$5b development: Build it and they will come

THIS massive $5 billion development has been touted as a model for other new communities, with shops, cafes, schools, sports grounds and playgrounds going in long before houses and lots are sold to fill them.

THE massive $5 billion Aura development on the Sunshine Coast has been touted as a model for other new communities, with shops, cafes, schools, and sports and playgrounds going in long before houses and lots are sold to fill them.

The Stockland development, south of Caloundra, has reached the first 10 per cent of the 50,000 population expected to ultimately call Aura home.

Kimberley and James Mueller, with baby Lennon, at their new home at Aura. Picture: AAP/Josh Woning

Stockland acting general manager David Laner said putting in the infrastructure before the people was a conscious move by the developer. It says it is creating 20,000 direct jobs and the same again in indirect jobs over the next 30 years.

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With 746 sales in just 12 months, it is also one of the fastest-selling parts of Australia, with prices ranging from $209,600 for a 271sq m lot to $373,900 for a 642sq m lot; and a two-bedroom terrace from $349,000 to builds topping $800,000.

Retail manager James, and primary school teacher Kimberley, Mueller moved in just a few months ago and last week brought their first child, Lennon, home.

“It was the opportunity to build in a new estate,” Mrs Mueller said.

“It’s our first home and we really like the parks and the walking tracks.

“We’ve got really good neighbours and a great community.”