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Business sector throws support behind merger of universities of Adelaide, South Australia

The state’s business sector has thrown its support behind a merger between the universities of Adelaide and South Australia. Here’s what they’re saying.

South Australian university merger is a ‘significant thing’ for the state

The state’s business sector has welcomed the merger of the universities of Adelaide and South Australia, which it has spruiked as a win for the local economy.

Legislation that will amalgamate the universities is set to pass the parliament after the government secured the support of Upper House crossbenchers Sarah Game and Connie Bonaros.

Their support follows backing from a key parliamentary committee on Tuesday, which said the merger carried risk but would advance the state’s economic and social interests.

Business SA, which has long supported the merger and made a submission to the committee, welcomed the development.

“I’m pleased the committee has confirmed the South Australian economy will benefit from the creation of Adelaide University,” general manager of policy and advocacy Kendall Crowe said.

“This aligns with our position and recognises the intrinsic value of business and higher education working together.

The universities of Adelaide and South Australia will merge. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Kelly Barnes
The universities of Adelaide and South Australia will merge. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Kelly Barnes

“It will also provide an exciting proposition for more international students, and also help keep our best and brightest here in South Australia.”

Property Council SA executive director Bruce Djite called for a considered strategy on the future of university land.

“With the joint committee’s report on the establishment of Adelaide Uni recommending that consultation should commence in relation to the use, development, or sale of the land at Magill and Mawson Lakes, the Property Council strongly advocates that courage and leadership be shown in the face of any NIMBY activism because we need to urgently address housing supply for the greater good of the state and future generations,” he said.

Originally published as Business sector throws support behind merger of universities of Adelaide, South Australia

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Original URL: https://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/news/south-australia/business-sector-throws-support-behind-merger-of-universities-of-adelaide-south-australia/news-story/da8c97cf4883ece382ce8ea8cf69ccf1