WSU REVEALS CONCEPT FOR INDIGENOUS CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

To be located on Darug land at the WSU Parramatta South campus, the design is Country and community-inspired. Comprising of a theatrem cinema and exhibition galleries, the facility will focus on teaching and learning facilities with an Indigenous discovery space.

The design is a collaborative effort overseen by Jackson Celements Burrows Architects (JCB), Peter Stutchbury Architecture and Jane Irwin Landscape Architecture, with Uncle Dean Kelly, Hill Thalis Architecture and Flux Consult. Using innovative and sustainable features as a design guide, the facade will feature locally-sourced timber and clay, with an entirely Indigenous planted alndscape by Jane Irwin's practice fostering gathering, respite, shelter and play.

“Inspired by the form and safety of the mangroves and veiled by a woven like façade, the design acts as a canvas within which human and non-human kin can re-connect. The Indigenous Centre of Excellence will facilitate the practice of caring for Country and the transfer of cultural and academic knowledge, amplifying individual and collective cultural strength for the benefit of all,” explains JCB Senior Associate Sarah Lynn Rees.

The university hopes to promote and preserve the culture and ideals of Indigenous cultures. Accessible to people of all ages, abilities and interests, visitors will be able to gain insight into the cultural heritage of First Nations Australians.

“The Indigenous Centre of Excellence will be a benchmark for Indigenous leadership and education,” says WSU Chancellor, Jennifer Westacott AO. 

The Centre of Excellens will be open for operation in 2026.

Images via Western Sydney University