JCU and Townsville HHS sign historic MoU

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalises the shared desire of James Cook University (JCU) and the Townsville Hospital and Health Service (THHS) to collaborate to develop a co-located North Queensland Academic Health Hub Alliance.

Forming a health and knowledge precinct in Townsville was a key pillar of the landmark city-deal which was formalised between Commonwealth and Queensland governments as well as the Townsville City Council in December 2016.

The North Queensland Academic Health Hub Alliance would work to further develop the co-located university and hospital at Douglas as a world class teaching and learning centre with a focus on research and innovation as well as expanding the availability of tertiary and secondary public health services to the community.

Townsville Hospital and Health Board Chair Mr Tony Mooney said the MoU seized on the common goals between the organisations to continue to foster a home-grown clinical workforce capable to delivering world-class tertiary health care to North Queenslanders.

“This is about seizing the opportunity to cement Townsville’s reputation as Northern Australia’s most sophisticated tertiary health hub,” he said. “Like so many times before, JCU and the Townsville HHS are coming together in partnership to ensure we continue to be national leaders in health care delivery now and into the future.

“Having a co-located facility where both our great institutions will work together is good for both parties and excellent news for the North Queensland community.”

James Cook University Vice Chancellor Professor Sandra Harding said the agreement deepens the already strong relationship between JCU and THHS.

“Both institutions are leaders in tropical and rural health teaching, research and service delivery, and this agreement is an important step to help us strengthen our partnership.

“This agreement will assist JCU and THHS to collaborate in many areas, including clinical and biomedical education and training, research, and planning the physical development of the precinct.”

Following the signing of the MoU a series a steering group and working groups incorporating senior leaders of both organisations will meet quarterly to identify opportunities to leverage funding from government and private sectors.

This steering committee will receive feedback from three working groups encompassing teaching, research and infrastructure.