Charles Darwin University city campus delivers local jobs

Local jobs are set to flow from the next phase of construction of the Charles Darwin University (CDU) Education and Community Precinct in Darwin’s Central Business District, with Territory-based contractors appointed for design and construction works.

Building the world-class university campus is expected to provide a $600 million boost to the Darwin economy over a 30-year period.

Construction of the precinct will create 730 jobs and provide a long-term boost to local businesses like cafés, restaurants, bars and retail stores by attracting an influx of students and visitors.”

Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said it was critical that the city deal project provided a high level of local participation in the design and construction of the precinct.

“This is one of the most significant and unique construction projects to be undertaken in Darwin in recent times,” Mr Tudge said.

“As a project under the Darwin City Deal, local industry participation is a key priority to ensure and maximise benefits for Territory businesses and workers.

Chief Minister of the Northern Territory Michael Gunner said the precinct would be a major win for the Darwin economy.

“Local companies means local jobs – and we will see the economic benefits flow within the Territory.

“We want to get people into the guts of the city, and this project will do just that – while keeping Territorians in work along the way.

“Already local engineers, architects, town planners and tradespeople have benefitted from the project and this will increase further as construction ramps up over the coming months.”

Senator for the Northern Territory, Dr Sam McMahon said the precinct is the centrepiece of the Darwin City Deal, bringing together culture, education and urban living.

“Construction of the CDU city campus is a great example of a partnership between governments and the community to work towards a shared vision for productive and liveable cities,” Senator McMahon said.

“Getting on with the job of building city-shaping infrastructure like this for the Territory is important now more than ever, as we support jobs and stimulate the local economy as we recover from the pandemic.”

CDU Vice-Chancellor Professor Simon Maddocks said the university had worked with the Australian and Northern Territory governments through the City Deal to maximise the opportunities for local businesses.

“One of the key evaluation criteria for this contract required tenderers to demonstrate how their bids made maximum use of local consultants, contractors and suppliers,” Professor Maddocks said.

CDU has appointed Darwin construction company Halikos Pty Ltd for the first phase of the precinct’s construction and local architectural firm Mode Design Corp Pty Ltd as Principal Design Consultant (PDC).

“We are pleased to see local company Halikos awarded the first phase construction contract as they will be a key partner in our vision to help revitalise the city centre and secure the future of CDU,” Professor Maddocks said.

“The PDC will also work to broad principles aimed at creating modern learning facilities that will attract new students domestically and from overseas to study in a building that uses the latest green technology and science.”

This contract with Halikos covers work to finalise design development and provision of the Phase 2 contract for the construction and fit-out of the new building, including the two-level underground carpark, landscaping and public open spaces.

The PDC will be responsible for all aspects of the detailed design of the project.

The City Deal is a joint initiative of the Australian and Northern Territory governments and the City of Darwin.