Future residents of Kinley will enjoy a global standard of living, with the development receiving a 6 Star GreenStar Communities rating, representing “world-leading” community, environmental and sustainability measures.

A testament to rigorous planning and exemplary environmental strategy, this prestigious accreditation from the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) makes Kinley Intrapac Property’s first Green Star Community – the latest achievement in a distinguished portfolio of sustainable development, spanning nearly 40 years.

Comprising 163 hectares, Kinley is Victoria’s largest infill development. Such a massive undertaking required a deeply considered environmental focus from the outset. With 25 hectares taken up by the former Lilydale quarry in the middle of the site, Intrapac Property sought to re-fill this 137-year old, 127-metre-deep hole with the on-site material originally unearthed from it. This not only streamlined supply, but avoided both the financial and environmental costs of long transportation routes. 

“By moving the existing fill stockpiles into the former quarry, we’ve created nearly 70 hectares of new developable land, rehabilitating the site in the process and repairing a significant scar in the earth,” says Max Shifman, Chief Operating Officer at Intrapac Property. This push to meaningfully rejuvenate nature is fundamental to all Intrapac Property’s projects, typified by generous green corridors and native planting.  

“Biodiversity is an important pillar of environmental sustainability. At Kinley, we’re delivering numerous wetlands which act as important recreational spaces where we can provide greater tree canopy, more public amenity, and attract wildlife.”  Through forward-thinking infrastructure allowing for energy efficient homes and sensitive placemaking, Intrapac Property has created a framework at Kinley that enables residents to become stakeholders in a sustainable future and invest in line with their values. Beyond industry accolades, the development group sees a core responsibility to ensure ongoing custodianship of this newly reclaimed land into the future. 

“Part of our obligation is to educate the people coming to this site on what it means to be here,” explains Shifman. “From a sustainability point of view, we have a duty to this place – whether it’s to spark community development and participation, or to benefit the wetlands, to use green energy or sustainable materials – it is all part of these are the values this project will champion.” 

To service the 8000 new residents expected to live at Kinley, Intrapac Property’s comprehensive development plan suggests the ideal 20-minute neighbourhood, moving away from car-centric suburbs by ensuring a range of key amenities are within walking distance of residents. Kinley’s scale is particularly well equipped to address Melbourne’s post-covid mood, with many living within the confines of a 5-kilometre radius during lockdowns of recent years, the concept of living locally is more topical than ever. 

“The infrastructure here is about proximity to amenity and open spaces, and recognising the health benefits of those things,” says Shifman. “We’re not simply trying to simply meet local needs, but rather, the aim is to make Kinley so engaging that we can attract a wider audience - going beyond just the convenience of daily shopping to become a true destination.” 

True to form, Intrapac Property exceeds expectations at Kinley by investing in long term sustainable solutions, including solar energy and cyclical water management, which will not only significantly reduce the community’s environmental impact, but enable residents to give back over time.  

The project also introduces greater housing diversity, much needed yet currently absent in the area. In addition to house and land, Kinley will offer new townhomes and apartments to cater for different demographics and a growing cohort of local downsizers. 

“Affordable housing means more than simply the price you pay for a house, it’s also looking at the ongoing cost of living,” says Shifman. “With all of the initiatives we’ve put in place at Kinley, bills and water costs will be lower. What we aim to deliver is a more affordable life, not just an affordable house. Maintaining this is an important part of creating a diverse and resilient community.” 

Valid for five years, the GBCA accreditation is an ongoing statement of intent that Intrapac Property is uniquely placed to fulfil. This latest achievement cements Intrapac Property’s continued legacy, as leaders in sustainable and enduring neighbourhoods. 

“We live to create resilient communities,” says Shifman. “This is why we pride ourselves on taking important sustainability initiatives to help achieve that goal. This way, the places we create today remain relevant well into the future.” 

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