Charles Darwin University city campus reaches new heights

Northern Territorians are celebrating the rapid developments taking place on the Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) city campus build – the largest construction project underway in Darwin’s CBD, and one that will transform the city for decades to come.

At an event held today, CDU Vice-Chancellor Scott Bowman joined the Federal Member for Solomon, Luke Gosling MP and Northern Territory Minister for Business, Jobs and Training Paul Kirby to survey progress on the $250 million Education and Community Precinct.

More than 8,216m³ of concrete and 86,450 hours of on-site labour have gone into the build across the project’s lifetime so far, with four floors now complete.

Concrete slabs have been poured for both basements and the first two levels, with form work including lift cores and stairwells progressing to level three and scaffolding reaching level four. Both tower cranes and the concrete tower pump are now in operation.

CDU Vice-Chancellor Scott Bowman said the Education and Community Precinct was the largest construction project in Darwin that was supporting jobs and the Territory’s economy. 

“This project has come a long way in a short period of time, we’re thrilled with how rapidly the project team are progressing works on site,” Professor Bowman said.

“The entire CDU community cannot wait to move into the building, which we know will be a major draw card for international students, but also a vibrant community hub for the people of the Territory that will make our city an education city and more live-able.”

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the CDU Campus and new Education and Community Precinct will transform Darwin – bringing students, visitors, academics and workers alike.

“Already well positioned as the gateway to Asia, this project will turn Darwin into an educational and economic powerhouse on the international stage, a place to build networks, collaborate and connect – a sophisticated cultural centre and a thriving world city for the benefit of locals and the national economy alike,” Minister King said.

NT Minister for Business, Jobs and Training Paul Kirby said the construction of the precinct would support the development and live-ability of Darwin as the capital of Northern Australia.

“As the structure of the Precinct begins to take its place in the Darwin City skyline, we are seeing the delivery of a new modern learning environment that will enhance Charles Darwin University’s attractiveness as a study institution of choice,” Minister Kirby said.

“The precinct will provide spaces for the broader community to enjoy, spreading activity to more areas of the Central Business District.”

Federal Member for Solomon Luke Gosling said the new campus and precinct will position Darwin as a future centre of educational excellence, attracting students from all over the country and the world, to live, work and study in Australia’s north.

“It is estimated that the new campus will increase economic output in the NT by more than $250 million over the next fifteen years, with significant flow-on effects for the whole region,” Mr Gosling said.

Ongoing works to complete the nine-level structure include installation of the external façade, the building’s fit out and landscaping works, expected to be completed in early 2024.

The Education and Community Precinct is the centrepiece of the Darwin City Deal - the partnership between the Australian and Northern Territory governments and the City of Darwin to invest in transformational projects that make more liveable, sustainable and connected cities.

Once complete, the new city campus will be a significant driver of economic, social and cultural opportunities for Darwin, and the whole of Northern Australia, cementing the community’s future capacity to thrive, grow and prosper.