Construction is finally underway on the $20 million New Energy Skills Hub at the University of Newcastle (UoN).
The purpose-built facility will provide hands‑on training for students from uni, TAFE and other providers to ensure they’re job‑ready for any opportunities within the sector moving forward.
Funded by a $16 million Australian Government investment under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program, and $4 million from the UoN, the project recognises the region’s central role in establishing the nation’s future clean‑energy workforce.
The building will consist of an open plan workshop area with specialised equipment across five dedicated functional zones for education, training, testing and demonstration, while also serve as a testbed for industry, providing the tools and capability to enhance systems and components in a range of environments.
Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Belinda Tynan said the New Energy Skills Hub was a major asset to the UoN.
“The University of Newcastle is, first and foremost, a university for our regions,” she stated.
“As the Hunter prepares for carbon neutral future, the New Energy Skills Hub will ensure our students have access to the practical, industry‑ready training they need to step into the jobs of tomorrow.”
Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon agreed.
“For generations, Newcastle and the Hunter have powered Australia’s economy,” she said.
“With the right investment in skills, research and innovation, we can continue powering the nation long into the future.
“This facility will give researchers, students and industry the capability to develop new technologies at scale, while creating training pathways for local workers.
“Newcastle and the Hunter have the skills, industrial know-how and infrastructure to lead the energy transition and this investment helps ensure our region remains an energy powerhouse for decades to come.”
Professor Alan Broadfoot, who will oversee the project, said the state-of-the-art facility would build on the university’s enduring commitment to innovation, education and community impact.
“A first of its kind premises in the Hunter, the New Energy Skills Hub will facilitate a cooperative approach to accelerating skills development in the nation’s critical sectors, acting as a regional catalyst to foster the existing and emerging industries which sustain our communities,” he explained.
“It will be used by STEM students from both tertiary and VET sectors, secondary schools as well as industry.”
Grindley Construction has been appointed to deliver the main work, with the venture expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.
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