Australia’s population forecasts predict over 28.7 million people by 2031. In response, housing demand in major cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth continues to surge. But as land availability dwindles, expanding outward is not always a suitable option. Instead, governments are seeking to maximise underutilised urban land.
For developers, infill projects offer a rare opportunity to create high-value housing in established locations. Despite the benefits, infill development isn’t straightforward. Site constraints, zoning restrictions, community opposition, and infrastructure limitations all require careful navigation. Without a clear delivery strategy, even the most promising projects can fall short of their potential.
Developed Property is ready to step in. With expertise in site assessment, planning approvals, and project management, we make sure investors and developers unlock profitability in every project they undertake.
Here’s how to get infill project delivery right.
Key Strategies for Delivering a Successful Infill Development Project
If you are undertaking an infill development project, you have your work cut out. To help you make the most of this opportunity, we’ve put together some key strategies you can use. Give them a go, be proactive, and reap the rewards of infill development.
Conduct a Comprehensive Site Assessment
More often than not, urban sites are challenging. Before you make a commitment to a residential infill development, you must invest in and scrutinise a site assessment.
Pay attention to:
• Zoning and planning restrictions. Some sites look great on paper but come with zoning headaches. You need to understand all land use regulations, height restrictions, and heritage overlays upfront.
• Infrastructure and services. Can existing roads and utilities support the new development, or will upgrades be required? If so, will these upgrades push the development cost past what’s profitable
• Environmental and topographical factors. Flood risks, soil contamination, and steep gradients can impact buildability and drive costs up. Proper site investigations flag any potential issues so your project stays on track—no surprises.
Secure Planning and Development Approvals Early
Council approvals can make or break an infill project. Delays, objections, requests for more information, and unexpected compliance hurdles are all common pain points—but they don’t have to be.
• Engage expert town planners. A professional town planner knows the ins and outs of local planning schemes and can negotiate approvals on your behalf.
• Know your community consultation requirements. Neighbours tend to resist higher-density developments. Proactive engagement early on, bolstered by clear communication and well-structured development applications, reduces objections and speeds up the approval process.
Optimise Spatial Planning for Maximum Land Use
The goal of infill development is simple: make the best use of limited space. But poor spatial planning can lead to wasted square meterage or developments that don’t align with local density targets.
Overcome this challenge by:
• Using spatial analysis and site optimisation. A data-driven approach ensures every square metre is working to its full potential. Find out more about our subdivision and surveying services.
• Delivering both density and liveability. More units mean higher yields, but poor design can lead to planning rejections and lack of sales. Thoughtful, future-thinking layouts make real estate developments attractive to both councils and buyers.
Manage Costs and Infrastructure Integration
Infill development can be more cost-effective than greenfield projects, but only if infrastructure costs are kept in check.
Wherever possible, developments should tap into existing roads, utilities, and transport networks rather than requiring major upgrades. In addition, consider innovative and cost-effective design and construction approaches. For example, modular construction and pre-fabrication can cut costs and reduce waste without compromising the quality or finish of the project.
As a bonus, be sure to research and take advantage of state and federal grants. For example, in Queensland, the $350 million Incentivising Infill Development Fund offers relief from council infrastructure charges for developments that increase density in high-demand areas.
Streamline Project Delivery for Efficiency
Even the best-planned infill projects can run into delays and budget blowouts. A project management expert might be the answer. They can coordinate contractors and build a schedule that works for all parties involved. They can provide advice and oversee compliance to prevent delays further down the track, keeping timelines in check all the while.
You’ll also want to develop a structured delivery approach. Set clear, time-bound milestones and make sure they’re saved and accessible to everyone involved. Implement a proactive risk-mitigation strategy to keep tasks moving forward, even when the unexpected occurs.
Developed Property provides end-to-end project delivery services. Our team collaborates with developers so they maintain control of costs and schedules throughout the entire build process.
Why Infill Development Is the Future of Urban Growth
Infill development will become a necessity as our capital cities grapple with rising populations and limited housing supply. Here’s why:
• Repurposing vacant or underutilised land prevents urban sprawl and makes better use of existing city infrastructure.
• Developers can reduce their capital expenses and deliver quicker project turnarounds by avoiding the need for new infrastructure.
• More housing in high-demand locations improves marketability. This boosts long-term investment returns.
• Compact, well-planned urban developments have a lower environmental impact compared to low-density greenfield expansion.
With state and federal governments pushing for higher urban density, infill developments will only become more financially and strategically viable.
Partner with Developed Property for Seamless Project Delivery
At Developed Property, we don’t just consult—we deliver.
From initial site assessments to securing planning approvals and overseeing end-to-end project delivery, our team makes sure that your next infill development is profitable and compliant.
View our projects and contact Developed Property today to unlock the full potential of your site.
