Construction began last year on the new CIT Woden Campus, constructed on the site of the old Woden Bus interchange, and due to open next year. Now, the building has reached its maximum height of five storeys.

“This is a significant moment for the project and the delivery of new and upgraded infrastructure for this growing region,” Chris Steel, ACT Minister for Skills, said.

“It means that we’ll soon start to see the roof go on, more of the external façade to be installed and, at the start of next year, landscaping and public space improvements.

“This project is the new heart of the town centre, and will transform a place that was cold and uninviting into an area that is warm and welcoming for students, commuters, and businesses.”

A ‘topping-out’ ceremony this morning concluded with the long-standing tradition of placing a tree atop the new building to mark the completion of the structural framework. In this instance, a timber tree made from construction offcuts was lowered onto the fifth level of the building.

“Sustainability is at the heart of the CIT Woden Campus project with the mass timber beams visible throughout the building,” Mr Steel said. “It is therefore fitting that the ceremonial tree has been crafted from timber frame offcuts and will become part of the campus public art for students, staff, and the community to enjoy.”

The structure’s roof and glazed timber façade will be installed in coming months, before the interior is fitted out, and landscaping and art procured.

The CIT Woden Campus will open in second semester 2025. The CIT Woden Youth Foyer, accommodation for at-risk youth, and a new Public Transport Interchange will also open then.

It has been called the biggest change to Woden Town Centre in 50 years.

“CIT Woden Campus will be a place that welcomes students, commuters, and Woden residents, and will be a key contributor to the ACT Government’s commitment to revitalise Woden as a place to live, work, visit, and now study,” Mr Steel said.

“Upon opening, CIT Woden Campus will support up to 6,500 students each year who are seeking the skills and training required for tomorrow’s careers in IT, cyber security, business, and hospitality.

“For local community, the CIT Woden Campus will include a student-operated café, restaurant, hair and beauty salon, and several retail spaces.”

So far, the building project has created more than 450 jobs and 5,000 hours of training for students, apprentices, and trainees, and will create more, Mr Steel said.