The University of Newcastle has named its new city-centre student accommodation Muloobinba House, recognising the Aboriginal history of the Newcastle area.
The name was unveiled during a topping out ceremony marking the construction of the nine-storey building reaching its highest point.
University of Newcastle Acting Pro Vice Chancellor of Indigenous Strategy and Leadership Loren Collyer said the name acknowledged the ongoing connection of Aboriginal people to the area.
Muloobinba is the Awabakal word for the coastal area where the Hunter River meets the sea and translates to "place of sea ferns," with Awabakal and Worimi people recognised as the traditional custodians of the Newcastle region.
"This name honours the enduring connection of Awabakal and Worimi people to the lands and waters of Newcastle," Ms Collyer said.
"Muloobinba House will connect students and visitors with local Aboriginal language and culture, creating ongoing opportunities to learn and engage with the stories, knowledge and traditions of this place, particularly for those new to Newcastle."
The new development will provide 445 student beds across eight residential levels and is expected to be completed in 2027.
The ground floor will include shared areas for cooking, dining, recreation and social activities, as well as a dedicated music room.
Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said the name would help ensure students understood the history of the land on which they were living and studying.
"It's wonderful to see this building carry a name that recognises the rich Awabakal history of Newcastle, ensuring that students from near and far can connect with the deep and enduring history of this place," Ms Claydon said.
She said the project would also help address demand for affordable student accommodation in the city.
"Muloobinba House will provide affordable accommodation for hundreds of students in the heart of our city, easing pressure on the rental market while giving students access to world-class education, jobs and opportunities," Ms Claydon said.
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky said the development was designed to offer more than just accommodation.
"At a time when rental affordability is a real challenge, this development is about more than providing additional student beds," Zelinsky said.
"Muloobinba House will be a welcoming community where students can build friendships, engage with their studies, and enjoy everything this city has to offer."
The building was designed by Architectus and is being constructed by Hansen Yuncken.
It is also targeting a 5-Star Green Star Design & As Built rating, while an outdoor plaza at the development has been designed with involvement from University of Newcastle architecture and construction management students.
