First Nations Developer Wins Wodonga Precinct Project

First Nations construction company TVN On-Country has won the nod to develop and build the final site of a placemaking precinct in Victoria’s north-east.

Junction Place, Australia’s largest regional urban renewal project and led by Development Victoria, is rejuvenating the historic railway station and yards at central Wodonga, 322km from Melbourne.

The final site development will include TVN On-Country’s national headquarters, a cultural learning centre and gallery, a yarning circle and commercial office space.

On-Country Pathways, a First Nations-operated non-profit organisation, will occupy the hub permanently, supporting young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through employment and career pathways.

TVN On-Country managing director Jebb Hutchison said this was “self-determination in action for First Nations people in regional Victoria”.

“The development will be a powerful enabler for our culture to thrive and for mob to grow and develop their businesses and services,” he said.

Development Victoria executive general manager, precincts, Niall Cunningham said “the appointment of TVN On-Country will be a valuable addition to Junction Place, helping to shape a vibrant and diverse precinct that benefits the entire community and beyond”.

Construction is slated to begin after community consultation and development approvals.

Development Victoria will support TVN On-Country through the planning process to ensure the development complements the precinct.

▲ A rendering of the development that will include TVN On-Country’s national headquarters and a cultural hub.

Last year, Development Victoria appointed Birchmore Group to develop sites 1, 3, 4 and 5 at Junction Place, which will deliver around 200 homes, as well as short-stay accommodation and mixed-use spaces.

More than $30 million has already been invested in revitalising the precinct.

TVN On-Country last year completed the Munarra Centre, the largest project awarded by the Victorian Government to a First Nations-owned business.

Victoria’s broader regional development strategy includes committing more than $1 billion through its Regional Housing Fund to deliver 1300 social and affordable homes across rural and regional areas by 2028, with Wodonga allocated 50 affordable units under the program. The fund includes 130 units designated specifically for First Nations Victorians.