YourLand Developments has officially marked the start of construction on Acclaim, its 1080-lot masterplanned community in Donnybrook, with a sod-turning ceremony held today on site alongside Lauren Kathage MP, Member for Yan Yean, and Cr Christine Stow, Councillor for North Ward. Bild Group has been appointed as the civil contractor to deliver the first stage of works.
The milestone marks the next stage of growth in Melbourne’s north, with Acclaim now moving into construction on critical works including new roads, upgraded intersections and essential civil infrastructure to support thousands of future residents and improve local connectivity.
Located in Donnybrook, Acclaim is a large-scale residential community that will deliver 1080 new homes alongside substantial public infrastructure investment, helping to meet the growing demand for housing in Melbourne’s outer north while ensuring the area is supported by safe, well-planned transport and services. Planned amenities include a prep to year 12 government school, a local shopping village, community centre, sports reserve, playgrounds and open spaces, as well as shared walking and cycling links that will support everyday liveability.
Home to just 2,100 people in 2021, it is estimated that Donnybrook’s population will grow to more than 25,000 people by 2031, largely driven by young families and first-home buyers.
Andrew Jones, Head of Development – Communities at YourLand, said the sod turn represents a major step forward not just for Acclaim, but for the wider Donnybrook precinct. “This is a significant milestone for Acclaim and for Donnybrook. Construction starting means we can now deliver the infrastructure that underpins a well-functioning community, from new roads and intersections through to essential services that benefit both future residents and the broader area.
“This project reflects our commitment to unlocking much-needed housing supply while delivering the infrastructure required to support long-term growth in Donnybrook,” said Mr Jones.
Project capital partner NTT Urban Development Australia Pty Ltd, the Australian real estate investment arm of global technology services company NTT Group, was also in attendance.
Hideaki Matsuo, Director of NTT Urban Development Australia Pty Ltd, said the company was proud to support the delivery of Acclaim as part of its commitment to sustainable urban development in Victoria.
“Acclaim reflects our focus on backing well-planned communities that deliver long-term value for residents and the broader public. We are pleased to partner with YourLand to help bring this new community in Donnybrook to life,” Mr Matsuo said.
The project includes the delivery of a new road network and intersection upgrades, designed to improve traffic flow, safety and access for the surrounding community as Donnybrook continues to grow.
Lauren Kathage MP, Member for Yan Yean said the project reflects the State Government’s commitment to supporting housing delivery alongside critical infrastructure.
“Projects like Acclaim are exactly what growing communities like Donnybrook need. This development will deliver new homes while also investing in the roads and infrastructure that make neighbourhoods work.
“By working closely with developers and councils, we are helping to ensure new communities are well planned, well connected and supported from day one,” Ms Kathage said.
Once complete, Acclaim will represent a $800m investment and is expected to generate approximately 3,700 jobs over its lifespan.
Civil works on Stage 1A are now underway, marking the first visible step in the transformation of the Acclaim site into a connected, liveable community in Melbourne’s north. Once complete, Acclaim will be home to approximately 3240 residents.
For more information or to register for upcoming releases, visit acclaimdonnybrook.com.au.


