MLC Building Transformation as University Campus

The long-uncertain future of North Sydney’s landmark MLC Building may finally be reaching a resolution, with plans now on exhibition outlining its conversion into a university campus. Investa Property Group has lodged development documents with the NSW Government that detail the adaptive reuse of the post-war tower at 105 Miller Street.

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The proposal would see the refurbishment and expansion of the 16-storey building, which has stood vacant since March 2022 after being deemed unable to meet the demands of the modern office market.

Originally completed in 1957 and designed by Bates Smart & McCutcheon, the MLC Building was once a symbol of post-war modernism, featuring Australia’s first lightweight steel structure and curtain wall façade. After 67 years, however, the building has experienced substantial deterioration, raising questions about its long-term viability.

Investa’s current plans move away from earlier proposals for commercial offices and build-to-rent residences, which had seen years of delays and revisions. Instead, the group intends to preserve the heritage-listed Miller Street wing through refurbishment, while demolishing and redeveloping the Denison Street wing to create financial viability for the project.

A new 22-storey wing would rise in its place, featuring ground-level retail and a university hub, with teaching and research facilities above. Plans also detail the introduction of a new core structure, a double-height retail offering, and improved connections between the two wings. The refurbished Miller Street wing would be adapted for tertiary learning spaces, corridors and supporting infrastructure.

Investa said the project seeks to provide state-of-the-art education facilities that align with a university’s strategic vision and contemporary research needs. While the institution behind the proposal has not been disclosed, North Sydney is already home to Australian Catholic University and Charles Sturt University.

“This project not only aims to protect the architectural heritage of 105 Miller Street, but also facilitates its long-term relevance and competitiveness by transforming the building into a world-class tertiary institution in the centre of North Sydney CBD,” Investa stated in its environmental impact report.

If approved, the development would mark a significant new chapter for one of Australia’s most historically important office towers.

Images via The Urban Developer

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