University of New South Wales considers second Canberra campus

The University of New South Wales’ plans to establish a second campus in Canberra cements the capital city’s emergence as a hub for outposts of Australian universities.

Michael Frater, rector of the existing UNSW Canberra campus, told The Australian that the institution is discussing the establishment of a second campus in the city as it “needs more space for our research”.

“We’re looking to establish an innovation precinct...where our researchers can work closely with industry,” he said.

Professor Frater added that the university, which has its main campus in Sydney, has committed to a feasibility study for the outpost and is looking at opportunities for teaching and student accommodation. The new campus would focus on cybersecurity and space research, he said.

The establishment of the new campus was at least three years away and was contingent on community consultations and environmental approval, he added.

Canberra is already home to several other Australian branch campuses including outposts of the Australian Catholic University and Charles Sturt University.

It is also home to standalone institutions the Australian National University and the University of Canberra.

Professor Frater said that the plan had been spurred partly by the buoyancy of international education, with Canberra already hosting more overseas students per capita than any other Australian city.

ellie.bothwell@timeshighereducation.com