The group has talked to regional campuses across Australia about their practises for success and longevity.

Last week Deakin announced it would remain committed to the city for a further two years.

RTAG co-chairperson Bernadette Northeast said the group had undertaken a regional engagement process and identified an enormous level of support from leaders in business and industry.

“For us there is no doubt that this campus has all the attributes for long-term viability if we implement regional management practices,” Dr Northeast said.

“We have organisations seeking to form real, long-term relationships with Deakin to enable Warrnambool students to have the unique privilege of direct access to industry and career experience throughout their degree.”

Dr Northeast also revealed Deakin’s Warrnambool 2020 chief executive Grant Sutherland program was to return to the south-west.

“RTAG also understands that (he) has been asked by the Vice Chancellor to return to the region with a view to continuing his industry engagement which was cut short early this year when Deakin and Federation University entered into negotiations in relation to the campus,” she said.

Dr Northeast said Deakin Vice Chancellor Jane den Hollander’s commitment to the Warrnambool campus was reassuring for current and prospective students.

“She has said that if a student starts at Deakin Warrnambool and passes their exams, they will become Deakin Warrnambool graduates. She has formally committed to two years, but that equates to a teaching period of six years for an undergraduate degree,” she said.

RTAG co-chairperson Kylie Gaston said the community was prepared to take up the challenge to keep tertiary education in the city.

“Whilst there is still much to be worked through and to be recovered following the uncertainty which has hung over the campus this year, it must be acknowledged that the Vice Chancellor has been highly effective in getting the community’s attention and when this region is committed to an outcome, exciting things happen,” she said.

RTAG is encouraging all prospective students to attend Deakin’s open day on Sunday, August 7.