Monthly Newsletter
November’s here, and what a run we’ve had over the last month! From new openings and mobilisations in Melbourne, Perth and Auckland, to the steady growth of all our brands, it’s been an incredible team effort.
Your hard work and commitment are what make this momentum possible, and it’s great to see our communities, partners, and people thriving as a result
This month’s newsletter shares some of these good news stories and wins, plus an exciting refresh from our Talent Development team
Keep reading!
Tomas Johnsson Chief Executive Officer
13–19 Nov: Transgender Awareness
13 Nov: World Kindness Day
19 Nov: International Men’s Day
25 Nov: Intl Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Giving Textiles a Second Life
This month, nine properties across UniLodge Living Group are joining forces with the Diabetes Innovation and Impact Foundation (DIIF) to reduce textile waste and support ground breaking medical research
Through this new textiles upcycling initiative, residents and staff can donate unwanted clothing and fabrics instead of sending them to landfill Each collection is free of charge, with DIIF ensuring items are either responsibly recycled or given a second life through Savers stores Participating properties also receive Environmental Impact Reports showing how much waste has been diverted and the greenhouse gases saved.
The program directly supports DIIF’s mission to transform the lives of Australians living with diabetes by funding innovative, practical healthcare research. With funding for diabetes research having dropped 51% in the past decade, every small action, like dropping a bag of clothes into a donation bin, helps drive positive change A big thank you to the properties coming on board to lead the way on this sustainability initiative Contact Matt Hogan or Madison Shore to find out more.
Keep an eye out for these Charity Collection Bins
Sam Griffiths, Ken Kwok and Matt Hogan @ Swift Walk Kensington
Your Learning and Career Growth Experience Has a Brand-New Look!
National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence
On 25 August 2025, the Australian Parliament passed the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence, setting clear, mandatory expectations for how the higher education sector prevents, addresses, and reports gender-based violence.
The Code applies to both universities and student accommodation providers, recognising that prevention, response, and support must extend to where students live as well as where they learn
At UniLodge Living Group, we fully support this important national step and are proactively preparing for implementation A dedicated taskforce is working with an external specialist to develop a detailed strategy that will guide how we embed these requirements across our properties, policies, and practices.
This strategy will reflect our mission to build a gender-inclusive culture that empowers our team members, values their differences, and fosters proactive solutions for our residents and partners It will also reinforce our belief that gender equality, diversity, and inclusion are core to who we are, shaping how we work together, serve our communities, and drive stronger outcomes for our will be shared as this
Spotlight on UniLodge Marketing in Melbourne
Our Marketing Team has been busy on the road visiting properties, capturing the buzz of student life, and collaborating with our amazing property teams to create authentic, high-energy content that celebrates what UniLodge is all about
Watch the recent video on the UniLodge Instagram Page
See behind-the-scenes info here!
Have you seen the most recent “Get to Know Our Leaders” series?
Melissa Tracey shares some insight into her goals, motivations and career origins, including her love of travel, 3 preferred dinner guests and her memory of Princess Diana
We love hearing insightful and reflective stories from across the business Reach out if you would like to be involved!
Read more on Viva Engage or at the back of this newsletter
Indigenous Naming of JCU Campus North Queensland
The Townsville (Douglas) campus has been officially named Bebegu Yumba, which means “Place of Learning” in the Birri-Gubba language.
JCU Cairns Campus
Celebrating One Year
The Cairns campus (Smithfield) is now known as Nguma‑bada, meaning “place for tomorrow’s learning, knowledge and wisdom” in the Yirrganydji coastal dialect of Djabugay Speak to Yvonne for more info or read on Viva.
Training Release
All team members will be assigned: UniLodge Workplace Events HR 6 - Drug & Alcohol Policy Drugs & Alcohol Awareness 10 These modules will take approx. 20 minutes to complete
Melbourne City EOY Dinner
Congrats to the UniLodge Melbourne City team who brilliantly pulled together to deliver an end-ofsemester dinner with a whole new vibe!
Watch on Viva Engage
Unclaimed Bike Initiative
This collaborative project between UniLodge, JCU, and NRL Cowboys House encourages active lifestyles, community sharing, and hands-on learning. Students gain valuable experience in bike maintenance and repair, developing practical skills while contributing positively to their communities The initiative transforms unclaimed bikes into opportunities, promoting sustainability, skill development, and community connection as students repair and return them to children in their home communities
Marketing Support
Nicolette from Head Office had a busy trip visiting our New Zealand properties, including the Canterbury portfolio, working to develop new marketing materials and capture updated imagery to support the promotion of our newest sites Keep an eye out for fresh photos, videos, and content coming soon
If you're visiting a property, don’t forget to share your updates and photos on Viva Engage - we love seeing what’s happening across the network!
Spooktacular Team Spirit
Loved seeing all the Halloween outfits, decorations and activities shared across Viva Engage including this one from Triana at UniLodge Park Central
Celebrating One Year of th
Diwali Celebrations
A MESSAGE FROM ELOISE GILBER Residents came together to celebrate the Festival of Lights, enjoying an evening filled with colour, connection, and community spirit, thanks to Anna Guo from Auckland City for hosting
The Community Support Officer program a the first large-scale model of after-hours c 18+ permanent staff and 20+ casuals, the p campus of more than 5000 beds Achievin
Red Frogs Partnership
Residents enjoyed an evening of games and community spirit at Park Central Plus they dropped into our Brisbane head-office with bags of special treats A big thank you to Red Frogs for helping create fun and positive experiences for all
Giving Back
Through recent blood drives, our teams and residents demonstrated the power of collective action and community care helping save lives and strengthen connections
THE THREAD
Watch on Viva Engage
CREATE OR LOGIN TO YOUR PROFILE AT LIFEBLOOD
BE IN THE RUNNING TO WIN A VOUCHER TO SPEND ON YOURSELF! WINNERS DRAWN 28TH FEBRUARY 2026.
Spotlight on Our New Openings Across UniLodge Living Group
Before the first residents move in and the lights switch on, there’s a critical stage that sets every building up for long term success: the mobilisation phase Mobilisation is where our operations truly come to life It’s the bridge between construction and steady-state operations, the period when our teams prepare the property, people, and systems to deliver an exceptional resident experience from day one This includes:
Recruiting and onboarding site teams
Commissioning building systems and safety protocols
Establishing technology platforms, maintenance schedules and reporting
Preparing resident communications, welcome programs and move-in
Over the past month, led by our GM, Asset Mobilisation, Sam Griffiths, we’ve achieved some significant milestones, with construction completion at UniLodge Auckland Central, UniLodge Perth Central, Swift Walk Kensington and The Archive, enabling handover for operational setup We’ve also proudly opened Indi Southbank in Melbourne welcoming the first residents into beautifully designed living environments.
Right now, our teams are deep in this critical phase across multiple properties, working hard behind the scenes to get every detail right for activation, including:
• West Tower and Melbourne Quarter (Lendlease)
• Caulfield, VIC (Beck)
• We Are Living Preston and Zetland (on behalf of Aware Super)
• Indi Footscray (on behalf of Investa)
We’re incredibly excited about what’s ahead as we continue shaping connected, resident-centred communities across the Living sector
UNILODGE AUCKLAND CENTRALOPENING 2026
Our newest New Zealand property with Cedar Pacific blends a historic façade with a future-focused, 758bed tower designed to elevate the student experience in the Auckland CBD UniLodge Auckland Central strengthens our footprint in one of the country’s most dynamic education precincts, just moments from the University of Auckland and AUT
The team recently attended a dawn blessing led by iwi ahi-kā Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. The ceremony moved through each level imbuing mauri (positive energy and protection) into the spaces where residents will live, study, and connect. We’re proud to be part of a development that honours both heritage and progress, and we can’t wait to welcome our first residents soon.
Delivered by: Icon Construction, McConnell Property & Ashton Mitchell on behalf of Cedar Pacific Beds: 758
Unique Project Features: Carefully restored heritage features Modern PBSA designed for today’s learners Close to University of Auckland and AUT
Clickheretowatchthestunning transformationofUniLodge AucklandCentralinthis timelapsevideo
Clickheretowatch
NEW ZEALAND’S GROWTH CONTINUES WITH TUPUĀRANGI
Tupuārangi is UC’s newest catered hall of residence in Christchurch and will welcome 283 first-year students in Semester 1, 2026. The residence features shared lounges, study areas and peaceful garden inspired spaces thoughtfully designed for the tech savvy, community-minded Generation Alpha who are seeking balance between independence and support
Daily catered meals, free laundry and internet, and dedicated study areas are all included, creating a comfortable and connected living experience
SetbesideTupuānukuandtheIlam heritagegardens,Tupuārangicarriesa namegiftedbyNgāiTūāhuriri. Itsdesign drawsontheMatarikistarTupuārangi representinggrowth,nourishmentand theforestcanopy shapingan environmentwherefirst-yearstudents canfeelsupported,connectedandsafe.
Delivered by: University of Canterbury (UC) by Jasmax Beds: 283
Unique Project Features:
Fully catered first-year hall with garden inspired lounges & study spaces
Single bedrooms with private ensuites Opening 2026
AND THERE’S MORE COMING!
Peter Bates, Laura Roberts and Jacob Waitere joined community leaders for the Ground-breaking Ceremony of 38 Oxford Terrace in Christchurch, Huadu International’s latest student accommodation project in New Zealand Braving a cold snap, Peter joined Mayor Phil Mauger, Consul General He Ying and Chairman JP Wang to turn the sod and celebrate this milestone alongside project partners.
The proposed design currently under council review features an L-shaped building with a north-facing courtyard, creating a bright and inviting outdoor space for residents. Inside, the property will offer 318 furnished one-bedroom units, each with its own kitchenette, supported by communal facilities including study areas, a common room, laundry and cycle storage
The ground floor will include a retail-focused lobby with potential tenants such as food and beverage operators and a convenience store, enhancing the resident experience and adding vibrancy of the Oxford Terrace precinct.
Delivered by: Huadu International Beds: 318
Unique Project Features:
One-bed furnished units with kitchenettes
North-facing outdoor courtyard
Shared study areas, common room, laundry & cycle storage
UNILODGE PERTH CENTRALCOMING SOON!
UniLodge Perth Central has reached Practical Completion, marking a major addition to our WA portfolio. Located in the heart of the CBD the 29storey asset delivers standout features including a café and mini mart, secure access, bike parking, dedicated study areas, and sweeping river and city views from the upper levels
Within walking distance to Perth’s malls and public transport, this PBSA offers exceptional convenience for residents and amenities including a fully equipped gym, common lounge and games area and onsite staff
Delivered by: Built & Sirona Urban, in partnership with Australian Unity, MaxCap Group & UniLodge Beds: 758
Unique Project Features: Close to the new ECU City Campus, set to bring 10,000 staff & students into the education precinct
UniLodgePerthCentral strengthensPerth’semerging studenthub,addinggenuine valuethroughconnected, resident-focusedcommunities
MarianneSmith RegionalGeneralManager,WA
THE THREAD
WA’S FUTURE: GROUNDBREAKING AT 609 WELLINGTON STREET, PERTH
Construction has commenced on a 33-storey student accommodation building, delivering 2,031 sqm of active and quiet communal spaces, a ground-level café, study and lounge areas, outdoor terrace, gym, and a rooftop Sky Lounge The recent ceremonial sodturn was attended by Marianne Smith, Cr Steve Wellard, City of Perth CEO Michelle Reynolds, and Hon John Carey MLA (Minister for Planning and Lands). This will be UniLodge’s second operation on Wellington Street, reinforcing a vibrant student hub in Perth’s cultural and commercial centre
Delivered by: Icon & Rothelowman for Mapletree Beds: 836
Unique Project Features: Heritage inclusions Design that prioritises student experience with liveable & social resident amenities
INDI SOUTHBANK - MELBOURNE’S NEXT BTR COMMUNITY
Located in the Boyd Village Precinct at 132 Kavanagh Street, Indi Southbank sits in the heart of Melbourne’s cultural and entertainment district. Designed for modern living, the building offers hotel-style amenities including an outdoor pool, gym, sauna, pet-friendly spaces and thoughtfully crafted resident areas
Powered by 100% renewable electricity, with a 7 Star NatHERS rating and a 5 Star Green Star Building v1 target, the property showcases high-quality, sustainable rental living, with Boyd Park right on the doorstep
Delivered by: City of Melbourne, PDG & Hamilton
Marino on behalf of Investa & Oxford Properties Group
Beds: 433 (including 10% affordable housing)
Unique Project Features:
Podcast rooms
Coworking spaces
Sky lounge
Views of Port Phillip Bay
Thisprojectbuildsonthe successofInvestaandOxford’s flagshipBTRcommunity,Indi Sydney,andmarksthe continuedgrowthoftheIndi platforminMelbourne,withIndi Footscrayduetoopenin2026
It’s clear we are in one of the most exciting periods of growth and change in our journey To all our new team members stepping into newly created roles - welcome! I hope are settling in well and already feeling part of something special.
Our developments across Australia and New Zealand continue to strengthen our position and propel us toward our aim of being the leading operator in the Living sector We couldn’t achieve any of this without all of you - your hard work, passion and commitment make all the difference.
Let’s keep this going and finish 2025 on a high. Here’s to a strong and successful end to the year
Tomas Johnsson Chief Executive Officer
GET TO KNOW OUR LEADERS SERIES
Whatmotivates youtocometo workeveryday?
Definitely my family — they are my biggest motivation. Being able to provide them with a life that includes opportunities like travel and a good education is something I value deeply, and it drives me to show up and do my best every day. I also want to be a strong role model for my daughters.
I want them to see that we can do hard things, and that with determination and hard work, you can create a meaningful and successful life. It’s important to me that they grow up seeing first hand the value of resilience, commitment, and showing up for the things that matter.
But it’s also my team. We often work in really challenging environments, and I’m constantly inspired by how committed and resilient they are.
They show up and give their best, so I do the same. There’s a strong sense of responsibility and mutual support that keeps me motivated — knowing that we’re all in it together and that my leadership can make a difference to their experience at work.
Whatareyourfuture goals?
One of my biggest goals is to remain healthy.
Three years ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and went through eight months of pretty intense treatment whilst working, which I couldn’t have done without a very supportive team and colleagues.
That experience was incredibly challenging, but it also gave me a new perspective on what truly matters. It taught me not to sweat the small stuff and to take time to celebrate achievements — both big and small.
Life moves quickly, and I’ve learned the importance of slowing down when needed, being present, and making space for the things and people that really matter.
Professionally, I still have goals and ambitions, but they now sit alongside a stronger focus on balance, wellbeing, for myself, my family and the people I work with.
Doyouhavea favouritetravel destinationortype ofholiday?
I absolutely love holidays, who doesn’t?! — they’ve always been really special to me. Growing up, my parents owned their own business, and my dad was a baker. The only time he ever really took a break was for a month in January when it was too hot to bake.
Every year, we’d pack up the car and head off on a road trip to Queensland to spend time at the beach and by the pool. It was the one time we really got to have uninterrupted time with Dad, and those memories have always stayed with me. Because of that, I’ve always loved to travel and have had some great trips to Vietnam, Singapore but I am always been drawn to beach holidays. There’s something about being near the water that helps me reset and unwind — whether it's swimming, relaxing by the pool, or just hearing the ocean.
My favourite destinations would definitely have to be Hawaii and Fiji. They both offer that perfect mix of beautiful beaches, laidback atmosphere, and time to really disconnect and recharge.
Howdoyou balanceyour personal& professional responsibilities?
Balancing a busy personal and professional life is definitely a challenge, but it’s something I put a lot of focus into. I have two daughters, aged 6 and 10, who are very active with school and extracurricular activities. At the same time, I manage a demanding role overseeing the Brisbane and Adelaide portfolios, so staying organised is absolutely essential.
I rely heavily on my calendar to manage both personal and work commitments. Everything goes in the diary — from meetings to school events — so I don't miss anything important, especially when it comes to my children.
I make a conscious effort to be present for the key moments: attending school events, doing school drop-offs when I can, and being there for the little things. Those small, everyday moments really matter and help me stay connected with my family.
Another important part of maintaining balance is making sure I carve out a bit of time for myself. Whether it’s a quiet walk early on a Sunday morning or a sneaky episode of The Real Housewives with a glass of wine after everyone’s in bed, those little moments of downtime help me recharge and keep things in perspective.
Ultimately, it’s about being intentional with my time. I may not always get the balance perfect, but I prioritise what’s important and stay flexible, so both my work, family and my own wellbeing get the attention they deserve.
Ifyoucouldhave dinnerwithany threepeople,dead oralive,whowould theybe?
First would be my dad, who passed away when I was only 20. There’s so much I’d love to share with him now — about my life, my family, and everything I’ve experienced since he’s been gone. Just having the chance to sit down, talk, and hear his voice again would mean everything.
“Peoplewhoaretruly strongliftothersup,people whoaretrulypowerful bringotherstogether.”
Second would be Michelle Obama. I find her incredibly inspiring — she’s intelligent, strong, and grounded, and I admire the way she carries herself and the positive impact she’s made through her advocacy for women, families, and education. I think her perspective on life, leadership, and balance would make for a really powerful conversation.
And third, Robin Williams one of my favourite actors — not only for the laughter he’d bring to the table, but also because he had such a depth to him beyond the humour. He brought joy to so many people, but also had a real understanding of human emotion. I think he’d remind us not to take life too seriously, and to find lightness even in the heavy moments.
Whatwasyour firstever professionaljob?
My first professional job was as a Front Desk Associate at the Royal Garden Hotel in London. It was an incredible experience — we worked 12-hour shifts and lived in staff accommodation just five minutes from the hotel. Coming from Adelaide, it was a huge step to move to such a big city, and it really opened my eyes to the pace and diversity of the hospitality world. The role gave me the opportunity to interact with a wide range of international guests, and I learned so much about communication, service, and thinking on my feet.
I was actually working there when Princess Diana passed away — the hotel is right next to Kensington Palace, and I remember the first sign something had happened was when members of the press started arriving, trying to access the rooftop to take photos of the Palace. It was surreal. We worked incredibly hard, but we also made the most of living in London and had a lot of fun along the way. It was a formative experience that taught me the value of resilience, professionalism, and enjoying the journey.
TRACEY
What’sonething you’dliketobe knownforinyour career?
I like to be known as someone who is hardworking, fair, and considerate. Someone who shows up, does the work, supports their team, and treats people with respect — no matter the situation.
I believe in leading by example, staying grounded, and making decisions that not only drive results but also reflect integrity and empathy.
If people I’ve worked with remember me as someone they could rely on, who treated them well and pushed for the right outcomes, I’d consider that a success. RegionalGeneralManager