Construction has officially commenced on the University of Newcastle’s new City Campus Student Accommodation, with a sod turning ceremony taking place on 5 September at the site, located on the corner of Civic Lane and Worth Place, Newcastle. 

Federal member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon MP said the start of construction marks an exciting milestone for Newcastle.  

“High-quality student accommodation is essential to attracting and supporting students from across Australia and the world. 

“This development means students can live close to campus, close to work, and close to all that Newcastle has to offer.” 

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley MP said the new student accommodation will play a key role in attracting and keeping young people in the region. 

“This new accommodation is about giving students not just a place to live, but a strong reason to choose Newcastle as the place to launch their future – great news for the whole Hunter and something I’m proud to support.” 

“This is going to help build lasting connections between students, the university and the region - sending a clear message that our region isn’t just a place to study, but a place they can genuinely call home well into the future,” Minister Catley said. 

The University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, described the sod turn as a major milestone for Newcastle and the region.  

“Our new student accommodation will provide a lively, comfortable and supportive home away from home for both domestic and international students in the heart of Newcastle. We know that our students who live on campus do consistently well academically, so providing a new high-quality and engaging space will mean our students who live here will have a space that will help them achieve their potential.”   

“As the University celebrates 60 years, the City Campus Student Accommodation is the next phase of our Honeysuckle site development and represents our ongoing commitment to improving the student experience.” 

“This development will also assist in providing a new accommodation option for students who may otherwise struggle to find suitable accommodation in the challenging rental market,” Professor Zelinsky said.  

Designed by Architectus, the nine-storey building will offer 445 student beds in a range of room types including micro studios, studios, twin rooms, and six-bed shared apartments. Each option will feature kitchen and bathroom facilities, along with access to shared living areas, an outdoor terrace, dining spaces, and laundry rooms.  

It will also include indoor and outdoor communal spaces for students, as well as dedicated facilities for University support staff.  

The project will be delivered by Hansen Yuncken, with completion expected by early 2027.