Our History

Established in 1991, Rotary Residential College was created to provide city-based accommodation for students from regional areas pursuing specialised courses. Since then, we have accommodated approximately 1,400 students from over 150 regional towns, growing and evolving to meet the needs of our students.

The history of Rotary Residential College

The concept for a residential boarding facility in Perth began around 1985-86, driven by the Rotary Club of Victoria Park. It emerged from discussions at a Rotary District Conference and was driven by country families’ requests for accommodation for their children attending city schools. The Rotary Club of Victoria Park explored the feasibility of such a facility and, with the support of local and federal representatives, secured funding to establish Rotary Residential College. The college officially opened on February 1, 1991, with Hazel Hawke performing the opening ceremony.

Stage 1: 

The college was developed in three stages. Stage 1, starting February 1, 1991, included the main administration building and three wings, each with 16 rooms featuring private en-suite bathrooms. This set the standard for modern boarding facilities.

Stage 2: 

Due to increased demand from 1991 to 1995, the college expanded. Stage 2 added another wing with 19 rooms and a Recreation Room, bringing the total to 67 bedrooms by 1996.

Stage 3: 

Completed in May 2006, Stage 3 expanded the college further with two new wings: a manager’s flat, a state-of-the-art kitchen, a music room, a computer room, a multi-study room, an aeronautics room, a laundry, and a dining room. The expansion also included six undercrofts, one converted into a gymnasium. This development brought the total capacity to 97 students.

Today, Rotary Residential College can accommodate up to 94 students, providing valuable opportunities for country students to pursue their education in a supportive environment.