The NSW Government has revealed concept designs and plans for how the former WestConnex dive site in Annandale will be transformed into around 577 new homes, including 220 dedicated to build-to-rent housing close to the city for essential workers.
It marks an increase on the number of homes first announced in February after further housing potential was unlocked on the site, increasing the number of build-to-rent homes for essential workers by 20.
“Housing is the single largest cost of living pressure people face and this block of land has sat unused for years – so we’re using it to help deliver essential housing for essential workers,” said Premier, Chris Minns.
“Essential workers keep our city running everyday but too often they are being priced out of inner-city locations close to where they work.
“This project will deliver hundreds of homes that will cut both costs and commute times for it’s residents, while allowing workers to build a life close to their jobs, allowing them to deliver world class public services.”
The Masterplan includes:
- 220 build-to-rent units, for essential workers like health workers, teachers, police officers and firefighters will be offered at a discount to market rent;
- Approximately 357 additional units including market and a portion of affordable homes;
- Ground-floor retail or commercial space;
- Landscaped public outdoor spaces for people to meet, relax and socialise, including a central plaza with lush native greenery, shaded seating areas, and public art;
- New pedestrian links between Parramatta Road and Pyrmont Bridge Road, enhancing neighbourhood connectivity.
The project is currently under assessment with construction of the build-to-rent housing expected to start in 2026, pending approval. It’s expected the first essential workers will move in around 2028.
“This project will transform unused government land in the heart of Sydney into hundreds of new homes for essential workers that are well connected to transport, shops and green public spaces,” said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully.
“This is an example of density done well and thanks to smart planning by Landcom we’ve increased the number of build-to-rent homes for essential workers from the original 200 to 220.”
The Annandale site is the first secured by Landcom as part of the NSW Government’s $450 million build-to-rent essential worker housing program, with Landcom investigating additional sites in Sydney to complete the rollout of 400 new build-to-rent homes for essential workers.
“This is an exciting era for Landcom, our first build-to-rent development in an urban area,” said Executive General Manager Built Form Landcom, Andrew Cooper.
“The Joinery Annandale’ brings together the best of the Inner West, blending well-designed homes, shops and public space with the area’s rich history and character.
“We want to build a legacy development that contributes to the neighbourhood, creating a place that future residents will be proud to call home and supporting them to become part of the community.”
The NSW Government will retain ownership of the build-to-rent housing in perpetuity, with tenancies managed by a suitable operator. Details about eligibility criteria, how to apply and the rental subsidy will be available closer to project completion.
For further information, visit: www.landcom.com.au/annandale.
