The University of Western Australia’s (UWA) Nedlands campus is an important extension of the university’s facilities, located just a few kilometers from the main Crawley campus. Nestled within the suburb of Nedlands and bordered by Stirling Highway, Hampden Road, Clifton Street, and Gordon Street, this campus plays a vital role in supporting UWA’s academic and student life, particularly in areas like Design, Education, and Population Health.
A Brief History and Current Use
Originally established as the Nedlands Secondary Teachers College in 1969, the site transitioned to UWA ownership in 1990. Since then, it has been adapted to serve as a hub for several schools, including the School of Design, the School of Education, and the School of Population and Global Health. The campus also features a childcare center, supporting the university community’s families.
Location and Accessibility
The Nedlands campus is conveniently situated within a primarily residential area, with easy access via Clifton Street and Gordon Street, and additional entry points from Hampden Road. Its proximity to the main Crawley campus makes it an accessible location for students and staff, while being well-served by public transport routes, including high-frequency bus services.
Future Development: Student Accommodation
Responding to increasing student numbers and the tight housing market in Perth, UWA is actively planning to develop new student accommodation on the Nedlands site. The university has proposed a large-scale, multi-level “self-catered” residential facility that could house between 600 to 844 students. This development aims to ease the current shortage of on-campus housing, which is projected to grow to over 2,000 beds by 2028.
The proposed accommodation tower will include a variety of room types—from studios to shared clusters—alongside amenities such as a café, retail spaces, and bicycle parking. Importantly, the design intends to respect the existing campus environment and neighboring residential areas.
Community Engagement and Planning
UWA has undertaken extensive consultation with students, staff, and local residents to ensure the development aligns with community needs and expectations. The university is committed to balancing growth with sustainability and maintaining the campus’s role as a supportive educational environment.
Why the Nedlands Campus Matters
The Nedlands campus represents UWA’s strategic approach to managing its expanding student body and diversifying its campus offerings. By optimizing land that is surplus to core academic functions at Crawley, UWA can provide modern facilities and accommodation that enhance the overall student experience.
Additionally, the campus supports specialized academic programs and research in design, education, and health, contributing significantly to UWA’s reputation as a leading Australian university.
UWA’s Nedlands campus is more than just a satellite site—it is a dynamic part of the university’s future. With its rich history, current academic focus, and ambitious plans for student accommodation, the campus is set to play a crucial role in supporting UWA’s growth and meeting student needs in the years ahead. For students and staff alike, Nedlands offers a blend of community, convenience, and opportunity just a short distance from Perth’s city center.