GEON Executive Director Ben Griffin said the milestone clears the path for the next phase of the project, including detailed design, operational work and building approvals, with an anticipated construction start in 2026. 

“This is a major step forward, not just for GEON but for the broader Townsville community,” Mr Griffin said. “We’re delivering a long-term housing solution in direct response to the region’s urgent need for more rental accommodation - particularly for essential workers.” 

Infinitum Partners played a pivotal role in guiding the development application through council approval. As GEON’s strategic planning partner, Infinitum Partners provided end-to-end support across the approvals process, ensuring the project met both planning and community objectives. 

Kate Isles, Director at Infinitum Partners, said the Fairfield & Co BTR development represents a thoughtful and much-needed evolution of Townsville’s housing market. 

“This approval marks a significant milestone for Townsville,” Ms Isles said. “It reflects a deep understanding of the region’s long-term housing needs and the power of collaborative partnerships between government, developers, and planning specialists. We’re proud to support GEON in delivering a project that will offer genuine housing choice, support attraction and retention of essential workers, and help build a more sustainable and inclusive precinct.” 

The north-facing towers will cater to a range of demographics with both short and long-term rental options. Ground floors will feature retail and commercial spaces, with two above-ground parking levels providing 252 car parks. The development will be constructed to a minimum finished floor height of 4.4 metres AHD to achieve flood immunity. 

GEON CEO, Dan Moore said the project is expected to generate approximately 150 local construction jobs, with long-term employment opportunities created in on-site management and retail services. 

“With nearly 10 consulting firms already involved - including four with offices in Townsville, this project will deliver real economic benefits during construction and for years to come,” Mr Moore said. “This is not only an exciting first for Townsville, but for Regional Queensland as the first BTR outside Southeast Queensland. It demonstrates significant confidence in the regional market and the long-term potential of cities like Townsville.” 

The development marks a strategic expansion of the Fairfield & Co precinct, which has evolved from a large-format retail centre into a mix of experiential, lifestyle, wellness, fitness and food tenants now home to operators like Beacon Lighting, Pillow Talk, Petbarn, Urban Climb, X-Golf, Fitstop, Fish ‘n’ Flips, Banjos Bakery and KFC.