The precinct is set to deliver $3.4 billion to local economy, city-defining infrastructure and the largest medical hub in the north.
Establishing more than 7,200 jobs and critical healthcare, housing, employment and commercial infrastructure, New Epping will deliver unrivalled economic benefits to the vibrant and rapidly-growing City of Whittlesea, giving shape to its presence as Melbourne’s new urban north.
According to ABS data, Whittlesea is the fifth fastest-growing local government area. Home to 220,000 people, the city is expected to reach a population of 380,000 by 2041. The healthcare sector is also the largest employer in the area, accounting for 12,126 local job positions in 2020/21.
The project will see the transformation of this previously dormant 51-hectare site, which includes the largest medical hub in Melbourne’s north, alongside plans for a 110,000sqm of commercial space, and retail and hospitality spaces that support an additional 5,742 workers.
According to an economic impact report, the masterplan project will contribute more than $3.4 billion to the economy, about one per cent of Victoria’s current GDP. Once fully operational, New Epping will lead to the creation of more than 7,200 jobs, in addition to the 622 construction roles required each year to complete the 15-year build.
The Northern Hospital, which employs 5,700 staff, is home to the busiest emergency department in Victoria. Once complete, New Epping’s neighbouring 7-hectare health, wellness and knowledge precinct will generate an additional 646 new jobs in allied health, and a further 726 jobs at the Northern Private Hospital, operated by Ramsay Health Care.
“The healthcare sector is of critical importance to the City of Whittlesea, not only in terms of patient care but also as the city’s largest employer. The provision of a new health and wellness precinct at New Epping will guarantee the wellbeing of its residents, create jobs and help the state’s healthcare system cope with demand,” says Riverlee development director David Lee.
City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson says Riverlee’s vision for New Epping will provide significant benefit to the growing northern corridor and its community.
“This landmark project will provide employment opportunities, economic stimulus and the infrastructure required to create a vibrant urban environment that is underpinned by wellness and sustainability.”
“Riverlee has created a vision for New Epping that builds on the cornerstones of our community — healthcare as our leading industry, the need for quality housing for people at all stages of life, and sustainability as a way of ensuring a bright and healthy future for our younger generations. With its challenging site conditions, the former Epping Quarry has laid dormant for decades. Its transformation is something the entire community can look forward to.”
