Uni site set for jobs boost

MORE jobs are set to launch at Federation University’s Technology Park thanks to the expansion of the Concentrix call centre.

Currently in the late stages of construction, the extension of the university building was funded by a $350,000 grant from the Victorian government in a bid to create more jobs in the regions.

The Mount Helen campus is set to welcome approximately 130 new jobs over the next two months as the new customer experience contact centre prepares to open for business.

The executive director of Federation University’s Technology Park Jeff Pulford was joined by Concentrix Manager David Fotheringham at the site to announce the funding.

Mr Pulford said it was the next step in a six-year relationship that the university has with the company.

“Being about to expand today is a good opportunity for us and the company,” he said.

“Fed Uni Technology Parks host in excess of 2200 jobs and this funding will help on build on that.

“We want to make these opportunities available to students, but we also welcome Concentrix hiring community members.”

This announcement will not only help to expand Federation University’s and Concentrix’s operational relationship, but hopes to boost jobs in the region.

Member for Wendouree Julianna Addison said it’s great to see an incoming amount of secure and well paid jobs right here on campus.

“It’s a win for students and for the community,” she said.

“This will become a place, not only to study but also for students to work and build for their future careers.

“Students will be encouraged to apply but the whole community will have the opportunity to.”

The funding comes as part of the government’s $2.6 billion program for building up regional and rural Victoria, which support infrastructure projects in these areas.

Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle said that this project is going to be an enormous boost for jobs in Ballarat.

“The government understands that jobs are going to be a big part in the road to recovery following the pandemic,” she said.

“Many call centre jobs have been overseas and it’s fantastic to move those jobs back on our shores, to our state and to Ballarat”