Exactly where to build a new home is a big decision – especially when you have a family to think about.
The right location, parks and open spaces, schools, shops and transport links are all important factors for busy families.
So, what is the key to a family friendly community?
1. A welcoming vibe
When you’re raising a family, ensuring they feel safe and secure in their neighbourhood brings peace of mind. Knowing children can safely walk to and from school, or pop to the local shops and park, is a key element of a family friendly area. Also, having neighbours who will keep an eye on your home when you are away.
James and Stacey Loveridge were drawn to the community vibe at Cornerstone Werribee. Picture: Supplied
A few weeks ago, James and Stacey Loveridge and their energetic sons, William, 3, and Tomas, 6, moved into a spacious home at Peet’s Cornerstone Werribee. They were drawn to the family focused amenities, location and the growing sense of community.
“We have great neighbours. We felt this place was very family orientated from the start,” says Stacey.
“When you see other people out and about, everyone says ‘hello’ and has a smile, and there’s a sense that people are looking out for each other.”
2. Wealth of amenities
From playgrounds, sports facilities and shopping hubs, to cinemas and restaurants, a busy family needs a range of activities to keep the kids busy.
Stacey and her family were drawn to amenities such as the major shopping centre and cinema complex, Pacific Werribee, which is only a short drive away.
With two young boys, James and Stacey wanted a community with good facilities, such as Cornerstone’s Safari Park. Picture: Supplied
“We looked for a place that had private and public schools in the area because we wanted choices for our boys’ education, too,” she says.
“We’re also close to Werribee Open Range Zoo. During the summer we visit every week. There’s always something to do.”
Look at facilities for the future, too – such as new schools, local shops and cafes, parks, sporting amenities, hospitals and community centres.
3. Fast and reliable internet
By early September, the nbn broadband access network was ready to connect to 7.2 million homes and businesses. The network promises more entertainment options and faster and more reliable internet connection – so it’s great news for Netflix fans or the growing number of Australians working from home. With our lives increasingly dependent on technology, swift and reliable internet access is a must.
“Having nbn access is the future. My job allows me to work from home one day a week, so good quality internet is important,” says James.
“We also felt having nbn access was important for our boys’ studies in the future. I think without good internet streaming you get left behind.”
Cornerstone Werribee provides easy access to the airport, Melbourne and Geelong. Picture: Supplied
4. Easy commuting options
Quick access to major roads, freeways and public transport means less time stuck in traffic and more time with your family and friends. The Australian Government has committed more than $75 billion over the next 10 years in transport infrastructure, which will stretch from east to west and north to south.
Researching infrastructure plans for your local community is important to ensure new roads and public transport links will make life easier. See upcoming projects at the Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities website.
“Cornerstone has plans for a slip road to the Princes Freeway that will give us quicker access to Melbourne and the airport and to Geelong and the coast,” says James.
“And a new railway station will come online in the next few years and that will be great as the boys get older and need to get to high school and into the city.”
5. Limited impact on the environment
Some of the most community-minded estates are recognising that families want to live in homes that are sustainable and limit their impact and footprint on the environment. So, some developers are ensuring new homes come with a five-star energy efficiency rating.
The Loveridge family are enjoying being more active since moving into their new home. Picture: Supplied
And they are also designing estates that encourage residents to leave the car at home and to get outside. Bike paths, walking tracks and exercise stations are all to be found in some of the most people-focused estates. It’s all about good health, being active and meeting your neighbours.
The Loveridges say they have been more active since moving into their new home enjoying family walks, that also include their dog, Harry, as often as possible.
“The main boulevard has a bike path and a foot path and there are plans for waterway boardwalks and exercise stations,” says Stacey. “This neighbourhood has everything we need.”
This article was originally published on
15 Oct 2018 at 12:01am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.