CQU calls on its community to dig deep and support its people and environment

CQUniversity is calling on its communities to join with them in supporting disadvantaged students, First Nations researchers, and the protection of our coastal environment through its annual CQUniCares Appeal.

Now in its eighth year, the Appeal is raising funds to tackle the three worthwhile causes during its annual ‘call to action’ between October 9-13.

Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp said many students faced challenges during their study journeys, but financial disadvantage was a key contributing factor to students dropping out of university.

“With the current high costs of living, the decision for some students to stay at university has never been more challenging,” Professor Klomp explained. 

“CQUniversity has one of the largest ratios of students from disadvantaged backgrounds and now more than ever, these students need our support to overcome financial barriers that might be limiting their success.

“For many years now, CQUniCares has been helping students to access and continue with their studies by providing much needed financial support through scholarships and financial aid.

“This helping hand can be the difference between staying at uni or dropping out and helps to relieve the burden associated with the many study and living costs our students face.” 

This year’s appeal is also giving the community the opportunity to support research pathways for First Nations students.

“With the community’s support, CQUniversity hopes to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with more opportunities to access research qualifications, closing an important gap in Australia’s research capacity.”

Donations will help establish a First Nations Research Pathway Program and will help provide wider opportunities and support for First Nations students.

“We are also calling on our communities to contribute to the protection of our coastal environment through our seagrass restoration projects, ensuring that our coastal communities can be enjoyed for generations to come.

“Seagrass plays a very important role in the health of our coastal ecosystems and our researchers based in Gladstone are working hard to restore seagrass meadows and learning more about the ingenious ways that seagrass contributes to our ocean’s health.” 

Professor Klomp said all contributions to the CQUniCares Annual Appeal, no matter how big or small, will make a lasting impact.

“CQUniversity has a long and proud history of engaging with our communities. Last year, more than 150 donors joined together to create real change in our communities through the Appeal.

“I take immense pride in being the Vice-Chancellor of a university that is known for its unwavering commitment to its communities and the environment and I look forward to seeing our university community come together to support these remarkable causes." 

Donors have the opportunity to choose which of the three worthwhile causes they’d like to support, or support all three, with 100 per cent of the donations going directly to their chosen area. 

Gifts over $2 are tax deductible.

To find out more about the CQUniCares Annual Appeal or to donate today visit www.cqu.edu.au/appeal.