The recent announcement of 10 new transit-oriented development (TOD) precincts around Perth train stations has, predictably, sparked debate about density.
Change, particularly when it involves established neighbourhoods, naturally makes people apprehensive.
But much of the public debate to date has overlooked the core purpose – TODs are fundamentally about creating genuine, thriving communities, not imposing unwanted density.
These precincts succeed when they create places where people actually want to live, work and socialise.
The best examples – whether Leederville’s village atmosphere or Subi Centro’s vibrant public spaces – share common traits: walkability, diverse amenities and authentic community character.
The criticism that these precincts will destroy neighbourhood character misses a fundamental point.
Done well, TODs enhance what makes an area special while addressing Western Australia’s housing challenges.
Families need starter homes. Professionals want convenient apartments. Downsizers seek compact living with amenity. Current low-density settings around established train lines simply aren’t delivering this choice.
Consider what TODs genuinely offer. Residents gain walkable access to quality public transport, reducing car dependency and commute times. Local businesses benefit from increased foot traffic. Public spaces become activated destinations. Essential services become more accessible. Environmental benefits flow from reduced car use and more efficient infrastructure delivery.
The Fremantle line, despite reopening decades ago, remains vastly underutilised from a land-use perspective.
These established areas already possess the amenity, character and connectivity making TODs successful.
Communities can embrace this opportunity by genuinely engaging in the planning process.
Residents should take every opportunity to make their voices heard, ensuring development respects existing character while providing housing diversity.
This means attending consultations and council meetings, contributing ideas about public spaces and advocating for appropriate scale that fits the neighbourhood context.
Communities can also champion the benefits. Property Council of Australia’s 2023 research report Transit Precincts: Perth, Get Onboard shows 74 per cent of Western Australians aren’t opposed to medium-density living and many actively support it.
Local advocacy helps to counter vocal minorities who resist all change, ensuring balanced perspectives shape planning decisions.
Support for local businesses within TOD precincts strengthens community hubs. The more residents embrace mixed-use developments with ground-floor cafes, shops and services, the more vibrant these precincts become.
The alternative to planned, well-designed TODs isn’t preserving the status quo. Rather, it’s unmanaged sprawl pushing further into Perth’s outskirts.
TODs represent WA’s best opportunity to accommodate growth sustainably while building vibrant, connected communities.
Success requires collaboration – government providing clear vision, industry delivering quality outcomes and communities engaging constructively in shaping their neighbourhoods’ evolution.
