Brief
University of Melbourne faces heritage register review over new building
The University of Melbourne’s plan to replace the 1971 John Medley Building has been stalled after Heritage Victoria rejected a bid to list the structure on the Victorian Heritage Register.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The University of Melbourne’s proposal to replace the twin‑brick John Medley Building with a new central education facility has been put on hold after Heritage Victoria declined to recommend the building for heritage protection. The decision was announced on 28 September 2026 by Heritage Victoria executive director Steven Avery, who said the 1971 structure was not a pivotal example of post‑war modernist university architecture.
Heritage decision
Avery noted that other university buildings, such as the Beaurepaire Centre and Wilsons Hall, opened in the 1950s, are already on the register and were considered more representative of the era. He described the John Medley Building as a “refined and attractive example” but not architecturally notable when compared to those already listed.
Academic reaction
Academics have urged the university to pursue heritage listing, arguing that the building was designed by Sir Roy Grounds, a modernist architect who also designed the National Gallery of Victoria and Arts Centre Melbourne. Grounds was a student at the university before becoming a prominent architect.
Next steps
The Heritage Council of Victoria, which has the final say, is still assessing submissions. A hearing is expected to take place next year, which could delay a decision on the building’s future.
Key facts
- Heritage Victoria declined to recommend the John Medley Building for heritage listing (smh.com.au)
- The building was designed by Sir Roy Grounds and opened in 1971 (smh.com.au)
- Heritage Victoria executive director Steven Avery said the building was not a pivotal example of post‑war modernist university architecture (smh.com.au)
- The Heritage Council of Victoria will hold a hearing next year to decide on the building (smh.com.au)
Background
The John Medley Building is a twin‑brick structure facing Grattan Street and forms a gateway to the Parkville campus. It was designed by Sir Roy Grounds, who also designed the National Gallery of Victoria and Arts Centre Melbourne. The university plans to replace it with a new central education building described as a “welcoming front door” and “central hub for teaching, learning and campus life”.
Why it matters
The outcome will determine whether the building receives heritage protection, affecting the university’s redevelopment plans and the preservation of a significant modernist architectural work.
What happens next
The Heritage Council of Victoria will assess submissions and likely hold a hearing next year to decide on the building’s status.
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “Academics, Heritage Victoria at odds over University of Melbourne building by NGV architect”
