University of the the Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience – Thompson Institute Expansion

Overview

Mental Health Research: Mind + Neuroscience Research Facilities

The expansion of UniSC’s Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience – Thompson Institute strengthens the Institute’s role as a national leader in mental health research, clinical care and education. Located in Birtinya, the multi‑million‑dollar project doubles the Institute’s floor area, enabling new research programs and expanded clinical services within an integrated research and healthcare environment.

Designed to extend into the existing car park footprint, the project carefully balances increased capacity with seamless integration into the established campus.

CUTTING EDGE RESEARCH

University Clinical + Education Facilities

The expanded facility accommodates ground floor and mezzanine parking, Level 1 consulting rooms and overnight wards, and Level 2 research laboratories. New spaces support a dedicated Post‑Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) research program, including a PTSD brain bank, alongside youth mental health, suicide prevention, healthy brain ageing and fatigue‑related research.

Consulting, clinical and education spaces are planned to support collaboration between researchers, clinicians, students and the wider community, reinforcing the Institute’s model of integrating research, treatment and training under one roof.

RESPONSIVE DESIGN

Laboratory + Research Spaces

The architectural response prioritises clarity, efficiency and comfort. Clear circulation, adaptable laboratory planning and purpose‑designed clinical spaces support daily operations, while natural light, acoustic control and restrained material palettes create calm, welcoming interiors suited to sensitive consultation and treatment settings.

As the first facility of its kind in Australia, the Thompson Institute expansion enables the translation of neuroscience research into clinical programs, education and community training — supporting improved outcomes for the 1.4 million Australians living with PTSD and strengthening mental health services across the region.

Gallery