La Trobe secures CBD site

LA Trobe University has purchased the Emporium Creative Hub lease in Mitchell St as part of its plan to help revitalise the city centre and strengthen local partnerships.

The creative co-working and events space was established in 2019 by the Victorian Government via support from the Community Support Fund and Creative Victoria.

The CBD location adds to the University’s existing facilities at the La Trobe Art Institute in View Street and the Flora Hill campus, with its city presence to expand further with the completion of its Clinical Teaching Building near Bendigo Hospital by 2026.

The venue will remain a space for creative businesses and there may be opportunities to expand work-integrated learning for students in the future.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said it will play an essential role in achieving La Trobe’s vision, helping to inspire the next generation of students while contributing to the economic and cultural vitality of the region.

“La Trobe sees immense value in what the Hub has achieved in supporting creative industries to evolve in Bendigo’s city centre,” he said.

“The University is committed to building on the great work of the Victorian Government, driving collaboration with existing and new creative tenants for the growth of Bendigo.”

Bendigo Head of Campus Marg O’Rourke said it will also provide a unique opportunity for La Trobe to engage a wider demographic.

“We see the Hub as a chance to unlock Bendigo’s potential; where everyone in the community feels empowered to explore higher education opportunities and discover what La Trobe has to offer,” she said.

“Inviting people into the inclusive space will enable them to interact directly with La Trobe student recruitment staff and build relationships with our arts cohort, many of whom are University alum and have been involved in Hub programs since the beginning.”