Geelong’s T&G Building is set to house students after Deakin University spent almost $3 million to buy the city-centre icon.
Deakin Vice Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander announced the university planned to renovate the building for 33 student residences.
Construction should begin in January for completion at the end of 2015.
Deakin had secured further funding from state and federal governments for the $8.1 million project.
Prof den Hollander said the T&G would help accommodate more students on their way to Deakin’s Waterfront campus.
“Student numbers in Geelong have already grown to around 10,000, an increase of around 35 per cent since 2010,” she said.
“Over the next five years student numbers at our Waterfront campus are expected to more than double and as they do we need to ensure they have accommodation that’s safe and comfortable.”
