One of Brisbane’s oldest inner-city precincts – and shopping hub Brisbane Broncos fans – is being transformed into the latest night-life destination for locals and tourists alike.
Brisbane’s ‘The Barracks’ district was bought by Aware Real Estate in October 2025, and the new owners are placing millions of dollars into revitalising the area.
The changes will begin later this year, and will add a suite of upgrades such as new laneways, seating and greenery, along with new restaurants and late night events.
Brisbane’s ‘The Barracks’ district is undergoing a transformation this year, with its new owner investing millions into turning the area into a long-term social hub.
Aware Real Estate CEO Tracey Whitby said her company wanted to turn the area into a social hub that visitors will want to keep coming back to, whether or not there’s a game on at the nearby Suncorp Stadium.
“The Barracks has always had something most precincts have to manufacture – genuine character, heritage fabric and a location that puts it at the heart of inner-city Brisbane,” she said.
“Our investment is about making sure the experience matches that potential. We want this to be the precinct that locals choose for their everyday and visitors seek out for something special.”
The precinct sits right by Suncorp Stadium, but Aware Real Estate CEO Tracey Whitby said she wanted people stopping by just as often if a game wasn’t on.
New dining and late-night events, such as live music, will be coming to the area – along with new laneways for easier access and navigation.
The 160 year-old precinct will see a reworked design over the coming years, which will include improved wayfinding and arrival areas, upgraded laneways and new outdoor spaces to sit and relax.
A revised lighting plan and reworked outer dining spaces will accompany event programming and live music, for shoppers and diners looking to stay after dark.
Many existing hotspots in The Barracks, such as the local Palace Cinema, will remain.
Meanwhile, new dining, retail and wellness options will be coming to the area, with new operators being sought for prime tenancies.
While existing hubs such as Coles, Palace Cinemas and other existing tenants will remain, Aware Real Estate is beginning a leasing campaign to bring in new operators for prime tenancies.
Ms Whitby, whose company just finished work on 145 Ann St in Brisbane, said the precinct would see new retail, wellness and dining spaces while staying true to a heritage-inspired design.
Changes will begin later this year and take place over the next few years, in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“The Barracks is one of Brisbane’s true heritage gems and this revitalisation program positions it for a strong future,” she said.
“Our track record demonstrates that our active, hands-on approach to maximising value delivers strong benefits not just to assets or our members, but the communities who live, work and play in these developments.”