Media releases

A new Federation University scholarship will support the Gippsland business community in its recovery from the impact of bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

A new subsidised, Gippsland-based Master of Business Administration (MBA) will commence in September 2020 and offer a dynamic blend of theory and practice. 

In order to support the re-skilling and up-skilling of the local workforce in these challenging times, Federation University has partnered with the Gippsland Regional Partnership and Victorian Government, to subsidise MBA course fees to significantly reduce the cost to students by 80 per cent. 

The MBA will give small business-owners, entrepreneurs and leaders the tools to tackle real-world challenges within their own organisations 

The course is co-designed with entrepreneurial hub Runway which will lead Gippsland classes on innovation, network-building and start-up-thinking.  

The 18-month program will include guest speakers from industry, culminating in an experiential learning project where students tackle a real-time problem facing their business or organisation. 

The program will initially be delivered online and potentially move to a blended learning experience as social distancing restrictions are eased. 

A limited number of places are available to residents and businesses within Gippsland who meet the entry requirements. Applications will close on Monday, 24 August. 

For more information about the Gippsland MBA or to apply, visit www.federation.edu.au/mba 

Quotes attributable to Maree McPherson, Chair of the Gippsland Regional Partnership: 

“Education and skills are the future of our region and key to our recovery will be improving employment pathways and investing in local talent across our region.”  

“We are thrilled the Victorian Government has committed $70,000 to this important program for our future local workforce – opening up new opportunities for local students.” 

Quotes attributable to Federation University Gippsland Head of Campus, Ms Leigh Kennedy:  

“We know this is a very challenging time for Gippsland’s residents and businesses recovering from bushfires and now navigating their way through the impact of the pandemic.” 

“The university is delighted to be able to partner with the Victorian Government to help address the needs of the local workforce and support the up-skilling and re-skilling of the Gippsland community.” 

Quotes attributable to Federation Business School Dean, Professor Christina Lee:  

“The events of 2020 have presented complex challenges for organisations and small businesses as they recover and adapt to new ways of operating.” 

“The new Gippsland MBA will give students the opportunity to draw on their direct experiences and work on real issues in collaboration with lecturers and industry guest speakers.”