Prominent Newcastle CBD asset sells to not-for-profit education provider

Commercial Collective and Cushman & Wakefield are pleased to announce the successful sale of 528–534 Hunter Street, Newcastle. The property settled on 25 February 2025 and has been acquired by Indie College, a not-for-profit Registered Training Organisation that provides nationally accredited, alternative education programs for young people across Australia.

The transaction was conducted jointly by Sarah Willcox (Associate Director) and Isaac Reville (Senior Executive) of Commercial Collective, alongside Jake Smith (Manager, Investment Sales NSW) and Matt Pontey (National Director & Co-Head of Investment Sales NSW) of Cushman & Wakefield.

Located within Newcastle’s CBD, the two-level commercial building occupies a visible position along Hunter Street and provides dual street frontage in a central city setting. Its proximity to the University of Newcastle’s city campus and other established education facilities places the property within a growing education and employment precinct.

The campaign attracted strong interest from a range of investors, developers and owner-occupiers, with several offers submitted during the process. The vendor ultimately selected Indie College as the purchaser, recognising the positive contribution the organisation will bring to the community through expanded access to education and training.

“This sale reflects the continued confidence investors and end-users have in Newcastle’s CBD. The quality of the fitout, combined with the property’s location and future development credentials, made it a compelling opportunity. We are thrilled to have facilitated this outcome for both parties.” Sarah Willcox, Associate Director, Commercial Collective

 “We saw strong interest from a diverse range of buyers drawn to the building’s quality fitout, flexibility of use, and the broader growth story unfolding across Newcastle’s CBD. Securing Indie College as the purchaser is a wonderful result - they are a purpose-driven organisation that will be a great addition to the precinct.” Isaac Reville, Senior Executive, Commercial Collective

“Newcastle continues to attract genuine institutional-grade interest, and this transaction is further evidence of that momentum. The successful outcome reflects the quality of the building and the ongoing interest in assets located within Newcastle’s city centre.” Jake Smith, Manager Investment Sales NSW, Cushman & Wakefield

“The sale of 528–534 Hunter Street is reflective of the depth of buyer demand we are seeing across NSW’s regional centres. The property’s fundamentals are exceptional, and Indie College will leverage this asset to further their important work supporting young Australians into education and employment.” Matt Pontey, National Director & Co-Head Investment Sales NSW, Cushman & Wakefield

The establishment of the college at 528–534 Hunter Street is expected to introduce a new cohort of students and educators to the area, further contributing to the mix of education, employment and community services within Newcastle’s CBD.