University of Newcastle Callaghan Campus Student Accommodation
Client:
The University of Newcastle
Background and brief
The Callaghan Campus is the University of Newcastle’s original campus. In 2022, a vision and master plan was prepared which would transform the campus into a place that supports a multidisciplinary community of students, educators, researchers and industry partners, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
In 2025, the University of Newcastle engaged Urbis to provide planning, stakeholder and community engagement, and social planning services to support a Regionally Significant Development Application (RSDA) for student accommodation on its Callaghan Campus.
Our approach
Urbis’ Planning, Social Outcomes and Engagement, Visual Assessment and Archaeology teams worked in lockstep to support the development of the RSDA.
Through proactive identification of and communication about potential impacts and benefits associated with the student accommodation building, Urbis managed community and stakeholder interest in the construction and operation of the student accommodation building to support seamless progression through the planning pathway.
Real-world impact
If approved, the development will deliver purpose-built student accommodation, in close proximity to campus facilities and services while helping to reduce pressure on housing availability within the Newcastle CBD.
“Urbis’ work on the RSDA helped to position the project favourably with staff, students, assessment authorities and the community, ensuring seamless progression through the planning process.”
