Goal 8: Decent work & economic growth

As a 'dual-sector' tertiary institution, offering practical, vocational education as well as academic and research opportunities, VU exemplifies the concept of work-focused learning and development.

In addition to supporting our community into work, we collaborate on strategic economic development in the west of Melbourne, and conduct world-class economic modelling and research to advise business and government policy.

Achieving SDG8 will require a wholesale reform of our morally bankrupt financial system in order to tackle rising debts, economic uncertainties and trade tensions, while promoting equitable pay and decent work for young people.
– United Nations

Sustainability on campus

Our Skills and Jobs Centre in Footscray connects job seekers with the skills development, job-seeking support and employment opportunities in the region, including the Footscray Hospital big build.

Research groups addressing Goal 8

Centre of Policy Studies (CoPS)

The creators of Australia's best known large-scale economic models, CoPS undertakes economic-modelling research for governments and businesses in many parts of the world.

School for the Visitor Economy

The School undertakes and facilitates cross-disciplinary research that underpins growth and sustainability in tourism destinations and visitor-economy–related businesses.

Policy & economics research

The aim of this research area is to study the fundamental economic, social and technological changes that are recasting the global economy, and to develop effective policy responses to them.

Programs addressing Goal 8

West of Melbourne Economic Development Alliance (WoMEDA)

The primary objective of WoMEDA is to influence new economic development opportunities and create more local jobs in the west of Melbourne – traditionally working class and lower socioeconomic areas.

trade student

Jobs & Skills Innovation Hub

The Jobs & Skills Innovation Hub will facilitate the development and implementation of solutions to support skills and jobs growth, and safe and inclusive work environments in Melbourne’s west.

Back of student showing 'Ask me' written on shirt; talking to white male and African-Australian students

Careers support & development at VU

Victoria University offers many experiences to help students graduate as well-rounded and well-prepared job seekers, including work placements, career advice and employment opportunities.

VU stories

Thalia Abramzon.

Job-ready from the start

HR Business Partner – Intrax Consulting Engineers

"We like VU graduates because they bring fresh ideas, good team work skills, and great theory-based knowledge from university work."

We like VU graduates because they bring fresh ideas, good team work skills, and great theory-based knowledge from university work.

Thalia's experience of VU graduates

Fatima Abdul.

Determination is key to success

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care CHC50113, Bachelor of Criminal Justice

"When I graduated from my diploma I had a job straight away because they know VU students have done work experience and are job-ready."

When I graduated from my diploma I had a job straight away because they know VU students have done work experience and are job-ready.

Violetta Jakielaszek in front of a construction site holding a hard hat and a mobile phone

Surveying the path ahead

Building Surveyor

"I love my job – it’s so rewarding to work on building projects and think, wow, I was involved in that!"

I love my job – it’s so rewarding to work on building projects and think, wow, I was involved in that!

Violetta's story