Aboriginal history honoured in naming of university student accommodation
The University of Newcastle has announced the name of its new student accommodation in the heart of Newcastle – Muloobinba House – honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture.
Muloobinba is the Awabakal word for the coastal area where the Hunter River meets the sea and translates to “place of sea ferns”. Awabakal and Worimi people are recognised as the traditional custodians of the Newcastle area.
Assistant Minister for International Education the Hon Julian Hill MP joined Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon MP and university leaders to unveil the name at a topping out ceremony, celebrating the structure reaching its highest point.
The Hon Julian Hill MP said investment in student housing was vital to a successful education sector.
“As the University of Newcastle continues to attract talented students from across Australia and the world, having affordable housing to support and welcome them is an important piece of the puzzle," said the Hon Julian Hill.
“Purpose-built student accommodation like Muloobinba House demonstrates how universities can help meet housing demand, strengthen communities and provide a great student experience. I congratulate the University of Newcastle on reaching this significant milestone.”
Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon MP, welcomed the naming of the new building.
"Muloobinba House will provide affordable accommodation for hundreds of students in the heart of our city, easing pressure on the rental market while giving students access to world-class education, jobs and opportunities,"
"It's wonderful to see this building carry a name that recognises the rich Awabakal history of Newcastle, ensuring that students from near and far can connect with the deep and enduring history of this place,"
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, said it was a fantastic occasion for the University.
“Our students come to Newcastle from across the Hunter, around Australia and from all corners of the world, often leaving behind family, friends and support networks to pursue their education," said Professor Zelinsky AO.
“At a time when rental affordability is a real challenge, this development is about more than providing additional student beds. Muloobinba House will be a welcoming community where students can build friendships, engage with their studies, and enjoy everything this city has to offer," he said.
Loren Collyer, Acting Pro Vice Chancellor Indigenous Strategy and Leadership said the name reflected the University’s commitment to embedding Indigenous knowledge across campuses.
"This name honours the enduring connection of Awabakal and Worimi people to the lands and waters of Newcastle,” said Ms Collyer.
“Muloobinba House will connect students and visitors with local Aboriginal language and culture, creating ongoing opportunities to learn and engage with the stories, knowledge and traditions of this place, particularly for those new to Newcastle,” she said.
Muloobinba House will deliver 445 purpose-built student beds in Newcastle's city centre, helping meet growing demand for affordable student accommodation.
The development has been designed to support wellbeing, inclusivity and connection. The ground level is the social heart of the development with spaces for socialising, cooking, dining and recreation, including a dedicated music room, while residential spaces are located on levels one to eight.
Muloobinba House is expected to be completed in 2027 and will play an important role in expanding affordable, purpose-built student accommodation in Newcastle.
Facts and figures:
- Nine-storey development
- 445 student beds across Levels 1-8
- Targeting a 5-Star Green Star Design & As Built rating
- Designed by Architectus
- Built by Hansen Yuncken
- Outdoor plaza designed by architecture and construction management students, who took part in Turntable Plaza elective.
Contact
- Martha Tattersall
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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.