The Federal Government has announced Newcastle University and Newcastle’s Civic Precinct will undergo a ‘major transformation’ following a $30 million funding injection.

The funding has been delivered under the university’s Building Access and Attainment in the Hunter Region project, and will see the Faculty of Business and Law move to the new purpose built Education Precinct in the city centre.

"This $30 million investment will transform the University of Newcastle and the city centre, and have widespread benefits for the region,” Minister for Higher Education and Skills Sharon Bird said.

"The project will take the University of Newcastle to another level, supporting an additional 3,000 students in degree and enabling courses after three years of operation."

Construction of the new precinct is expected to see some 300 jobs created, and once operational will generate almost 200 jobs in learning, teaching and student administration.

As part of the project, the university will also invest in a major refurbishment at the Callaghan Campus, with vacated space to be refurbished to develop an innovative service hub for students undertaking enabling courses.