Central Queensland University (CQU), commonly known as CQUniversity Australia, is a public university established by the Queensland government through the Central Queensland University Act 1998 1. Founded originally as the Queensland Institute of Technology (QIT) Capricornia in 1967, it gained full university status in 1992 and has since grown into one of Australia’s largest regional universities.
As a public institution, CQUniversity is regulated by the Australian government and is registered with the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA), the national higher education regulator. It is also a registered training organisation under the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) for vocational education and training. Being a public university means CQUniversity receives government funding, adheres to public accountability standards, and is required to publish annual reports detailing its financial and operational status.
CQUniversity’s public status ensures that it operates on a not-for-profit basis, focusing on providing accessible, high-quality education and training across a wide range of disciplines. The university offers more than 250 courses from certificates and diplomas to undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degrees, with campuses spread across major cities and regional centers including Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Cairns, and Rockhampton, among others.
The university is also recognized for its commitment to inclusivity and regional engagement, supporting students from diverse backgrounds including mature-age learners, Indigenous Australians, and those from rural and remote areas. CQUniversity’s public status aligns it with other Australian public universities that prioritize accessibility, research excellence, and community collaboration.
In Summary
- CQUniversity is a public university established by the Queensland government.
- It is regulated by TEQSA and ASQA, ensuring quality and compliance in both higher education and vocational training.
- The university operates as a not-for-profit institution with government funding and public accountability.
- CQUniversity offers a broad range of courses and has multiple campuses across Australia, emphasizing regional education and inclusivity.
For those considering study options in Australia, CQUniversity’s public university status guarantees a reputable, government-supported education with a strong focus on student access and community impact.