Two of the western suburbs’ most important education and healthcare institutions have joined forces.
Victoria University (VU) and Mercy Health have formalised a partnership aimed at boosting research collaborations, graduate employment and training and development opportunities for staff and students.
VU Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker and Mercy Health chief executive health services Clinton Cummins last week signed a memorandum of understanding that created a formal alliance between the only university Melbourne’s west and the operator of one the region’s major hospitals.
Professor Shoemaker said the partnership would build upon the long history of collaboration between the two organisations.
“In 2024 alone, Mercy Health placed more than 200 VU students into nursing, midwifery and physiotherapy – educating and empowering emerging health professionals,” Professor Shoemaker said.
Mr Cummins said the partnership was much more than just mutually beneficial.
“Together, we’re building stronger pathways from education into employment, strengthening the future health workforce, and opening new doors for research and innovation that will improve outcomes for our communities,” Mr Cummins said.
Under the partnership, VU students will be offered an increased number of placements, graduate employment and volunteering opportunities with Mercy Health, including at Werribee Mercy, the only public hospital in Wyndham.
Staff from Mercy Health will have access to training, wellbeing and development programs at VU TAFE, and access to staff wellbeing options at the university.
Employment and education pathways at VU TAFE and opportunities for research collaborations will also be explored.
