UPDATE: The University of Wollongong (UOW) is moving forward with a significant $250 million seniors living project at its Innovation Campus in North Wollongong. This development, known as the Health and Wellbeing Precinct, has raised eyebrows following recent job cuts affecting around 200 staff due to financial challenges.
Just confirmed, UOW’s initiative aims to collaborate with Keyton, a retirement village company, which will cover the majority of the project’s costs. UOW has pledged $20 million, primarily for teaching and research infrastructure, while Keyton takes the lead on funding construction.
This project is particularly crucial as it includes a seven-storey residential aged care facility with 180 beds, an increase from the previously approved 120 beds. In addition, plans for two apartment buildings featuring 236 independent living units are set to follow. The facility will not only provide housing but also promote intergenerational interaction through a designated “living lab” for research and education.
“Our management is forging ahead with this project while hundreds of staff at UOW have lost their jobs in the past year,” said Susan Engel, president of the National Tertiary Education Union UOW branch. “We need our university leaders to focus on teaching and student support, not questionable deals with property developers.”
Concerns are mounting among staff and stakeholders as the university moves forward with this extensive development. UOW’s decision to continue investing in the project has sparked controversy, especially after the institution’s recent layoffs and cuts to academic programs.
The Southern Regional Planning Panel approved the concept plan in May 2024, although the overall development cost has ballooned from an initial estimate of $173 million as early as 2021. UOW’s recent financial struggles include a $169 million payout to exit a failed public-private partnership for student accommodation.
The Health and Wellbeing Precinct is designed to address vital issues surrounding regional aging, dementia, and mental health, aligning with UOW’s commitment to community engagement. The project aims to cultivate an environment conducive to collaborative research, drawing participation from researchers, students, and industry experts.
As the project progresses, stakeholders are urged to monitor how these developments impact the university community. The Planning Minister and Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully, serves as the consent authority for the project, which is categorized as a State Significant Development (SSD).
In the coming weeks, further updates are expected as construction plans solidify and project timelines are finalized. UOW faces mounting pressure to clarify how it plans to support its staff and students amidst ongoing financial challenges.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for transparency and accountability as UOW navigates its ambitious plans in a challenging fiscal landscape.
