Budget delivers for WA environmental education centre

$25 million in federal funding will go towards establishing the Harry Butler Environmental Education Centre, a state-of-the-art facility focusing on achieving sustainable environmental outcomes through economic development.

The Harry Butler Environmental Education Centre will form an important part of Murdoch University’s new Health and Knowledge Precinct as part of the Harry Butler Institute. Murdoch University Vice Chancellor Professor Eeva Leinonen said, “This focus on environmental sustainability is in our DNA — it reflects the founding values of Murdoch University,” she said.

“I’m delighted that the federal government has thrown its support behind this ambitious, forward-looking project, which has the potential to transform our teaching and research capabilities and bring the wider community along on our journey.”

Established in August 2018 with founding partner Chevron, the Harry Butler Institute aims to create a new generation of leaders in conservation and environmental management. Harry Butler Institute Director Professor Simon McKirdy said the new centre would break new ground in environmental education and honour the legacy of environmental pioneer and former Australian of the Year Harry Butler.

“There will be no other facility like this in the world,” Prof McKirdy said. “This centre will bring together researchers, students, private industry and the wider community to learn and explore the benefits that economic development can deliver to protecting our natural environment. It will help to dispel the myth that business and biodiversity cannot co-exist.”

Image credit: ©Murdoch University