Bradfield City Centre, an urban development in Western Sydney, is set to reshape the region’s landscape by driving innovation, creating jobs, and promoting sustainability. Spanning 281 acres and adjacent to the new Western Sydney International Airport, this ambitious project will be the first major city built in Australia in over a century.
The development of Bradfield City Centre is strategically positioned at the heart of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, a region earmarked for high-tech industries and advanced manufacturing. Bradfield will foster collaboration between academia, industry leaders, and research institutions as part of its vision. The city aims to serve as a residential and commercial hub and a global technology and manufacturing leader.
One of the project’s key goals is to create over 20,000 jobs across various sectors, including engineering, technology, and advanced manufacturing. The city will also provide 10,000 new homes, with at least 10% designated as affordable housing. This dual approach ensures that Bradfield serves both the economic and social needs of the Western Sydney community. As part of its inclusivity goals, the city is designed to offer a walkable environment where most services, amenities, and employment opportunities are within 400 meters of the central metro station.
Example: The Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility (AMRF), one of the city’s signature projects, will be a hub for prototype development and product testing. The AMRF will give visitors a firsthand look at cutting-edge technologies being developed on-site, featuring cleanrooms, industry-specific research spaces, and a public exhibition hall.
Bradfield City Centre is designed to focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship strongly. The city's buildings incorporate advanced energy-saving technologies, such as solar energy systems and green roofs, which contribute to lowering the carbon footprint. Additionally, the city is pioneering water conservation through rainwater collection systems for reuse in non-potable applications such as landscaping and cleaning.
A key component of Bradfield’s sustainability goals is its emphasis on greenspaces. The city will feature several publicly accessible parks, urban forests, and green corridors that help reduce urban heat and promote biodiversity. These spaces are intended for recreation and connect the city’s residential and commercial areas, fostering a sense of community.
Example: The Second Building in the development, spanning over 12,000 square meters, will be dedicated to advanced research labs and a publicly accessible park area. This building will have rooftop solar panels and green roofs that enhance energy efficiency while integrating nature into the city’s infrastructure.
Bradfield City Centre is built with connectivity in mind. A dedicated Metro Station will form the backbone of the city’s transport system, enabling fast and efficient travel within and to the broader Sydney region. This station will also support the city’s position as a major tourism and business destination, with easy access to the Western Sydney International Airport.
Example: The 14-hour flight connection to over half the world’s population makes Bradfield a key gateway for international trade, tourism, and global partnerships. The city aims to attract businesses that rely on advanced manufacturing and research by providing state-of-the-art facilities and direct access to global markets.
A project of this magnitude requires precise planning and execution, and CBRE’s Development & Infrastructure team played a vital role in ensuring the project’s success. From 2021 to 2023, CBRE managed and delivered the Bradfield City Centre Master Plan, which laid the groundwork for the city’s design and future development. This involved detailed planning of the road networks, public spaces, and key infrastructure to ensure that Bradfield met governmental and community expectations.
Nick Graham, Managing Principal of CBRE Development & Infrastructure, highlighted the collaborative effort that made the project possible: “Our goal was to ensure the delivery of a thoughtfully planned city that aligns with environmental and social priorities. Bradfield City Centre will not only boost employment opportunities but also provide equitable housing solutions for Western Sydney residents.”
The master plan had to account for Bradfield's immediate needs and future growth. Key challenges included designing a city supporting high-tech industries while meeting the NSW Government’s employment targets and addressing community concerns. CBRE’s involvement allowed for integrating cutting-edge technology, sustainable urban design, and community-driven priorities.
Looking ahead, Bradfield City Centre is poised to become a thriving hub for advanced industries, education, and culture. Its emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity will set a new standard for urban development in Australia and globally.
When the Western Sydney International Airport becomes fully operational in 2026, it will coincide with launching crucial infrastructure in Bradfield, including research facilities, residential areas, and entertainment venues. The city will be a critical location for arts, culture, and entertainment, designed to host global events and attract international visitors.
Bradfield City Centre represents a bold vision for the future of urban living in Australia. With its advanced technology, sustainable infrastructure, and vibrant community spaces, it is set to become a model for future cities. Through a combination of job creation, cutting-edge research facilities, and a strong focus on environmental sustainability, Bradfield City will be a critical player in shaping the future of Western Sydney.
Bradfield is more than just a city—it’s a blueprint for how urban areas can thrive while addressing the pressing challenges of sustainability, innovation, and community. As Nick Graham said, “It’s shaping the future for many generations to come.”