Successful collaboration highlights value of CQU’s Digital Media Pro Bono Program ahead of 2026 callout
A creative collaboration between Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service (WBHHS) and CQUniversity’s Digital Media Pro Bono Consultancy Program has delivered fresh design thinking for the health service’s proposed identity refresh, while giving CQU Digital Media students invaluable real-world experience.
The partnership is one of several successful projects completed through the Pro Bono Consultancy Program in 2025, which saw 21 final-year students deliver six high-impact creative projects for community organisations over a 24-week period.
With expressions of interest now open for the 2026 intake, CQUni is inviting community organisations to take part in the next round of collaborations that support regional creativity, capability-building and authentic learning.
This year, four third-year Bachelor of Digital Media students worked closely with WBHHS to explore branding directions, test visual concepts and develop recommendations to present to the Board. Their work provided strategic design foundations for future branding opportunities, while giving students hands-on experience responding to real briefs, real deadlines and real client needs.
WBHHS Director of Communications and Engagement Jessica Barr said the collaboration brought fresh ideas and genuine value to the organisation’s design needs.
“We were incredibly impressed by the creativity, professionalism and commitment shown by the students,” Ms Barr said.
“Their work has helped inform our consultation and planning for an updated visual identity and we appreciated the fresh perspective they brought to the process.
“Collaborating with CQUniversity not only supported our goal to deliver a no-cost design solution, but it also allowed us to help the next generation of digital media professionals develop their skills in a real-world setting.”
The experience also had a strong impact on participating students. Bachelor of Digital Media student Liam Sharples said the project felt like a true introduction to industry life.
“Working with WBHHS gave me and my team the chance to put everything I’ve learned throughout my degree into practice,” Mr Sharples said.
“Responding to real feedback, managing deadlines and designing for a large health service challenged me in the best way.
“Contributing ideas that may help shape a major future rebrand has been a huge confidence boost and helped me feel genuinely job-ready.”
Digital Media Lecturer and Unit Coordinator Regina John Luan said the program continues to bring meaningful results for both students and community partners through authentic assessment and learning.
“Our program is grounded in authentic assessment, where students work with real clients on real projects,” Ms Luan said.
“This approach helps them build confidence, gain practical experience and graduate with strong portfolios that reflect their professional skills and creativity.
“For community organisations, it’s a chance to receive creative digital support from passionate students who care about making a difference.
“Together, we create projects that have purpose and impact beyond the classroom.
“Each year, we’re inspired by the commitment and imagination our students bring to their work.
“We’re now inviting community organisations to express their interest in joining our 2026 pro bono collaboration program.
“We’d love to partner with you and continue creating opportunities for authentic learning and community connection.”
Projects delivered through the program vary widely each year, with 2025 partnerships spanning web development, social media assets, brand guidelines, print and video production, animations, photography and promotional campaigns. Participating organisations in 2025 included Bat Conservation & Rescue QLD Inc., U3A, WBHHS, Engedi Inc, McCosker Gladstone Speedway and Quoin Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.
Eligible organisations for the 2026 intake include not-for-profits, charities, councils, community groups, educational providers and government agencies seeking support with digital media and design projects. Applications close 6 December 2025.
CQUniversity encourages organisations seeking fresh, innovative digital media support to apply and help shape the next generation of creative professionals.
For more information or to apply, contact Regina John Luan
The Bachelor of Digital Media is also available online and at CQU campuses in Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Cairns, Mackay and Brisbane.
