Landscaping upgrade breathes new life into South Yarra community

A recently completed landscaping upgrade at the Prahran Child and Youth Community Wellbeing Hub is delivering immediate benefits to the South Yarra community—thanks to a collaborative project with Aboriginal-owned construction company, Yarra Contracting.

The revitalised outdoor space includes new turf, concrete paths, playground equipment and a dedicated storage facility to support the Youth Hub and surrounding community. Delivered as part of early works for the Simmons Street housing redevelopment, the project reflects Homes Victoria’s commitment to creating lasting local benefits beyond new housing.

“This project is about reinstating the grounds for the Youth Hub and the local community,” said Jessie Masset from Yarra Contracting.

“We want to achieve a good, quality job for the children who use the hub.”

Yarra Contracting has been working on-site over recent months as part of a broader construction program that will deliver 522 new homes at Simmons Street. The development includes a mix of social, affordable, market rental and specialist disability housing, and forms part of Homes Victoria’s innovative Ground Lease Model 2 program.

Homes Victoria is partnering with Building Communities and builder ICON to bring the Simmons Street redevelopment to life. Liam Hewitt, ICON’s Indigenous Program Coordinator, said supporting a culturally safe and inclusive environment is central to the team’s approach.

“Being on-site every day means I get to engage directly with the local community and Aboriginal workers,” Liam said.

“I always encourage cultural safety on-site so that Aboriginal staff feel comfortable and respected in their place of work.”

The Simmons Street project is one of 4 major redevelopment sites under Ground Lease Model 2, with a total of 1,370 new homes to be delivered across South Yarra, Prahran, Port Melbourne and Hampton East by late 2026.

Homes Victoria’s Principal Project Manager for South Yarra and Prahran, Joseph Yodgee, said partnering with social enterprises like Yarra Contracting helps deliver broad community value.

“By working with Aboriginal businesses and social enterprises, we’re not just building homes—we’re also supporting jobs, creating inclusive spaces, and improving local amenities,” Joseph said.

As work continues at Simmons Street, Homes Victoria remains committed to delivering high-quality housing and community infrastructure that benefits all Victorians.