Research, Development, Education & Training
Research & Development
Extensive research and development is being conducted by both Government agencies and the private sector in the areas of:
- Mechanical engineering technology
- Agricultural product processing and harvesting technology
- Agricultural and horticultural species trials (eg. industrial hemp, chicory)
- Export marketing expertise
- Productivity of agricultural and horticultural crops suitable to a subtropical climate
- Pests and diseases
Research outcomes provide input into the region's industries equipping them to be market innovators and effective competitors in the international marketplace.
Training
Bundaberg Coral Coast is home to a number of training organisations delivering a diverse range of skills enhancement opportunities for the greater region.
Central Queensland University
Central Queensland University (CQU), which has a campus in Bundaberg, is geared toward innovation, practicality, flexibility and employability whilst meeting the needs of the community.
Renowned for the local relevance of its programs, flexible delivery capacities and commitment to fostering personal learning, CQU is Australia's fastest
growing university. In 2005, 22,000 students were enrolled in higher education programs offered through this institution. Courses are
delivered via traditional, internet and teleconferencing to Australian and overseas campuses. The Bundaberg Campus offers courses in the following fields:
| Information Technology | Communication and Media Studies |
| Education | Sciences |
| Health and Recreation | Business |
| Humanities and Social Sciences | Tourism |
| Aviation Technology | |
Boasting a high employment rate for graduates, Central Queensland University is set to be a key local economic driver and educational leader.
Wide Bay Institute of TAFE
Main Campus
The Bundaberg College's main campus at Walker Street houses many facilities including trade workshops, modern classrooms, a hairdressing training facility, retail training facilities, a comprehensive library, an electronic learning centre, internet access and a self-funding child care centre used as a training facility for students.
The College also features a new purpose built horticulture facility. This multi-million dollar complex features classrooms, a nursery and laboratories.
An Industry standard hospitality training facility provides a quality environment for local training needs. Facilities include a 40-seat training restaurant, alfresco dining area, training bar and teaching facilities.
Marine Campus
The Marine Campus is located at the Bundaberg Port. This purpose built facility enables students to study a range of technology and teacher led modes with ready access to the marine industry for workplace based experiences. A fully operational training vessel and an engineering workshop compliment the facility. A range of Master Qualifications of international and national ranking, can be gained through this institution.
Enrolment Statistics (Bundaberg based Institutions)
| Institution | Number | Enrolments |
| Tertiary |
| | TAFE (Bundaberg) | 1 | 4000 |
| Central Queensland University (Bundaberg) | 1 | 1080 |
| State School |
| Primary with preschools | 13 | 5179 |
| Primary | 1 | 152 |
| Secondary | 3 | 3495 |
| Special Education Unit | 1 | 99 |
| Non State School |
| Primary with preschool | 5 | 1093 |
| Secondary with preschool & primary | 2 | 1006 |
| Secondary | 2 | 909 |
(Source: http://education.qld.gov.au Schools Directory: Record List. Accessed 28th September, 2005, State Schools enrolments Effective February, 2005; Non State Schools Enrolments Effective February 2005; Wide Bay Institute of TAFE, 2005 enrolments)