As the ACT moves to unlock more “missing middle” housing, one suburb is already showing how the reforms can work, delivering well‑designed townhomes and low‑rise apartments woven throughout the area.
The long‑anticipated reforms, taking effect from July 1, 2026, are opening the door to more low‑rise housing types such as terraces, townhouses, duplexes and triplexes, along with apartments up to two and three storeys.
Miru by Bisa Property features 46 low‑rise townhomes. Picture: realestate.com.au
They form part of the Territory’s broader push to boost housing supply and help deliver 30,000 new homes by 2030, with a focus on housing types that sit between detached houses and high‑rise apartments.
The changes include removing barriers in the planning system and allowing more housing options across RZ1 and RZ2 residential zones, increasing the amount of land where low‑rise, medium‑density housing can be delivered.
Alongside the planning reforms, the ACT government will also release the Missing Middle Housing Design Guide, aimed at lifting the quality of medium‑density housing by protecting street character, retaining trees and ensuring denser development does not unreasonably impact neighbours.
While the reforms are only just coming into effect, there are already real‑world examples across Canberra that reflect these principles. The ACT government has highlighted some through an interactive map, but one suburb in particular is leading the charge.
A growing suburb built around medium density
Located in the Molonglo Valley about 15 minutes from Canberra’s CBD, Denman Prospect is a masterplanned suburb developed by Capital Property Group.
It has become known for its mix of low‑rise apartments, townhomes and terraces, set alongside green corridors, parks and village‑style retail.
Several developments in Denman Prospect closely align with the ideas behind the “missing middle” reforms, showing how medium‑density housing can deliver choice, liveability and strong design without the scale of high‑rise living.
Here are seven developments that help paint that picture.
Park Lane
Park Lane by The Folio Group is a low‑rise collection of two‑ to four‑bedroom townhomes, offering 11 different floorplans to choose from.
Park Lane offers two- to four-bedroom townhouses with 11 floorplans to choose from. Picture: realestate.com.au
Homes feature walk‑in pantries, full laundries, master suites with walk‑in robes and secure garaging with internal access. Courtyards front streets, cycle paths and park edges, helping activate the public realm.
With double glazing, LED lighting and zoned ducted heating and cooling, Park Lane reflects the idea of “gentle density” – medium‑density housing that prioritises long‑term comfort and neighbourhood connection.
Edition 116
Roland Development Group’s Edition 116 combines one‑ and two‑bedroom apartments with three‑ and four‑bedroom townhouses in a single low‑rise precinct at The Reserve.
Edition 116 offers both apartments and townhomes in one low-rise precinct. Picture: realestate.com.au
Townhouses offer direct ground access and optional lift provisions, while architecture and interiors by DNA Architects and Studio Black focus on light, views and natural materials.
It is also close to the Molonglo River corridor, nearby trails and open space, encouraging a strong connection to nature.
Elm Lane
Elm Lane brings together apartments, townhomes and duplexes, including single‑level and multigenerational layouts.
Elm Lane has apartments, townhomes and duplexes on offer across four blocks. Picture: realestate.com.au
Across four architecturally distinct blocks, there are 12 different floorplans to choose from, and pocket parks and shared outdoor spaces
Townhomes and duplexes have individual street addresses, letterboxes and side‑by‑side parking.
Denman Peninsula
Denman Peninsula focuses on larger, premium townhomes ranging from 182 to 235 square metres, with multiple living zones and high‑quality finishes.
Denman Peninsula offers premium townhomes from 182 to 235 square metres. Picture: realestate.com.au
Features such as home lift options, dual garages and EV charging provision make these homes suitable for downsizers and families seeking space without moving back to a detached house.
The development also features landscaped courtyards and direct access to the heritage trail.
Miru
Miru is a boutique development of 46 low‑rise townhomes, designed around elevation, views and orientation.
Miru offers a selection of two and three bedroom townhomes. Picture: realestate.com.au
Each home includes rooftop solar, private fully fenced courtyards and double garages, with flexible layouts offering up to three living areas.
Despite its density, the development maintains privacy and outlook.
Central Park
Central Park offers a mix of townhomes and apartments within a landscape‑led masterplan, anchored by a central green spine designed by Harris Hobbs.
Central Park features townhomes and apartments across a low-rise development. Picture: realestate.com.au
Extensive landscaping, pedestrian connections and a future café at ground level support daily amenity and walkability, while EV charging to all residences reflects changing buyer expectations.
The Borough
The Borough sits at the upper end of the missing middle spectrum, with apartment buildings featuring high ceilings, winter gardens and robust, industrial‑inspired finishes.
Apartments at The Borough feature high ceilings with industrial-inspired finishes. Picture: realestate.com.au
Communal spaces, rooftop gardens and shared landscapes help offset smaller private areas, while proximity to shops, transport and recreation makes it well suited to urban‑style living.
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