Melbourne (Australia): creatives occupy vacant retail space

By collaborating with public and private sectors and engaging the local community, it is possible to transform underutilised structures into vibrant hubs. Through calls for proposals and temporary occupation schemes, projects can provide creative opportunities, supporting local businesses and fostering public interaction. Renew Newcastle, initially a government-backed initiative in New South Wales, expanded nationwide through Renew Australia, focusing on repurposing vacant waterfront spaces in places like Melbourne’s Docklands precinct. Administered by entities like the City of Melbourne, MAB Corporation, and Places Victoria, these initiatives align with broader waterfront revitalisation efforts, aiming to restructure and enliven Melbourne’s waterfront by 2025.

This good practice also includes objective 6.2 (integrating spaces and functions open to residents and visitors alike into port facilities, enhancing the visibility of the port and its activities) of the AIVP’s 2030 Agenda.