Located on Perth’s northern coastline, Ocean Reef Marina is transforming a former boat harbour into a vibrant, world-class coastal destination. Upon completion, the development aims to deliver more than 1,000 new homes, 12,000 square metres of retail and commercial space, and over five hectares of public amenities – including Perth’s first metropolitan coastal pool and a family-friendly beach.

Sustainability has been embedded in the development from the outset, with innovative measures aimed at reducing environmental impact while enhancing community outcomes. A standout initiative is the integration of a renewable energy microgrid, operated by Ocean Reef Renewable Energy (a Zenith Energy company). This system will reduce energy bills by up to 30 per cent for future residents and businesses while supporting greater energy resilience.

Smart city technologies and sustainable construction practices further reinforce the development’s sustainability credentials. . More than 80 per cent of construction waste is being diverted from landfill, with recycled materials used in roads, car parks, drainage and more. The project also prioritises native landscaping and urban greening to support local biodiversity and improve urban cooling.

The EnviroDevelopment certification, independently awarded by the Urban Development Institute of Australia, recognises excellence in sustainable design and construction. In achieving full certification across all six categories affirms DevelopmentWA’s commitment to delivering leading-edge projects that protect the environment, support communities, and set new standards for sustainable urban development.

“We’re incredibly proud to be delivering the first marina in Australia to achieve full EnviroDevelopment certification. This milestone reflects our focus on innovation and long-term sustainability — not just for the environment, but for the people who will live, work and visit Ocean Reef Marina,” Dean Mudford, DevelopmentWA CEO.

In late 2026, key public amenity is anticipated to open to the public, including the protected family beach and beach playground. Ocean Reef Marina is on track to become a thriving, sustainable hub for tourism, recreation and coastal living.

For more details, visit https://oceanreefmarinawa.com/.

Once completed, GemLife Elimbah will include 404 homes and $20 million in premium lifestyle facilities, such as a two-level Country Club and a Summer House with a resort-style pool, designed to encourage connection, wellbeing, and active living.

The independent EnviroDevelopment certification assessed the 26-hectare community across six key categories: ecosystems, waste, energy, materials, water, and community.

“Achieving all six areas is something we’re extremely proud of,” said GemLife Managing Director and Group CEO, Adrian Puljich. “From 7-star energy-rated, climate-responsive homes and a market-leading solar power system with on-site battery storage, to protecting local wildlife habitats and preserving green space, sustainability is central to GemLife Elimbah.”

A standout feature has been the site’s innovative approach to renewable energy. A 3MW community battery system, which received Federal Government Australian Renewable Energy Agency grant funding*, will support a private virtual grid, allowing residents to feed in their generated solar power. GemLife expects this virtual power plant model to reduce greenhouse gas emissions beyond regulatory requirements, providing residents with greater energy security and savings.

Water management has also been carefully considered. Four underground combined treatment and detention tanks, with a total capacity of 5000 m³, will capture stormwater across the community. The water will be treated to remove pollutants and sediments, then reused for public facilities and irrigation. Any excess will be safely released into the adjoining eastern drainage reserve. In conjunction with water-efficient home design, these measures significantly reduce potable water usage.

The preservation of natural ecosystems has also been central to the project’s design. The south-eastern corner, a designated koala priority area, will remain a dedicated rehabilitation zone. All existing trees and native vegetation have been retained – a decision the National EnviroDevelopment Board described as rare for a project of this scale. In total, more than eight hectares of green space will be safeguarded.

“EnviroDevelopment certification is important because it provides independent recognition of our commitment to sustainable design,” Adrian said. “It validates the choices we make to balance lifestyle with environmental responsibility and sets a benchmark for future GemLife communities.”

For more information about GemLife Elimbah, visit: https://www.gemlife.com.au/location/gemlife-elimbah-resort/

*Gemlife’s Sustainable Community Battery Project is being delivered by Prospecta Utilities and is funded by GemLife with support from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), through its Community Battery Round 1 funding under the Advancing Renewables Program. Views expressed in this article are GemLife’s and not necessarily the views of the Australian Government.

This thoughtful design has been matched by a strong commitment to sustainability, with GemLife Highfields Heights achieving full EnviroDevelopment certification from the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA). The project was recognised for excellence across the six ‘leaves’ of ecosystems, energy, water, waste, materials, and community.

“At Highfields Heights we’ve worked to ensure sustainability delivers real benefits for residents as well as the environment,” said GemLife Managing Director and Group CEO, Adrian Puljich. “Our energy-efficient homes, solar power systems, and green spaces are designed to lower costs, reduce impacts, and create a healthier place to live.”

A key achievement is the project’s ecological net gain. More than 2.2 hectares of regrowth semi-evergreen vine thicket within the site will be rehabilitated, creating richer and more resilient vegetation than existed before development. GemLife has funded a two-year monitoring and management program to ensure the long-term success of this rehabilitation and to protect native fauna, before stewardship is handed to Toowoomba Regional Council.

Stormwater management has also been addressed innovatively. Four underground detention and treatment tanks, with a combined 7,133m³ capacity, will capture, treat, and reuse stormwater for irrigation and public facilities, reducing potable water demand. New trunk infrastructure will also improve flood protection for the wider community.

Homes across the resort have been designed with sustainability in mind, using north-facing orientation to maximise solar gain, together with roof insulation, light-coloured roofing, and shading to reduce heat extremes. Landscaping will use drought-tolerant native species, including local food-bearing plants such as lilly pilly berries and kauri seeds. These plantings not only provide habitat for wildlife but also create cultural and culinary connections for residents, with lilly pilly fruit often used in jams and sauces, and kauri seeds able to be roasted or boiled as a nutritious snack.

“GemLife Highfields Heights shows that it’s possible to deliver world-class lifestyle facilities while also protecting and enhancing the natural environment,” Adrian said. “Certification gives our homeowners confidence that they are part of a community designed for the future – one that is healthier, more efficient, and more resilient.”

For more information about GemLife Highfields Heights visit https://www.gemlife.com.au/location/gemlife-highfields-heights-resort/

As a benchmark for sustainable design, Mirimar & Toorak has been awarded full EnviroDevelopment certification across all six elements – Ecosystems, Waste, Energy, Materials, Water, and Community. The project demonstrates a comprehensive commitment to sustainability, including over a quarter of the site being dedicated to green infrastructure, with native planting woven through rooftops, balconies, podiums, and public spaces. These go beyond aesthetic choices, they are ecological investments that support biodiversity, improve comfort, and foster wellbeing.

Inside and out, the project is built for performance. Homes are designed to breathe, with layouts that maximise natural light and airflow. Residents will enjoy intuitive energy and water-saving features, smart technology, and spaces that encourage low-impact living without sacrificing luxury or convenience.

Mirimar & Toorak’s impact goes far beyond its environmental footprint. Silverstone’s collaboration with the Turrbal Traditional Owners has shaped a development that honours culture and community. Indigenous art, language, and procurement pathways are embedded throughout, alongside affordable and universally accessible housing that ensures inclusivity is more than just a promise.

These features collectively awarded Mirimar & Toorak at RiverGreen UDIA’s 6 Leaf EnviroDevelopment certification, recognising its leadership in sustainable design across all six core elements.

For more details, visit https://silverstonedevelopments.com.au/projects/rivergreen-hamilton/.

The development is defined by its layered approach to sustainability and lifestyle. A 1,573 m² cross-block link sits on the west end of the site, offering a publicly accessible green corridor that connects residents to adjacent parklands, bikeways, and the Brisbane River. Above, rooftop gardens, podium planters, and deep planting zones contribute to more than 40% green infrastructure coverage, softening the built form and supporting urban ecology.

Residences are designed for comfort and performance, with layouts that prioritise cross-ventilation, privacy, and passive solar gain. Interiors feature high-performance glazing, smart metering, and energy-efficient appliances, while a 100kW rooftop solar system offsets common area energy usage. Rainwater harvesting is embedded into the irrigation system, supported by 135,000 litres of underground storage and a fully automated drip network.

Shared amenity spans both towers and includes a resort-style pool, magnesium spa, sauna, yoga studio, and a rooftop retreat with BBQ stations and a 63 m² internal space designed for private dining or co-working. A dog wash station, shaded cabanas, and landscaped lawns further enhance the resident experience.

Moreton & Cremorne at RiverGreen has been awarded a 6 Leaf UDIA EnviroDevelopment certification, recognising industry-leading sustainability across materials, energy, ecosystems, water, waste, and community.

For more details, visit https://silverstonedevelopments.com.au/projects/rivergreen-hamilton/.

The Project received a 6 Leaf EnviroDevelopment certification, providing recognition of how sustainability has been incorporated into planning, design, construction, and operations.

A summary of the key sustainability initiatives has been provided below:

• Decarbonisation: Each warehouse, including the land development works, is required to achieve a
  >20% reduction in upfront carbon, with residual upfront carbon offset through projects that either
  avoid emissions or remove carbon from the atmosphere. No gas will be connected to the estate, with
  each warehouse powered by rooftop solar, batteries (where viable), and a renewable electricity
  procurement agreement from the grid. Hesperia will publish a Net Zero Report for each site to
  document outcomes.
• Urban greening: Each warehouse site will comprise of significant native waterwise plantings creating tree canopy, amenity, and ecological value. Biofiltration swales will be used to increase landscaping and naturally filter stormwater runoff before it enters surrounding waterways.
• Optimal use of resources: A minimum 90% recycling rate is targeted for waste streams during construction. Each warehouse will be subject to achieving a 20% reduction in energy use and 45% reduction in water use during operations, supported by the installation of a minimum 5-kilolitre rainwater tank for water at each warehouse.

The Project has undertaken an innovative approach to delivering renewable energy to each warehouse. Some of the sites will include several warehouses with distinct tenants, within the same parcel of land. Power will be supplied to each warehouse via an Embedded Metering Network. This will comprise of a single master meter in which solar generation, electricity from the grid, and battery storage will be managed at the site level and distributed to each warehouse. This is a more effective approach to solar and batteries than distributing smaller systems across multiple buildings due to the relatively low power demands in industrial buildings. Overall, this will facilitate the large-scale roll out of all-electric warehouses, predominantly powered by on-site renewable energy.

EnviroDevelopment certification was important for the Project as it provided a unifying framework to communicate sustainability objectives to key stakeholders, and the technical requirements to multiple builders on different sites for a consistent outcome. In addition, the framework requires implementation of sustainability initiatives across a wide variety of areas (e.g., Energy, Water), which ensures the Project is taking a holistic approach to incorporating sustainability.

For more information, visit https://www.hesperia.com.au/places/hazelmere-interchange/.

ORIA has achieved a full certification under the EnviroDevelopment program, meeting all six leaves: Ecosystems, Waste, Energy, Materials, Water, and Community. This certification reflects a deep commitment to sustainability embedded from the earliest stages of design and planning.

The building’s orientation has been carefully optimised to maximise natural light and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. Rainwater harvesting systems support extensive rooftop gardens and deep planting, which not only reduce reliance on potable water but also restore ecological value and increase canopy cover.

Sustainable construction materials were selected for their durability and low environmental impact, while smart energy and water systems further reduce the building’s environmental footprint. These measures work together to create a cooler, healthier microclimate and support biodiversity in an urban setting.

Beyond its environmental credentials, ORIA is designed to foster community wellbeing. Residents have access to rooftop gardens, wellness spaces, music and games rooms, and one of Australia’s first exclusive pickleball courts in a multi-residential development. A business centre, cinema, and off-leash dog park add to the lifestyle appeal, while communal areas encourage social connection and active living.

Keylin’s engagement with the Spring Hill community throughout the planning process has helped ensure ORIA contributes positively to the neighbourhood. The project sets a new benchmark for sustainable urban living, where environmental performance, resilience, and resident wellbeing are seamlessly integrated to deliver lasting value.

For more information, visit https://www.oriaspringhill.com.au/.

Comprising 85 residences across two four-storey buildings with a shared basement, the Lakeside apartments are the first apartment release within the masterplan. Designed for those seeking a harmonious balance of lifestyle and location, residents will enjoy the benefits of modern wellness amenities, the tranquillity of waterside living, and a close connection to the natural environment, all complemented by a future planned promenade precinct and the convenience of nearby transport, retail, and lifestyle amenities.

Sustainability is an integral part of the Lakeside Apartments design and something the design and development team considered from the outset. A series of initiatives work together to reduce environmental impact while also providing tangible benefits for residents. Rooftop solar supports the ongoing operational costs of shared amenities, such as the pool, lowering body corporate expenses. Rainwater harvesting tanks capture and recycle stormwater for precinct irrigation, ensuring efficient water use across landscaped areas. More than 90% of plant species selected for private gardens and communal spaces are native to Queensland, supporting biodiversity and creating a resilient, low-maintenance landscape.

Additional infrastructure includes two stormwater detention and treatment tanks to ensure all runoff is filtered before discharge, protecting the surrounding waterways. EV charging provisions throughout the basement future-proof the community as residents increasingly transition to electric mobility. Together, these measures deliver meaningful environmental benefits while ensuring a better quality of life for residents.

Beyond the technical solutions, the project places strong emphasis on community connection and wellbeing. An extensive suite of amenities, including an off-leash dog area, gym, work-from-home spaces, kayak rentals, and direct lake access, creates a lifestyle where everything is within reach, encouraging residents to spend time outdoors and engage with their natural surroundings and neighbours.

For development partners Keylin and Kinstone Group, the EnviroDevelopment certification was a vital step in reinforcing their long-term commitment to sustainable communities, as they share the belief that sustainability is not only about how a building is designed and delivered, but it’s also about the long-term benefits it provides once people move in.

For more information, visit https://www.lakesideserenity.com.au/

Strategically located within the heart of one of Brisbane’s most exciting and dynamic urban transformations of Kangaroo Point, The Carter offers residents the opportunity to live within a coveted locale with the Cross River Rail transforming the suburb’s connectivity.

Occupying a premium 2,124m² site on Linton Street, the location boasts one of Brisbane’s highest walk scores. Just steps from the iconic Gabba Stadium, world-class dining and lush parklands to leading education and seamless urban connectivity, every element of convenience is within reach.

Within, The Carter’s expansive yet elegant residences frame uninterrupted views across heritage rooftops to the Brisbane River and skyline. A refined suite of amenities are designed to foster wellbeing, connection, and quiet retreat and will elevate every day.

A bold collaboration with BDA Architecture, this sculptural landmark blends timeless form with layered landscaping—an enduring symbol of prestige in a city on the rise.

Every aspect of The Carter has been thoughtfully crafted to integrate a wide range of sustainable practices. From energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials to water conservation strategies and reduced carbon footprint initiatives, each element contributes to creating homes that are not only stunning but genuinely future-focused.

These sustainability measures are thoughtfully embedded into the fabric of The Carter to ensure a lasting, positive impact on both the environment and the community.

This holistic approach means that residents will not only enjoy the beauty and functionality of their homes but will also experience the peace of mind that comes from living in a space designed to minimise its ecological footprint.

Construction is underway and completion is forecast for early 2027.

For more details, visit https://mosaicproperty.com.au/buying/the-carter-by-mosaic/

Located in East Brisbane on a 2,613m² corner block with a 58-metre frontage to Lytton Road, The Mowbray reclaims one of Brisbane’s most prominent yet long-neglected gateway sites.

Through the transformation of the rundown retail centre, The Mowbray has become a newly defined community-connected development, welcoming first residents in January 2025.

The eight-level mid-rise development comprises 82 generously proportioned residences designed for adaptability, privacy, and cross-ventilation—finished with natural stone benchtops, Miele appliances, and smart home systems.

Shared amenity spans 633m² and includes a rooftop pool, coworking space, gym, steam room, and dining zones.

Designed in partnership with DKO, The Mowbray draws inspiration from the heritage-listed Mowbray Park, directly opposite. Its sculptural, architectural language and signature opposing V-columns echoes the branching forms of the park’s Moreton Bay fig trees, integrating nature and structure into the built form.

A colonnaded ground plane and 704m² of landscaping, including garden-lined balconies, soften the interface and contribute to a welcoming, high-quality streetscape.

But the site’s physical constraints were only part of the challenge. The project entered a deeply anti-development community, where long-held concerns around height, density, and neighbourhood character posed real risk.

Mosaic responded with design leadership and respectful, sustained engagement—including letterbox campaigns, direct access to senior leadership, and a sensitive construction approach that minimised disruption and rebuilt trust.

Two ground-floor retail tenancies further activate the frontage, delivering local amenity and enhancing community life.

Innovation is deeply embedded. The Mowbray was among the first residential projects in Brisbane to adopt Holcim’s carbon-neutral concrete, reducing embodied emissions by over 30%.

A wet-edge rooftop pool mounted on acoustic springs offered advanced vibration isolation, enhancing comfort without compromising rooftop amenity.

Recycled materials were extensively used with 20% recycled aluminium, 100% recycled plasterboard, and reclaimed steel and concrete from demolition.

A 134-panel rooftop solar array delivers 59kW of clean energy, significantly lowering operational emissions and strata costs.

Passive design features include high-performance, custom manufactured double glazing, cross-ventilation, acoustic flooring, and balcony-integrated planting, all enhancing energy efficiency, comfort, and privacy.

The 704m² of landscaping includes 260m² of deep planting to improve air quality, mitigate heat, and support the urban ecology.

All of these elements contributed to the project’s as-built 6 Leaf UDIA EnviroDevelopment certification recognising industry-leading sustainability across materials, energy, ecosystems, water, waste, and community.

For more details, visit https://mosaicproperty.com.au/design/the-mowbray/