The University of Canberra opened the doors to new lodgings at its Bruce campus to students on Wednesday, as the university prepares for continued growth, future-proofing accommodation at UC Lodge until 2020.
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University of Canberra's Vice President of Finance and Infrastructure Vicki Williams said the 496 new beds across 353 apartments brought the total number of beds on campus to 2476.
"The University also recognises the benefits of remaining competitive in its student accommodation offerings in an increasingly competitive market," Ms Williams said.
According to Ms Williams, 1900 students are currently living on campus, making up 19 per cent of students studying at Bruce, and she expected the numbers to rise over the year with 2000 expected to be living there by the time semester starts.
The accommodation is managed by UniLodge, which has a bed in a five-bedroom apartment costing $194 a week, while a single studio would cost $222 a week.
UniLodge charges residents another $23 a week for utilities and phone line rental, and offers internet packages on top of that.
"Students really value the opportunity to live on campus while they study. It is convenient but also the camaraderie they share enhances their learning experience," Ms Williams said.
"Benefits of on-campus accommodation include easy student access to learning, student support and social and sporting opportunities – overall assisting with an enhanced student experience."
"The UC community is steadily expanding and the University is actively and strategically planning for this growth."
The last time the university opened new lodgings was in 2014 at Coopers Lodge, where 416 beds were added, which came after the opening of the 260 bed Weeden North accommodation in 2014, and 220 bed Weeden South accommodation in 2012.
