UWA Nedlands Student Accommodation
The UWA Nedlands Student Accommodation project will create a contemporary residential experience that supports a diverse and inclusive student community. Designed to address UWA’s growing need for student accommodation, the development aligns with the University’s long-term vision for campus growth while respecting and integrating cultural heritage values.
Situated on the western edge of UWA’s Accommodation Quarter (College Row), this development will enhance the sense of arrival at UWA from Stirling Highway and strengthen connections between the Crawley campus and the Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre (QEIIMC) precinct.
This project builds on previous engagement with staff, students, and the broader community, reflecting UWA’s commitment to providing high-quality student living experiences while creating shared spaces for both university and public use.
Stay informed
We invite you to stay connected with project updates. If you'd like to receive email notifications with advance notice of works and key updates, please email: [email protected] to opt in.
Project timeline
- Development Approval received: 26 February 2025
- Construction commences: Quarter 3, 2025
- Car park 71 and 72 closures: Semester 2, 2025
- Completion: Quarter 4, 2027
- Full operations: Quarter 1, 2028
Design and key features
Building and accommodation
- 14-level, residential building with 847 beds
- A mix of single, accessible, premium and shared studio apartments
- Open-plan common areas, including a lounge, shared kitchen, dining spaces and laundry
- Quiet and collaborative study zones, including indoor and outdoor study spaces
Recreational and social spaces
- Gaming, music, and multi-media rooms
- Barbecue area and communal garden
- Open collaboration spaces to foster student interaction
The residence will offer independent living with the benefits of traditional college life, supporting a strong student community while providing greater autonomy.
- More than 600m² of ground-floor commercial space
- 87m² of café space
- 105 car parking bays
- 133 bicycle parking bays
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Quarter 3, 2025 (July to September)
Early works progressed at the Nedlands site for the new student accommodation facility. Lendlease commenced onsite works in early September to begin initial earthworks and establish construction access.
Key activities- Temporary fencing and project signage installed for early site establishment.
- Closure of car parks 71 and 72 on 1 September to support construction.
- Initial pavement and vegetation removal undertaken in approved areas.
- Earthmoving equipment mobilised from mid-September.
- Temporary electrical works around the Clifton Street building.
Engagement
Updates were provided to nearby residents, campus users and Early Learning Centre families through letters, flyers and direct email communication.
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Quarter 4, 2025 (October to December)
Construction activity included excavation and preparation works to support the next project stage. Activity remained focused on earthworks, service adjustments and early foundation preparation.
Key activities- Stump grinding and removal of pavement and grassed areas completed.
- Full-height hoarding installed around the site perimeter, including secure access gates.
- Project sign panels installed at multiple locations, including key contact information.
- Excavation progressed across the site, including preparation of the building pad and the stormwater infiltration tank.
- Compaction works continued to the main building on the east and south sides of the site.
- Temporary lighting and CCTV installed to support site operations.
- Tower crane (#1) installed in mid-December.
- Site secured during the end-of-year shutdown period (24 December - 5 January).
Environmental and safety management
Localised contaminated material was identified during excavation. The area was secured and the material was removed by specialist contractors under independent oversight. Additional soil investigations were completed to confirm conditions before work resumed in the affected area.
EngagementUpdates continued through letters, flyers and direct opt-in emails to nearby residents, campus users and Early Learning Centre families.
General project information
Project details
Architect: Plus Studio®
Project managers
- Paul Mulligan, Site Manager, Lendlease
- Andy Robinson, Project Director, The APP Group
- Kate McLean, Senior Project Delivery Manager, UWA Campus Management
Construction and site information
Construction hours: 7am - 7pm, Monday to Friday (some Saturdays as required - excluding public holidays)
General enquiries
Submit your enquiry via the Nedlands Student Accommodation Enquiry Form.
Stay informed
We invite you to stay connected with project updates. If you'd like to receive email notifications with advance notice of works and key updates, please email: [email protected] to opt in.
Frequently asked questions
General project information
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Where is the project located?
The development is situated on the corner of Hampden Road and Gordon Street, Nedlands, on the northern and western edges of UWA’s Accommodation Quarter (College Row).
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Why is UWA building new student accommodation?
The project supports UWA's vision for a vibrant and sustainable campus, addressing the growing need for student housing while enhancing the student experience and supporting future enrolment growth.
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What facilities will be available in the new student accommodation building?
The 14-level building will include:
- 847 beds within 671 apartments:
- 583 single-bedroom studio apartments
- 44 two-bedroom apartments
- 44 four-bedroom apartments.
Shared student facilities, including an open plan common room, lounge area, kitchens, dining spaces, laundry, open collaborative and quiet individual study areas, and group learning and outdoor study spaces.
Recreational facilities, such as gaming, music, multi-media rooms, a barbecue area, and communal gardens.- More than 600m² of ground-floor commercial space.
- 87m² of café space.
- 110 car parking bays (including four ACROD bays).
- 133 bicycle parking bays.
- 847 beds within 671 apartments:
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Who can live in the new accommodation?
The residence will be available to UWA students. Application details and eligibility criteria will be provided closer to completion.
Construction information
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Will construction affect access to nearby University buildings?
Construction is likely to cause some noise, vibration, and occasional access changes. The project team will work to minimise disruptions as much as possible, however, at times changes to access routes may be required. Signage and alternative pathways will be provided to ensure continued access to nearby buildings, including the Schools of Education, Design, Population and Global Health, the EDFAA Library and the Early Learning Centre.
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How will noise and disruption be managed during construction?
UWA and the contractor will endeavour to :
- Adhere to local council regulations on construction hours.
- Provide advance notice of high-noise activities and vibration impacts.
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Who can I contact for more information or to raise concerns?
For general enquiries contact [email protected]
For construction and site information contact Paul Mulligan, Site Manager, Lendlease: 0428 739 125.
Parking and access
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How will parking be affected during construction?
To accommodate construction, car parks 71 and 72 will be closed from Semester 2, 2025.
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What alternative parking options are available?
Nearby alternatives include:- Car parks 45, 51, 52, 53, 60, 61 and 66/67 (pedestrian access to Nedlands campus via the Fairway underpass).
- Offsite parking at Car Park 112 at UWA's Claremont campus, Bay Road (view on Google Maps).
- Free shuttle services from Claremont campus and Claremont Train Station. Shuttle schedules and routes are available on the website.
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QEII precinct users: If you usually park in Car Parks 71 or 72, you may park on campus and take the free Perth CAT bus
(runs every 10 minutes) or use the Claremont options and connect via the Perth CAT bus.
- Purple CAT: A free bus between the UWA Business School and Elizabeth Quay Bus Station.
- ACROD parking: Bays will remain available in Car Parks 70 and 73.
- Accessible parking and pathways will be maintained throughout the construction phase.
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What parking will be available once construction is complete?
The site will include 110 car bays and four ACROD bays, along with improved access pathways and enhanced connectivity to the broader campus.
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Where will construction workers park?
Construction workers will be encouraged to use nearby public paid parking facilities to minimise parking impacts on neighbours. Contractors will not have access to red staff parking bays at any time.
Environmental and cultural considerations
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What sustainability measures are included in the project?
UWA is targeting a 5-star Green Rating, recognised as the Green Building Council of Australia as an Australian Excellence standard in environmental performance. This aligns with UWA’s commitment to sustainability.
Key initiatives include:
- Energy-efficient building design to reduce emissions.
- Water-sensitive landscaping.
- Integration of green spaces to main the campus ‘buildings within a park’ concept.
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How is UWA preserving trees and green spaces?
UWA is committed to preserving and integrating cultural and ecological heritage into the design. Where tree removal is necessary, seeds from culturally significant trees are harvested and grown offsite for replanting upon project completion, ensuring the restoration of native landscapes.
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What are the cultural heritage considerations?
Since the early planning stage of this project, UWA has been actively working with a Whadjuk Noongar Elders advisory group and the University’s cultural adviser Dr Richard Walley, to ensure the project aligns with cultural heritage values.
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Will the new development include green spaces?
Yes, the project will feature communal gardens, outdoor study zones, and landscaped areas designed to enhance campus biodiversity and student wellbeing.
Community and stakeholder engagement
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How has the University engaged with the community on this project?
UWA has conducted extensive engagement with students, staff, and the local community throughout 2023 and 2024. Feedback has directly informed the planning and design of the project.
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Will the local community have access to any of the new facilities?
While the accommodation is for UWA students, shared spaces and landscaped areas will contribute to a welcoming and inclusive environment that connects with the surrounding community.