Upper Hunter

About Us

The University of Newcastle has a major role to play in the Hunter Valley’s economic transition into a knowledge-based economy. This is achieved by working with government and industry partners to create innovation that delivers enhanced opportunity, industrial expansion and economic growth.

Tertiary Education Centre 1

In 2017, in partnership with Muswellbrook Shire Council, the University established a research and education facility called Upper Hunter, located within the Tertiary Education Centre in what is known as the Hunter Region Innovation Precinct – a precinct which also houses TAFE NSW and the Library in Muswellbrook. The structure of the Upper Hunter facility is based on the Newcastle Institute for Energy & Resources (NIER) model which focuses on the delivery of regionally relevant research and engagement activities that help shape the future of the region.

The facility supports the area’s diversification goals of becoming an innovation-intensive region. It provides a flexible framework for undergraduate and postgraduate students to access opportunities to develop applied research skills and enhance employment opportunities across a wide range of industries. It also provides a supporting platform for existing research excellence and innovation and enables the expansion of critical research to benefit the region.

The facility is a focal point for community and industry engagement, hosting a variety of University programs and research initiatives aligned to regional priorities. It provides a space for University staff and students to work with local industry and community to create, develop and produce ideas and products which generate ongoing social and economic benefits.