Victoria Minister for Planning Matthew Guy

Bidders To Pitch Proposals For Prestigious Docklands Address

Victor P Taffa

Minister for Planning Matthew Guy has announced the four bidders that will be asked to put forward proposals to earn the right to develop the last uncontracted land parcel in Melbourne’s Docklands.

Australis Consortium (comprising Equiset Developments Pty Ltd and Australand Holdings Limited); Grocon Property Developments Pty Ltd and Mirvac Victoria Pty Ltd; Leighton Properties (Vic) Pty Ltd; and Lend Lease Development Pty Ltd will compete for the right to develop the two hectare site, with a prestigious Collins Street address, air rights over Wurundjeri Way and a Flinders Street frontage.

Mr. Guy, who announced the process to contract the land in February, said the four bidders had been chosen from eight that had submitted an Expression of Interest.

“Each of the Expressions of Interest was evaluated taking into account design, environmental initiatives, community infrastructure, public art, financial strength, delivery capacity, relevant project experience, strength of consultant teams, management of rail and road interfaces, and understanding of the state’s vision for Docklands.” Mr. Guy said.

The bidders each have until 26 October this year to prepare their proposal in accordance with VicUrban’s Request for Proposal documentation.

Mr. Guy said the size and location of the land parcel on offer was a prime development opportunity close to Southern Cross Station and the CBD.

“Development of this site will help connect the developing areas of Docklands to Southbank and the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre as well as enhancing pedestrian amenity throughout this key linkage.” Mr. Guy said.

“Melbourne Docklands continues to be an economic powerhouse for the state with around $1.8 Billion worth of commercial and residential development currently taking place or the equivalent of 278,000 square metres of gross floor area.” Mr. Guy said.