Construction has officially commenced on a $243 million mixed-use project in the heart of the Sunshine Coast.
The Millwell Residences will consist of eight levels of residential apartments, ground-floor retail and a rooftop spa and wellness centre on level nine.
Located at 2 Millwell Road East, Maroochydore, the project by Habitat Development Group is in a high-profile position fronting Maroochy Boulevard and Plaza Parade, next to the Sunshine Plaza and Cornmeal Creek.
It is expected between 350 and 400 workers will be on site during the construction phase.
A sod-turning ceremony to mark the start of construction was held on Tuesday with Sunshine Coast mayor Rosanna Natoli and Habitat Development Group managing director Cleighton Clark.
“The broader Maroochydore CBD precinct and surrounds continue to grow rapidly so we’re very excited to be commencing construction of another landmark project in the area,” Mr Clark said.
“This will be our third project in the precinct after the successful completion of Market Lane Residences and The Corso Collection in the Maroochydore CBD.
“In my opinion, The Millwell Residences is arguably one of the best-located projects with respect to retail amenity given it’s directly opposite the Sunshine Plaza and easily walking distance to great shopping and cafes. It also has direct water frontage to Cornmeal Creek, providing a unique natural setting and aspect.”
The development features apartments with two, three, and four bedrooms, as well as luxury penthouses.
Residents will have access amenities including the Sunshine Coast’s first 25-metre rooftop infinity-edge pool, a communal residents’ dining room, a landscaped rooftop terrace, entertainment and recreation zones, a private rooftop dining room, a lounge and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. The rooftop spa and wellness centre will be independently operated.
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Mr Clark said more than 60 per cent of Stage 1 had already been sold, with prices ranging from $900,000 to more than $3.6 million for a penthouse apartment.
“We’ve been building on the Sunshine Coast for the past 20 years and have witnessed property in the region go from strength to strength,” he said.
“Rental vacancy rates continue to be extremely low – around 1 per cent or lower – and Maroochydore is consistently below those of other regional and metropolitan areas in South-East Queensland.
“We currently have two projects under construction – The Millwell here in Maroochydore and one in Birtinya, St Clair on Lake Kawana. These projects have all proven to be hugely appealing to both owner occupiers and investors alike and we are expecting the current high levels of market interest to follow through to The Millwell.”
Cr Natoli said the launch of The Millwell aligned with the council’s Corporate Plan 2025-30, which commenced on July 1.
“Our new Corporate Plan is built around the bold vision of being Australia’s most sustainable region, a region that is connected, liveable and thriving,” she said.
“We are committed to creating a well-connected Sunshine Coast that supports our people through integrated transport, green neighbourhoods and liveable, people-centred design.
“The Millwell reflects these principles, delivering a development that strengthens the urban fabric of Maroochydore through creating a community that is connected, has great lifestyle and is thriving in an economic, social and cultural way.
“We are focused on fostering a high-quality lifestyle for all residents, where people feel well, connected, and inspired by world-class art, music, sport and leisure experiences.
“The Sunshine Coast is preparing to share the global stage in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to boost local infrastructure, innovation, and investment.
“In just seven years, we will look back at this moment and reflect on the incredible change within the Maroochydore CBD – just imagine what this space will look like for the residents living here.
“Importantly, our goal is to ensure the benefits of the Games are felt well beyond the main event, creating lasting value for our community through improved connectivity, economic strength, and enhanced liveability.”
The Millwell is due for completion mid-2027.
