Mawambul supports the Sustainable Development Goals:
The project supports SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), particularly Target 11.4, through its Connecting with Country approach, which brings Aboriginal cultural knowledge, heritage and community perspectives into the planning of a new waterfront neighbourhood.
The masterplan’s focus on climate-resilient housing, sustainable development and environmentally responsive public spaces aligns with SDG 13 (Climate Action), supporting a more resilient urban environment that responds to local conditions.
Through its consideration of the site’s cultural landscape, natural environment and opportunities for nature-positive development, the project also aligns with SDG 15 (Life on Land), recognising the importance of protecting and strengthening connections between Country, community and the environment.
Project overview
The Tweed Heads Old Hospital Site is a proposed residential redevelopment led by Landcom, located at 14–34 Powell Street, Tweed Heads.
The project seeks to transform the former hospital site into a vibrant extension of the Tweed Heads centre and foreshore, providing a diverse mix of housing, improved public spaces and greater access to the waterfront.
The masterplan will consider housing affordability, walkability, community connection and environmental sustainability, while recognising the cultural heritage and landscape of the area.
Mawambul is leading the Connecting with Country process, bringing Aboriginal knowledge, cultural values and perspectives into the project’s planning and design.
Our approach
Mawambul’s work focuses on establishing a strong understanding of the site’s cultural context to inform the masterplan from its earliest stages.
This includes research into the area’s pre- and post-colonisation histories, stakeholder mapping and the development of an engagement plan to inform the project’s direction.
We are also contributing to the project vision and developing a project-specific Connecting with Country Framework, translating cultural considerations into principles that can inform future planning and design decisions.
Cultural approach
Mawambul’s approach recognises the importance of establishing relationships with Traditional Custodians and understanding the cultural significance of the site.
This involves identifying appropriate engagement protocols, connecting with community leaders and creating opportunities for Aboriginal knowledge and perspectives to inform the project vision.
The focus is on ensuring cultural priorities are understood and respected throughout the planning process, with community relationships remaining central as the project develops.
Collaboration
Mawambul is working alongside Landcom and the broader consultant team, including urban design, landscape and planning specialists.
Through visioning workshops and ongoing project discussions, we are bringing cultural expertise into the wider project team, building a shared understanding of the site’s context and opportunities.
This collaborative process brings cultural considerations into conversations about the project’s future from the beginning.
Outcome
The project presents an opportunity to transform the former hospital site into a connected waterfront neighbourhood that responds to Country, community and the surrounding landscape.
Through Mawambul’s leadership of the Connecting with Country process, the work will help shape a masterplan that recognises Aboriginal cultural heritage, strengthens community connection and contributes to culturally informed and environmentally responsive development.