The University was measured against five impact categories: governance, liveability, economic prosperity, environment and innovation.
The Green Building Council of Australia’s accreditation, which assesses large-scale developments, is the result of existing commitments and approaches, and proposed social, economic and environmentally sustainable initiatives outlined by the University’s master plan for the Melbourne Campus.
La Trobe University Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Tony McGrew said the University was proud to be recognised for its ongoing work to create a connected, welcoming and dynamic environment for all.
“Our work to transform La Trobe’s Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus into a thriving ecosystem, where the campus is turned ‘inside out’ to become a new town centre and innovation hub to drive economic development is of particular significance to the region, as Melbourne’s north is expected to grow significantly over the next 30 years,” Professor McGrew said.
“We are working to bring together employment opportunities, accessible public transport and amenities in an environmentally sustainable setting, for all of our communities.”
In line with frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals, La Trobe’s initiatives will tackle global sustainability issues such as the urban heat island effect, light pollution, food production and accessible transport.
The Green Star accreditation will further support La Trobe’s ambition to become a global thought leader in sustainable communities.
A significant part of the project is the planned Eco-Corridor Neighbourhood; enhancing the series of waterways that run through the campus and connect with Darebin Creek.
“This neighbourhood will become essential to the region’s resilience and biodiversity, and the ongoing management of water flow and quality on and off campus”, Paul Farley, Executive Director, Infrastructure & Operations said.
The new Health Precinct and Sports Park are also included in the accreditation due to their social and economic benefits.
La Trobe now joins industry land-use planning leaders, Frasers Property Australia, Stockland, Lend Lease and Destination Brisbane Consortium in achieving this leadership level of six stars.
Media contact: Sally Heppleston – s.heppleston@latrobe.edu.au - 9479 5353 / 0408 556 018.
