Central Coast-based construction firm North Construction & Building Pty Ltd were awarded the contract in late 2025 and are now ready to progress to building.
Start of construction was marked by a tour of the site by Premier of New South Wales, the Hon Chris Minns MP, UNE Vice-Chancellor Professor Chris Moran, Mayor of Tamworth Regional Council Russell Webb, Kevin Anderson MP and key stakeholders.
The construction of UNE Tamworth Central is possible thanks to $26.6 million from the NSW Government and contributions by UNE, TRC and the Federal Government through the Job Ready Graduates program.
Premier of NSW, the Hon Chris Minns MP said “This milestone brings Tamworth one step closer to a brand-new university campus, giving more people the opportunity to study and build careers close to home.
“It’s an investment in the region’s future, providing a boost for local jobs and businesses during construction and delivering lasting benefits for the region for years to come.”
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the campus represents a significant commitment to regional education and opportunity.
“Building this campus here assists Tamworth to retain professionals who will work locally, plus strengthen the skills base and address regional worker shortages.
“The University facility will boost the local economy by creating stable, skilled jobs across academic, administrative, and support services who will contribute consistent spending to local businesses.”
The new four-storey building prioritises flexibility, amenity, and connectivity to enrich the campus and student experience. With over 2,000 square metres, the facility will include flexible, multi-purpose spaces to support teaching, research, and collaboration. The building is designed to achieve a 5-star Green Star rating.
UNE Vice Chancellor and CEO, Professor Chris Moran, said the commencement of building has been a long time coming and a major milestone for UNE’s long association with the Tamworth community.
"UNE has been a part of the fabric of Tamworth for many decades, and the dedication to bringing this project to life is evidence of this ongoing commitment. I also acknowledge the ongoing support of Restart NSW and the NSW Government in making this happen.
“UNE Tamworth will enhance the support for our students to learn where they are, in whatever life stage or circumstances they are in. Students can visit the campus to access technologies, meet lecturers and mentors, and spend time with peers. The campus will be a portal into all that UNE has to offer – all the courses, all the lecturers, all the learning technologies and opportunities.
John Melvin, CEO of North Construction & Building said North is pleased to be on site and ready to move to the commencement of building in the construction phase of the project.
"At North, we're proud to be working alongside UNE, Touchstone Partners, Architectus, in conjunction with Tamworth Regional Council, and so many committed stakeholders to deliver the UNE Tamworth Campus," Mr Melvin said.
“North remains strongly committed to regional NSW and the communities we serve. We are proud to be delivering an innovative and leading‑edge designed community and tertiary precinct that will support the future growth of the region.
“As part of this commitment, we are working closely with the Tamworth community to ensure local and regional suppliers and contractors play a central role in the UNE Tamworth project. Early procurement is now underway, with Tamworth‑based businesses engaged to deliver site amenities, waste bins, hygiene, and environmental services further strengthening regional subcontractor and supplier engagement with North.”
Tamworth Region Mayor Russell Webb said today is a proud day for the Tamworth region and everyone who calls it home.
“Today is a proud day for the Tamworth region and everyone who calls it home as construction commences on a new university campus. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter that will bring jobs, investment, and lasting economic opportunity to our community. Council is proud to have worked alongside UNE to make this a reality."
In 2023, Award winning architectural firm Architectus was appointed to lead the design of the Tamworth Central Campus and the project was approved by the Northern Joint Regional Planning Panel in December 2024.
At this point in time the construction timeline remains unchanged, with the new campus expected to be completed in mid-to-late 2027 with an opening date for students in early 2028.
