Melbourne’s Victoria Barracks, a 5.7-hectare heritage-listed site on St Kilda Road, faces redevelopment into parks, schools, and housing under a new council master plan. The proposal emerges amid discussions on the federal government’s intent to sell the historic military property.
Council’s Vision for the Site
Lord Mayor Nick Reece describes the potential sale as a “once in a generation” opportunity for Melbourne. “If we get this wrong we will never live it down,” Reece stated at a recent council meeting. He emphasizes the need for thoughtful development to serve the city for the next century.
The ivy-clad bluestone structures, built in the 1850s to accommodate British troops during the Eureka Rebellion, hold significant history. The federal sale of similar sites in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane could generate $1.3 billion. The council’s draft plan prioritizes heritage preservation, public open spaces, a prep-to-year-12 school, residential units, and arts and cultural facilities.
Southbank’s Rapid Growth Drives Demand
Southbank, one of Australia’s fastest-growing and densest neighborhoods, houses over 22,000 residents, projected to reach 44,500 by 2043. The area lacks sufficient parks, playgrounds, and barbecue areas. It has only one primary school and no secondary option, making the barracks an ideal spot for a comprehensive school and community-focused cultural venues near theaters and the National Gallery of Victoria, Reece notes.
State Government Pushes Back
A Department of Education spokesperson counters that local needs are addressed by South Melbourne Primary School’s new 2029 campus and the recently opened Port Melbourne Secondary College. “At this point in time there are no plans to construct an additional new school in Southbank,” the spokesperson said.
Push for Pre-Sale Planning Controls
Reece urges planning restrictions before any sale to avoid prioritizing commerce over community. “The current Commonwealth disposal process puts sale before planning and that, in terms of the community, is putting the cart before the horse,” he said. The council seeks a stronger role in decisions.
Councillor Olivia Ball stresses affordable housing. “I’m not convinced we have a shortage of expensive housing… What we have a shortage of is housing that can be afforded by people on modest incomes,” she remarked.
Community and Stakeholder Concerns
David Hamilton of residents’ group Southbank 3006 opposes high-rise apartments, favoring open spaces, schools, kindergartens, and neighborhood centers. He highlights Southbank’s unplanned development history and calls for recognition of the site’s heritage, including the 1917 War Cabinet Room used by three prime ministers during World War II. Protected by law, Hamilton wants public access, unlike its current restricted status.
The group supports family affordable housing aligned with local height limits. RSL Victoria president Dr. Mark Schröffel advocates a full cost-benefit analysis covering sale proceeds, relocation, remediation, and replacement costs before planning advances. “From RSL Victoria’s perspective, it is premature to be presenting what the site could look like, until all of this occurs,” he said.
Senate Inquiry Underway
A Senate inquiry into the Defence assets sale, including Victoria Barracks, continues with hearings this month. Over 100 submissions have been received. The Planning Institute of Australia recommends a comprehensive planning assessment prior to sale to align with housing, infrastructure, and economic goals. “Once land is sold, the opportunity to shape these outcomes is significantly constrained,” the institute states in its submission.
