Across Australia, new neighbourhoods are taking shape, giving both new residents and long-time locals the essentials for everyday living.
Imagine living in a neighbourhood where everything you need is just a short walk, cycle or drive away.
These neighbourhoods are inspired by concepts such as the 20-minute neighbourhood, which promotes living locally by enabling people to meet their daily needs within a 20-minute return walk from home.
According to Colliers, such neighbourhoods can significantly cut traffic congestion and improve air quality, generating economic benefits by saving millions in related costs annually.
We explore new developments creating enduring communities that work for everyone, weaving sustainability and connectivity into the fabric of everyday life.
YarraBend, Victoria
Nestled alongside the banks of the Yarra River and six kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD, YarraBend by Glenvill Developments presents a fresh approach to neighbourhood living.
YarraBend divides 14 hectares into six interconnected precincts. Picture: realestate.com.au
For home hunters who seek character, the heritage section of the development pays tribute to the area’s industrial past when a paper mill stood on site. For those who want modern, serene interiors, the shared amenities do not disappoint.
The masterplan divides 14 hectares into six precincts, which are designed to cater to a range of community needs while connecting seamlessly together.
The Bend is the commercial heart of the precinct, attracting Melburnians to its bespoke offering of boutique shopping and dining, all of which has been carefully curated by Melbourne chef Adam D’Sylva.
From modern Australian dining to expertly fired wood pizza and a gelateria to cap off the night, the centre is shaping up to be a gastronomic drawcard.
A nail bar, spa, chemist and barber cater to visitors’ and residents’ wellness needs.
There are also offerings exclusively for residents. In the Artisan precinct, residents will find The Hub, a social space that offers a rooftop lounge, private dining room, and a cinema.
If relaxation is the goal, the Heritage precinct offers a wellness centre complete with pools, yoga spots and a gym.
Active buyers can currently choose from the precinct’s warehouse-style residences that are on the market, or the Seren Row apartments, which are set to be completed this year.
Cedar Grove, Tasmania
In Launceston, Cedar Grove by Cite Group is creating a setting where community and sustainability thrive.
Cedar Grove includes the Central Market Place and Urban Farm, both advocating sustainable practices. Picture: realestate.com.au
The Central Market Place will be built at the heart of this neighbourhood, encompassing a sustainable urban farm providing fresh produce daily.
It’s also set to feature cafes, dining spots, and healthcare facilities. Connected walking and cycling trails will open up accessible pathways for residents of the new development as well as those from the surrounding neighbours to access this precinct without the need of a car.
At the Urban Farm, locals can get hands-on with workshops, surrounded by the nearby parklands like St Leonards Picnic Grounds.
The landscaped precinct expands the attraction of nearby City Park, which features the John Hart Conservatory, a duck pond and monkey enclosure.
Currently in its early stages, this new estate is offering generous lots sized from 400 to 944sqm as well as house and land packages for buyers who want to live close to this growing village.
Forestville, South Australia
Located two kilometres from Adelaide’s CBD is Peet’s Forestville, a new community focused on health and wellbeing.
Forestville's shared amenities have been designed with Blue Zone principles in mind. Picture: realestate.com.au
The new homes and community precincts in Forestville have been designed around Blue Zone principles. A field of continuous study, Blue Zones have been identified in areas across the world where residents have lower rates of chronic diseases and longer life expectancies.
Forestville attempts to integrate the shared features of these geographic areas to create a community that promotes lifestyles that lead to longevity.
With a healthy social life as a key feature of these locations, Forestville is making a concerted effort to create a thriving communal precinct.
The Agora market square, for example, will provide food and shopping options that highlight local produce.
And the forthcoming Rooftop Farm is set to serve as a vibrant educational hub where people can get hands-on experience with sustainable practices and understand the principles of a circular economy through The Urban Green School.
This new development is currently offering a range of apartments and terrace homes, with move-in slated to begin in 2026.
Orchard Hills, NSW
Set amid rolling landscapes with stunning views of the Blue Mountains, Orchard Hills North blends modern convenience with natural beauty.
Orchard Hills North offers easy access to Penrith's city centre, educational institutions and parks. Picture: realestate.com.au
As the first community to be offered as part of the larger Orchard Hills suburb, this new development is positioned at the heart of significant infrastructure development, with the Western Sydney Airport and its associated transport links on its doorstep.
A new village centre will soon offer shops and a proposed school, making it a lively focal point for the community. Residents can enjoy easy access to the Penrith city centre, educational institutions, and expansive parks, where sporting fields and waterways invite recreation and relaxation.
The Legacy Property development is tailored to meet diverse living needs, with housing options ranging across various lot sizes.
The Parks, Northern Territory
Holtz Land Company’s The Parks is all about active living, set in the stunning backdrop of the Northern Territory.
Making the most of nature, this development will feature four designed and connected parks to cater to the active lifestyles of new residents and neighbours alike.
With over 500 lots designed for easy walking and cycling, this community encourages outdoor exploration and connection to nature.
Residents will find themselves surrounded by native tree-lined streets with direct access to adventure trails that invite exploration and communal enjoyment.
The proximity to schools, water parks, retail shopping, and entertainment venues like community theatres and sport fields ensures that everyone can find something to enjoy.
Central Park, ACT
Bronte Group’s Central Park takes advantage of its surrounding natural landscape and puts it on show for those seeking spaces suited to active lifestyles.
Parkland stretches throughout Central Park and landscaping surrounds all residences. Picture: realestate.com.au
With nature at its core, residents and visitors alike benefit from the development’s landscape-focused approach designed by Harris Hobbs Landscape Architects. Parkland stretches throughout the centre of the site and extensive landscaping surrounds all buildings and residences.
The new development is also located right next to Denman Community Garden & Park, which includes community amenities like BBQ spots, walking trails, and garden beds that invite residents to spend time outdoors.
The nearby Denman Village Shops also offer daily essentials with a supermarket, café, bar, gym and healthcare facilities. As development progresses, locals can anticipate even more conveniences, such as a future cafe planned for the ground floor of the Building A apartments.
This forward-thinking precinct features a mix of modern apartments and townhomes designed to make the most of surrounding green spaces.
Are you interested in buying and building new? Check out our dedicated New Homes section.
English (US) · 