The partnership, , is expected to see 500 RMIT students trained in long term evolution, gigabit passive optical network and other next-generation networking technologies over three years. The partnership is hoped to remedy potential technical skills shortages brought about as a result of the National Broadband Network and increasing moves to new mobile wireless technologies.

Huawei is also expected to use the centre as a ripe hiring ground for future staff, and as a means of training communication with customers.

RMIT vice-chancellor and president, Professor Margaret Gardner, indicated the partnership would be used to strengthen links with Chinese academia, traditionally a strong but recently waning source of international students for Australian tertiary education institutions.

"RMIT's collaboration with industry is integral to its leadership in applied research and education, and to the development of work-ready, highly skilled and globally focused graduates," Gardner said in a statement.

Estimated declines in international students studying in Australia of between 70 and 80 per cent have remained a key issue across Australian universities, and inherently local technical skills, with as a result of waning revenues.