CDU welcomes Darwin City Deal

The Vice-Chancellor of Charles Darwin University, Professor Simon Maddocks, has welcomed the Australian Government’s announcement today of $100 million in funding, the bulk of which will go towards an iconic education and civic precinct that will form the heart of the Darwin City Deal.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced in Darwin today that the Australian Government would match the Northern Territory Government’s financial commitment to establish the Darwin City Deal, which is designed to position Darwin as a vibrant and liveable tropical city, supported by a growing population and diversified economy.

“This 10-year plan is exactly the impetus needed to re-energise and grow Darwin and the NT, and to propel CDU into its next major stage of development,” Professor Maddocks said.

“The education and civic precinct in the city centre will provide the capital city of Northern Australia with the vibrant learning and living environment that international students expect.”

CDU’s strategic plan, Connect Discover Grow, identifies the continued growth of international student numbers as a key contributor to the prosperity of the university.

“The social and cultural breadth that international students add to the university and the broader community is significant,” Professor Maddocks said.

“Analysis by Deloitte Access Economics has found that the inner-city campus could increase economic output in the Darwin region by more than $250 million during the next 15 years and sustain an extra 100 jobs in the Darwin economy by 2023.

“I congratulate the Australian and NT Governments and the City of Darwin for engaging during the past two years to realise this project and I look forward to continuing to work with all parties to deliver the success that Darwin, the NT and CDU deserve,” he said.