Heritage at Risk: University of Newcastle

It has come to our attention that both the Hunter Building, formerly Newcastle Teachers’ College, and the Architecture Building at the University of Newcastle have been identified for demolition.

The Hunter Building is a rare and significant example of post-war educational architecture. Designed in 1968 by the New South Wales Government Architect’s Branch, with John McKinney serving as project architect, it formed part of an important Commonwealth-funded program of teacher training colleges developed between 1967 and 1970. It is also an extraordinary architectural achievement; its stepped platform following the contoured site, innovative system of precast concrete roof beams, internal network of street-like corridors and outdoor communal spaces. These qualities are not incidental; they are integral to the building’s architectural significance and continue to provide opportunities for reuse.

The Architecture Building is equally significant. Designed in 1970 by Romberg and Boyd, one of Australia’s most influential architectural practices, it represents the University’s early ambitions and investment in architectural education.

This decision sadly represents a profound failure of stewardship and environmental responsibility. As buildings of historic, historical association and aesthetic significance, they represent important chapters in the development of higher education and public architecture in regional New South Wales. Their destruction would not only diminish the architectural legacy of the Callaghan campus but also undermine the University of Newcastle’s stated commitment to leadership in an era now defined by accelerated climate change.

We strongly oppose this proposal. Rather than demonstrating strategic foresight, the decision reflects a troubling disregard for the heritage significance embedded within the fabric of these campus buildings. Universities are custodians of knowledge and history and the removal of these buildings suggests a preference for short-term expediency over the careful consideration expected of one of Australia’s leading educational institutions.

Docomomo Australia