Hamton Property Group, a Melbourne-based private developer, has received planning approval for a major residential development on the former University of Melbourne site in Hawthorn.
The $550 million project, set to transform the inner-city landscape, will deliver a visionary nature-based premium neighborhood.
The approved development includes:
- Six low-rise buildings
- 365 residences
- 5,500 sqm of new publicly-accessible green space
- A new retail village
This significant project is one of the largest to be approved under the Allan government’s accelerated Development Facilitation Program, which aims to streamline the application process for eligible projects.
The approval process for this development has been notably swift:
- March 2022: Joint application submitted by Hamton and the University of Melbourne
- March 2024: Hamton settled on the purchase of the site from the University
- June 20, 2024: Permit application lodged with the Department of Transport and Planning
- September 12, 2024: Permit issued
The approval timeframe of just two months and 23 days demonstrates the efficiency of the Development Facilitation Program.
Paul Hameister OAM, Founder and Executive Chairman of Hamton, expressed satisfaction with the approval process, stating: “This approval by the Minister is a great example that the Development Facilitation Program works. It has enabled this new significant housing supply in a high demand area of Melbourne where there are no other large development sites. The Program has brought forward this project by around 12 months.”
Hameister also highlighted the challenges facing the development industry, noting that high construction costs have eroded project viability across the country.
He sees accelerated planning approval timeframes as one way to address these challenges.
Hamton engaged extensively with the local community during the rezoning process, considering the views of the Council and surrounding residents.
The project aims to address Victoria’s significant housing undersupply, particularly in inner-city markets.
Hamton has already begun construction of a sales display gallery on-site.
An expression of interest campaign is scheduled to commence in late October, with a public launch planned for February 2025.
This landmark development is poised to create a rare opportunity for buyers in the premium suburb of Hawthorn, contributing significantly to Melbourne’s housing supply and urban landscape.