University Skills Hub to accelerate transition to new energy economy
Construction has commenced on the University of Newcastle’s New Energy Skills Hub, a purpose-built facility that will help develop the critical skills needed for the Hunter’s energy transition.
The goal of the new facility will be to provide hands‑on training for students from university, TAFE and training providers. The facility will provide access to specialist equipment and direct exposure to industry, ensuring graduates are job‑ready for the region’s new energy opportunities.
The building will consist of an open plan workshop area with specialised equipment across five dedicated functional zones for education, training, testing and demonstration.
The Hub will also serve as a testbed for industry, providing the tools and capability to test and enhance systems and components in a range of environments.
The $20 million Hub is funded by a $16 million Australian Government investment under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program, recognising the Hunter’s central role in building Australia’s future clean‑energy workforce. The University is contributing $4 million towards construction and delivery.
Federal member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon MP, said the Federal Government was committed to supporting the region’s workforce prepare for the jobs of the future.
“I am proud to be part of an Albanese Labor Government is partnering with the University of Newcastle to deliver this New Energy Skills Hub and help position our region at the forefront of emerging energy industries.
“For generations, Newcastle and the Hunter have powered Australia’s economy. With the right investment in skills, research and innovation, we can continue powering the nation long into the future.
“This facility will give researchers, students and industry the capability to test and develop new technologies at scale, while creating training pathways that prepare local workers for the jobs of tomorrow.
“Newcastle and the Hunter has the skills, industrial know-how and infrastructure to lead the energy transition and this investment helps ensure our region remains an energy powerhouse for decades to come.”
Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Belinda Tynan said the New Energy Skills Hub will help prepare students for the jobs of the future.
“The University of Newcastle is, first and foremost, a university for our regions. As the Hunter prepares for carbon neutral future, the New Energy Skills Hub will ensure our students have access to the practical, industry‑ready training they need to step into the jobs of tomorrow,” said Professor Tynan.
Construction of the Hub marks the first step in the development of the University’s Next Generation Resources Park, an expansion of its industrial innovation precinct to meet the needs of the region’s changing economy.
Professor Alan Broadfoot, who will oversee this project, said the new facility will build on the University's enduring commitment to innovation, education and community impact.
“A first of its kind facility in the Hunter, the New Energy Skills Hub will facilitate a cooperative approach to accelerating skills development in the nation’s critical sectors, acting as a regional catalyst to foster the existing and emerging industries which sustain our communities,” Professor Broadfoot said.
“The Hub will be used by STEM students from both tertiary and VET sectors, secondary schools as well as industry,” Professor Broadfoot said.
Grindley Construction has been appointed to deliver the main construction work, with the project expected to be complete in Q1 of 2027.
Building facts and figures
- In co-development with the University, TAFE and other training providers, and industry, the 905m2 facility will provide access to an enhanced technical skills and education offering for the region, including:
- Short Courses and micro-credentials
- Competency Accreditation and Technical Development Accreditation
- Embedded learning pathways for VET, Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses
- Bespoke Industrial/commercial courses
- Market driven STEM Pathways
- Industry placements
For further information please contact Martha Tattersall at Martha.Tattersall@newcastle.edu.au
For the University of Newcastle media line, please call: 0438 837 166 or email media@newcastle.edu.au.
Contact
- Martha Tattersall
- Email: martha.tattersall@newcastle.edu.au
Related news
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.