$40m IT research hub in pipeline for University of Ballarat

The University of Ballarat will apply for Federal Government funding to help construct an internationally-recognised Innovation and Enterprise Centre at its Mt Helen technology park.

"We envisage this new centre will solidify the University of Ballarat Technology Park's reputation as Australia's leading regional technology park," the university's Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Battersby, said.

The university is one of 14 Australian universities to be invited to bid for a share in the government's $5 billion Higher Education Endowment Fund following an expressions of interest process.

"Our application to the Federal Government will be based on our record of excellence and research strengths," Prof Battersby said.

Ballarat MHR Catherine King congratulated the university on being short-listed to the second stage of the HEEF application process.

"Ballarat is recognised around the country and the world for its exceptional education facilities," Ms King said.

"A resource such as the proposed Innovation and Enterprise Centre would further cement Ballarat's reputation as a premier place for students to undertake tertiary studies, particularly in the IT sector."

Established in 1995, UBTP now has 1350 employees across 30 enterprises.

In August, the university and IBM Australia announced the construction of a new $10.8 million IT services centre at the park.

It is expected this project will create 300 jobs.