University of Newcastle’s 445-bed city housing project tops out

newy.com.au – The University of Newcastle’s 445-bed city student accommodation building has reached its highest point, with a topping-out ceremony on Tuesday marking progress towards its expected completion in 2027.

The university says the nine storey development will help meet growing demand for affordable student housing. Newcastle federal MP Sharon Claydon said the additional beds would also ease pressure on the rental market while giving students access to education and work in the city centre.

Designed by Architectus and being built by Hansen Yuncken, the building will house students on levels one to eight. Shared cooking, dining and recreation areas, including a dedicated music room, will occupy the ground floor.

Architecture and construction management students have designed an outdoor plaza through the university’s Turntable Plaza elective. The development is also targeting a five-star Green Star environmental rating.

Vice-chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky said rental affordability was a challenge, and the project aimed to provide opportunities for students to build friendships and support networks as well as a place to live.

“Our students come to Newcastle from across the Hunter, around Australia and from all corners of the world, often leaving behind family, friends and support networks to pursue their education,” he said.

Assistant Minister for International Education Julian Hill joined Ms Claydon and university leaders at the ceremony, where the building’s name, Muloobinba House, was unveiled.

The university says Muloobinba is the Awabakal word for the coastal area where the Hunter River meets the sea and translates to “place of sea ferns”. Awabakal and Worimi people are recognised as the traditional custodians of the Newcastle area.

The university’s acting pro vice-chancellor for Indigenous strategy and leadership, Loren Collyer, said the name would give students and visitors a connection to local Aboriginal language and culture.

“This name honours the enduring connection of Awabakal and Worimi people to the lands and waters of Newcastle,” she said.

Ms Collyer said the naming would create opportunities to learn about local stories, knowledge and traditions, particularly for students arriving in Newcastle for the first time.