Melbourne Advances Transit-Oriented Housing Growth

Victoria approves 20-storey towers near 25 train stations, with Brunswick and Coburg tallest

Melbourne Allows 20-Storey Towers Near Train Stations

Melbourne's getting taller near its train stations. The Victorian government released finalized planning controls allowing high-rise apartments up to 20 storeys in 25 inner and middle-ring suburbs, Premier Jacinta Allan and Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny announced. The reforms tie building heights to proximity to public transport, with the tallest towers approved near Brunswick and Coburg train stations.

Transit-Oriented Development Strategy

The planning reforms create 'Train and Tram Zones' where development density increases closer to transit infrastructure. Seven zones sit along the new Metro Tunnel corridor, including Carnegie, Murrumbeena, Hughesdale, Oakleigh, Middle Footscray, West Footscray and Tottenham stations. Minister Kilkenny described the public consultation as "the biggest consultation ever undertaken in this state's history." Four and six storey apartment blocks will be permitted across all 25 centers, with height allowances scaling up based on distance from transit stops.

Height Limits Vary by Location

Brunswick and Coburg received approval for the tallest buildings at 20 storeys near their train stations. Parts of Hampton, Oakleigh, Hawthorn and Kew will allow 16-storey buildings, while 12-storey apartments will be permitted in North and Middle Brighton along the Sandringham line despite recent community protests. The government claims these transit-oriented zones will unlock capacity for more than 300,000 homes in the outlined areas by 2051, though the Victorian opposition has stated it'll tear up the plans if it wins the state election in November.

Phased Implementation Timeline

The 25 suburbs announced represent the first phase of the planning overhaul. Another 25 areas are still being planned, with final plans expected to be released in the middle of the year. The reforms take effect immediately for the announced suburbs, allowing developers to submit applications under the new height limits. Officials didn't specify transition arrangements for projects already in the approval pipeline under previous planning controls.

Impact on Transit Riders

The density increases near train and tram stations will bring more residents within walking distance of public transport, potentially increasing ridership on Melbourne's rail network over the coming decades. Riders can expect more crowded platforms during peak periods as the new developments fill with residents, though officials said transit capacity planning will account for population growth. Moovit provides real-time crowding information and alternative route suggestions for Melbourne's train and tram network.