BaptistCare Macquarie Park master plan approved

BaptistCare is pleased to announce that our State Significant Development (SSD) application for the Macquarie Park master plan has been approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). 

This landmark moment is the culmination of a planning journey that began back in 2020 and was shaped by community and stakeholder feedback, careful design and an unwavering commitment to creating a vibrant intergenerational community. 

The approved master plan directly addresses four of Sydney’s most pressing challenges: the shortage of affordable housing, the growing demand for aged care and seniors housing, the need for more student accommodation and access to public greenspace, on a single well–connected site in one of the city’s fastest-growing precincts.  

“We have been part of the Macquarie Park community since 1962, and this is a proud new chapter in our story here. This is not just a development. It is a demonstration of what happens when you hold firm to a vision, listen deeply to your community, and have a determination to persist”, said BaptistCare CEO Charles Moore. 

Charles added that the approval marked the beginning of something genuinely exciting.  

David Cowdery, BaptistCare’s Chief Property and Development Officer, unpacked some of BaptistCare’s long-term vision for this historic site. 

“From the early days of planning, we set a clear vision and values for the future of our Macquarie Park community. We wanted to create a unique, inter-generational community that was innovative, smart, green and sustainable, connected to country and centred around its residents, workers and neighbours. This vision has never wavered”, said David. 

The approved Macquarie Park masterplan is an evolution of the original design, which holds true to the original vision and incorporates the feedback received from the community, council and the NSW Planning Department. 

Across the site, the approved master plan will create a vibrant, intergenerational community that brings together new homes, aged care, seniors living, student accommodation and welcoming public spaces. A significant portion of the precinct will be dedicated to green space, including a one‑hectare public park open for everyone to enjoy.  

The design also features a lively urban square and strong connections for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles, helping the precinct integrate seamlessly with the wider Macquarie Park area, including the nearby Macquarie University and Macquarie Centre. 

The development will generate substantial employment opportunities during construction and once operational, supporting a thriving local economy. Overall, the master plan reflects BaptistCare’s commitment to creating a well‑connected, people‑centred community that provides homes, care and purpose for people at all stages of life, while ensuring the site remains a special place for the community for many years to come.  

There will be no immediate changes on site for residents of our existing aged care homes or our employees, as work continues to obtain the required planning approvals for each phase and building in the master plan.  

We are excited about what this milestone represents for our organisation and for the future of Macquarie Park. As planning progresses, we will continue to keep employees, residents, families and the community engaged and informed.