Goal 11:
Sustainable Cities and Communities
Planning and Development: New Build Standards
Under the Design and Build component of our Environment Sustainability Plan 2019-2025, the University has embedded Environmentally Sustainable Design principles across all capital projects. We also require that all refurbishment projects implement the UON ESD Tool to aim for at least a five-star Green Star (or equivalent) rating.
Our long-term target is that all new buildings achieve a minimum six-star Green Star Design & As Built certification by 2025.
Use of Nation Certification (Green Star / GBCA)
In 2024, the University utilised Green Star, the certification scheme operated by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), to certify sustainability performance in design, construction, and operation.
An example of this in action is the Q Building at our Honeysuckle City Campus, which became the first building in regional NSW to be awarded a 6-star Green Star Design & As Built rating by GBCA.
- This building was designed with features such as cross-laminated timer (CLT) structure, solar panels, rainwater capture, and an electrochromic glass facade.
- Its certification demonstrates that the University is successfully implementing sustainable design and construction practices consistent with GBCA norms.
Commitments:
- We intend for every new University building to meet six-star Green Star Design & As Built by 2025.
- Refurbishment projects aim for five-star Green Star (or equivalent) ratings.
- The use of the Green Star system ensures independent, nationally recognised certification of sustainability performance aligning out building practices with best practice benchmarks.
Q Building
Host your next event at Newcastle's only architecturally designed 6-Star Green Star rated building
Located right in Newcastle’s CBD, Q Building boasts inspiring architecturally designed spaces that capture breathtaking views of the Harbour and the surrounding city landscape. Harnessing the latest in technology and innovation, our venue spaces are ideal for a range of corporate events including board meetings, team workshops, and conferences, as well as cocktail events.
Q Building has a range of flexible spaces available for venue hire by any individual or organisation external to the University of Newcastle. For internal bookings by University staff please go to this webpage.
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.