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$500m Uniting Waverley Estate Redevelopment Moves Forward

A $500 million proposal aims to transform the historic War Memorial Hospital site in Waverley into a modern seniors’ living and wellness precinct, integrating housing, health care, and heritage.

Background and Context

Uniting NSW.ACT has provided aged care and community services in Waverley for over a century. Plans have been lodged with the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure as a State Significant Development (SSD-61389706) to redevelop the Uniting Waverley Estate (War Memorial Hospital site).

The proposal follows a 2020 rezoning refusal by Waverley Council and several years of consultation with residents. Feedback helped refine the masterplan, focusing on heritage preservation, sustainable design, and improved access within the precinct.

Waverley redevelopment project — *Photo Credit: Architectus*

Redevelopment Plans

The 43,000-square-metre site, located between Bronte Road, Birrell Street, Carrington Road and Church Street, will include six new buildings ranging from four to seven storeys. The design by Architectus, in collaboration with Arcadia, Welsh + Major, and Yerrabingin, proposes 230 independent living units—including 23 affordable dwellings—and a 114-room aged care facility.

The redevelopment also includes shared amenities such as a seniors’ gym, dementia day centre, café, salon, and landscaped open spaces. Construction will be carefully staged to maintain operations at the co-located War Memorial Hospital.

Heritage and Design

Four heritage-listed buildings—Ellerslie, Banksia, Wych Hazel, and the Church Street Cottages—will be retained and adapted for residential and community use. The historic gates at Bronte Road and Birrell Street will be restored, with landscaped gardens and pedestrian pathways improving access and connectivity across the estate.

The design preserves the heritage lawn and enhances the chapel’s setting by removing non-significant structures. The architectural approach aims to balance Waverley’s historic character with modern living and care facilities.

Uniting NSW.ACT — *Photo Credit: Architectus*

Sustainability and Environmental Features

The project prioritises energy efficiency and environmental sustainability through geothermal and solar systems, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient fittings, and electric vehicle charging stations.

Landscape architects Arcadia and Yerrabingin have designed sensory gardens, green courtyards, and walking paths to promote wellbeing and connection to Country. Native plants and passive stormwater management form part of the site’s biodiversity plan.

Traffic, Parking and Accessibility

Basement car parking with 478 spaces will reduce street-level traffic. Main access will be via Bronte Road, with secondary entries on Birrell Street, Church Street and Carrington Road. Shared pedestrian and vehicle zones, along with reduced speed limits, aim to improve safety.

Traffic studies indicate minimal congestion, and service entries for the hospital will remain operational throughout construction.

War Memorial Hospital — *Photo Credit: Architectus*

Economic and Community Benefits

The redevelopment is expected to generate between 250 and 375 construction jobs and around 120 permanent roles once complete. Approximately 10 per cent of the dwellings will be allocated for affordable senior rental housing.

The plan supports the concept of ageing in place—enabling older residents to transition from independent living to higher levels of care without leaving their community. The project aims to enhance local access to aged care, health and wellness facilities while preserving Waverley’s heritage character.

Project Status and Next Steps

The proposal, classified as State Significant Development Application SSD-61389706, is currently under assessment by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.

Public exhibition for community feedback closed on 9 April 2025, and a final decision is expected in 2026. If approved, construction will proceed in stages to ensure uninterrupted hospital operations and continuity of care services.

Published 12-Oct-2025

St Clare’s College Opens Lumos Centre in Waverley

Photo Credit: Sydney Catholic Schools

St Clare’s College has opened the Lumos Centre in Waverley, transforming the former heritage-listed post office into a contemporary learning hub for students.

Opening of the Lumos Centre

On 20 August 2025, St Clare’s College Waverley officially opened the Lumos Centre, a new educational space designed to support future-focused learning. The facility was blessed by Bishop Terence Brady and formally opened by Principal Ann Freeman in a ceremony attended by staff, students and community representatives.

Blending Innovation with History

The Lumos Centre is housed within the restored former Waverley Post Office, originally designed by Edwin Hubert Henderson in the 1920s. The building, noted for its inter-war free classical architecture, served as the post office from 1940 until the late 1990s before being adapted for commercial use. Its transformation preserves historic features such as cornices, Tuscan columns and parapet detailing while incorporating modern digital systems and connected classrooms.

Facilities and Learning Spaces

The centre accommodates up to 100 students at a time. It includes collaborative zones, quiet study areas, instruction spaces, a kitchenette and updated staff and student amenities. Designed with input from students, staff and the wider community, the facility is intended to encourage critical thinking, creativity and collaboration.

Community Role

In addition to supporting the school’s curriculum, the Lumos Centre will be available for school holiday activities, extending its use beyond everyday classes. This reflects its role as both an academic and cultural hub within the Waverley community.

Looking Ahead

The project demonstrates Sydney Catholic Schools’ approach to reimagining heritage buildings for contemporary education while preserving their historical value. The Lumos Centre is expected to strengthen student learning opportunities while maintaining an enduring link to the area’s past.

Published 29-Aug-2025

Writers’ Residency to Begin at Waverley Cemetery

Photo Credit: NSW Gov

Local authorities in Waverley are launching a writers’ residency program at the caretaker’s cottage in Waverley Cemetery, offering literary practitioners a dedicated space within a heritage-listed site.

Historic Grounds Set for New Use

Waverley Cemetery, located in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, officially opened on 1 August 1877. Designed according to Victorian-era principles, it features geometric pathways and marble monuments. Public access increased in 1890 following the arrival of the steam tramway, further embedding the cemetery into Sydney’s cultural fabric. Key facilities added over time include the caretaker’s residence, now set to be repurposed.

writers residency — *Photo Credit: Waverley Library*

Caretaker’s Cottage to Accommodate Writers

The site’s caretaker’s cottage will soon be converted into a workspace and temporary residence for writers. The program will host three writers at a time, each staying for a five-month period. Accommodation will feature private rooms equipped for reading, research and drafting.

Applicants will be selected through an expression of interest process. Initially, eligibility will focus on individuals with a clear connection to the local area, with future rounds potentially open to international applicants.

Literary Concept Moves Forward

The proposal was submitted by a local literary figure familiar with the site’s environment. After formal consideration, local authorities approved the plan without opposition. The cottage will be renamed in recognition of Henry Lawson, one of the cemetery’s most well-known interred figures.

Waverley authorities — *Photo Credit: Waverley Library*

Creative Use of Community Assets

This initiative is part of a broader effort to activate heritage spaces for community and cultural use. It complements other creative precincts in the area and supports long-term strategies aimed at expanding arts infrastructure.

Separately, nearby Bronte House—another local heritage property—will be open to the public from next year, following strong community interest in increased accessibility.

Program Timeline and Implementation

The writers’ residency will commence following the completion of the application and preparation phases. The first group of writers is expected to take up residence in 2026.

Published 21-July-2025

Waverley Streets to Gain 7 New EV Chargers as Part of Major NSW Rollout

Photo Credit: Transport for NSW

Waverley is among 22 local councils set to receive new kerbside electric vehicle (EV) chargers, with hundreds being installed across the state to support residents without home charging options. The chargers will be placed in suburban streets and public parking spots to help drivers living in apartments or homes without driveways make the switch to electric.

Supporting Drivers Without Garages

The rollout will deliver 549 kerbside chargers across 130 suburbs, funded by a $2.8 million NSW Government grant and $2.2 million from five private companies. Installations will take place over the next 12 months.

Waverley is set to receive seven new chargers, aimed at helping residents who don’t have off-street parking. The program targets suburbs with high-density housing where charging at home isn’t possible. This funding brings essential EV infrastructure to streets where it’s most needed.

Backed by Local and Industry Partnerships

Five companies—ChargePost, Connected Kerb, EVX, Plus ES and EF Asset Management—will work with councils to install the chargers. Each charger will deliver between 7kW and 22kW, suitable for overnight or daytime top-ups. Designs include pole-mounted and pedestal units for easy use in local streets and council car parks.

The aim is to make charging simple and accessible for everyday drivers. The Electric Vehicle Council says visible public chargers can help more people feel confident about switching to electric.

A Growing Need for Local EV Support

Electric vehicles made up over 12% of new car sales in Australia during the first half of 2025. As more people make the switch, the need for reliable public charging continues to grow. This kerbside rollout is designed to support that demand, especially in built-up areas.

Other programs are also expanding fast-charging networks and regional access. Together, these efforts aim to make electric transport more practical and convenient across the state.

A Small Step with Big Local Impact

For communities like Waverley, these new chargers won’t just reduce emissions. They’ll also reduce the cost of transport for local families and make electric vehicles a more viable option.

Residents without garages or driveways will now have better access to charging where they live, helping ensure everyone, not just homeowners, can be part of the state’s EV future.

The government has stated that the installations will be completed progressively, with councils coordinating placement and energy access alongside the approved companies.

Published 16-July-2025

Plan for Crisis Housing in Waverley to Support Domestic Violence Survivors

Amid rising reports of domestic violence across Sydney’s eastern suburbs, a bold new plan will see crisis housing made available to those fleeing abuse in the Waverley area.

Read: Council Acquires Bondi Unit Block for Affordable Housing Program

At least two apartments from Waverley’s affordable housing stock will be reserved as emergency accommodation for victim-survivors.

The initiative comes in response to domestic violence-related assaults locally. According to the NSW Police Force’s quarterly update on domestic and family violence released in March 2025, 14 adult women were killed in domestic violence-related incidents in the 12 months leading up to that date. Of the 14 victims, ten were killed by an intimate partner, three by a family member, and one by someone in a different type of relationship.

The properties, drawn from the area’s most recent acquisitions, will operate under updated eligibility criteria to prioritise those escaping violence. While the existing affordable housing policy focuses on low- to medium-income earners with established community ties, this new measure introduces a targeted response to a growing crisis.

Management of the new crisis accommodation is expected to be handled in partnership with specialist service providers, ensuring appropriate support structures are in place for those in need.

Advocates behind the push for dedicated housing say that domestic violence does not discriminate based on postcode or income. Financial abuse, in particular, has been highlighted as a pressing concern in Sydney’s east, especially where coercive control and restricted financial independence keep victims trapped. There are also increasing concerns around temporary visa holders who may be isolated and vulnerable, particularly when abusers withhold passports and identification.

Those supporting the initiative believe that this move represents a practical, immediate step towards addressing a complex issue. It’s also part of a broader call for collaboration between local, state and federal bodies to ensure a comprehensive, long-term response to the national domestic violence crisis.

Read: Waverley Council Considers Roosters Deal to Boost Community Sport

The provision of crisis accommodation within Waverley’s existing housing stock sends a clear message: that safety and support must be available, regardless of a person’s circumstances or where they live.

Published 18-June-2025

100-Year-Old Tree Axed in Waverley, Sparking Neighbourhood Outcry

After a 100-year-old tree in Waverley was chopped down without approval, local backlash has prompted calls for stronger tree protection across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, with a community consultation now out on a proposal to double fines for individuals, potentially increasing penalties to $6,000 depending on the age and significance of the tree.

The furore started in January, when a local homeowner hired contractors to remove the large tree that stood on the boundary between his semi-detached house and a neighbouring Victorian-style villa. The Magnolia, believed to be around 100 years old, had long served as a source of shade, privacy, and habitat for local birdlife.

Neighbours Left Angry and Disappointed

The neighbouring homeowner, who lives in London and rents out his Waverley property to holidaymakers, was left stunned by the removal of the tree, which he said was not just part of the landscape but also key to his home’s privacy. Another neighbour echoed the concern, saying the tree was important to the local ecosystem and that its removal had led to a noticeable drop in birdlife.

The homeowner at the centre of this issue defended his decision by pointing to storm damage from intense weather earlier in the year, which he said caused large branches to fall and damage his roof. He stated that the tree, located less than a metre from his home, appeared to be leaning and presented a safety risk to his family.

Although he did submit a removal permit, it was lodged just one day before the tree was felled, meaning formal approval was not in place at the time of the removal.

Magnolia tree 100-year-old tree — Photo Credit: A Current Affair

Fines Spark Debate on Tree Protection Laws

Waverley Council fined the homeowner $3,000—the maximum penalty it could issue under current regulations. The tree lopping company received a $6,000 fine. Some locals argue these penalties are far too low to discourage future unauthorised removals, especially in areas where real estate values are high.

An independent arborist report commissioned during the development application process (DA-16/2024) concluded the 100-year-old tree was healthy and should be retained. Protection of the tree was considered Council’s approval of a second-storey extension to the home, which is now listed for auction.

Council said it was unlikely that taking the matter to the Land and Environment Court would result in a more favourable outcome, despite potential fines of up to $1 million in such cases. A spokesperson for Waverley Council noted that unsuccessful court proceedings could expose the council to legal costs.

Calls for Stronger Action

The case comes amid a series of similar incidents in Sydney, including the poisoning of palm trees in Tamarama and other reported acts of tree vandalism in Ashfield. Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh said the current laws are limited and expressed support for changes that would raise fines for unauthorised tree removal.

NSW has opened community consultation on a proposal to double fines for individuals, potentially increasing penalties to $6,000 depending on the age and significance of the tree.

Published 7-May-2025

Waverley Votes on 1956 Hungarian Uprising Plaque Proposal

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Waverley officials have voted to support in principle a memorial plaque commemorating the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, following debate over its funding source.

Proposal for Memorial Raises Questions Over Foreign Influence

Waverley Council has given in-principle support to a proposal for a memorial plaque in Waverley Park marking the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. The motion, raised in a mayoral minute, aims to recognise Hungarian refugees who settled in the area and acknowledge the sacrifices made during the uprising.

The proposal came from the Hungarian consulate, which offered to fund the memorial. Waverley official Will Nemesh, who holds Hungarian citizenship, said the memorial would reflect the area’s long-standing Hungarian connections and would not cost ratepayers.

Historical Context of the Hungarian Revolution

The 1956 Hungarian Revolution was a country-wide uprising opposing the Soviet-aligned government in Hungary. Following its suppression, many Hungarians fled abroad, with a number settling in the Waverley local government area.

Former New South Wales official Nick Greiner wrote in favour of the memorial, describing the 1956 events as a significant democratic uprising in the post-war period.

LGBTQ+ — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

Concerns Over Government Ties and Funding

The motion triggered opposition from several city officials after it was revealed that the memorial proposal was tied to the current Hungarian government. They raised concerns over the regime’s policies, citing recent laws banning LGBTQ+ pride events and allowing surveillance technology to identify protest attendees.

Local official Steven Lewis opposed the motion in its current form due to the potential influence of what he described as an authoritarian regime. He proposed changes ensuring that council retains full control over the memorial’s wording to prevent foreign influence.

Local official Paula Masselos questioned allowing any foreign government to determine content within Waverley Park, particularly near an existing ANZAC memorial.

Waverley Hungarian memorial — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Motion Passed Despite Division

Despite objections, the motion was passed. Local authorities Masselos, Spooner, Lewis, Fabiano, and WY Kynank voted against it, citing unease over the funding source and perceived external control. Mr Nemesh clarified that the council would have final authority over the design, funding, and wording.

City authority Michelle Stephenson supported the motion and said opposition risked dismissing the contributions of the local Hungarian community.

Next Steps and Oversight

The motion grants only in-principle support. Waverley Council will retain oversight of the project’s development, including decisions regarding funding acceptance, design approval, and inscription content.

Published 7-May-2025

Waverley Council Considers Roosters Deal to Boost Community Sport

Photo Credit: Sydney Roosters/Facebook

A new partnership between Waverley Council and the Sydney Roosters may deliver more sports programs and youth engagement across the eastern suburbs.

What the Deal Could Look Like

The sponsorship proposal includes financial and in-kind support from the Roosters, such as coaching clinics, outreach programs and local event support in Waverley. In return, the council may be recognised as an official community partner, with branding featured on club material and possibly at games.

*Photo Credit: Sydney Roosters/Facebook*

The Roosters’ 2024 NRLW premiership has boosted their profile, opening new chances to grow women’s and junior participation in rugby league, with council support set to play a role.

Community Focus at the Centre

Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh sees the proposal as a way to strengthen the long-standing ties between the Roosters and the eastern suburbs.

The council says the partnership would focus on community development, not just elite sport. If approved, it could support school visits, cultural programs and grassroots sport, bringing the club into everyday community life beyond the footy field.

A Vote to Watch

Waverley Council will decide on the proposed partnership at an upcoming meeting, where councillors will weigh the community benefits before authorising negotiations. If supported, a formal agreement could be drafted and returned for approval by the end of May.

The proposal is already drawing local interest, with residents eager to see how it might bring player visits, special events and better access to sport across the area.

What Happens Next

If the council votes in favour, talks with the Roosters would begin straight away. The club has a track record of working with government and sponsors, with its website showing a focus on long-term partnerships.

Waverley’s own sponsorship framework also supports collaborations with community-focused organisations. While no funding details have been released, the focus appears to be on mutual value, growing local sport and strengthening the Roosters’ ties to the area.

Published 25-April-2025

Council Acquires Bondi Unit Block for Affordable Housing Program

Photo Credit: Highland

Waverley Council has purchased a block of six flats in Bondi Beach for $8.55 million to expand its affordable housing program, paying $1.45 million over the reserve price at a competitive auction last month.

The 1940s apartment block at 49 Mitchell Street, located within walking distance of Bondi Beach, consists of six two-bedroom apartments without off-street parking. The property last changed hands in 2020 for $5.75 million, representing a nearly 49% increase in value over five years.

Thursday’s auction at the Damien Cooley auction rooms saw four bidders compete for the property, which had been listed with a guide price of $7 million. Sources present at the auction reported that the Council representative opened bidding at $6.9 million and nearly secured the property at $7.8 million before another bidder intervened, resulting in a two-way contest that pushed the final price to $8.55 million.

Photo Credit: Instagram / @highlanddoublebay

The purchase price equates to approximately $1.45 million per apartment, which remains below PropTrack’s median price of $1.52 million for two-bedroom apartments in Bondi.

Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh described the acquisition as “the most significant expansion of its affordable housing portfolio in over a decade” and “a momentous win for the community.” The Council confirmed the purchase was funded through developer contributions via its affordable housing reserve.

The Waverley Council Affordable Housing program provides discounted rentals to qualifying working people on low-to-moderate incomes, typically offering 20-25% below market rates for terms up to five years. Eligibility requires applicants to demonstrate they have lived or worked in Waverley for at least three years, with the Council currently reviewing its policies to include specific provisions for essential workers.

Paul Grasso of Highland Commercial, who handled the sale alongside Steffan Ippolito of IB Property, noted that two-bedroom apartment blocks in this part of Bondi rarely come to market.

“They’re very tightly held,” Grasso said. “We had 200 inquiries, 30 inspections and 18 contracts out on this one.”

Four of the six apartments have been renovated by the previous owner, featuring new kitchens, bathrooms, floors, and fresh paint. Despite lacking off-street parking, the units would command between $900 and $950 per week on the open rental market, according to agent estimates.

The Council stated the Mitchell Street property was “ideal for affordable housing” due to its proximity to Bondi shopping, essential services, and public transportation.

Published 28-March-2025

Uniting’s $448M Waverley Estate Redevelopment Opens for Public Feedback

Photo Credit: SSD-61389706

A $448 million redevelopment of Waverley Estate, Uniting’s largest-ever project, is set for public exhibition as the organisation refines its plans to modernise the historic site in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

A Modern Vision for Waverley Estate

Uniting has submitted a State Significant Development Application (SSD-61389706) to transform Waverley Estate. The goal is to make it a contemporary, accessible seniors’ community while preserving its Victorian heritage. The project includes 231 independent living units (ILUs), a 105-bed residential care facility spread across six new buildings, and three repurposed heritage structures.

The development will feature:

210 ILUs across six buildings, including 16 affordable units.
Adaptive reuse of three heritage buildings (Ellerslie, Banksia, and Wych Hazel) to house 13 ILUs, with seven designated as affordable.
A seven-storey residential care facility with 105 beds and eight additional ILUs.
On-site amenities including a cafe, salon, cinema, gym, clubhouse, and a respite daycare centre.

The project aims to balance heritage conservation with modern living. It also seeks to provide a sustainable and inclusive environment for seniors.

Uniting Waverley — *Photo Credit: SSD-61389706*

Addressing Community Concerns

Uniting NSW.ACT Director of Property and Housing, Simon Furness, acknowledged community feedback has influenced the project’s refinements, particularly in traffic management, parking, and environmental preservation.

The exhibition period runs from 13 March to 9 April 2025, allowing residents to submit feedback.

Waverley development — *Photo Credit: SSD-61389706*

SUBMIT A FEEDBACK

Future Implications for Waverley

The Waverley Estate redevelopment is expected to enhance local seniors’ housing options. It will also contribute to the broader urban landscape. By integrating aged care with community amenities, Uniting aims to create a more connected and self-sufficient precinct.

The NSW Government will assess the project following the public consultation phase. They will consider the feedback before making a final decision on approval.

For more details, visit the NSW Planning Portal.

Published 20-Mar-2025