The local government area of Shellharbour is standing on the edge of a big decade.
Once an agricultural hotspot, this slice of the NSW coast is attracting new residents drawn to living close to nature. Major projects are underway to support that growth and provide the opportunity for an affordable lifestyle.
Big changes are on the way for Shellharbour, and the area is committed to keeping its diverse mix of housing even as it expands. Image: Getty
Located on the NSW South Coast, roughly 100km south of Sydney and just south of Wollongong, the LGA spans waterfront suburbs like Shellharbour Village and Shell Cove, as well as growing western communities such as Calderwood and Tullimbar.
Two major state-led rezonings are now being progressed, expected to unlock around 5,700 new homes across Shellharbour City Centre and the new Shellharbour Hospital precinct and cement the city’s future as a health and innovation hub.
For new Council CEO Wayde Peterson, the task now is to steer Shellharbour’s next wave of growth so it remains coherent and sustainable.
“Here in Shellharbour our mission is to continuously improve the quality of life of our community."
In his view, that involved planning for diverse housing in the “right locations” and creating a connected network of parks, waterways and green spaces to link neighbourhoods with the natural environment, which he knows is a big part of the area's appeal.
“The city has evolved from our agricultural roots into a thriving, connected community with excellent health and education facilities, vibrant town centres and stunning coastal landscapes."
In recent years, the population has grown to more than 84,000 with further increases forecast over the next two decades. The city is supporting major projects in two key locations right now to ensure the housing is in place to support that growth.
Shell Cove: A reinvigorated waterfront
In Shell Cove, a harbour and marina community on the coast just south of Shellharbour Village, property developer Frasers has a number of projects in the works, each playing a different role in delivering one of the South Coast’s most ambitious master-planned communities.
“Shell Cove is a 30-year project now entering its final development phase, with the delivery of major pieces of amenity, including a new man-made harbour with 270-berth marina and breakwater, shopping centre and dining precinct,” explained Mathew Gulliver, Frasers Property’s Shell Cove development director.
Housing diversity is at the core of that plan. “One of Shell Cove’s great strengths is the diversity of its housing offering, with a wide range of options available, from detached homes to town homes through to apartments... all in a coastal location of great natural beauty.”
New amenities are attracting residents to Shell Cove. Image: realestate.com.au
At The Waterfront, residential land, homes and townhouses wrap around the harbour, marina and town centre, giving buyers the choice of parkside, beachfront or absolute harbourfront lots in a thriving waterfront community.
The masterplan is organised so that everyday life orbits the water – from boat berths and harbourside walks to cafés and playgrounds just back from the marina edge.
Portella, Frasers’ latest apartment release in the town centre, brings that mix into focus with higher-density living in the heart of the village.
Mr Gulliver commented that the project “really met the market with some of the most competitive pricing offered within Shell Cove in some time” and highlights its rooftop terrace with 360-degree views over the marina and hinterland, complete with resort-style pool and BBQ areas.
At the prestige end, Frasers is offering marina-front apartments such as Vela for an up-close waterfront lifestyle.
The diversity of buyers reflects Shell Cove’s long runway.
“Buyers from within the broader Illawarra region make up a major part of the buyer mix, along with downsizers, particularly in the case of our apartments,” Gulliver explained. Given the project’s three-decade timeline, Frasers is also seeing repeat buyers returning to upsize, downsize or secure a second property in the community they know and love.
“We see Shell Cove as both a community and a major regional destination in its own right,” Gulliver said.
New amenities continue to layer in, including the soon-to-open Crowne Plaza Shell Cove, which will bring five-star accommodation to the marina and help cement the precinct as a regional destination for visitors as well as residents.
Artist's impression of Fraser's Portella development once complete. Image: realestate.com.au
Calderwood: The hinterland comes out of hiding
In the west of the LGA, Shellharbour’s next chapter is taking shape in the growing suburb of Calderwood, where master-planned land estates are expanding choice for buyers looking for detached homes in a green valley setting.
“Stockland communities like Calderwood Valley play an important role in providing more accessible and affordable housing options for young families looking to buy their first home,” said Stockland project director, Mike Milligan.
“The Shellharbour region is known for its coastal lifestyle that keeps people close to everything they need, and we’re seeing more young families want to live in the area.”
As Calderwood grows, Mr Milligan said residents are looking for more than just a house.
“We know residents want well-designed homes and quality facilities that reflect the local area, with enough space for their children to grow. That’s why we’re prioritising easy access to transport links, shops, essential services and open spaces for people to stay happy, healthy and active."
Calderwood Valley is proving popular for families seeking detached houses that offer space to grow. Image: realestate.com.au
Nearby at Cascadia, developed by Sekisui House, the escarpment and valley landscape have shaped the entire masterplan.
“Cascadia was inspired by the natural beauty of the Illawarra escarpment and the desire to create a neighbourhood that feels connected – both to nature and to each other,” said Craig Barnes, sales and marketing director.
Elevated land with district views over the valley, Lake Illawarra and nearby beaches, future walking and cycling trails and two planned parks are all designed to prioritise “walkability, green spaces, and a sense of belonging.”
“We’ve taken a thoughtful approach to design, blending contemporary architecture with the landscape to create a place that feels grounded and enduring,” Mr Barnes said.
He reported that interest is coming from both Illawarra locals and Sydneysiders seeking that tree-and-sea change mix.
“It’s about more than a home – it’s about creating a lifestyle that reflects the best of coastal and hinterland living.”
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