The University of Southern Queensland marked 20 years in Springfield with a Thought Leadership event on Wednesday, 7 October, bringing together leaders from education, industry, government and the community to reflect on the development of Greater Springfield and the opportunities ahead.
The event explored the role of education, health, infrastructure and collaboration in shaping one of South East Queensland’s growing communities, with a particular focus on the long term vision and partnerships that have contributed to the success of the Greater Springfield project.
Springfield Regional Jobs Committee Chair and proud UniSQ alumnus Rohan Richardson moderated the panel discussion, which featured Bob Sharpless, Suzanne Hawksley, Charis Mullen MP and UniSQ Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Mazerolle.
A highlight of the evening was hearing from Springfield City Group founder Maha Sinnathamby, who reflected on the importance of education as a foundation for a successful society and its central role in the vision for Greater Springfield.
Throughout the discussion, panellists reflected on the importance of bringing education, healthcare, infrastructure and employment opportunities together, supported by a shared commitment to community needs.
The conversation also reinforced the value of collaboration between government, industry, education providers and community organisations in responding to population growth and ensuring development delivers lasting benefits for local residents.
For the Springfield Regional Jobs Committee, the discussion reflected many of the priorities underpinning its work across the region, particularly the importance of connecting education and training with local employment opportunities and future workforce needs.
As Greater Springfield continues to develop, access to education, training and clear career pathways will remain important in helping local residents participate in the region’s economic growth.
UniSQ Springfield has played an important role in the region’s development over the past two decades, providing access to higher education and contributing to the broader education and skills landscape.
The 20th anniversary provided an opportunity to recognise that contribution while looking ahead to the partnerships, infrastructure and workforce capabilities needed to support the next phase of growth.
The Springfield Regional Jobs Committee congratulates UniSQ Springfield on 20 years of supporting education and opportunity in the region and looks forward to continuing its connection with the university as Greater Springfield grows.