Queensland University of Technology has decided to consolidate its Carseldine-based courses, programs and support areas into QUT's Kelvin Grove and Gardens Point campuses from the start of the 2009 academic year.
QUT Vice-Chancellor, Professor Peter Coaldrake said the university had been considering ways in which it could better utilise the Carseldine campus.
He said the campus had experienced declining student numbers, despite significant investment in the campus over recent years, in terms of courses of study and new facilities.
"It is essential that QUT continues to assess its physical resources to ensure they meet the needs and expectations of students," Professor Coaldrake said.
"In 2004, there were 2731 students enrolled at Carseldine campus, but by 2007, numbers had dropped to 2014 students," he said.
"In making this decision, which has been endorsed by QUT Council, the university has also taken into account that a number of courses at Carseldine are closely aligned with or part of Faculties and programs based at Kelvin Grove and Gardens Point."
To effect the transition, the university has formed a relocation working group, which will be responsible for the development and implementation of a change management plan that will be rolled out during the course of 2008.
Professor Coaldrake said QUT had undertaken consultation with students and staff of Carseldine through a number of briefing sessions and these would continue throughout the year to ensure the campus community was fully informed about the change and what it would mean for them.
"The majority of courses and programs will be relocated to Kelvin Grove, which can comfortably accommodate transferring students, staff and resources," he said.
"I believe this relocation is a prudent measure that will enable the university to continue to meet the broad expectations of students, staff and the community and the move will be carefully planned to streamline the transition."
Professor Coaldrake said the university would continue to investigate alternative uses for the campus and it was hoped QUT could retain the option to reoccupy the campus at a later date.
Media contact:
Professor Peter Coaldrake, QUT Vice-Chancellor on 07 3138 2365 or Janne Rayner, QUT media manager on 07 3138 2361 or 0407 585 901.
Note: The decision has no impact on QUT's Caboolture campus. QUT will continue to build its programs and fund its services and facilities, while also pursuing initiatives that will assist the campus to develop.
