Brisbane Council Approves High-Density Zoning Near Major Shopping Centres, Sparks Affordability Debate
Brisbane residents could soon see a surge in apartment construction near key retail hubs, as the City Council approved new precinct plans for Upper Mount Gravatt and Chermside’s Westfield shopping centres. The move, part of a broader urban densification agenda, aims to increase housing supply and reduce reliance on automobiles, but has ignited a fierce debate over housing affordability.
The plans, passed with bipartisan support from the LNP, Labor, Greens, and an independent councillor, will allow for taller, more densely populated buildings in proximity to public transport links. Mount Gravatt’s shopping centre benefits from its location alongside the new Brisbane Metro line, while Chermside’s is positioned near a proposed future Metro extension.
Council Prioritizes Supply, Rejects Affordable Housing Mandates
Despite the broad consensus on increasing density, a key point of contention emerged during the council vote. The LNP rejected proposals from the Labor opposition to incorporate affordable housing targets within the precinct plans.
According to one councillor, mandating affordable housing would “make development less financially viable for developers.” He emphasized that “96 per cent of housing in this city is delivered by the private sector,” and that excessive conditions could stifle construction. He further stated that developers “cannot afford to build low-end housing.”
Opposition Warns of Luxury Developments Pricing Out Families
Labor’s opposition leader countered that the plans, as approved, will exacerbate the existing housing crisis, enriching developers while pushing working families out of these established suburbs. He questioned the benefit of “$2 million units” and rents of “$900 per week,” arguing they do little to address the needs of ordinary people.
“It’s radio silence from the LNP because they don’t care about housing affordability,” he asserted, predicting a future of “unaffordable luxury apartments” in Mount Gravatt.
Densification Strategy Includes Reduced Block Sizes and Parking Requirements
The approved precinct plans are the latest step in the council’s push for increased density. Within the current term, the council has significantly reduced minimum block sizes to just 120 square metres and eased car parking requirements for new developments.
Other areas targeted for similar precinct plans include Stones Corner, Wynnum Central, Salisbury, Moorooka, and Alderley.
Next Steps: State Government Approval and Detailed Rezoning
The Upper Mount Gravatt and Chermside precinct plans will now be submitted to the Queensland government for approval. Upon their return to the council, detailed plans will be finalized, including specific rezoning areas and maximum building heights.
The council’s strategy hinges on the belief that increasing housing supply is the primary solution to Brisbane’s housing woes, a position firmly advocated by the Lord Mayor. The success of this approach, and its impact on affordability, remains to be seen.
