The Victorian government has approved a significant development project in Box Hill, set to bring over 1,700 new homes to Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny announced the approval of the Box Hill Central North Masterplan, a $1.57 billion project that will transform the area into a mixed-use precinct.

The development will feature seven multi-storey buildings, including 1,700 homes with a 10 per cent affordable housing contribution.

The project also includes a new civic plaza, public open spaces, and improved pedestrian and bike paths within a landscaped setting.

Located near the future Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) Box Hill Station, the development aligns with the government’s vision for SRL East, which aims to deliver 70,000 new homes across six station precincts.

The project was fast-tracked through the government’s Development Facilitation Program, designed to streamline planning processes for priority projects that boost economic investment and create housing opportunities.

Minister Kilkenny emphasised the importance of the development, stating: “Box Hill is one of our fastest growing communities and this project will bring more than 1,700 new homes right next to the Suburban Rail Loop — helping us deliver more homes close to jobs, services and great public transport”.

This approval is part of the Victorian government’s broader strategy to address population growth and housing demand.

With Melbourne’s population projected to reach the size of London by 2050, the government aims to enable the construction of 800,000 new homes over the next decade.

The Box Hill Central North Masterplan development represents a significant step towards creating more housing in established suburbs, providing opportunities for young people to live near where they grew up and reducing growth pressure on Melbourne’s outer suburbs.