AUSTRALIA — Scape Australia, the country’s leading provider of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), has set a new benchmark in sustainable development.
The company’s Scape Leicester project in Carlton, Victoria, has become the first PBSA in Australia to receive a prestigious 6 Star Green Star Design and As Built (v1.3) rating from the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).
The 14-storey, 10,500 square-metre Scape Leicester building exemplifies cutting-edge sustainable design.
Fully electric and powered by 100 per cent renewable energy, the facility opened its doors to students earlier this year and will house 300 residents at full capacity.
Chris Nunn, General Manager of Environment, Social and Governance at Scape Australia, emphasised the significance of this achievement:
“A 6 Star rating from the Green Building Council of Australia represents world leadership and is reserved for highly efficient buildings fully powered by renewables while also addressing a significant number of environmental and social issues and contributing to the community.”
The project’s success is attributed to a collaborative effort between Scape’s development team, building contractor Kapitol, and the project consultancy team.
This achievement aligns with Scape’s broader mission to revolutionise student living experiences while prioritising environmental responsibility.
Anouk Darling, CEO of Scape Australia, highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability, stating: “The 6 Star Green Star rating aligns with our overarching purpose to create better living experiences for people and the planet and this latest sustainability stand-out adds to our growing ESG credentials as we set our sights firmly on redefining the standard for sustainable structures and crafting future-ready developments.”
The Green Building Council of Australia has praised Scape’s accomplishment.
Davina Rooney, CEO of GBCA, stated: “Scape’s achievement in delivering this world-leading, all-electric student accommodation sets a new benchmark for sustainability in the sector. It’s a prime example of how we can create spaces that are healthy and comfortable for residents but also contribute to a low-carbon, resilient future.”
Scape’s dedication to sustainable development extends beyond this single project.
The company has already received Global Sector Leader status in Residential Developments from GRESB, scoring an impressive 99/100 in the Development Benchmark.
With 38 buildings across Australia and 10 more in development, Scape continues to prioritise sustainability, innovation, and wellbeing in its expanding portfolio.
Each new project reinforces the company’s commitment to creating spaces that benefit both residents and the broader community.
As the student accommodation sector evolves, Scape Leicester stands as a shining example of how sustainable design can meet the needs of students while contributing to a greener future.
