The project, at 50 Morisset Street, Queanbeyan, has the potential to deliver around 160 new dwellings in a shop-top housing format, creating more housing choice close to services, jobs, and public transport.
Property Council ACT and Capital Region Executive Director Ashlee Berry said the decision marked the first SSD declaration for the Capital Region after eight expressions of interest since the HDA was established in January.
"This declaration is a positive sign that the housing delivery system for the Capital Region is starting to move in the right direction," Ms Berry said.
"Projects like this show what's possible when planning, infrastructure and investment are aligned, but we need to keep that coordination going from declaration through to construction. The goal must be getting more homes built faster, while keeping quality and affordability front of mind."
Ms Berry said the HDA process could help to identify and unlock more delivery-ready sites across the region, supporting the Capital Region to meet local housing targets.
"With housing demand rising and rental pressure still intense, every new project that progresses adds vital supply and gives more local families and essential workers a pathway to secure housing," she said.
Ms Berry said continued support for the HDA, and faster post-approval processes will be critical to sustaining housing momentum across the Capital Region.
Housing in the region will be the focus of the Property Council's Capital Region Housing Summit on 20 November.
The event will bring government, industry, and community leaders together to focus on the practical solutions Canberra needs – from tax reform and financing models to skills, infrastructure coordination, and faster delivery pathways.
"Next week's Summit is a chance to move from talk to action – to connect reform with delivery and make sure homes like those approved in Queanbeyan are the first of many," Ms Berry said.
