FAQ’s – University House extended closure
Information about the University House extended closure
Update 6 November 2023
On Monday 20 January 2020, Canberra experienced a destructive hailstorm which resulted in extensive building damage at the ANU Acton campus, with most buildings impacted, including University House. The subsequent, and otherwise welcome, rain of 9-10 February caused substantial further water ingress.
The storm and rain damaged the roof, electrical circuits, and disabled the fire system of University House. Many public rooms, hotel and student rooms, and some service areas also suffered hail or water damage. The scale of repairs, coordination with the refurbishments that were to begin in 2020, and the need for heritage and building code compliance, together mean an extended period of repair and refurbishment.
The University is fully committed to reopening University House, and extensive repairs are now underway. Reopening is scheduled for late 2025. When it reopens, the renewed University House will again be a showpiece of mid-20th century design, and restored as a campus and Canberra icon.
Is there any damage to the interior of the Great Hall, Scarth and Stanner Rooms, Common and Drawing Rooms, and Library?
There are varying levels of water ingress to each of these public rooms. The Hall and Scarth Rooms were most impacted by water, but the damage is repairable. There is only minor water ingress in the other rooms.
Is there any damage to the artwork collection at University House?
No. The entire artwork collection, including the Hall mural “Regeneration”, has been relocated while repairs take place. Sculptures in the grounds will be protected during this period. We thank our colleagues at the Drill Hall Gallery for their assistance with the care and relocation of the collection.
How many resident students are impacted by the University House closure?
University House was home to a community of 66 PhD students living in the Garden and South Wings. They were relocated to various locations. The reopened University House will again provide student accommodation.
Are the grounds of University House still accessible? Are Fellows Bar or Boffins still open?
Unfortunately, all areas of University House will remain closed for repairs until reopening. In the meantime,we offer in-house private event bookings and out-catering services on ANU campus from our wine bar – Symposium by University House – at Kambri. We will keep you updated through the ANU On Campus newsletter, websites, emails and social media.
What about accommodation or event bookings during the closure period?
We have negotiated accommodation concessional rates for University House, at participating hotels in Canberra. For more information, please contact our team during business hours via 02 6125 5211 or accommodation.unihouse@anu.edu.au.
We offer in-house private event bookings and out-catering services on ANU campus from our wine bar – Symposium by University House – at Kambri. For more information, please contact our team during business hours via +61 436 814 344/symposium.unihouse@anu.edu.au or 02 6125 5270/events.unihouse@anu.edu.
I’m a Member of University House. What will happen to my membership during the period of closure?
We will continue membership but waive membership fees for the closure period. Members will continue to enjoy offsite benefits, such as reciprocal rights at our partner clubs.
I love University House. Is there anything I can do to help?
Yes, you can help in a number of ways! ANU has established a “Friends of University House” Fund, to which you can make a tax-deductible donation; any contribution, large or small, will enhance restoration beyond the insurance-funded repairs. If you’re not already a member of University House, you can join our membership list so we can keep you informed and involve you in discussions about our Recovery Plan. And you can join us at our wine bar in the heart of the ANU Kambri Precinct, located on University Avenue, with elegant indoor and sunny outdoor settings, perfect for enjoying good wine and great company, or just a quiet moment.
Will University House still cater for events while they are closed?
Ahead of the reopening of the main University House buildings in late 2025, University House is relocating our events and services to Symposium by University House, in the heart of the ANU Kambri Precinct. Symposium Wine Bar @ Kambri operation hours are Tuesday – Friday 12pm-8pm (excluding Public Holidays).
We also provide Out-Catering services on campus and our team can also work with you, to create a bespoke package suited to your needs and budget.
Are the Molly Huxley carpark and other parking adjacent to University House accessible?
No. The Molly Huxley carpark and other parking adjacent to University House have been closed.
How can I stay informed about progress towards reopening?
We’ll update this page at least every six months, or when there’s significant news. We’ll also update the ANU campus community through On Campus, and University House Members directly.
Please email or call us with any questions or enquiries: marketing.unihouse@anu.edu.au or 02 6125 5211.
