Safe, affordable university student accommodation on its way for the Central Coast

Friday, 17 April 2026

Share this story

The University of Newcastle will deliver safe and affordable student accommodation on the Central Coast, easing housing pressures for students and supporting the ongoing revitalisation of the Gosford CBD.

A render of the student acommodation building in Gosford

The project will see the former Central Coast Council Building at 49-51 Mann St transformed into contemporary student accommodation with 127 student beds in single studio and cluster apartments.

It will also include space for integrated teaching and support services – including for the Wollotuka Institute and the University of Newcastle Student Association, and a multipurpose event room.

Central Coast Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna, said it was wonderful to see the former Council Administration Building being repurposed for student accommodation, supporting a more vibrant, connected and economically active city centre.

“The Central Coast has world-class education opportunities and having student accommodation in the centre of Gosford will breathe new life into the city centre, support local businesses and strengthen Gosford’s future as a precinct for education and health for the region,” Mayor McKinna said.

“It means more people can choose to stay and study in Gosford and I congratulate the University of Newcastle for their vision and confidence in our region.”

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, said bringing affordable student accommodation to the Central Coast was a priority for the university.

“Finding suitable accommodation on the Central Coast is increasingly challenging for students, particularly as study, work and living costs continue to rise,” Professor Zelinsky said.

“With our new Gosford Central building now operational, providing affordable student accommodation is the next critical step in strengthening the University’s long-term commitment to the Central Coast.”

“We’re not just creating a place to live, we’re giving students a compelling reason to choose the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast Campus as the place to launch their future.”

University of Newcastle Dean of Central Coast Campus, Professor Mike Bowyer, said delivering accommodation in the Gosford CBD reduces travel time pressure and helps students focus on their studies.

“Many of our Central Coast students are currently travelling long distances to study, either by car at significant fuel cost or via public transport, which adds considerable time pressure to their day,” Professor Bowyer said.

“The refurbished building will offer a contemporary campus living experience in the heart of the Gosford CBD. Within walking distance of the University’s new Gosford Central building, Gosford Hospital and public transport, it will reduce travel time pressure on students,” said Professor Bowyer.

A Development Application will be lodged with Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following settlement of the site in coming days.

Works to the former Administration Building are expected to commence in July 2026, with the new student accommodation scheduled to welcome students in 2028.

Facts and Figures

  • 127 student beds in single studio and cluster apartments
  • General teaching and student services space - including space for Wollotuka and UNSA
  • A multipurpose event room
  • Incorporating Designing with Country principles
  • Gardens including yarning circle for reflection and connection, shaded canopy areas and spaces for external study
  • Large outdoor terrace
  • Targeting 4-star Green Star Rating
  • Electric Bicycle Charging Room

Contact

Related news