Ginninderra CSIRO site could yield 3000 homes but won't break ground until 2030
Survey work begins on the ACT's $385 million Ginninderra CSIRO purchase; 3000 homes possible but first subdivision not until 2030.
Canberra's government bought Ginninderra East, the former CSIRO land, in July 2026 for $385 million. The 243-hectare plot in the city's north could eventually hold more than 3000 homes, with 15 per cent built as affordable, community or public housing.
A contractor has just begun a full site survey that will take four months. After that, the Suburban Land Agency must update the Territory Plan to allow urban development.
This process is expected to take about 18 to 24 months. Only then can detailed planning for individual neighbourhoods begin, another 12 to 18 months of work.
Subject to all approvals, the first subdivision approvals are expected in the first half of 2030. The survey will map ground levels, vegetation, drainage and site conditions to guide future planning decisions.
- $385 million
- Purchase price
- 243 hectares
- Site size
- More than 3000
- Potential homes
- First half of 2030
- First subdivision
Why it mattersCanberra is banking on this site to ease its housing shortage, but years of planning and approvals mean residents won't see homes appear before the end of the decade.
AustraliaGinninderra East represents a major land release for Canberra's growing population, but the 3000-home target and affordable housing commitment depend on approvals that won't begin until 2027.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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