For decades, millions of commuters and shoppers have poured through Bondi Junction every single week, yet the area has never quite managed to shake its reputation as a high-density transport and retail hub. That could soon change, with a major new master plan laying out a long-term vision to reshape the suburb into a more cohesive, day-to-night destination. Unveiled by Waverley Council and now open for public exhibition, the proposal outlines a large-scale transformation of the precinct, spanning new housing, expanded public space and a reworked town centre. If approved, it would mark one of the most significant overhauls of the Eastern Suburbs hub in decades, with a focus on making the area more connected and easier to navigate. Here’s everything we know so far.
Inside the proposed transformation of Bondi Junction
A major focus of the plan is Oxford Street Mall, which is set to be transformed into a vibrant all-day precinct. Proposed changes include upgraded retail and expanded dining supported by live music, events and extended trading as part of the Special Entertainment Precinct program. The biggest highlight of the proposal is the delivery of 3,000 new houses slated for the area, with 10 per cent permanently earmarked for affordable housing. Development would be concentrated within the town centre, with taller buildings in the core gradually stepping down into mid-rise and lower-scale housing towards surrounding streets, while established heritage areas are expected to remain largely unchanged.
A reworked transport interchange is also on the cards, with plans to relocate the main station entrance to Rowe Street. The move is intended to create a more direct and legible connection between the train station, bus services and surrounding streets, easing congestion and smoothing out the daily commuter bottleneck through what is currently one of the busiest and most confusing parts of the precinct.
Other highlights
Public recreation space is also set to play a bigger role, with the introduction of a connected network of plazas, parks and pedestrian links running through the area. The proposal includes a new central square within the Oxford Street Mall precinct, alongside expanded green spaces designed to make the suburb more walkable and usable throughout the day.
Two major projects are expected to anchor the transformation. The first centres on the overhaul of Oxford Street Mall, including a new arrival arcade, upgraded public domain and additional hospitality spaces. The second focuses on a redesigned civic precinct, with plans for a new community hub that could incorporate a library, performance venue and flexible spaces for local community programs and events.
The draft master plan is now on public exhibition, with feedback from residents, businesses and stakeholders set to shape the final outcome before it is considered for approval. Find more information here.
