Vivien Topalovic, Property Journalist
With about 3000 homes planned, the community is being asked what matters most for Canberra’s newest suburb.
The ACT government has opened public consultation on Ginninderra East, a proposed new suburb set to deliver about 3000 new homes on former CSIRO land.
The Territory government acquired the site in July 2026 , following years of negotiations with the Commonwealth. As planning gets under way, Canberrans are being asked what would make Ginninderra East a good place to live.
Ginninderra East is expected to deliver about 3000 new homes. Picture: Getty
The site sits between Belconnen and Gungahlin, about 20 minutes from central Canberra, and plans include a school, sporting ovals, parks, shops and community facilities, as well as a protected nature reserve.
At least 15% of homes are planned to be affordable housing, including community and public housing.
Residents are encouraged to share their views on public spaces, local shops and services, parks and nature areas, and walking and cycling connections. They can also comment on the future of the former Ginninderra Police Station site.
The Suburban Land Agency (SLA) is undertaking planning and design work, with a Major Plan Amendment (MPA) expected to be submitted in mid-2027.
ACT planning minister Chris Steel said the suburb would contribute to the Territory’s target of enabling 30,000 new homes by the end of 2030.
"This is a rare opportunity to plan and design new suburbs close to an established part of Canberra and we want the community’s input,” Mr Steel said.
"Unlocking this land means we can supply the housing Canberra needs together with schools, shops, community and recreational spaces.”
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) has welcomed the project, saying it could provide more housing choice close to established communities, jobs and services.
HIA executive director for ACT and Southern NSW Geordan Murray said the suburb should cater for different households, from first-home buyers and growing families to people looking to downsize.
“It is particularly important to hear from the people who might one day call Ginninderra East home. Their aspirations, needs and budgets should help shape the suburb’s future,” Mr Murray said.
“Canberra needs a strong pipeline of new housing opportunities. Unlocking this land is a welcome step, and maintaining momentum through planning, infrastructure delivery and land release will be essential to turning that opportunity into homes.”
Residents can have their say by completing an online survey, attending a pop-up event or expressing interest in joining the Ginninderra East Community Panel, with engagement closing on 17 December.
Are you interested in learning more about buying and building new? Check out our New Homes section.
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