New CDU campus leaves its mark on Darwin's skyline

Structural works for Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) new $250 million Education and Community Precinct is now complete, with a ceremony to be held on site today to mark the milestone.

Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Education, Senator Anthony Chisholm will join CDU Vice Chancellor, Scott Bowman to celebrate the achievement.

In accordance with tradition, a tree will be gifted to representatives at today’s ceremony as the project’s final concrete slab is poured atop the 8-story structure, 33 metres above ground.

To date, over 10,000 cubic metres of concrete have been poured, with more than 230,000 on-site man hours undertaken to construct the facility from its foundations up to level eight.

Darwin-based construction company, Halikos will now continue work on the precinct’s external façade and internal fit-out, as well as the commencement of the surrounding landscaping works.

The CDU Education and Community Precinct, also known by the Larrakia name Danala, is the centrepiece of the Darwin City Deal – a partnership between the Australian and Northern Territory governments, and the City of Darwin to create a more liveable city in the top end.

Construction of the precinct is expected to be complete by mid-2024.

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“The Australian Government’s commitment to this project is supporting much-needed construction jobs while delivering an impressive new precinct that will bolster the Territory’s economy for years to come.

“This precinct will unlock educational opportunities that will bring in students and staff from far and wide.

“I look forward to seeing the precinct continue to come to life, supporting more construction hours while delivering a lasting piece of infrastructure that will bolster local amenity.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Northern Australia Madeleine King:

“This precinct will be a world-class research and development hub right in the heart of Darwin.”

“This significant project supporting the university’s growth has been made possible thanks to the support of a $151.5 million loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility.

“The NAIF is supporting the development of economic infrastructure by providing over $747 million in finance to projects in the Northern Territory.

“Today’s milestone is a fantastic example of how these NAIF-supported projects are creating a lasting legacy for communities, while supporting local jobs and the Territory economy.”

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Education Anthony Chisholm:

“Since my last visit to the site in February, it’s fantastic to be back in Darwin to witness the exceptional progress being made on what will be a great addition to the Darwin CBD.

“This new state-of-the-art precinct will host teaching and research facilities, an art gallery and a new library to expand local education and research opportunities – taking the Territory’s education sector to the next level.

“The Albanese Government aims to ensure all Australians have the same access to high quality facilities to further their education, regardless of where they live. We’re proud to partner with Charles Darwin University to do just that.”

Quotes attributable to Northern Territory Chief Minister Natasha Fyles:

“This Precinct is now embedded into the Darwin City skyline, we are seeing the delivery of a new modern and innovative learning environment.

“Once complete, this campus will enhance Charles Darwin University’s attractiveness as a study institution of choice, as well as creating spaces for the broader community to enjoy and spreading activity to more areas of the Central Business District.

“With more people expected to be living, working and studying in Darwin City, the Northern Territory Government continues to invest in revitalising our city, creating jobs and opportunities for Territorians.”

Quotes attributable to CDU Vice-Chancellor Scott Bowman:

“The Education and Community Precinct has progressed significantly, and it won’t be long before Territorians are celebrating the opening of CDU’s new city campus.

“The entire CDU community cannot wait to move into the building, which we know will be a major drawcard 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 liveable.

“We are looking forward to the next milestone with anticipation and the impact the City Campus will have for the future of Charles Darwin University, in the Territory and beyond.”