Imagine an entirely new neighbourhood rising on the site of Long Bay Correctional Complex. Thousands of homes, new parks, local businesses and a very different future for Malabar.
That’s the vision behind a NSW Coalition election commitment to transform the approximately 50-hectare prison site into a residential community.
Announced on 28 October 2026, the proposal includes more than 12,000 homes, with 30 per cent designated social or affordable housing. But turning the idea into reality would be a major undertaking.
new homes
affordable
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So, how would it work?
Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane has pledged to establish a Long Bay Delivery Authority within the first 100 days of a Coalition government, if elected in March 2027.
The authority would manage planning, investigate transport and infrastructure, and coordinate relocating the prison to other facilities in NSW.
What does this mean for locals?
For Malabar, Maroubra, Matraville and Chifley, a project of this scale could mean tens of thousands of additional residents. And housing is only one part of the picture.
Getting around
With no metro or train station in Malabar, better transport would be essential. How would local roads and buses cope?
Everyday essentials
More people would increase demand for schools, childcare, medical services, sports facilities and green space.
Local businesses
A larger community could bring opportunities for cafés, shops, fitness businesses, trades and neighbourhood services.
Neighbourhood character
Building heights, public spaces and Long Bay’s historic structures would all need careful consideration.
But where would the prison go?
Long Bay houses specialist correctional and health services. Relocating these facilities would require substantial investment and careful planning.
The Minns Government has questioned the cost of replacing prison capacity and the absence of a committed mass-transit solution. The Public Service Association has also raised concerns about relocation and prison overcrowding.
This is an election commitment, not an approved development. There is no final master plan, confirmed funding package or construction timeline. Establishing the authority would only be the first step.
Could this area accommodate a new neighbourhood on this scale? What would you want prioritised: better transport, schools, green space or affordable housing?
NSW Government response, 28 October 2026
