A prime, industrial slice of Brisbane’s riverfront is set for a major transformation, with the Queensland government unveiling plans for more than 4000 homes in South Brisbane.
The Queensland government has announced plans to redevelop the Visy industrial site in South Brisbane into a mixed-use precinct that could include more than 4000 homes.
Currently home to Visy’s glass recycling and manufacturing operations until 2027, the 7.1-hectare site has been described by Premier David Crisafulli as “an opportunity for generational renewal of South Brisbane”.
An artist's impression of the new precinct. Image: EDQ
The vision includes potential entertainment spaces, riverfront promenades, event lawns, and housing designed to meet growing inner-city demand.
Located just 1.3km from Brisbane’s CBD, the site was purchased by the state in 2022 with the initial aim of transforming it into the International Broadcast Centre for the 2032 Olympic Games.
Following the Crisafulli government’s 100-day review, those plans were halted. The focus has now shifted to housing, with the state confirming it will invite developers to submit proposals through Economic Development Queensland (EDQ).
The announcement comes as part of a broader push to boost housing supply, with two existing priority development areas in Woolloongabba and Northshore Hamilton.
“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape Brisbane’s inner city and deliver lasting benefits,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“While we are getting the Games back on track, there is much more to be done to deliver for Queensland’s future, and we remain committed to delivering the fresh start we promised.”
The new precinct could have more than 4000 new homes. Picture: Getty
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the redevelopment would complement the council’s South Brisbane Kurilpa Precinct plan, which already earmarks more than 5000 homes.
“Our plan means we’re able to deliver new homes in an area where more people want to live while protecting the character of Brisbane’s suburbs,” Mr Schrinner said.
“Our planning has helped transform areas like James Street and Howard Smith Wharves, and the Kurilpa Plan will do much the same for South Brisbane.”
Developers interested in the project can submit proposals via EDQ’s website. Submissions will be shortlisted before EDQ decides whether to proceed with a consortium or individual partners to develop formal agreements.
If approvals and partnerships proceed as planned, construction on the former Visy site could begin in March 2027.
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