If it is your first time getting to campus, take some time to consider what method of transport is the best for you by factoring in convenience, price, time and mental and physical health benefits. You might find you need to combine multiple transport options to create the most efficient routine.
Leave earlier than you need to when you are coming to campus. This gives you a buffer and allows you extra time before your classes to grab a coffee or study. Both Callaghan and NUspace have highly contested parking spaces. The earlier you are, the better chance you have at securing a convenient spot.
You can find additional transport information here.
Driving & Parking on Campus
Callaghan
There are various types of car parks. Pay attention to the signs around the car park to determine if you are eligible to park there (otherwise, you will most likely receive a fine!).
Purchasing a parking permit (general, residential or staff) allows you to park in the corresponding car parks across campus. The University of Newcastle uses a ticketless permit system, meaning that you input your number plate when applying for the permit and do not need a physical permit displayed on your car. If you do not have an active permit, you will have to pay for parking with either the CellOPark App or at the on-site parking metre at a rate of $4.80/day (only if it is Monday- Friday, 8am–5:30pm).
There is also free parking in Car parks 14 and 16.
Electric vehicle charging is available in Car parks 4 and 6.
Callaghan campus has limited parking spaces and the most convenient car parks fill up quickly. Consider getting to campus early or parking further away and walking/catching a bus.
Public transport available at Callaghan include The Station Shuttle and the Security Shuttle.
The Station Shuttle transports students from the Warabrook train station to the Shortland Building on weekdays (8-10am and 4-6pm).
The Security Shuttle transports staff and students around the Callaghan campus on weekdays (10am- 4pm).
NUspace
Okay, I do not recommend trying to park at NUspace. Driving to carpark 14 at Callaghan and taking the NUspace shuttle is the far superior choice. If you insist on driving to NUspace, here are some options.
The NUspace Shuttle loops between NUspace and Callaghan every 30 minutes on weekdays (7:10am- 10:15pm). It is a great choice for students who live close to one campus and study at the other. You will need to tap your student card to use the shuttle. You can access the timetable and track the shuttles via MyUni.
The university’s endorsed option for parking at NUspace is Civic West. Students and staff are eligible for special university parking rates when they tap their student/staff card.
Most students I’ve talked to park on the street. The biggest obstacle with this is time limits. Most car parks on the streets near NUspace have limits that are around 2-3 hours. If you stay past this time, you risk getting fined. Car parks that have longer time limits are often very expensive. Choosing to park further away from campus is also an option, there are a number of streets within a 20-30 minute walk if driving into the city is your only choice. This is a great opportunity to grab some fresh air, stretch your legs and explore some of Newcastle’s cafes and shops along the way.
Another great alternative is to catch the tram into NUspace. The Store Wilson Street Car Park is a multi-level carpark located on Hunter Street right next to the interchange. You can park here for $9 any day of the week. Street parking is also available near the interchange in Wickham.
Public transport
There are several public transport options in Newcastle, including buses, trains, ferries, and trams. You can read more about public transport options for your campus here. Students are eligible to use a Concession Opal card for discounted travel fares. You can view the most efficient public transport route from your location to campus by using Apple or Google maps.
Other transport options
Bike Riding & Walking
Bike riding and walking have many environmental, mental and physical health benefits. There are footpaths across Newcastle (and the campuses) to allow for easy bike and foot travel.
There are also two Bike Hubs at Callaghan Campus and two across the City Campus where you can store your bike securely. As a bonus, there are lockers, showers and bike repair equipment available for all students to use. You will need to tap your student card to enter.
Ridesharing & Taxis
Callaghan and NUspace have specified areas for ridesharing and taxi drop offs. You can view these in the parking and transport map.
The University of Newcastle has partnered with Liftango to allow students to find others who wish to carpool (you can also send private requests to friends or classmates). Liftango drivers get access to exclusive parking spaces across Callaghan campus.
Feature Image: Created using Adobe Firefly and Photoshop