NSW Government offers build-to-rent development homes at Camperdown

The state government’s first build-to-rent development that gives essential workers subsidised rental homes has been revealed for inner Sydney. See the details here.

The development would provide affordable housing for essential workers, as well as retail and commercial centres.

Sydney’s essential workers are set to benefit from new subsidised rental homes, with the first essential worker build-to-rent development revealed at Camperdown.

The state government’s $450m project will transform the former WestConnex dive site into a mixed-use development aimed at easing housing pressure for critical frontline workers.

The new project, by government-owned developer Landcom, will provide at least 200 rental units specifically for essential workers such as healthcare staff, teachers, police officers, paramedics and firefighters.

The units will be offered at discounted rates through a rental subsidy.

About 300 more units will be built, including private apartments and affordable housing options, along with retail spaces and landscaped outdoor areas.

New homes for rent at a subsidised rate are on the way for essential workers in inner Sydney.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said many essential workers struggled to afford housing near their workplaces because of rising rental costs.

“Every single day, essential workers turn up to work and keep our state running, the least we can do is make sure they have access to housing near their jobs at an affordable price,” he said.

The development would provide affordable housing for essential workers, as well as retail and commercial centres.

“That’s why our plan is delivering this well-located, secure and accessible rental housing for the essential workers who keep Sydney running.”

The site – identified through the government’s land audit – has been unused and is well-connected to transport links, and health services including the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

In addition to the Camperdown development, Landcom is also planning to begin work on 110 build-to-rent homes in regional areas such as the Northern Rivers and the south coast this year.

Unused lot targeted for the housing project.

Inner West Mayor Darcy Bryne has welcomed the plan. Picture Thomas Lisson

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the Camperdown project was a key step in alleviating housing pressures for essential workers employed in the inner west.

“The new rental homes will provide greater housing security, choice and affordability for those who serve our communities daily,” he said.

Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne welcomed the project, stressing the need for affordable housing solutions for essential workers in the area.

“For years, people have talked about the Parramatta Rd corridor as being an ideal location for higher-density housing,’’ he said.

“This project will actually make that happen.’’

Construction will begin in 2026 and the first tenants are expected to move in about 2028.