New Funding to Support CDU's Growth
Campus Living Villages has secured a $70 million loan from the Australian Government to support the construction of a new student accommodation building for Charles Darwin University (CDU) in Darwin. This project, announced on Wednesday, is set to house 352 students near the Danala Education and Community Precinct.
The Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) is delivering the funding, with backing from the Federal Minister for Northern Australia, Madeleine King. The new facility will be located at 56 Woods Street, Darwin, on land provided to the university under a Crown Lease from the Northern Territory Government in 2024.
Besides the new building, the loan will also refurbish existing accommodation at CDU's Casuarina campus, providing an additional 50 student beds. Professor Fiona Coulson, CDU Acting Vice-Chancellor and President, welcomed the government's support, noting that it will enhance the university's ability to attract students and support local employment opportunities.
Economic and Educational Impact
Expanding accommodation is crucial to meet the growing student population at the Danala Precinct, according to Professor Coulson. She said, "Ensuring students have access to a safe living environment throughout their learning journey means graduates will be more likely to reach their goals, have a positive experience in the Northern Territory, and contribute to our communities and industries."
Luke Gosling, Special Envoy for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs and Northern Australia, emphasised the investment's role in supporting Darwin's growth. He stated, "Darwin’s growing and we need the infrastructure to keep up – that includes making sure students have a place to live close to where they study."
The NAIF investment, supported by the Australian Government, is expected to deliver hundreds of new beds, reduce pressure on the rental market, and create local jobs during construction and beyond. This initiative will also enable more people to come to the Territory, obtain their qualifications, and build their lives there.
Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment Joshua Burgoyne expressed the government's commitment to increasing student accommodation. He highlighted the four-year Crown Lease Term granted to CDU to facilitate the delivery of this much-needed student housing, which is in high demand and short supply in Darwin.
Last updated: 22 April 2026, 4:04 pm
