WA university to feature cutting-edge LED displays

The Perth CBD is set to be brightened by a new university campus featuring large-scale LED technology — both inside and out.

Edith Cowan University (ECU) recently revealed the media architecture plan for its new city campus, which is scheduled to open in the first semester of 2026. The $853 million campus will present a finned façade comprising more than 2800 custom LED lattice fixtures; if placed end to end, these fixtures would stretch nearly five kilometres.

The bespoke system will allow video integration across two sides of the campus’s exterior, creating a dynamic public experience for visitors moving through Perth’s city centre.

“This technology has been woven into the structure of the building itself, and will reshape and enhance the face of Perth,” said WA Planning and Lands Minister John Carey.

“We are establishing a beacon that will draw people in, spark curiosity and ignite creativity.

“Our government has invested significantly in this landmark project, which will transform our cityscape and increase vibrancy by delivering a new community of more than 10,000 staff and students in the CBD.”

Inside, the main foyer will feature a four-storey screen that, at 407 m², is anticipated to be one of the largest indoor LED displays in Australia. Wrapping across multiple surfaces, the screen will form an immersive canvas designed for creative displays and public engagement, showcasing a curated program featuring the work of artists and students.

The campus’s advanced digital infrastructure is built on the same technology used in global film and gaming production, similar to that on show at international destinations such as Outernet London, Sphere Las Vegas and the AT&T Discovery District in Dallas.

“Our immersive media architecture is unlike anything seen before in Australia. It offers a powerful platform for collaboration between students, researchers, artists and industry,” said ECU Vice-Chancellor Professor Clare Pollock.

“ECU’s industry and research partners will be able to contribute to the activation of these interfaces in surprising and memorable ways, reaching new audiences, from our students and local communities to international visitors. Together we can create content and experiences that blend art, technology and storytelling in ways that deeply inspire and connect.”

The campus will form the new home of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA); the School of Business and Law; creative humanities programs from the School of Arts and Humanities, including the WA Screen and Media Academy, and technology and cybersecurity programs from the School of Science; and Kurongkurl Katitjin — the university’s Centre for Indigenous Australian Education and Research.

The entire project has been jointly funded by the federal government, the WA Government and Edith Cowan University.

Image credit: iStock.com/Steven Harrie