For over 50 years, Flinders has been a centre of inspiring achievement: from our pioneering research and excellence in teaching to the positive impact we have in the communities we serve. Inspiration leads to innovation. But innovation is more than just a buzzword at Flinders. It extends from our founding Vice-Chancellor Peter Karmel's entreaty to 'experiment and experiment bravely' through to the creative, trailblazing work of our staff, students and alumni.
As we enter an era of disruptive change and remarkable technological innovation, Flinders is well prepared for this unpredictable, exciting future. Our strong network of external links keeps our work dynamic, enabling us to connect across barriers to create enterprising solutions for the future, to make a difference by changing lives and, ultimately, the world.
Their vision is to create a vibrant urban centre that will become a lifestyle focus for southern Adelaide. From high-tech research facilities to cafes, shops and entertainment, we want Flinders Village to be a place to live, learn, innovate, work and enjoy. An expanded residential offering for students will be a key part of the Village, but we want the wider community to share its amenities. This will be a cultural and creative hub that is a beacon of progress, embodying sustainability and sympathetic to its surrounds.
Such a vision cannot be achieved in isolation. The extension of the Flinders rail line, a crucial transport connection, is the key that unlocks our potential. We thank the state and federal governments and welcome their far-reaching decision to invest $125 million in this important infrastructure. It is the catalyst that will enable us to attract $1.5 billion in investment which will bring our vision to life. The new transport link will connect Flinders University to an ever-widening community and will improve access to the CBD for students living on campus.
Flinders University was founded upon a bold, future-focused vision. This plan marks the next momentous step in our journey to become one of the most innovative, creative and vibrant university campuses anywhere in the world.