Pacific Link Housing is proud to announce that Fernleigh Apartments in Belmont has won the 2025 Property Council of Australia / Rider Levett Bucknall Award for Best Affordable Housing Development.
Completed in mid-2023, the 13-unit, mixed-tenure development includes social, affordable and market-rate homes designed for residents aged over 55. Built on a compact 664sqm infill site, Fernleigh demonstrates how thoughtful design can deliver high-quality housing without compromising space, comfort or amenity.
The national judging panel praised the project’s “smart use” of the site, increasing capacity from 11 to 13 homes while maintaining accessibility, privacy, and liveability. Features such as step-free access, rooftop solar, lift access, and a shared courtyard and community garden support both environmental sustainability and social connection.
Pacific Link Housing Group CEO Ian Lynch said the award reflected the strength of local partnerships and a shared commitment to better housing outcomes.
“This award is a credit to our team and the many partners who contributed their time, funding and support. We’re proud to deliver homes that are not only well built and secure, but also offer tenants comfort, stability and a genuine sense of belonging.”
The NSW Government contributed $1.6 million through the Community Housing Innovation Fund (CHIF), with additional low-cost finance provided by Housing Australia. The development was supported locally by Lake Macquarie City Council, who waived more than $65,000 in fees and contributions. Councillor Adam Shultz, who attended the opening in 2023 and is now Mayor, said Council was pleased to support the project as part of its local housing strategy.
Coverage in the Newcastle Herald included a comment from Property Council Hunter and Central Coast Regional Director Nuatali Nelmes, who said:
“Fernleigh Apartments shows that affordable housing doesn’t have to mean compromising on design or location – it’s about creating beautiful homes for people to live in. This is a win for the Hunter – it shows we’re leading the way in finding solutions to the housing challenge and highlights what’s possible when we match vision with delivery.”
The project was delivered by Pacific Link Housing in partnership with Kingston Building and SDA Architecture, with ongoing tenancy and maintenance support provided by Pacific Link Housing’s social enterprises: Key2 Realty and Renew Projects.
Fernleigh Apartments joins a growing list of successful developments that are helping Pacific Link Housing increase access to safe, secure and affordable housing across the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie and Hunter regions.
26/9/2025 Newcastle Herald Article: Why this Hunter project was named Australia’s best affordable housing
