A multimillion dollar makeover of one of the oldest surviving buildings from Melbourne’s foundation has tonight officially been opened by Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert.
The $11 million refurbishment will see office and meeting spaces for approximately 100 people in RMIT’s Students Group, and the courtyard, within the building complex, offer a gathering place for staff and students.
The Students Group offers free, targeted support and resources to RMIT staff and students, aiming to improve students’ academic and career success, and work with students who are facing personal issues that might otherwise affect their academic performance.
The building has historical significance to Melbourne and was once part of the Melbourne Gaol. It is a group of connected buildings which include the former gatehouse, governor’s quarters, hospital, bath-house and chapel.
The site has played a rich part in Melbourne’s history since the 1860s and is the oldest building on the RMIT city campus. Some original features of the gaol have been kept as part of the makeover.
The bluestone walls once housed notorious inmates including Ned Kelly and 13 prisoners from the bloody 154 Eureka Rebellion on the Ballarat goldfields.
The Andrews Labor Government shares RMIT’s commitment to ensuring students have access to the knowledge and skills they need to shape their lives, regardless of their background, their personal circumstances or where they live.
RMIT is one of Victoria’s top universities and it is doing an outstanding job of educating Victoria’s future workforce and supporting students.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert
“This new facility will support RMIT's students and enrich their experience, in a prime location with such a rich history.”
“The Andrews Labor Government is committed to supporting Victoria’s universities to cement their standing as some of the best in the world.”
Reviewed 10 February 2021