In July 2019, it was so great to be joined by Gough Whitlam’s family to break ground on Canberra’s newest suburb of Whitlam.
The first stage of the suburb—named for former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam—is now open to the public to drive through and explore the area set to be the home for 2,100 families.
The beautiful views to the valley, beautiful natural landscape including Deep Creek, Kama Nature Reserve and natural ridges, and its urban design to maximise passive solar and minimise energy consumption really showcase what Canberra’s newest suburb has to offer.
Over 2,300 trees will be planted in stage one of the suburb—2,000 of which have already been planted—with more to be planted as following stages of the suburb are developed.
Whitlam will also include a local public primary school and shopping centre, multiple parks, as well as a Whitlam Mingle program to help connect residents.
The theme of Whitlam is ‘arts and culture’. In line with this, each street is named for people who contributed to Australian culture. One of which being Hazel Hawke AO, first wife of Bob Hawke the 23rd Prime Minister of Australia, for her notable public service and social justice work.
Proving popular, the first blocks in Whitlam went on sale in May this year, selling all 80 blocks within a week of release. The second public release took place this month with a total of 250 blocks released and sold to future Whitlam residents, with the third release expected early 2021.
As the suburb grows, it will continue a commitment to environmentally sustainable development, and offering a range of block sizes and housing choices. Construction activity for the first 500 blocks will happen throughout 2021.
The ACT Government, through the Suburban Land Agency is offering a $10,000 rebate for home buyers to install 5 kilowatt solar PV systems, electric vehicle charge points in their carport or garage, energy monitoring system and highly efficient electric appliances. This initiative supports home buyers to live sustainably but importantly supports them to lower their living costs.
I look forward to watching this area come to life with new residents and families.
*All quotes attributable to Minister for Minister for Housing and Suburban Development Yvette Berry*
