Melbourne’s Next Growth Cycle: Transit Oriented Development and the New Activity Centres

Limited Capacity | Members Attend Free
Special industry update on new car parking ratio reforms

Melbourne’s urban growth strategy is entering a pivotal phase. With the Victorian Government expanding its Activity Centres Program and identifying around 60 train and tram zone activity centres to support new housing and jobs in well connected locations, the way planners, developers and investors engage with Transit Oriented Development is rapidly evolving.

This APDA industry forum brings together senior leaders to unpack how these reforms are shaping delivery, commercial feasibility, planning frameworks and investment decisions on the ground. The discussion will explore the practical implications of new planning tools, emerging built form controls and the shift toward housing growth around transport infrastructure.

Kicking off the evening, Matt Harridge of O’Brien Traffic will provide a focused industry update on the new car parking ratio reforms and their commercial implications, including impacts on site yield, basement efficiency, development feasibility and approval risk across activity centres and transit precincts.

He will be followed by Simon Gilson of XSpacial, specialist consultant to Klaus Multiparking Australia, outlining practical solutions to optimise parking outcomes even within reduced ratios.

Moderated by Sarah Macklin, Partner at Urbis, the panel includes:

• Andrew Barbone, Development Director at MRCB
Bringing extensive experience across large scale mixed use and transit integrated developments, with a strong track record delivering complex urban projects in competitive markets.

• Tom Kleinitz, Senior Development Manager at Lendlease
Representing one of Australia’s leading integrated property groups, with involvement in major urban regeneration and mixed use precincts such as Melbourne Quarter and Barangaroo South.

• Evan Granger, Director at Urbis
A leader in strategic planning and large scale urban renewal advisory, with deep experience navigating complex planning frameworks, activity centre strategy and policy implementation across Victoria.

• Julian Anderson, Principal at Bates Smart
Bringing a leading architectural perspective on high density mixed use design, precinct scale built form and the integration of transport, public realm and commercial outcomes.

• Kieran McKernan, Coordinator Strategic Development at Frankston Council
Sharing how one of Melbourne’s leading Activity Centres is actively supporting and facilitating development.

Together, the panel will examine how Melbourne’s emerging Activity Centre model compares with established international TOD frameworks, and what it will take to deliver commercially viable, design led and transport integrated precincts locally.

The session is designed for property industry developers and professionals seeking practical insight into how Melbourne’s next growth cycle will unfold in practice.

Register now. Early bird tickets are limited.
Secure your spot and be part of the conversation shaping the future of development.

Light refreshments will be provided.
This event is complimentary for APDA members, with guests warmly welcomed to join us.

Interested in becoming a member?
Email membership@apda.org.au to learn more.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Contact the host of Melbourne’s Next Growth Cycle: Transit-Oriented Development and New Activity Centres