VU-Internet > OICE > Community

Community

VU extended its engagement with the community in 2005, fostering partnerships with groups and organisations having both local and international influence.

The development of an Engagement Functional Plan recognised the University’s special mission to improve the lives of the many communities in the western region of Melbourne, particularly through enhancing student access. The establishment in 2005 of the Office for Community and Industry Partnerships encouraged community access to VU resources and facilities.
One initiative resulted in the accommodation of an Islamic Girls’ and Women’s Group at St Albans Campus. The group offers
members of the community culturally appropriate resources including lessons in Arabic and English.

Community engagement days were held at Melton, Sunbury, St Albans and Werribee campuses to identify VU as an active site of transformation for the communities in the region. Representatives from industry, state and local government, secondary schools, sporting organisations attended along with members of local community organisations.

An iconic agreement was reached with the Western Bulldogs. Based on a shared commitment to sport, human movement and recreation, the two organisations will take advantage of the $42 million investment in infrastructure at the Whitten Oval and Footscray Park Campus to promote the economic and social wellbeing of Melbourne’s west.

The University convened an international conference together with the Australia-East Timor Association and Development Studies Network. Addressed by The Hon. Mari Alkatiri, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, the conference explored strategies for supporting the people of Timor-Leste in their independence as a nation. The University also hosted the second Australian Universities Community Engagement Alliance Conference. Attended by delegates from across Australia, the conference provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge, stimulate discussion and encourage the development of partnerships between
universities and their communities.

VU initiated an innovative project to advance the health of Melbourne’s taxi drivers by increasing their physical activity and improving their eating habits. Funded by the Department of Victorian Communities, the $400,000 ‘Active Cabbies: Moving People’ project involves Sport and Recreation Victoria, Melbourne Airport, Victorian Taxi Association, Victorian Taxi and Tow Truck Directorate, and the Victorian Branch of the Transport Workers Union.

Last Updated: September 20, 2006