University of Melbourne wins 2026 CoreNet Global award for Technology Innovation

The University of Melbourne has received the ‘Technology Innovation Award’ at the 2026 CoreNet Global Australia Chapter REawards, recognising its use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology and analytics to create more connected, responsive and people-focused campuses.

Across the University’s seven Victorian campuses, the Smart Campus IoT network brings together data on space utilisation, timetabling, indoor environmental conditions and building systems to improve decisions around cleaning, maintenance, building comfort and the use of space.

More than 3,000 connected devices, including people counters and environmental sensors, provide real-time insights on how University spaces are being used. This enables the University to better understand demand, identify issues and target services and resources where they are needed most.  

By bringing data and analytics into everyday operations, the University is moving from decisions based primarily on historical knowledge and assumptions towards a more evidence-led approach. It is also enabling closer collaboration with service delivery partners, giving teams access to relevant information to support decisions at the point of service delivery.

The University’s Director, Campus Operations and Delivery, Ken Lynch said the award reflects the commitment and collaboration of teams across the University and its delivery partners.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this industry recognition from CoreNet Global. The award recognises the University’s use of data, connected technology and new ways of working to improve university operations and the experience of people who learn and work across our campuses.

“By connecting data such as space utilisation, timetabling and indoor air quality, our teams and contractors can better understand demand, respond to issues and direct services where they are needed most.

“The University is committed to a culture of continuous improvement and finding new opportunities to improve the way we operate our campuses by leveraging our operational data and building a culture of continuous improvement.”

The University of Melbourne was also runner-up in the ‘Sustainability and Wellness Leadership Award’ for embedding circular economy principles across its estate, including capital works, waste operations, events, procurement and community engagement.

CoreNet Global is a leading association for corporate real estate professionals, representing nearly 10,000 members across 50 countries. The organisation supports the corporate real estate sector through education, networking and research.

The annual CoreNet Global Australia Chapter REawards recognise excellence and innovation across the corporate real estate sector.