Perth's skyline and its educational landscape are set for a dramatic transformation with the imminent opening of Edith Cowan University's (ECU) new city campus. The $853 million project, a cornerstone of the Perth City Deal, is on track to welcome its first students in February 2025, marking a significant shift of university life into the heart of the CBD.
A First Look at the State-of-the-Art Facilities
Spanning an impressive 45,000 square metres across two high-rise towers on Wellington Street, the campus is more than just a collection of lecture halls. It is designed as a vertical, integrated education and community precinct. The buildings will house cutting-edge facilities tailored for the future workforce.
The School of Business and Law will benefit from a simulated trading room, allowing finance students to experience real-world market dynamics. Future creatives in the School of Arts and Humanities will have access to a black box theatre for experimental performances, industry-standard film, TV, and radio studios, and a fully equipped newsroom.
For STEM students, the campus will feature modern engineering workshops, collaborative project spaces, and advanced computing labs. The design emphasises flexibility and collaboration, with numerous student lounges, study nooks, and social spaces spread across the towers to encourage connection and innovation.
Transforming Perth's CBD and Student Experience
The move from ECU's traditional Joondalup and Mount Lawley sites is a strategic one, aimed at placing students at the centre of professional and civic life. University Vice-Chancellor Professor Steve Chapman has emphasised that the campus is designed to be "part of the city, not apart from the city." This philosophy extends to its ground-floor offerings, which will include public retail and hospitality venues, blurring the lines between the university and the urban community.
The economic and social impact on Perth's CBD is expected to be substantial. The influx of thousands of students and staff is anticipated to revitalise the city centre, boosting local businesses and creating a more vibrant, 24/7 atmosphere. The campus is a direct result of the $1.5 billion Perth City Deal, a joint initiative between the Commonwealth, Western Australian, and local governments.
Final Preparations and Future Impact
With the February 2025 opening date firmly on the horizon, construction and fit-out are in their final stages. The campus is not just a new set of buildings; it represents a new model for higher education in Western Australia. By co-locating with the city's business, legal, cultural, and tech sectors, ECU aims to provide unparalleled opportunities for work-integrated learning, research partnerships, and graduate employment.
The new ECU Perth CBD campus stands as a bold $853 million investment in the future of education and the city itself. It promises to redefine the student experience, foster greater industry collaboration, and play a pivotal role in energising the heart of Perth for decades to come.
