Lumina: Pioneering Community and Innovation with New Build-to-Rent Development

5 minute read

As Queensland continues to face housing shortages, Lumina is stepping forward with innovative solutions that support the growth and well-being of the local community. Positioned within the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct (GCHKP), Lumina is the Queensland Government’s 9.5-hectare development-ready land parcel, that is recognised as a beacon for health, science, and technology innovation industries. The recent announcement of a Development Application for 878 new build-to-rent apartments within Lumina underscores the GCHKP’s commitment to addressing critical community needs while fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and collaboration.

Lumina: A Hub for Innovation and Community Growth

Lumina is more than just an innovation precinct; it is a thriving hub where cutting-edge research, education, and health intersect. Nestled within the GCHKP, Lumina brings together some of Australia’s leading universities, hospitals, research institutions, industry and innovators, all working together to drive advancements in health, science, and technology. This unique environment not only supports groundbreaking innovation but also provides a high-quality living and working environment for those who contribute to these fields.

The announcement of a new build-to-rent development at Lumina is a testament to the Precinct’s holistic approach to community and innovation. As Queensland grapples with a rental vacancy rate of less than 1% and increasing demand for affordable housing, this development represents a strategic response to the ongoing housing crisis, particularly for key workers and students that are vital to the precinct’s success.

Addressing Queensland’s Housing Challenge within Lumina

The housing challenge in Queensland has reached a critical point, with rental vacancies plummeting and affordability becoming a significant challenge for many residents. In response, Economic Development Queensland has initiated several projects aimed at increasing the supply of affordable housing, with Lumina’s new build-to-rent development the latest announcement in these efforts.

This Development Application by UBS talks to delivering 878 build-to-rent apartments, including 176 affordable housing apartments. These apartments are specifically designed to meet the needs of key workers, frontline health workers, students, and the broader community within Lumina, in direct response to Economic Development Queensland requiring the proposed development to provide a minimum of 20% of apartments at an affordable rental rate. By offering a mix of studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, the development ensures that those who contribute significantly to the community have access to quality, affordable housing.

The significance of this development extends beyond just meeting housing needs; it is about creating a supportive environment where residents can thrive, both personally and professionally. Situated in close proximity to Griffith University, Gold Coast University Hospital and Gold Coast Private Hospital, the project offers great convenience for key workers and students, allowing them to live, work, and study within the same dynamic community.

Strategic Location: Building Connections within Lumina

One of the key advantages of the new build-to-rent development is its strategic location within Lumina. Residents will benefit from being closely connected to these major health and education institutions. This proximity not only enhances the daily convenience for key workers and students but also fosters stronger connections and collaboration between residents and the institutions.

In addition to its prime location, the development is well-served by public transport, making it an ideal choice for those who need to commute within the region. The G:Link light rail system provides easy access to Southport CBD in just 8 minutes, while the express train service to Brisbane ensures that residents can reach the state’s capital in just 70 minutes. This seamless connectivity further enhances the appeal of Lumina as a place to live, work, and innovate.

Community and Economic Impact: Strengthening the Lumina Ecosystem

The new build-to-rent development is set to have a significant impact on the Lumina community and the broader Gold Coast region. By attracting and retaining a skilled workforce within the precinct, the development will play a crucial role in bolstering Lumina’s economic impact. The addition of an estimated 1,350 new residents will not only enrich the community but also contribute to the growth of local businesses and services.

Beyond providing much-needed housing, the development will create a vibrant, supportive environment for residents. The inclusion of amenities such as retail outlets, cafes, a gym, swimming pool and a landscaped plaza will enhance the living experience, making Lumina a desirable place to call home. This focus on creating a well-rounded community aligns with Lumina’s broader vision of integrating housing with health, science, and technology innovation.

Moreover, the development’s emphasis on environmental sustainability, through the implementation of sustainable building practices and energy-efficient designs, reflects Lumina’s commitment to long-term growth that benefits both the community and the environment.

Government Support and Sustainable Development at Lumina

The new housing development at Lumina has garnered strong support from the Queensland Government, which recognises the project’s potential to address pressing housing needs while promoting sustainable development.

This project is part of a broader government initiative to address housing shortages across Queensland, with Lumina serving as a model for future developments. The focus on sustainability, community integration, and support for key workers underscores the project’s alignment with the government’s vision for a more equitable and sustainable future.

Lumina – A Beacon for Future Communities

As Lumina continues to grow and evolve, it is setting a precedent for other communities in Queensland and across Australia. The new build-to-rent development is not just a solution to the immediate housing crisis; it is a vital component of Lumina’s broader mission to create a thriving, integrated community where innovation and quality of life go hand in hand.

By providing affordable, high-quality housing in a strategically located precinct dedicated to health, science, and technology, Lumina is leading the way in demonstrating how communities can be designed to support both economic growth and social well-being. As construction begins in 2025, Lumina will continue to serve as a beacon of innovation and community development, lighting the path for future projects that aim to meet the needs of Queensland’s residents while fostering a culture of collaboration and advancement.