The Minns Labor Government has taken the next major step in delivering the nation's largest social housing renewal, with contracts now signed to commence the transformation of Waterloo South.
Following a competitive tender process, the NSW Government has finalised contracts with Stockland, Link Wentworth, City West Housing, and Birribee Housing. Together the consortium will manage the planning, design, delivery and operations of the renewal.
This project will deliver more than 3,000 new homes in the inner city, within walking distance of local amenities and public transport including the Waterloo Metro. Half of these will be dedicated to social and affordable housing, providing over 1,000 new social homes and 600 affordable homes in the heart of Sydney.
Located on Gadigal land, the proposed plans place strong emphasis on cultural inclusion, improved housing outcomes and greater support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Birribee Housing will lead housing allocations to ensure 20 per cent of social homes and 15 per cent of affordable homes are dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents.
Committed to delivering thriving communities, Waterloo South will be designed with exceptional amenity and dedicated green space, including a two-hectare urban park - the largest delivered in the city in recent times.
To support the area's growth, the revitalisation will deliver new community and retail spaces along George Street, improving access to everyday essentials and local services for residents.
The new precinct is designed to support residents beyond housing, with dedicated initiatives to strengthen community connections, enhance wellbeing, and open pathways to skills development and employment.
With contracts now finalised, the project will progress to the next phase, including site investigations, planning approvals and ongoing community engagement, alongside the staged tenant relocations already underway.
A core priority throughout the renewal is keeping the community together. With new homes available at the Waterloo Metro Quarter, Elizabeth Street Redfern and more than 150 properties offered by City West Housing in nearby developments, current residents will be able to move into new or near-new homes within the local area.
Homes NSW recognises that moving can be stressful and has committed to providing dedicated support to residents to ensure a smooth transition to their new homes. All residents will have the right to return once the renewal is complete.
This renewal is part of the NSW Government's $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, which will deliver:
- 8,400 new public housing dwellings
- 21,000 new affordable and private homes
- Upgrades to 30,000 existing social housing properties
For more information visit: www.nsw.gov.au/homes-nsw/waterloo
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:
"Signing these contracts marks a historic moment for Waterloo and for social housing in Australia. We are not just replacing old homes, we're creating a thriving, inclusive, and well-connected community that honours the rich history of the area.
"With more than 1,600 social and affordable homes, a new two-hectare park, and a commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander housing and cultural inclusion, we are setting a new benchmark for large-scale social housing renewal.
"This is about more than just housing, it's about building a future where everyone has the stability and opportunity they deserve.
"Every tenant will be supported through this process, and every resident has the right to return to a brand-new home once the project is complete."
Member for Heffron Ron Hoenig said:
"I've fought for years for the residents of Waterloo to have the quality housing they deserve.
"Ensuring that all residents are treated with respect and that their wellbeing is front of mind is my priority as this project progresses.
"This renewal will completely transform the estate, giving residents safe, modern homes while preserving the strong community connections that have been built over decades.
"Importantly, we are ensuring residents remain living in the local area during the transition and that they return when the project is complete.
"That right to return is non-negotiable and I'm proud to see it guaranteed under this Government."
Stockland Managing Director and CEO Tarun Gupta said:
"Stockland considers it a privilege to be selected by the NSW Government to develop the Waterloo Renewal Project, alongside our consortium partners, Link Wentworth, City West Housing and Birribee Housing.
"Building on Stockland's 73-year legacy as a leading creator and curator of connected communities, we look forward to working with Homes NSW, our partners, and the community to deliver vibrant and inclusive spaces with high quality homes for all residents.
"We understand the deep responsibility that comes with our selection, and we are committed to delivering the project in a way that respects the community and the important history of Waterloo."
