A high-rise education precinct is on the cards for East Werribee.
The state government last week announced the Australian Education City consortium, an Australian owned and managed company known for creating learning precincts, as the preferred bidder to develop the 400-hectare former research station.
The consortium’s website reveals a mini-city with 50-storey apartment blocks, a focus on higher education facilities and a research and development hub are planned for the site.
AEC says that more than 70,000 full-time jobs and 30,000 dwellings will be created under the proposal, which will also include a lakeside entertainment precinct.
The education consortium was one of five bidders for the East Werribee site.
The state government will consider the viability of the proposal – including the financials – under a rigorous approval process before signing off on a contract for the proposal.
Finance minister Robin Scott said the precinct had the potential to become a centre for innovation and research and would create high-skill, high-wage jobs in the west.
“The development of East Werribee would be a potentially significant investment in Melbourne’s west and a boost for Victoria’s economy,” Mr Scott said.
“We’re following strict probity and due diligence in the market process to ensure the final proposal provides the best outcome for the local community and value for Victorian taxpayers.”
An AEC spokesperson said the consortium was pleased to be selected as the preferred bidder for the East Werribee precinct.
Wyndham mayor Adele Hegedich welcomed the announcement.
“It’s fantastic to see such a bold and exciting concept as the Australian Education City, which will see thousands of high-quality jobs created,” she said.
“The confidence and enthusiasm in Werribee shown by the proponents of the proposal confirms our position as the capital of Melbourne’s new west.”
