The proposed UTAS STEM Campus can be a win for the next generation of young tech workers and scientists AND help deliver much-needed housing, says Tasmania’s tech sector.
TasICT General Manager Russell Kelly said that the University of Tasmania and the State Government were to be congratulated for burying the hatchet and getting behind the highly productive jobs delivered by STEM.
“Tasmania has not emerged well from COVID-19 when it comes to STEM – student numbers have not bounced back, and fewer Tasmanian students are considering a career in technology.
“This is despite a skills shortage in the technology sector.”
Mr Kelly said that only this month new data from the Australian Computer Society’s Digital Pulse had revealed Tasmania had among the lowest growth in the tech sector of Australian states – and was 7.5 per cent behind the national average.
Despite that, more than 1,800 additional tech workers would be needed in Tasmania by 2030 – and that didn’t include science positions and technology roles in other sectors.
Mr Kelly said any funds gained in the sale of land at the Sandy Bay site should be earmarked for the STEM Campus – expected to cost more than $500m.
“The STEM Campus has the potential to bring together the University, students, industry, and the community to put STEM front-and-centre.
“It can’t be allowed to be forever a great idea in search of a financial backer.
“By ensuring land is sold on the Sandy Bay site and the proceeds directed towards the STEM facilities, the University will ensure the STEM Campus moves from pipedream to reality.
“The tech sector stands ready to strongly make the case for funding to the Federal Government.”