UniSC Coast Campus MasterplanGrowing tertiary institution that champions sustainability

Masterplan process

The planning process commenced with a series of consultation engagements with the university executive team, staff and student groups, local Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) representatives, and key external stakeholders including Sunshine Coast Council and State Government Agencies, including discussions with representatives of organisations both those directly affiliated with the university, and those from the wider community who share an interest in the institution’s future growth.

The process inevitably exposed some differences of opinion, together with areas of strong consensus. Most importantly, it helped establish the design principles that will guide future developments.

The natural environment and the institution’s connection to Country was repeatedly emphasised as of paramount importance to the well-being of students and staff.

The wider influences bearing on the campus were then considered within the context of the site’s landscape and natural systems. This covered infrastructure requirements for increased walking and cycling access, accentuating the campus identity, and providing a diverse range of experiences for students with storytelling activations.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement strategy

A critical aspect of the masterplan development was preparing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement strategy in association with project partner, Blaklash.

Together with representatives of local Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) groups, the masterplan was formed to guide how future project plans would integrate Design with Country principles – not solely around physical aspects (such as buildings), but also projects that provide education and environment outcomes (such as incorporating traditional cultural teachings).

Effective engagement helped inform how future project plans would integrate Design with Country principles.

The ability to be commercial and operationally productive and connect with community by enabling locals and tourists to experience the rich and diverse traditional lands that the university is located on was important to all stakeholders.

Integrated water management planning

Integrated water management considers all elements of the water cycle – rainwater, stormwater, potable water, and wastewater. As part of the masterplan, it was identified that water use should be fit-for-purpose. In essence, water demand management and alternative water sources should be used to reduce potable water demand.

Adopting these principles will ensure the water cycle is managed for environmental, social and economic outcomes, while contributing to learning activities. The university already has long-established practises in substantial water efficiency and effective management of natural assets though initiatives such as establishing a water battery to reduce energy demand. The masterplan will assist in advancing a number of water-focused projects to continue a strong commitment to integrated water management. Importantly, it recognises the social value of water and how it contributes to healthy ecosystems, education, and a sense of place.

The university’s effort on integrated water management has contributed to its leading rating under the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, used to assess a university's performance in aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In the most recent ratings, UniSC ranked first in Queensland for its contributions to clean water and sanitation, and life below water.

The university’s overall impact ranking improved 2 places in the latest assessment, from 31st to 29th globally.