Until recently, waterfront living near Melbourne's CBD was more about convenience than lifestyle. That is changing quickly.
A new wave of parkland, family-friendly amenities and design-led homes are transforming the Docklands into a place where people want to live – not just stay close to work.
At the heart of this development is NewQuay, a growing community that combines the tranquility of the waterfront with the energy of the city on its doorstep.
“NewQuay has a relaxing feel,” says Jessica Campbell, Project Manager Victoria, YPM Avanti.
“You're right on the edge of everything in Melbourne and overlooking the water, but it's a little quieter than the CBD.
“It has a really strong family feel.”
![New green spaces and design-led homes are redefining Melbourne's waterfront](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 800 450"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Circa's ground floor townhouses enjoy a leafy, connected streetscape along Melbourne's waterfront.
A new era for life in the Docklands
In recent years, NewQuay has been redefined by its parks, restaurants and culture, transforming the Docklands into a lifestyle destination.
Residents enjoy extensive green spaces including Ron Barassi Snr Park, NewQuay Central Park and the future Quay Park, which will create more than 3000 square meters of new parkland connecting NewQuay Central Park to Moonee Ponds Creek via Ron Barassi Snr Park.
“Quay Park will be directly adjacent to Circa, with ground floor terraced houses opening onto the boulevard landscape,” says Ms Campbell.
“Podium apartments and townhouses on the second, third and fourth levels offer views of treetops and a green streetscape. It will be beautiful.”
With the waterfront, District Docklands shopping center and Melbourne CBD just minutes away, the area now combines nature, culture and convenience.
The design of Circa by Freadman White combines sculpted arches and natural materials.
The entertainment options are just as extensive, from ArtVo and Imaginator to breweries, restaurants and a burgeoning hockey community.
Connectivity remains a key advantage: cycle paths, the free City Circle tram and Southern Cross Station are also nearby – plus easy access to major highways and Melbourne Airport for those commuting west.
Circa NewQuay: Timeless design meets life on the water
NewQuay's next chapter is Circa – the first new release in the last waterfront property.
The project brings together MAB's 30-year development history with award-winning architects Freadman White, resulting in a distinctive design that celebrates both longevity and quality of life.
“It’s nice to see something really architecturally beautiful and very different with the arches and the landscaping,” Ms. Campbell said.
Circa's five-story podium features a columned façade that creates a human-scale streetscape. Above it rises an 18-story tower that houses a carefully curated mix of homes – fewer in number but of greater character.
“It's quite exclusive compared to some of the larger towers nearby. It's not up to standard at all – there's a unique mix of homes,” Ms Campbell adds.
Natural stone, concrete and glass provide feel and warmth throughout, while buyers can choose from four interior palettes, from classic to modern.
Residents enjoy a private pool surrounded by landscaped gardens – a tranquil retreat in the heart of Circa's waterfront community.
From SOHO to townhouses: options for every lifestyle
Circa offers homes for every stage of life – from one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments to larger townhouses, two-story townhouses and SOHOs (small office home offices).
“The SOHOs are perfect for combining work and life,” explains Ms. Campbell. “If you’re a chiropractor or run a creative agency, you can base yourself downstairs and live upstairs.”
Prices range from $595,000 for apartments to approximately $2.6 million for luxury properties, offering different entry points for different buyers.
Wellness and community are the focus
Community and well-being are at the heart of Circa’s vision.
The Residents' Club includes an exclusive landscaped garden retreat with barbecue areas and cozy dining areas, a private pool and gym, a concert hall and bookable rooms for events and meetings.
Circa's rooftop garden offers a tranquil escape above the city – where lush landscapes and skyline views bring nature into everyday life.
Ms Campbell says the development is already attracting a diverse mix of buyers:
“We have received inquiries from families, professionals, downsizers and first-time buyers – particularly those interested in the close proximity to Docklands Primary School.”
Scheduled for completion in 2028, Circa NewQuay marks the next evolution of waterfront living in Melbourne.