The University of Newcastle and KPMG Australia have signed an agreement that will see the two organisations work together to create nearly 100 roles for graduates over the next five years, with the first cohort of new graduates commencing in February 2022.

The collaboration will bring immediate opportunities for industry and students, with one of the key initiatives to establish a technology hub at KPMG’s Newcastle offices to service national clients across software as a service implementations and managed services.

Discussions are ongoing to identify additional potential cooperation through advisory panels, hackathons, labs, and guest lectures.

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Newcastle, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO said these opportunities will set students on a successful career pathway.

“Students will be able to develop practical, applicable skills and knowledge through placements and create lasting networks that will pave the way for a successful career,” Alex said.

The technology hub will facilitate the development of industry ecosystems which bring together multiple facets of production and stimulate investment in Newcastle.

This includes KPMG assisting the University in responding to working partner interest, drawing on its links to businesses worldwide.

Community initiatives that will be developed as part of the partnership include supporting skills transition within the Hunter region, helping develop pathways for careers of the future, as well as advancing Indigenous access to employment and training.

There will also be a focus on developing a stronger, more cohesive regional governance structure to ensure sustainable growth in Newcastle and the Hunter.

Alex said the collaboration was an important example of the University’s and KPMG’s commitment to the advancement of the region.

“This new venture will position Newcastle as a strategic regional hub and provide opportunities to diversify industry and employment in the Hunter.”

“The agreement will create distinct opportunities for University of Newcastle students to contribute to our regions through workplace learning opportunities and post-graduate employment with KPMG.”

KPMG will also have input into University Program Curriculums to capture industry expectations which will support the provision of relevant employment opportunities and pathways to careers of the future.

Richard Marrison, KPMG Australia’s National Technology Partner, said the Hunter is well positioned for these industry opportunities and that this collaboration is a way to see further benefits in the region.

“We recognise that the Hunter is perfectly positioned with its mix of industry, innovation, workforce and opportunities for advancement and diversification,” Richard said.

“Our collaboration with the University of Newcastle means we can now work closer and more effectively together for the benefit of the region.

“We will be able to directly engage with students through placements and seek to further advance Indigenous access and employment through our existing programs,” Richard concluded.

IMAGE | Front row: (left-right) Professor Zee Upton (University of Newcastle), Professor Alex Zelinsky AO (Vice Chancellor, University of Newcastle), Richard Marrison (KPMG); 2nd row John Munnelly (KPMG), Rayan Stephan (KPMG), David Toll (University of Newcastle): back row, Professor Mark Hoffman (Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Newcastle) David Pring (KPMG).