Julian Hill turns first sod at Monash Uni’s new 252-bed residence for domestic and international students

"International education is Australia’s fourth largest export sector and a strategic national asset building soft power over generations.”

Monash University has officially turned the first sod on a new seven-storey student accommodation development at its Clayton campus, with 252 beds set to open for domestic and international students.

The ceremony last week was attended by the Julian Hill MP, Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs and Assistant Minister for International Education, alongside representatives from the university.

The new residence, located in the north-east precinct of the Clayton campus near College Walk and Jock Marshall Reserve, aims to enhance on-campus living and meet the growing demand for student housing.

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Image: Julian Hill MP, Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs and Assistant Minister for International Education, alongside Monash University Vice-Chancellor and President Prof. Sharon Pickering (Source: Monash University)
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“While saying no to High-Vis, we turned the first sod for 252 new student housing beds at Monash University!” Mr Hill said.

“Good quality accommodation is essential to ensure Australia remains a top destination for higher education. International education is Australia’s fourth largest export sector and a strategic national asset building soft power over generations.”

Monash University Vice-Chancellor and President, Prof. Sharon Pickering, described the development as a vital step in supporting students and fostering a sense of community.

“The experience we offer students at Monash goes beyond academics. This new residence will help foster connection, belonging, and personal growth.”

The residence will feature thoughtfully designed spaces to promote sustainable living, student wellbeing, and collaborative engagement.

Spanning 7,900 square metres, it will include communal kitchens, winter gardens, study zones, lounges on every floor, music and gaming rooms, mobility-accessible units, a wellness hub, and a sports court. As an all-electric building, it aligns with Monash’s sustainability and climate-conscious infrastructure goals.

Construction is scheduled to begin in late 2025, with completion expected by mid-2027. Across its Victorian campuses, Monash currently accommodates around 3,000 students and continues to work with private housing providers to expand access to high-density, student-focused apartment developments.

This new development is part of Monash’s broader Student Accommodation Strategy, which addresses rising demand while ensuring a high-quality residential experience for students from Australia and around the world.

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