ACT Minister for Education opens new $38m accommodation for students at UC

1 July: The ACT Minister for Education, Andrew Barr, formally opened a new 507-bed student accommodation complex at the University of Canberra today.

The 172-bed second phase of the $38 million development will open to students in time for the commencement of the second semester. The first stage delivered 335 beds to the students at the start of 2009.

Students are able to choose between a room in a five-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment or their own studio apartment. In all, University of Canberra Village will have accommodation for 1,332 students, bringing total accommodation available at the University to more than 1,500.

The new five-star energy efficiency rated residence developed and built by Campus Living Villages features the latest in passive solar designs, grey water recycling and a 'wildlife corridor' for campus native animals. The development will also include an e-Library, common lounge areas, cafe, shared barbecue and balcony areas and green space to encourage a sense of community. It also features the latest in security technology, along with secure areas for bicycles.

The University of Canberra Vice-Chancellor Professor Stephen Parker welcomed the opening of the new accommodation, "These new student residences will significantly ease the pressure on the rental accommodation in Canberra.

"It will make it easier for students from the capital region, around Australia and overseas to study at the University of Canberra, Australia's Capital University," Professor Parker said.

Campus Living Villages runs the accommodation and has designed and developed the new accommodation, working in partnership with the University.

Director of the University of Canberra Village, Robert Moyle is pleased with the results of the development.

"We are excited to be able to deliver the completed accommodation complex on schedule. On campus accommodation enhances the student experience at the University and University of Canberra Village supports its student residents with a wide range of complementary activities," he said.