NSW Attorney-General John Hatzistergos told ABC Newcastle this week that plans were progressing on the precinct and he hoped that the university's involvement would help ensure the precinct holds not only state services but also Commonwealth courts. "It's a major project and it's one where there are number of stakeholders involved," he said.

The news follows reports that business leaders in Newcastle have launched a "Fix Our City" campaign, urging the NSW Government to push ahead on the urban renewal plan, which, as well as the legal precinct, will include a new transport system and investment in education facilities within Newcastle's business district.

Two sites have been shortlisted for the legal precinct, with the State Government pitching to have it located close to the existing civic area.