About JCU Campuses and Maps Cairns

Cairns Campus

Over 4,000 students study at JCU Cairns, including about 380 international students.

JCU Cairns, Smithfield campus has been named Nguma-bada (pronounced nom-ah-bud-ah), which means belonging to tomorrow: "Place for tomorrow's learning, knowledge and wisdom" from the Yirrgay (Yirrganydji) coastal dialect of Djabugay.

The campus location is spectacular – surrounded on three sides by rainforest-covered mountains. Located near the northern beaches in the suburb of Smithfield, the campus is 15 kilometres (9 miles) north of the city centre.

JCU Cairns, Smithfield (Nguma-bada) houses teaching and research facilities, the JCU library, cafés, bars, fitness and sporting facilities and a wealth of student clubs and societies.

Gigs, social events, sports, academic workshops, market day, BBQs – whatever your interest is, we've got it covered.

The JCU Student Association and JCU International Student Association provide a range of social, sporting and academic clubs and societies meaning there are plenty of ways to meet like-minded students. Take advantage of the outdoor lifestyle and join the Rock climbing or Dive Club or contribute to the local community through JCU’s Amnesty Association. Learn more

JCU Cairns, Smithfield (Nguma-bada) has a large oval and other sporting facilities on campus plus plenty of sporting clubs for participating and making friends. Learn more

Food and drink options are available on campus – whether you want a sit down meal at a café, something on the go, or just a cup of coffee! Learn more

JCU Cairns, Smithfield (Nguma-bada) is home to John Grey Hall of Residence, purpose built, on-campus facility. A range of accommodation options are located close to campus. Learn more