<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA</a>&nbsp;doesn’t just rise over North Sydney, it redefines it. Now in its final release, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>’s $1 billion architectural statement is not just complete, but already reshaping the way people live, connect and dine in this rapidly evolving harbourside CBD.

Positioned beside the new Victoria Cross Metro Station and boasting panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, Aura’s 386 residences crown a mixed-use precinct designed with unapologetic ambition. The curvaceous sandstone-inspired form by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, paired with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richard Stanisich</a>’s understated interiors, sets a design tone that’s both monumental and intimate.

At its peak, literally, the two penthouses so spectacular they command their own names; La Davina and Il Magnate. The residents are spread across the&nbsp;entire top floor, offering what many consider the most refined residences ever built in North Sydney. Designed by Richard and Kirsten Stanisich, each four-bedroom home is meticulously crafted to evoke calm, space, and permanence.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VB70993aG-I?si=adRBlXQliYmYvaSz" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The kitchens are fully wrapped in natural stone, with integrated Gaggenau appliances, Sub-Zero fridges, concealed sculleries, and even a zip hydro tap delivering boiling, chilled and sparkling water on demand. A linear stone fireplace anchors the open-plan living space, dividing lounge and dining zones with quiet sophistication.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292861]

The master suite, meanwhile, feels more like a private retreat, complete with a custom stone makeup vanity, walk-through dressing area, and spa-inspired ensuite with heated stone floors, a freestanding Villeroy &amp; Boch tub, and timber veneer joinery throughout.

Kirsten Stanisich, Director of Richards Stanisich, said the penthouses offer incredible scale reflective of a single residence.&nbsp;

“We sought inspiration for these remarkable residences from the classic top-floor Parisian apartment," Stanisich said.

"We looked at what made these French apartments so elegant and found it really came down to their scale. It was ultimately this generosity of space that we used for the AURA penthouses, where we’ve designed considered rooms with deep large-scale proportions."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

Everyday living at Aura feels no less elevated. A dedicated 24-hour concierge, Technogym fitness centre, sky dining terraces, and a resort-style pool serve a lifestyle designed to rival luxury hotels.

At street level, Aqualand’s own hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, curates a precinct of LA-style bistros, Japanese fine dining, and local wine bars, all seamlessly integrated into the building’s sculptural podium.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

This final chapter, aptly dubbed The Finale, is more than a sales phase, it’s an invitation to two of the most exclusive apartments ever to be built in North Sydney.

With limited residences remaining, buyers can access curated incentives including stamp duty rebates, rental guarantees, legal fee coverage, and even $20,000 towards dining within the precinct.

From generous one-bedders to The Icons, two singular penthouses priced well into prestige territory, Aura’s offerings reflect a scale and calibre rarely seen in urban Sydney. And with move-in now immediate, this is no longer a promise of future luxury. It’s happening.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Staff Writer

Aqualand unveils penthouse collection at AURA By Aqualand in North Sydney

There’s no sign of the development wave that began several years ago slowing along Old Burleigh Road.

Around 10 new apartment developments are either underway or preparing to launch along the 800-metre strip stretching from the southern edge of Surfers Paradise towards the heart of Broadbeach, collectively adding just shy of 1,000 new apartments to the beachfront corridor.

The latest plans propose a further 30 apartments to replace an original six-unit walk-up on a 658 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/20a-old-burleigh-road-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">20A Old Burleigh Road</a>. The 14-storey building has been designed by Ferro Chow Architecture, which recently joined the Elevation Architecture Group.

The developer behind the project is Geoffrey Booth, whose Future Liv In has focused on delivering rental accommodation across regional Australia.

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99d393e7-d404-43bc-80cb-6255c39b83d6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ZFT8F3mOny4M4ut.kFF3woC9WH9oR5gT" />

The Old Burleigh Road development will comprise 18 two-bedroom apartments, 10 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom residence occupying the entirety of level 12. Above, the building will be crowned by a two-storey penthouse with its own private lift, several multi-purpose rooms, and two rooftop terraces — one featuring a puppy lawn and spa, the other offering a private swimming pool, sunset deck, and built-in barbecue.

Resident amenities will be located on the second level and include a pool with adjoining spa, cabana, and pool deck, along with an indoor residents’ lounge featuring a bar and an alfresco barbecue kitchen.

In the architectural statement submitted by Elevation Architecture, the project is referred to as “UMI”, which the firm says has been “inspired by the majestic hinterlands and shaped by the coastal climate”.

“It is an exemplar of how community living can still feel at one with nature, breathable, and deeply connected in place,” the architects noted.

They added that the site benefits from established building separation to adjoining towers, helping to maintain privacy, sunlight, and residential amenity, while still offering direct beach access within an urban setting.

“Drawing inspiration from the Gold Coast hinterlands and the region’s natural landscape, the podium and tower detail highlights the contrasting elements of treetop green and cliff-face peach. The vibrant texture and materiality shaped by time has a richness in depth and character.”

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3d6c923-a0ab-4d74-86da-177313447e8e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.38%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=i2fygmoVQM6hWpbATTAW_yTitoMTrnI1" />

Old Burleigh Road has become a hotspot for developers, with the three-tower Jewel development kickstarting a wave of projects up and down the strip when it was completed in 2020.

Currently under construction and approaching completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/faro-broadbeach-123-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">FARO Broadbeach</a> by 5Point and Bottega, 21 large-scale half- and full-floor apartments. 5Point is also behind the recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumara-108-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Lumara</a>, another 37 apartments to add to the pipeline.

Luxury builder GRAYA is progressing construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/enclave-by-graya-118-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Enclave</a>, its first Gold Coast tower, while Polycell remains the most active developer on the street. They are preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sandpiper-broadbeach-155-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Sandpiper</a>, a 50-storey redevelopment of the former Sandpiper Holiday Resort that will deliver around 200 apartments alongside extensive resident amenity. The group also has another 130-apartment project approved nearby, as does <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/dvb-approved-for-second-broadbeach-apartment-development">Dean Gallagher’s DVB Projects</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Old Burleigh Road apartment development wave continues

Sunshine Coast developer Habitat Development Group continues to position itself as one of the region’s largest new apartment developers.

Its latest project is in Maroochydore, where it is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-millwell-2-millwell-road-east-maroochydore-qld-4558">The Millwell</a>. Adjacent to the new 53-hectare Maroochydore City Centre project, Habitat is planning a further 180 apartments on a 3,468 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/132-136-aerodrome-road-maroochydore-qld-4558">132–136 Aerodrome Road</a>. The site was purchased with approval for a smaller 13-storey, 103-unit building.

Habitat will demolish the two existing retail centres, currently home to the Salvation Army Family Store and Neighbours Aid, and replace them with an 18-storey building featuring the significant rooftop amenities that have become a hallmark of Habitat developments in recent years. The rooftop will include both indoor and outdoor spaces, anchored by an infinity swimming pool.

<img alt="Maroochydore" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad434d07-666b-4614-b33e-530ad6a2d261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.33%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7pyLsPWKQuwv0us3_v.9DmbzEc2VZe9Z" />

There will be a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments.

The Development Assessment Report, submitted to the Sunshine Coast Council, says the proposal&nbsp;is not speculative, but a response to both zoning intent and demonstrated housing need.

“The proposed development represents an appropriate and logical intensification of the site, consistent with the planning framework and the intended urban outcomes for the locality.”

Across the Sunshine Coast, councils are increasingly scrutinising not just height or yield, but whether new projects genuinely align with the long-term structure plans underpinning growth corridors. The&nbsp;ASTP Planning Report&nbsp;reinforces the approach, noting that the project has been shaped around site responsiveness rather than generic typology.

“The development has been designed to respond to the physical constraints and opportunities of the site, while delivering a high-quality residential outcome that integrates with the existing and emerging urban context.”

<img alt="Habitat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a03fc54-4ca5-4868-88d0-eeced70604e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.28%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=1pkK3lJrrZjkghTLBReM2zatcas4Nc4B" />

In mid-2025, Habitat, a developer that also builds its own projects, commenced construction on The Millwell, located just over one kilometre from the new proposal. The Millwell will comprise more than 200 apartments across two eight-storey buildings.

Habitat also has two projects on Lake Kawana in Birtinya: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-clair-birtinya-930-931-waterside-retreat-birtinya-qld-4575">St Clair</a>, a 200-unit, two-building development launched last year and set to welcome buyers this year; and Esperance, a 175-apartment project currently progressing through the development approval process.

First look: Habitat continues to bolster Sunshine Coast apartment pipeline with Maroochydore development plans

John Camilleri, the breeder of legendary racehorse Winx, is set to deliver a landmark two-tower beachfront development that would redefine the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Camilleri, who spent around $100 million acquiring development sites across the Gold Coast in 2025, has lodged plans for two new towers on the dress-circle stretch of Garfield Terrace, just two days before Christmas.

In assembling the site, Camilleri's Celestino Developments has effectively acquired the 71 Garfield project by Iris Capital and AALTO by Weiya Holdings, creating an unrivalled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">4,000 sqm beachfront holding along Garfield Terrace</a>.

The proposal comprises two residential towers of 55 and 48 storeys, linked by a dramatic skybridge which will home “exclusive VIP and wellness amenities.”

In total, the development would deliver 275 two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments across the two towers, rising above a shared landscaped podium that incorporates a central green space and a beachfront swimming pool stretching more than 90 metres.

<img alt="DBI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="097900f3-6bef-4919-b168-b08f2f762876" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.37.58%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=et0SpmcvaPPVrexI_zWi46BVFtZBxAzx" />

Architecture firm DBI, in documents submitted to Gold Coast City Council, said the project at 63–79 Garfield Terrace would “establish a new benchmark for beachfront residential living on the Gold Coast.”

"The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience. Together, the 48-storey North Tower and 55-storey South Tower form a distinctive twin-tower composition whose dynamic silhouette will make a significant contribution to the Surfers Paradise skyline."

DBI said the architectural language draws inspiration from the fluidity and movement of the coastal landscape.

"Each tower is defined by organic, curving forms and continuous balcony ribbons that wrap the buildings, providing deep shading, enhancing environmental performance, and reinforcing the rhythmic, sculptural expression of the façade. These balcony forms also reduce the apparent mass of the towers while maintaining strong visual continuity from podium to summit. Sculpted reflective downturns run along the western spine of both towers, shifting and lifting as they extend upwards to frame service zones and open eastward to maximise ocean views."

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2a00ce3-a0e9-45d6-b4b5-b7baed592ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.40%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=DnruWV1dhLrtXOeElwekyd7vPq2gw55t" />

The project’s most striking feature is the skybridge at level 45, which will house executive lounges, formal dining spaces, wellness facilities and panoramic ocean-facing views.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI added.

The podium will host an extensive suite of recreational amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a large open green lawn, and the signature 90-metre pool stretching along the beachfront. The pool is divided into lap, lounge and children’s zones.

The southern end of the podium will accommodate additional wellness facilities, including a gymnasium, plunge pools, treatment rooms and a dedicated yoga lawn.

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee1b4f25-231f-4804-83b1-a573a1481962" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.55.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zObzIA3D5w7EwqPsHjr2pKrA4vbB28zL" />

There will be 127 apartments in the North Tower and 148 in the South Tower, including multiple penthouses, while the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages will be activated by a series of food and beverage tenancies.

Camilleri emerged as the most active site acquirer on the Gold Coast in 2025. He spent just over $30 million acquiring Pacific Point, a 10-level Surfers Paradise apartment block and an adjoining three-level duplex, from fellow racing identity and Aquis billionaire Tony Fung. Plans are now underway for a 93-apartment, 40-storey tower on the 1,682 sqm site.

He also paid $53.65 million for the 1,500 sqm Garfield Terrace site previously marketed as AALTO by Weiya Holdings, before acquiring the adjoining parcel from hotel billionaire Sam Arnaout’s Iris Capital, the developer behind V&amp;A Broadbeach.

First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge

The Melbourne-based HLA Group is the latest developer to expand into South East Queensland, lodging plans for a unique mixed-use short-term accomodation and apartment building in Taringa, with the building design inspired by the Glasswing Butterfly.

The development application for 10 Morrow Street seeks approval for a total of 232 dwellings, comprising 116 residential apartments and 116 short-stay accommodation units. The build-to-sell residential component is made up of 31 one-bedroom apartments, 67 two-bedroom apartments, 17 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom apartment, offering a diverse mix aimed at singles, couples, families, and downsizers.

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33913cd4-9839-4456-b325-d35b3f8b4694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=sLvc7jUrYzDwqPDZBPrXTosKHDSp.qrt" />

Designed by Ellivo Architects, the tower takes strong inspiration from nature, with the architectural language driven by one of Queensland’s most delicate species. As described in the planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council, Ellivo Architects state the design is “inspired by the elegance of the Glasswing butterfly," and mirrors the graceful sweep of its wings, a form that feels light, fluid, and alive.

“Lush subtropical greenery is throughtfull woven throughout, transforming the building into a sanctuary in the heart of the city.”

The proposal positions the building as more than a conventional residential tower, with Ellivo Architects describing 10 Morrow Street as “an urban oasis that blends short term accomodation with residential living. A destination for rest, relaxation, and renewal.”

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84e9a0ff-464e-4973-bffe-5d5a8fe9f087" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.32%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dhX9eVgUaQE2TvCzJPhF8N8_hzYSKpyK" />

Formally, the building’s massing and floorplate are directly shaped by its butterfly inspiration. Ellivo explain that, “adopting the wings of the Glasswing Butterfly, the tower's plan is divided into four distinct quadrants, each shaped to mirror the wing's segmented geometry and taking the slender ‘veins’ up the facade of the tower.”

"This approach results in a sculpted tower form with articulated façades and a strong vertical expression."

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5947011d-ff6c-4a57-bdc1-9072a472a79c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.29%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=nnGqd4WCZM8AOJZY.c3u49BO4LurKRhb" />

The Assessment Report by Human Habitats said the 19-storey tower capitalises on its strategic connectivity and prominence at the entrance of Taringa Village and adjoining the Taringa Station.

"The proposal offers a significant revitalisation of the subject site that integrates architectural excellence, innovation, and sustainable design to directly address long-standing connectivity and safety challenges, housing supply , and diversity together with enhanced streetscape activation and convenient access to major transport corridors."

HLA Group Australia is registered to South Yarra and is currently delivering Adamson No.5, just 15 luxury apartments that start from around $2 million.&nbsp;

The Butterfly Effect: Glasswing butterfly inspires Taringa apartment development

Victorian Planning Authority

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The Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) and Monash Council is inviting members of the community to have their say on the PMP Printing site in Clayton as part of Phase 2 of its community engagement process.

The PMP Printing precinct is a 10-hectare site located on the corner of Carinish Road and Browns Road in Clayton currently zoned for industrial land uses. Currently occupied by a printing factory, manufacturing at the site has significantly decreased over recent decades, according to the VPA.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/pmp-printing-site-plan.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="10-hectare site located on the corner of Carinish Road and Browns Road in Clayton. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="368" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/pmp-printing-site-plan.jpg?itok=9qh6P_8o" title="10-hectare site located on the corner of Carinish Road and Browns Road in Clayton. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>10-hectare site located on the corner of Carinish Road and Browns Road in Clayton.</figcaption></figure>The VPA's vision is to renew the 'Strategic Site' as a predominantly residential neighbourhood supported by a mix of businesses, pedestrian friendly streets, a town square and local parks for active and passive use.

<blockquote>
The PMP Printing site has the potential to accommodate a large share of Monash’s future population growth, providing opportunities for people to live and work within the municipality. The renewed precinct will have a higher density and greater mix of housing than the surrounding established suburbs of Monash. 

The precinct will transition from lower scale three storey townhouses adjacent to existing neighbours up to eight storey buildings towards the centre of the precinct. Commercial buildings along Carinish Road are also proposed up to eight storeys.

- Victorian Planning Authority
</blockquote>

To achieve its vision for the site, the VPA has prepared a concept plan outlining the development intent at the PMP Printing site to ensure that the proposed density is served sufficiently with an appropriate level of infrastructure. This concept plan has been informed by earlier community engagement and technical reports. 

The delivery of infrastructure is being carefully considered by the VPA against the following principles:

<ul>
<li>Principle 1 - The 20 minute neighbourhood</li>
	<li>Principle 2 - Transport</li>
	<li>Principle 3 - Open Space</li>
	<li>Principle 4 - Building design</li>
	<li>Principle 5 - Employment</li>
	<li>Principle 6 - Housing affordability and diversity</li>
</ul>
Following phase 2 of the community engagement process, the concept plan will form the basis of the comprehensive development plan for the site, which will go through a planning scheme amendment process. The VPA and Monash expect to undertake further community engagement during the Amendment advertising process.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/pmp-printing-site-community-newsletter-february-2019.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the PMP Print site renewal. Image: VPA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="425" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/pmp-printing-site-community-newsletter-february-2019.jpg?itok=k4C1B5iV" title="Artist's impression of the PMP Print site renewal. Image: VPA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the PMP Print site renewal. Image: VPA</figcaption></figure>The PMP site is located within <a href="/developments/clayton-vic-3168">an area of Clayton undergoing significant change</a>, with the neighbouring former Clayton Primary School site to the north due to be redeveloped into a residential village known as Eastwood. Located at <a href="/buildings/eastwood-monash-clayton-29-browns-road-clayton">29 Browns Road</a>, Eastwood will comprise 147 apartments in addition to 72  townhomes, around a common green space, and connected by leafy pedestrian-friendly streets.

To the south on the opposite side of Carinish Road, Cedar Woods is in the throes of redeveloping the former Sigma site into a master planned community called Jackson Green. <a href="/news/cedar-woods-launches-huntington-at-jackson-green-in-melbournes-south-east">As mentioned on Urban.com.au last week</a>, Cedar Woods has launched the third building in the development, Huntington which has already experienced strong sales enquiries.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/eastwood_huntington.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="L-R: Eastwood and Huntington"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="181" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/eastwood_huntington.jpg?itok=lusvFAHU" title="L-R: Eastwood and Huntington" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>L-R: Eastwood and Huntington</figcaption></figure>To get involved and have your say on the future redevelopment of the PMP Printing site <a href="https://vpa.vic.gov.au/project/pmp-printing-strategic-site/p/key-principles-pmp/">click here</a>. The VPA will be accepting community input and feedback until the 22nd March.

Lead Image: Victorian Planning Authority
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

VPA and Monash seek community input for PMP Printing Strategic Site

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The Victorian Planning Authority has been busy in many corners of the city and state but today we'll have a look at one precinct renewal project that is tucked away in Melbourne's outer south-east, the Berwick Health and Education precinct.

On land that used to host the Casey airfield, the planning work the Victorian Planning Authority has undertaken in consultation with stakeholders would see a longer-term transition for an entire precinct located to the south of Berwick station.

Chisholm TAFE and Monash University for many years were the lead tenants in the area with their respective Berwick campuses inhabiting both sides of Clyde Road.  Federation University now owns and operates the former Monash Campus.

In 2010, the public selective-entry Nossal High School opened next to the University campus and in the previous decade, Casey Hospital opened on its site adjacent to the railway line.  

Since then, the local private hospital - St John of God - has opened a new campus opposite the publicly funded Casey Hospital.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/berwick_he_1.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Future Urban Structure at the Berwick Education and Health activity centre. Image: VPA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/berwick_he_1.png?itok=_Z43wM2Y" title="Future Urban Structure at the Berwick Education and Health activity centre. Image: VPA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Future Urban Structure at the Berwick Education and Health activity centre. Image: VPA</figcaption></figure>Using the local code - Amendment C207 to the Casey planning scheme - the work undertaken by the VPA and other stakeholders has been split in two parts.  Part 1 covers the land you see in the map above.  Part 2 includes a smaller parcel of land located north of the railway line and to the west of Clyde Road.

Amendment C207 will include rezoning Part 1 land from various existing zones to Comprehensive Development Zone 2, insert a new incorporated document titled 'Berwick Health and Education Comprehensive Development Plan, April 2017' and amend a schedule to set a 5 per cent public open space contribution rate for non‐residential subdivision and retain a 10 per cent contribution for residential subdivision.

The areas to the south of the railway line and west of Clyde Road has for multiple decades hosted light industrial employment and wholesale outlet uses and immediately adjacent to Berwick station, many automotive and fast food business inhabit the land.

Over the long-term, as per the future urban structure, the land around Berwick station would transition to have commercial/trade uses at ground level with apartments above in buildings ranging from 4 to 6 stories.

Land around the edges of the University campus and High School will be office/commercial in focus with minimum building heights set at 6 levels.

New pedestrian connections across the Monash Freeway and railway corridor to the east of Berwick station are also on the cards.

Part 1 on Amendment C207 has been finalised and was submitted for approval in September 2018.  It is anticipated to accommodate up to 8,500 jobs, 11,300 students, 751 hospital beds and 1,025 high-density dwellings.

For more information on the Berwick Health and Education precinct, see <a href="https://vpa.vic.gov.au/project/berwick-health-education/">vpa.vic.gov.au</a>.
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Alastair Taylor

Spotlight on south-east Melbourne: Berwick Health and Education precinct

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The Victorian State Government has today released the<a href="https://vpa-web.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/ARDEN-VISION_2018_WEB.pdf"> final Vision for the Arden urban renewal precinct</a>, which represents the first step in establishing the Arden precinct.

The Arden precinct currently occupies 50 hectares of former industrial land bound by Macaulay Road, Dryburgh Street and the Moonee Ponds Creek, which is set to become a mixed-use precinct providing housing and employment opportunities.

Minister for Planning Richard Wynne, Minister for Major Projects Jacinta Allan and Lord Mayor Sally Capp were on hand at the site of North Melbourne Station to release the Vision.

Arden is envisaged as a new jobs hub supported by affordable housing and directly serviced by the new North Melbourne Station (formerly Arden Station) which is currently underway as part of the $11 billion Metro Tunnel project.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/fogarty_street_arden.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artists impression of the Fogarty Street boulevard. Image: Arden Vision"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="409" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fogarty_street_arden.jpg?itok=2mq3y1rp" title="Artists impression of the Fogarty Street boulevard. Image: Arden Vision" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artists impression of the Fogarty Street boulevard. Image: Arden Vision</figcaption></figure>The new North Melbourne Station will connect Arden which is situated on the doorstep of the city to Parkville, the CBD and Melbourne’s booming western suburbs.

The Vision outlines a plan to transform Arden into a major employment and residential destination accommodating up to 34,000 jobs and housing options for up to 15,000 people.

<blockquote>
Arden will be a new destination for Melbourne, setting the standard for urban renewal. It will contribute to a future Melbourne that is not only the world's most liveable city, but also one of the most forward-looking.  

...

The precinct will have its own civic heart and character. It will remain connected to its Aboriginal and industrial heritage as it changes to support a diverse resident and worker population. It will become a new neighbourhood of Melbourne with quality and affordable housing, a thriving network of open spaces, active transport links, and adaptable community facilities, schools and work spaces.

Arden will be at the forefront of sustainable development, embracing new ways to live, learn, work and travel in an energy efficient district.  Water will be safely managed to become a visible feature in the landscape, while green spaces, trees and water will help the precinct become a cooler, greener version of the city.

The Moonee Ponds Creek corridor will be revitalised as a new green spine for Melbourne. It will be a celebrated waterway with a valued environmental and cultural heritage, serving recreational, biodiversity habitat and active transport functions. The creek corridor will be an essential link for Arden and neighbouring urban renewal precincts.

- The Vision for Arden excerpt
</blockquote>

The Vision is the result of the extensive community consultation undertaken since 2016, and provides a set of actions to guide the redevelopment of Arden.

Actions include providing an accessible precinct for young and old, facilitating the change from an industrial precinct to an innovation precinct and delivering a strong investment in community infrastructure.

A future Arden will be environmentally sustainable with well-connected open spaces, and cycling and walking paths, for the local community to enjoy.

The State Government and City of Melbourne will now work together to prepare detailed planning for the precinct. Local community members and businesses will have the opportunity to have their say as planning for this vital project for Melbourne continues.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/arden-precinct-civic-heart-680x450.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's Impression of Arden Precinct's Civic Heart. Image: Victorian Planning Authority"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/arden-precinct-civic-heart-680x450.jpg?itok=x0RhmngV" title="Artist's Impression of Arden Precinct's Civic Heart. Image: Victorian Planning Authority" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's Impression of Arden Precinct's Civic Heart. Image: Victorian Planning Authority</figcaption></figure><h2>Arden Vision at a Glance:</h2>

Arden will:

<ul>
<li>Create a new destination for Melbourne that is a great place to live, learn, work and visit</li>
	<li>Accommodate more than 34,000 jobs and 15,000 residents by 2051</li>
	<li>Deliver a major transport hub around the new North Melbourne Station</li>
	<li>Enhance the Moonee Ponds Creek corridor to become a valued asset for existing and new communities and the natural environment</li>
	<li>Create two new urban boulevards which will create a civic heart for Arden</li>
	<li>Build on Parkville’s growing role as a technology, life sciences, health and education precinct</li>
	<li>Provide at least 6 per cent of all new housing in the precinct as affordable for low to moderate income households</li>
	<li>Reinforce natural and built heritage to create a new character for the precinct</li>
	<li>Be developed under urban design guidelines that build on Arden’s evolving character</li>
	<li>Be protected by innovative solutions to manage flooding, make better use of water and expand spaces for recreation and biodiversity</li>
	<li>Deliver innovative community hubs and two to four new schools.</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/northmelbourne_laurenstreet_1024x576.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="North Melbourne Station will be a catalyst project for the Arden Precinct. Image: Metro Tunnel"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/northmelbourne_laurenstreet_1024x576.jpg?itok=_Gm4xp0p" title="North Melbourne Station will be a catalyst project for the Arden Precinct. Image: Metro Tunnel" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>North Melbourne Station will be a catalyst project for the Arden Precinct. Image: Metro Tunnel</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
We’re getting on with growing Arden to be a great place to live and an exciting place to work and visit. Matthew Guy botched inner city planning. We’re getting it right to create jobs, and deliver the public transport, homes and services Victorians need.

-  Richard Wynne, Minister for Planning
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The Metro Tunnel will be in the heart of the Arden precinct – making it a great place to live and work, and connecting it to the rest of our city and state.

- Jacinta Allan, Minister for Major Projects 
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We’re looking forward to partnering with the Victorian Government, together with our community, to put in place the right planning, infrastructure and community needs to deliver the Arden Vision.

- City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Cr Sally Capp
</blockquote>
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Final Vision for the Arden Precinct released

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This week Laurence &amp; I sit down with Stuart Moseley, the CEO of the Victorian Planning Authority.

We talk about the role the Victorian Planning Authority plays in the state, the challenges Victoria may face and where consultation is heading in the context of new ways to undertake it.   We also chat about Melbourne's employment clusters and how the VPA interfaces with other government departments and authorities.

You can also subscribe to the podcast through <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/urban-melbournes-weekly-podcast/id1356864009?mt=2">iTunes</a>!

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/425516658&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=false&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>

 

 

 
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Weekly Podcast: Episode 9 - Special guest Stuart Moseley, CEO of the Victorian Planning Authority

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Last month the Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) appointed Stuart Moseley as its new CEO just prior to the introduction of the Victorian Planning Authority Act 2017 on 1 July, which reinforces the VPA's role as the state’s key strategic and place-based planning authority.

The VPA is a Victorian Government statutory authority that reports to the Minister for Planning and whose main objective is to ensure Melbourne and Victoria’s regions "remain great places to live."

Mr Moseley is a registered planner and PIA Fellow with 30 years of experience in planning, urban management and project delivery, including as chief executive of the City of Adelaide. Before joining the VPA, Mr Moseley worked as the Deputy Director General (Planning Group) for the Queensland Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning, and has previously worked in consulting and in the New South Wales and South Australia governments.

Urban.com.au asked Mr Moseley to provide a bit of insight into his new role as CEO of the VPA and to discuss some of the work the authority does and challenges they face.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/arden-precinct-civic-heart-1024x576_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Arden Urban Renewal Precinct is just one of many VPA projects. Image: VPA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/arden-precinct-civic-heart-1024x576_0.jpg?itok=7EWVf2vW" title="The Arden Urban Renewal Precinct is just one of many VPA projects. Image: VPA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Arden Urban Renewal Precinct is just one of many VPA projects. Image: VPA</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au: Are you able to provide some insight into your role as CEO of VPA? What are some of the outcomes you're hoping to achieve?

Stuart Moseley: At the VPA our job is to unlock growth of state-significant areas, precincts and sites on Melbourne’s expanding urban fringe, in Melbourne’s existing suburbs and in our regional cities and towns.

As CEO it is my role to lead a talented team of planners, engineers, mapping specialists and demographers to ensure we plan for the growth of Victoria over the next 30 years.

As planners we must be adept at casting our minds well into the future to anticipate the infrastructure, housing, employment and other needs of our population. We often create plans that will guide particular areas’ growth and investment for many years to come – having an indelible print on Victoria’s fabric – so it is important we consult widely and get the planning right.

We take a broad, birds-eye view of our state and plan strategically. Local councils also play an essential role in planning for change in their municipality, but as a state authority we take a Victoria-wide approach to planning. I am hoping to strengthen the VPA’s relationships with various stakeholders, to achieve effective planning outcomes for Victorians.

UM: The VPA works closely with a number of stakeholders from developers to local community groups in addition to other government bodies such as Development Victoria. Can you discuss the difference in roles and responsibilities between the VPA and Development Victoria as I think a lot of people have a difficult time keeping up with the various government bodies which focus on planning and development particularly with the numerous restructures over the last 5 years.

SM: I understand there are a lot of government authorities to keep track of! The primary difference between us and Development Victoria is that we are a planner, while Development Victoria is a developer.

We undertake planning and rezoning, for precincts comprising either public or private land, while Development Victoria develops publicly owned land and delivers projects on that land.

The VPA is primarily focused on land use planning for areas undergoing significant change. It is our job to ensure these areas have appropriate infrastructure, planning zones and regulations to succeed. For example, in our growth areas we are often responsible for rezoning land from farming to urban uses, which leads to the creation of new integrated communities. Our priority is to make sure these new areas will be great places to live.

Therefore, our precinct structure plans include land use overlays that reserve land for particular uses – whether that be a new school, a future train station or a park. We collaborate closely with an extensive range of stakeholders – such as education providers, facility providers and VicRoads – to guarantee positive outcomes for the future community.

UM: And further to the above what is the relationship between the VPA and the Minister for Planning's office?

SM: The VPA reports to the Minister for Planning, undertaking planning projects according to the Minister’s priorities.

The Minister has a Department that advises him on high-level strategies (like Plan Melbourne and the regional growth plans), on planning legislation, on the operation of the planning system and the setting of state planning policies. Our job is to give effect to all of these requirements by delivering plans for particular areas and sites.

UM: How does the VPA approach these large scale urban infill projects to achieve the best outcomes for the sites while balancing the needs and desires of the community and other local stakeholders with government policy?

SM: One of our most publicised planning projects is for major urban renewal at Arden. Arden is a future jobs hub in North Melbourne based around a new Metro station that will become an extension of the central city, being a base for 34,000 jobs and 15,000 residents.

Last year the Minister for Planning launched our draft framework plan for Arden, and invited members of the community/stakeholders to have input into this plan. We also held several engagement forums with community members and business owners – standard practice across all of our plans. We are now in the process of finalising the framework plan and will incorporate some of the suggestions raised by community members.

Balancing the needs of various stakeholders and community members is no easy feat, but we pride ourselves on our open door policy and the fact we engage very widely when creating plans. Planners must be strong negotiators, have an ability to adapt plans where necessary and be willing to sit down with a wide range of groups. We pride ourselves on doing just that to ensure we create places that people want to live and enjoy.

UM: And lastly, what do you see as some the greatest challenges facing Greater Melbourne at the moment and how do you see the VPA's role in addressing these?

SM: One of Greater Melbourne’s biggest challenges involves planning for the unprecedented scale and pace of population growth. The VPA plays a key role by ensuring our new neighbourhoods (be they on the urban fringe, in renewal areas or in our regional cities and towns) provide for new jobs, housing and open spaces and coordinating the infrastructure and services needed to support them.
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VPA's new CEO Stuart Moseley discusses his new role

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The path Broadmeadows and surrounds will take in order to become a successful urban renewal showcase has become all the more clearer.

The Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) and Hume City Council have released the draft Greater Broadmeadows framework plan that, in time, will guide the area's transition from a somewhat maligned suburb to a precinct that can fully realise its potential. 

Key to Broadmeadows’ renewal and growth are a handful of major transport and infrastructure projects that will capitalise upon the area's already strong transport links.

<blockquote>
Broadmeadows already has so much key infrastructure and with the right planning and investment, we are sure the suburb will become a powerhouse of Melbourne’s north.
<cite>VPA Acting Chief Executive, Steve Dunn</cite>
</blockquote>

Chief amongst these is the transformation of Broadmeadows' town centre; initiating increased development along with a heightened pedestrian experience are key targets of the freshly released plan. The notation of diversified housing types within the town centre points toward the arrival of higher density housing stock.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image66_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Broadmeadows itself can expect heightened development activity. Image: VPA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66_6.jpg?itok=78h6yjS_" title="Broadmeadows itself can expect heightened development activity. Image: VPA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Broadmeadows itself can expect heightened development activity. Image: VPA</figcaption></figure>Also on the agenda is the push toward making the Meadowlink strategic priority area a thriving, 20-minute neighbourhood. This in part depends upon a significant expansion of the Meadowlink cycle network that will ultimately link four of the five priority areas within the Greater Broadmeadows framework plan.Also in line for change is the Maygar Barracks site, the Campbellfield business hub and the Upfield Ford site.

An increasing population and the need to diversity the area's jobs base have been highlighted by key figures within the Greater Broadmeadows framework plan. It's anticipated that by 2050, an extra 20,000 people will call the the Greater Broadmeadows area home, whilst jobs may expand from 27,000 in 2011 to as many as 60,000 by 2050.

From a public transport infrastructure standpoint, an extension of the Upfield train line and a new train station at Campbellfield can also be expected.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image65_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Five Hume precincts are earmarked for renewal. Image: VPA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image65_2.jpg?itok=YGfr2206" title="Five Hume precincts are earmarked for renewal. Image: VPA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Five Hume precincts are earmarked for renewal. Image: VPA</figcaption></figure>Hundreds of hectares of land has been identified as subject to urban renewal within the Greater Broadmeadows framework plan. Post a public comment period that runs until 26 May, the VPA will finalise the plan then submit it to Hume City Council and the Minister for Planning for approval.

A result of two years of scoping and consultation, the draft Greater Broadmeadows framework plan can be viewed <a href="https://vpa.vic.gov.au/project/greater-broadmeadows/">here</a>.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LyoXizgw-04" width="100%"></iframe>
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