CDU unveils first look at new $30.8 million health teaching and training facility

Charles Darwin University (CDU) has previewed its new health teaching and training facility, the $30.8 million Centre for Better Health Futures.

Located at CDU’s Casuarina campus, the 3,684 square-metre, three-storey facility is designed to equip the next generation of health professionals with world-class, practical training.

The Centre features a simulated emergency department and a 12-bed hospital ward, offering students hands-on experience in real-world clinical settings.

It also houses preclinical and clinical simulation environments enhanced with cutting-edge virtual reality and mobile technologies, extending learning opportunities to CDU campuses in Nhulunbuy, Katherine and Alice Springs.

Importantly, the building is also home to CDU’s new School of Medicine, which will deliver medical education and research programs to help address the Northern Territory’s critical health workforce needs.

Built by SHAPE Australia, the building brings together modern teaching facilities, laboratories, and advanced research infrastructure under one roof.

CDU Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Scott Bowman said the Centre would play a crucial role in building the Territory’s health workforce.

“This Centre represents a significant leap forward in health training for the NT," Professor Bowman said.

"Our students can now experience the closest possible preparation to working in hospitals, remote clinics, and emergency settings - ensuring they graduate ready to meet the Territory’s unique health challenges."

CDU Pro Vice-Chancellor Faculty of Health Professor Dominic Upton said the Centre would be a hub for industry collaboration. 

"This new facility provides our staff and students with opportunities that are rarely available outside major metropolitan centres,” Professor Upton said. 

"By bringing education, research and innovation together under one roof, we’re ensuring CDU plays a central role in shaping the future of healthcare in northern Australia."

The $30.8 million investment includes $15 million from the Australian Government, with CDU contributing $15.8 million.

Federal Member for Solomon and Special Envoy for Northern Australia Luke Gosling OAM MP said the new Centre is a game-changer for Territorians.

“Territorians deserve the best healthcare possible. By training more of our health workforce locally, CDU is ensuring we have people with the right skills, staying in the Territory, and supporting our community,” Mr Gosling said.

SHAPE Australia’s General Manager - Northern Territory Nicholas Mills said delivering the Centre was a proud achievement for the company and the Territory’s workforce.

“This Centre is a landmark project for the Northern Territory, and SHAPE Australia is proud to have helped bring it to life. The success of the project is a testament to the more than 500 local workers involved across our 54 subcontractors, including 68 apprentices and trainees who gained valuable on-the-job experience,” Mr Mills said. 

“This collaboration has delivered a state-of-the-art facility for CDU, while providing real benefits to the Territory’s workforce well before the first students arrive.” 

The Centre for Better Health Futures will officially open to students in the first quarter of 2026.