Official Opening - The Halston, North Strathfield
New Landmark in Affordable Housing Welcomes Residents
The first residential project to be completed under the NSW Government's new affordable housing policy was officially opened today by the New South Wales Premier, Chris Minns.
Developed and built by Urban Property Group, The Halston is a landmark 172-apartment development in North Strathfield, featuring 29 affordable homes for essential workers and 15 purpose-built apartments for NDIS residents.
The Premier was joined at the official unveiling by key government and industry leaders, including Paul Scully, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Rose Jackson, Minister for Housing and Anoulak Chanthivong, Minister for Building, Better Regulation and Fair Trading, celebrating the first residential project delivered under the NSW Government’s 2023 Affordable Housing reforms.
The $185 million project in Sydney’s inner west was, until three years ago, an industrial estate. Urban CEO, Patrick Elias, said the project marked a cornerstone in property development and reflected the company's commitment to creating inclusive and vibrant communities.
“The Halston is more than just a building - it’s a blueprint for how we can deliver inclusive, high-quality housing at scale. For Urban, this project represents our dedication to creating places that are affordable, future-ready and designed for real community impact,” Mr Elias said.
The Halston is the first project completed under the NSW Government’s 2023 In-fill Affordable Housing Bonus, part of the updated State Environmental Planning Policy (Affordable Housing SEPP), to accelerate the delivery of affordable and social housing. The policy offers incentives such as increased floor space ratio and height bonuses for eligible projects.
The affordable and specialist disability accommodation (NDIS) housing will be managed by My Life Community Housing and designated for essential workers and people with disability who are often priced out of the private rental market.
One essential worker resident delighted to now call The Halston home is Lorna Clarke, a 26-year-old community and NDIS housing coordinator. “This development has given me a beautiful, affordable home close to work. It’s changed my life,” Ms Clarke said.