Construction has begun on a landmark student accommodation tower at 609 Wellington Street, adding much-needed capacity to Perth’s undersupplied housing market and reinforcing the CBD’s emergence as a vibrant student hub.
The 33-storey complex will deliver 835 beds across 556 units, including studios, cluster apartments, twin rooms and accessible options. Designed by Rothelowman with sustainability front of mind, the development is targeting a 5-Star Green Star rating and will feature modern amenities such as a café, cinema, gym, music room and a rooftop recreation area.
The project, a partnership between international investor Mapletree and local developer Alceon, represents Mapletree’s maiden foray into the Australian student housing market. Alceon originally secured the 1,398-square-metre site in 2015 for $18.7 million, previously operating it as an open-air car park. Completion of the new tower is scheduled for 2027.
Operated by UniLodge, the accommodation will directly support Edith Cowan University’s new City Campus, due to open in early 2026, and will be UniLodge’s second property along Wellington Street. Together, these developments are strengthening the spine of a new student precinct in Perth’s cultural and commercial heart.
According to consultancy Urbis, the project contributes to the 1,600 student beds already under construction in the city, with another 4,800 in the development pipeline — a major step toward easing the severe shortage. Perth currently has the highest student-to-bed ratio of any Australian capital.
StudyPerth CEO Derryn Belford said the new facility would play an important role in supporting international education: “Perth is experiencing strong demand for student housing, and this development will ensure students have access to safe, modern and welcoming accommodation.”
UniLodge Chief Operating Officer Matt Row said the company’s long-standing Residential Life Program would help students flourish academically, socially and personally: “We are proud to deliver more than just accommodation, creating engaging living environments that deliver strong outcomes for both students and our partners.”
Edith Cowan University Vice-Chancellor Professor Clare Pollock added that the project was an investment in student experience as much as infrastructure: “Students thrive when they feel safe, supported and connected. This development will allow them to immerse themselves in their studies at ECU City while reinforcing Perth’s reputation as a vibrant place to live and learn.”
