Revised Proposal for Parramatta to Cater to 25,000 Students

The Minns Labor government has revealed an ambitious plan to revamp a 42-hectare site in Parramatta North, responding to the needs of one of Sydney’s rapidly expanding areas.

The proposal includes 2,500 new homes, a university campus capacity for up to 25,000 students, and a significant increase in green spaces for community use.

Situated along the new Parramatta Light Rail line, the site will also play a key role in the Westmead Health and Innovation District (WHID), supporting research, health services, education, and related industries.

The government anticipates the potential creation of 12,000 high-value jobs as a result of the plan.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “The rezoning of Parramatta North is crucial for unlocking the full potential of this precinct—delivering jobs, housing, and open space, and maximizing the benefits of the new Parramatta Light Rail.

Balancing Housing Needs with Green Spaces

The development aims to address Sydney’s housing shortage while preserving open spaces.

About half of the precinct will be allocated for recreational green areas, providing residents with essential communal spaces amidst urban development.

Migration has played a key role in the population growth of Parramatta. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 22.3 percent of Parramatta’s residents are Chinese migrants, with 11.2 percent being Indian migrants, in comparison to the 13.9 percent rate of Australian-born residents.

Rezoning Reform Vital for Affordable Housing

Rezoning reforms are crucial in addressing the broader housing crisis, as noted by the Business Council of Australia (BCA).

The BCA recently highlighted the nation’s struggle to meet the target of 1.2 million homes set by the National Housing Accord over five years.

ABS data reveals that only 176,000 new dwellings were completed during the 2023–24 fiscal year, resulting in an annual shortfall of 64,000 homes.

BCA Chief Executive Bran Black emphasized the urgency of zoning reforms, stating, “We need state and territory governments to release more land for housing across Australia to address this supply crisis. These changes should allow for increased density and height near efficient transportation services, while also preserving the quality of life, green spaces, and heritage of the area.”

Preserving Heritage and First Nations Collaboration

The rezoning plan has been developed with consideration for the cultural and historical significance of Parramatta North.

More than 30 heritage buildings are slated for preservation, and the project involves consultation with the Burramattagal people of the Dharug Nation and the Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council.

“The rich heritage of Parramatta North is integral to its identity, and our development approach reflects a reverence for and celebration of this heritage while planning for the future,” remarked Kamper.

Opposition Pushes for Bipartisan Housing Reforms

The New South Wales Coalition is advocating for bipartisan cooperation to address the state’s housing challenges.

Opposition Leader Mark Speakman has called for a roundtable discussion to modernize planning laws.

“We have proposed a bipartisan roundtable to bring together key stakeholders and implement reforms that streamline approvals and unlock new housing opportunities. While we anticipate the government’s response to our proposal, we welcome the premier’s positive remarks and look forward to collaborating to achieve outcomes that benefit families and communities throughout the state,” he stated on Jan. 1.