Image Source: Waterloo Estate – Connecting with Country Guidelines, NSW Government, NSW Land and Housing Corporation, Murawin, 2023

Waterloo Estate – Connecting with Country Framework

 

Client: NSW Land and Housing Corporation

 

Service: Place Strategy

Going forward we must ensure the history, the communities and Country of the Waterloo/Illpah area are cared for.

The NSW Government has committed to “renewing the Waterloo Estate to help address the housing crisis, and to give more people access to a place to call home. The future homes will be modern and well-designed, and replace the existing older social housing located on the site. At around 40-70 years old, the current homes and facilities are nearing the end of their intended lifespan and are also increasingly difficult and expensive to maintain. Many of the homes in Waterloo do not meet contemporary accessibility and sustainability standards and many tenants have specific needs that can’t be met with current housing.”

More social and affordable housing in Waterloo, Land and Housing Corporation: https://www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/land-and-housing-corporation/greater-sydney/waterloo 

Going forward we must ensure the history, the communities and Country of the Waterloo/Illpah area are cared for.

The NSW Government has committed to “renewing the Waterloo Estate to help address the housing crisis, and to give more people access to a place to call home. The future homes will be modern and well-designed, and replace the existing older social housing located on the site. At around 40-70 years old, the current homes and facilities are nearing the end of their intended lifespan and are also increasingly difficult and expensive to maintain. Many of the homes in Waterloo do not meet contemporary accessibility and sustainability standards and many tenants have specific needs that can’t be met with current housing.”

Murawin was engaged to develop a vision for the Waterloo Estate

by facilitating the engagement with the local Aboriginal community and developing the Connecting to Country Framework to guide this large-scale infrastructure and social housing development.

The vision for Waterloo Estate is to enhance the strength and diversity of Waterloo, a unique home to many on Gadigal Land. The renewal will deliver new homes, community places, and green spaces which prioritise the health and well-being of social housing residents and sustainable mixed communities.

A key objective of the renewal is to prioritise outcomes for the Redfern-Waterloo Aboriginal Community through planning, delivery, and operations.

Using our Country-centric methodology Barri Marruma,

Murawin was engaged by Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) to assist in the development of a holistic Connecting with Country framework, which will guide the delivery of positive outcomes for Aboriginal communities throughout the life of the renewal.

This principles-based framework provides a solid foundation for government and stakeholders to develop initiatives for optimal environmental, economic, social and governance outcomes for Aboriginal communities as a result of the renewal.

The principles outlined in this document have been developed to promote reconciliation, self-determination, and integration of Connection with Country into the renewal, whilst demonstrating cultural respect and responsiveness.

Image Source: Waterloo Estate – Connecting with Country Guidelines, NSW Government, NSW Land and Housing Corporation, Murawin, 2023

The framework is a starting point for government and the renewal partner to work with the local Aboriginal community to identify aspirational actions and initiatives that encompass:

Opportunities to reflect cultural heritage and values in site and built form design.
Opportunities to raise awareness of cultural heritage and values associated with Waterloo
Economic empowerment, workforce participation, enterprise and innovation
Opportunities to support housing outcomes for Aboriginal communities including culturally safe tenancy management, and planning and delivery of social and health services, now, during and after the development is complete
Consultation and co-design with Aboriginal communities, representatives, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

Murawin was privileged to undertake the consultation, engagement, and development of this Connecting to Country Framework in an area of such importance. Hearing the stories, perspectives, and priorities of local community members is of vital importance to ensure we delivered a guiding framework for this large-scale infrastructure project that genuinely represents local voices.

Waterloo Estate is an opportunity to support a truly unique and inspirational community.

By integrating Country into the process from the beginning, we can create a place that is welcoming, inclusive, and sustainable for generations to come.

This is more than just a social housing redevelopment. It is a chance to set a precedent for what social housing can be on a global scale. It is a chance to build a community that is truly representative of the rich diversity and true story of Australia.

 

We must respect the Aboriginal community of Waterloo and their deep connection to Country. We must work with them to create a community that is sustainable and respectful of the environment.

Image Source: Waterloo Estate – Connecting with Country Guidelines, NSW Government, NSW Land and Housing Corporation, Murawin, 2023

Through supporting First Nations people first, we create a community that is welcoming and inclusive of all people. This means creating a space where everyone feels safe and respected, regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation or otherness.

Together, through this Connecting with Country Framework we can create a Waterloo that is a shining example of what is possible when we work together to create a better future for all.

Read more about the Waterloo Estate Project here: https://www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/land-and-housing-corporation/greater-sydney/waterloo