The Andrews Labor Government has given the green light to an exciting new project set to drive Melbourne’s status as a world leader for education and innovation.
Minister for Planning Richard Wynne today approved an amendment to the Melbourne Planning Scheme, paving the way for construction to commence on Carlton Connect, a major University of Melbourne project being developed in partnership with Lendlease at the site of the old Royal Women’s Hospital in Carlton.
The world-class development will create more than 3,000 direct jobs and more than 5,000 indirect jobs – a stones throw from the future Parkville Station as part of the Metro Tunnel and right in the heart of the Parkville National Employment and Innovation Cluster.
Carlton Connect will house world-leading industries, academics, entrepreneurs and researchers under one roof – and they’ll be driving Victoria’s status as a first-class destination for Australia’s innovation, productivity and sustainability agendas.
The precinct will feature office space for start-ups and industry partners, a ‘superfloor’ collaboration space and a prototyping facility to test and manufacture new products.
The development will also be home to the Science Gallery Melbourne and will include accommodation for more than 500 students, retail, childcare and public open spaces.
National Employment and Innovation Clusters are a key feature of Plan Melbourne – the Labor Government’s blueprint to make the most of a growing population. The clusters are based all over Melbourne, and are our way of driving down congestion and ensuring people spend less time commuting, and more doing things they enjoy.
Construction will begin later this year and take about two years to complete.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne
“This project ticks all the boxes. It’s making good use of a flagship site, it’s driving our reputation as a world leader for education and innovation, it’s creating thousands of jobs and will contribute billions to our economy.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
“Victoria is home to some of the best and brightest minds, the most respected researchers and the most talented students. This development will give them a flagship facility that will help them reach their potential.”
Quote attributable to Managing Director for Lendlease Urban Regeneration Mark Menhinnitt
“This development will set a new benchmark in education and industry collaboration in a purpose-built facility that meets the highest standards of design and sustainability, while also honouring the site’s heritage and history.”
Quotes attributable to the University of Melbourne Vice Principal of Policy and Projects Dr Julie Wells
“Innovation emerges from vibrant and collaborative environments where people are encouraged to share skills and ideas as they work and socialise together, and we hope the mix of people and ideas will spark new knowledge and new ways of doing things.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020