As part of the 2019/20 Budget, the Liberal National Government will invest $25 million to establish a marine research centre in the heritage Quarantine Station buildings at Point Nepean.
The Centre, a partnership between Monash University and the University of Melbourne, will be a world leading interdisciplinary research facility on marine and coastal ecosystems, climate science and environmental management.
The Centre will leverage its Point Nepean location and its existing capabilities as an integrated ocean and atmospheric observation site
“For more than a decade now, I have fought passionately, alongside many members of the local community, to see marine research as a cornerstone use of the old quarantine buildings in Point Nepean National Park,” Mr Hunt said.
“That is why I am delighted to announce that as part of the 2019/20 Budget, the Liberal National Government will invest $25 Million for a National Centre for Coasts, Environment and Climate at Point Nepean.”
“It brings a sustainable environmental use to the buildings, two degree-giving institutions to the Mornington Peninsula and a world-class marine and coastal research facility to Victoria and Australia.”
“I have worked hard with the State Government, Monash University and Melbourne University to make this idea a reality, within and consistent with the final master plan released by the State following an extensive period of community consultation.”
“It is my vision and my deeply held belief that in decades to come the National Centre for Coasts, Environment and Climate will become one of the world’s great marine and oceanographic research centres.”