Brisbane’s iconic riverfront is set for a once-in-a-generation redevelopment with the selection of international property giant Lendlease to undertake the transformation of the historic Visy site in South Brisbane.
The ambitious 7.1-hectare project, located just 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD between South Bank and West End, will breathe new life into one of the city’s last remaining industrial riverfront parcels.
Currently occupied by Visy’s glass recycling and manufacturing facility, the site will be unlocked to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside a vibrant, mixed-use community precinct.
Central to the design is 1.2 hectares of publicly accessible open space, featuring a network of riverfront promenades, boardwalks, plazas, parklands, and an amphitheatre.
It will also establish key pedestrian and cycling connections to integrate the precinct seamlessly into the surrounding inner-city network.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the project would deliver a new community precinct.
“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Bleijie said.
“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes.”
To fast-track the project, the government recently declared the site a provisional priority development area (PPDA), which will streamline assessment and approval processes.
The project is expected to create a major economic boost, supporting around 2,100 jobs annually during construction and 1,000 ongoing roles upon completion.
Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston expressed excitement over reimagining the iconic location, noting it will create a lasting legacy for the city.
Meanwhile, Business South Bank CEO Janine Watson welcomed the single-proponent approach but stressed the need for local infrastructure, such as schools and public transport, to keep pace with the influx of new residents.
The site is scheduled to be handed over for redevelopment in April 2027, with a public masterplan consultation opening for community feedback early next year.
