The aim of the Commonwealth scheme is to offer accommodation, at 20 per cent below market rental rates, to low and moderate income earners. Students are typically low income earners. 

ANU Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Chubb said: “When the Commonwealth and ACT contributions are added to the University’s, the total investment will be $200 million.

“We welcome the Commonwealth and ACT Government investments in this much-needed project. It is a very strategic investment.

“The new accommodation will fill a significant gap in accommodation in Canberra for those students who come to the ACT to study at ANU. 

“ANU draws significant numbers of students from rural and regional areas. Being able to provide accommodation at 20 per cent below the prevailing market rate for many of those students will be very positive for them and for ANU.

“I hope this scheme will encourage more people to participate in higher education, especially where the additional costs of accommodation might be a barrier. This does not remove that barrier for students who must move, but it certainly makes it a bit easier. 

“This project will go a long way to making good quality, affordable accommodation, available on, and adjacent to the ANU campus.  

“There are significant benefits for the ACT economy and the local community, partly because of additional spending within the community and partly because fewer students will be seeking low-cost accommodation in the commercial market,” Professor Chubb said.

Contacts: Catriona Jackson 0417 142 238