article and photo provided by Renae Murdoch, Uni Hub Spencer Gulf
