Regional Victoria’s growing demand for housing has received a major boost, with Wel.Co announcing the successful unlocking of approximately 100 hectares of farmland in Ballan for a new residential community expected to deliver more than 850 homes.
Located an hour north-west of Melbourne’s CBD, the $325 million project will transform underutilised farmland into a thoughtfully planned neighbourhood supported by open spaces, community infrastructure, and recreational amenities.
The site represents one of the largest future housing projects in Moorabool Shire, a region poised for significant population growth in the coming decades.
Wel.Co Founder and Managing Director Andrew Welsh said the approval marks an important milestone in delivering much-needed housing supply to regional Victoria.
“This amendment unlocks a significant new housing opportunity for Ballan and the broader Moorabool region,” he said.
“As project development partner, Wel.Co focuses on identifying strategically located farmland and working closely with councils, government agencies and local stakeholders to help transition land into new communities.
“This outcome reflects several years of work to unlock housing supply in areas of Victoria experiencing strong demand.”
The new community aligns with Victoria’s long-term housing strategy, contributing to the state’s target of delivering 800,000 new homes by 2034, with regional centres expected to absorb a larger share of future housing needs.
“Victoria is experiencing a significant housing shortage, and projects like this are part of the solution,” said Andrew.
“Private enterprise working alongside government is critical to unlocking new housing supply while ensuring communities continue to grow in a thoughtful and sustainable way.”
Beyond delivering hundreds of new homes, the Ballan project will bring a range of community benefits. Plans include an active open space reserve with community playing fields, three local parks, and approximately three kilometres of shared walking and cycling paths along the Werribee River.
Andrew said the design is guided by a desire to support Ballan’s future growth while preserving the town’s country charm.
“Our focus is on creating well-planned communities that provide both new homes and the [amenities] people need to live well. Generous open space, recreational facilities and connected neighbourhoods will help ensure the community complements Ballan’s character while supporting its future growth.
“We commend Moorabool Shire Council and the Victorian government for their constructive and aligned approach in progressing this amendment and helping unlock new housing supply for the region,” he said.
Moorabool Shire’s population is projected to grow by more than 65 per cent over the next 20 years, exceeding 65,000 residents. With this trajectory, developments like Wel.Co’s Ballan community are seen as vital in meeting demand while maintaining liveability in Victoria’s growing regional hubs.
Sales for the masterplanned community are expected to commence in the third quarter of 2026, with further project details to be announced later this year.
