RDA Mid North Coast (MNC) has led the successful creation of the Country Universities Centre (CUC) Norfolk Island (CUCNI) (cucnorfolkisland.edu.au), the Island’s first tertiary education hub that allows residents to access University, Vocational and Educational Training (VET), or Higher School Certificate (HSC) study without having to leave home. This landmark initiative was developed in collaboration with a locally governed independent board and the CUC network.

RDA MNC’s Chief Executive Officer, Madeleine Lawler, and Chief Operating Officer, Dianne Wall, secured the grant and undertook visits to establish the Centre, with the full fit-out completed in September 2025. The organisation is flexibly staffed by a team of four, with backgrounds in law, international development, health, vocation education and tertiary education. Let by the Centre Manager, the flexible team are able to support a broad range of Norfolk Island’s educational and community partnership needs.

The CUCNI will not only deliver supported learning for all age groups but will also generate casual and volunteer roles. This investment in regional education aims to strengthen local education access, building skills and support Norfolk Island’s future.

Image Source: RDA MNC (Mid North Coast NSW).