CONSTRUCTION is set to commence on the University of New England’s Tamworth campus, located at the old Velodrome site in the city’s central business district.

Central Coast-based construction firm North Construction & Building Pty Ltd were awarded the contract in late 2025 and are now ready to progress to building.

Start of construction was marked by a tour of the site by Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, UNE Vice-Chancellor Professor Chris Moran, mayor of Tamworth Regional Council Russell Webb, Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson and key stakeholders.

The construction of UNE Tamworth Central is possible thanks to $26.6 million from the NSW Government and contributions by UNE, TRC and the Federal Government through the Job Ready Graduates program.

Premier Minns said the milestone brings Tamworth one step closer to a brand-new university campus, giving more people the opportunity to study and build careers close to home.

NSW Premier Chris Minns, Tamworth Regional Council mayor Russell Webb, North Building & Construction CEO John Melvin and Professor Chris Moran toured the building site prior to construction commencing.

“It’s an investment in the region’s future, providing a boost for local jobs and businesses during construction and delivering lasting benefits for the region for years to come,” Mr Minns said.

The new four-storey building prioritises flexibility, amenity, and connectivity to enrich the campus and student experience. With over 2,000 square metres, the facility will include flexible, multi-purpose spaces to support teaching, research, and collaboration.

The building is designed to achieve a 5-star Green Star rating.

Professor Chris Moran said the commencement of building has been a long time coming and a major milestone for UNE’s long association with the Tamworth community.

“UNE has been a part of the fabric of Tamworth for many decades, and the dedication to bringing this project to life is evidence of this ongoing commitment,” he said.

“I also acknowledge the ongoing support of Restart NSW and the NSW Government in making this happen.

“UNE Tamworth will enhance the support for our students to learn where they are, in whatever life stage or circumstances they are in. Students can visit the campus to access technologies, meet lecturers and mentors, and spend time with peers.

“The campus will be a portal into all that UNE has to offer – all the courses, all the lecturers, all the learning technologies and opportunities,” he said.

John Melvin, CEO of North Construction & Building said the company is pleased to be on-site and ready to move to the commencement of building in the construction phase of the project.

“At North, we’re proud to be working alongside UNE, Touchstone Partners, Architectus, in conjunction with Tamworth Regional Council, and so many committed stakeholders to deliver the UNE Tamworth Campus,” Mr Melvin said.

“North remains strongly committed to regional New South Wales and the communities we serve. We are proud to be delivering an innovative and leading‑edge designed community and tertiary precinct that will support the future growth of the region.

“As part of this commitment, we are working closely with the Tamworth community to ensure local and regional suppliers and contractors play a central role in the UNE Tamworth project.

Early procurement is now underway, with Tamworth‑based businesses engaged to deliver site amenities, waste bins, hygiene, and environmental services further strengthening regional subcontractor and supplier engagement with North,” he said.

Tamworth mayor Russell Webb said the announcement was a proud moment for the Tamworth region and everyone who calls it home.

“Today is a proud day as construction commences on a new university campus,” Cr Webb said.

“This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter that will bring jobs, investment, and lasting economic opportunity to our community. Council is proud to have worked alongside UNE to make this a reality.”

In 2023, award-winning architectural firm Architectus was appointed to lead the design of the Tamworth Central Campus and the project was approved by the Northern Joint Regional Planning Panel in December, 2024.

At this point in time the construction timeline remains unchanged, with the new campus expected to be completed in mid-to-late 2027, with an opening date for students in early 2028.