This is an update to a media release first published on 2 May 2025
The Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence, an Indigenous-led education hub in Shepparton, has capped off a remarkable first year by winning four honours at the Australian Institute of Architects Victorian Awards.
The centre took home an Educational Architecture Award, a commendation in the Urban Design and the Colorbond Award for Steel Architecture categories and the Emerging Architect Regional Prize.
Professor Barry Judd, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous) at the University of Melbourne, said he was thrilled this important regional hub was being celebrated.
"I'm delighted that the Munarra Centre for Excellence – which features unique Indigenous design elements – has been recognised in the Victorian Architecture Awards," Professor Judd said.
"Community-led excellence in education and training, delivered through hubs like Munarra, has the power to drive regional employment, research and recognition. Awards like this helps elevate their importance on a national scale."
The Munarra Centre, which was designed by ARM Architecture, opened in July last year. It is a state-of-the-art building incorporating Aboriginal knowledge into its design and programs, symbolising decades of effort to place First Nations at the forefront of higher education.
Aligned with the University of Melbourne's Murmuk Djerring Indigenous Strategy, the foundational partnership with Munarra is crucial to embedding Indigenous knowledge and self-determination into higher education to close the educational gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
It is instrumental in the Goulburn Murray Regional Prosperity and Productivity Plan, a 15-year strategy focused on regional self-determination and economic inclusiveness. This collaborative effort involves local government, academia and the community to foster future leaders, empower and strengthen the community and, ultimately, bring long-term economic benefits to the region.
The University of Melbourne's connection with the Centre underlines a history of more than two decades of involvement and collaboration with the Goulburn Valley region.
Construction of the Munarra Centre was made possible through a partnership between the State Government with an investment of $30.2 million, Rumbalara Football Netball Club, the Kaiela Institute and the University of Melbourne, which contributed $6.65 million.
ARM Architecture is an award-winning architecture, urban design, master planning and interior design practice with an international reputation for creating culturally significant buildings and precincts that stretch the boundaries of architectural and urban thought.
