While doorknocking in Mt Gravatt, several people expressed their interest and concern about the planned closure of Mt Gravatt campus for Griffith University. Other people were not aware this was happening and had numerous questions about the plan. My team has looked into this local issue on behalf of the community. Below you can read a summary of what we’ve discovered.
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Why is Griffith University closing it’s Mt Gravatt Campus?
The Mt Gravatt campus of Griffith Uni is primarily home to teaching and research in criminology and criminal justice, education, and psychology. The campus has undergone several refurbishments and expansion of facilities since it was established in 1969. However, a recent review highlighted viability issues with the facilities. These were deemed aging and/or no longer fit for purpose. A decision has been made to consolidate Mt Gravatt campus into the Nathan campus by 2026.
What will happen once the Uni closes?
The Uni remains in discussions with the Queensland Government for the reuse of the Mount Gravatt site.
Wasn’t the Government planning to build temporary accommodation?
This site was previously earmarked for temporary accommodation but cost estimates found substantial works would be required to bring unused student accommodation up to current fire safety standards (especially given to proximity to bush land).
You can read the Government’s announcement about this site made in Sept 2022 here:
Plan still ‘moving ahead’ in February 2023 with construction expected to be finished in mid-2023
A spokesperson for Mr Miles said about $2.1 million had been spent on the building so far which included design development, internal demolition, building condition and bushfire assessments, asbestos testing and temporary construction like fencing, lighting, CCTV and security.
Plans for temporary accommodation were scrapped
In April 2023, after spending $2.1 million, this plan was scrapped because it would take too much work to bring the buildings up to fire safety codes.
The government consulted QShelter, and made a decision to invest around $25 million into purchase existing homes directly on the private market was made instead.
So what’s next?
Griffith University has publicly indicated it will vacate the Mt Gravatt campus in late 2025 – early 2026 and the Queensland Government will be reviewing other future options for the site.