NSW government’s innovative plans for social housing

The New South Wales government’s response to the growing need for social housing, Communities Plus, is well underway.

The $22 billion renewal plan aims to deliver 40,000 private residences, 500 affordable homes and 23,000 new and replacement social homes in the next 10-12 years.

Ivanhoe, Telopea, Waterloo, Riverwood, Arncliffe, and Redfern comprise the major projects. The government plans to develop mixed-use precincts in these areas to take advantage of the new railworks and provide better access to improved community facilities and open spaces.

This is not only beneficial to the immediate community and those in need of affordable housing options, but it also has positive effects which ripple throughout the neighbouring suburbs.

Image: City of Sydney — Waterloo Precinct

For instance, the Telopea Precinct masterplan includes dedicated open spaces, a new community centre, and a potential town centre near the light-rail stop. This north-west region of Sydney has remained under-developed, meaning limited retail and dining opportunities for residents in both the immediate community and neighbouring suburbs such as Epping. 

With the introduction of a new town centre and the new rapid transit Sydney Metro Northwest station to be completed later this year, the entire Telopea Precinct is set to become a vibrant and thriving hub. For those looking to get a foot in the door early, Jade and Poly Horizon in Epping are the perfect opportunities. Both are just a short 15-minute drive from the action and close to the transport links for which Epping is so popular.

The original Arncliffe Precinct has been rezoned to implement the Bayside Precinct’s 2036 plan. The 1.33-hectare site will include a town centre in addition to improved cycling and walking paths, as well as the revitalisation of the Princes Highway Corridor to ensure it is a safe place for pedestrians. Surrounding coastal neighbourhoods, and residents of apartments such as Veridian in Kogarah, will be within minutes of the new precinct and its improved connectivity and accessibility. 

Image: Communities Plus — Arncliffe Precinct

Closer to Sydney’s CBD, Waterloo is the project which has made the most progress since the government first introduced Communities Plus. A preferred masterplan has been prepared based on expert advice and feedback from local residents and is in the first round of approval stage.

Over the next 15-20 years, the masterplan proposes the creation of 6,800 new homes — with 60% of buildings remaining 7 storeys or lower. The plan also includes 3 hectares of safe open spaces, including new public parks and landscaped boulevards. George Street will be transformed into a tree-lined pedestrian boulevard 20-25 metres wide with water features and good lighting, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for residents.

Locals from Zetland and Redfern Park will enjoy driving proximity to the new retail and dining spaces, while those who have purchased at Teneo Alexandria and The Gentry will be within walking distance of these carefully considered community spaces.