Curtin University’s new Exchange precinct has been awarded the Environmental Excellence Award by the Urban Development Institute of Australia (WA).

The award, presented at the annual WA Awards for Excellence held last night, recognises the innovative leaders in the State’s urban development field with a particular focus on their commitment to conservation.

Curtin’s Exchange precinct is a new urban hub located on the Bentley campus that brings together accommodation, retail, industry, education and the community.

Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne said the award recognised the precinct’s environmental leadership from the early planning phases through to design, construction and operation.

“Every element of Curtin’s new Exchange precinct has been designed and delivered with key environmental features in mind including prioritising carbon reduction, responsible water management and protecting the Carnaby’s habitat to make it a truly sustainable and urban hub,” Professor Hayne said.

“The University’s Greater Curtin Master Plan, which guides the development of the precinct, has been awarded a 6 Star Green Star – Communities certification by the Green Building Council of Australia for its continued commitment to sustainability. It’s an absolute honour to be recognised by the Urban Development Institute of Australia (WA) for the precinct’s commitment to conservation and environmental improvement.”

The judging panel, which comprised of independent industry experts, conducted a site visit and assessed the Exchange precinct development over various weighted criteria. The judges praised the overall economic, social and environmental aspects to achieve sustainable outcomes.

The Urban Development Institute of Australia represents all aspects of the property development industry in Western Australia, and its annual awards recognise excellence and innovation in the creation of sustainable communities.

Curtin’s Exchange precinct is home to St Catherine’s College, UniLodge’s Twin Dolphin Hall, the Nesuto Curtin 60-room boutique hotel, 38 self-contained Zamia Apartments, Curtin College, Curtin’s School of Design and the Built Environment, the newly opened Tucker Fresh IGA and will include a range of food and beverage outlets.

Curtin’s Exchange precinct will now go in the running for national recognition at the 2023 UDIA National Awards.