The GPT Group Breaks Ground on $200M Rouse Hill Town Centre Expansion, Signalling Continued Growth and Investment in Western Sydney

The GPT Group (GPT) has commenced construction on the highly-anticipated expansion of Rouse Hill Town Centre (RHTC), marking a significant milestone in its long-term strategy to grow and evolve its retail assets in high-growth corridors.

The expansion of RHTC is set to deliver a diverse retail mix, reflecting the evolving new customer base, with over 50 new retail, dining and leisure options for the community to experience.

The milestone was marked today with a symbolic sod-turn ceremony at RHTC, attended by Hills Shire Council Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne, the Darug Custodian Aboriginal Corporation, alongside GPT’s CEO Russell Proutt and Head of Retail Chris Barnett, and representatives from construction partner ADCO and RHTC retail partners.

With Australian retail sales forecast to grow 3.3% p.a. per sqm over the next decade, GPT’s Chief Executive Officer, Russell Proutt emphasised the value of investing in high-performing assets.

“RHTC consistently delivers strong footfall, robust sales, and maintains low vacancy,” Mr. Proutt said.

“We’re seeing a resurgence in bricks-and-mortar retail, not just as a point of purchase, but as a vital driver of customer experience and a powerful contributor to online conversion. The modernisation of RHTC opens the door for more retailers to establish a physical presence while addressing the evolving needs of Sydney’s rapidly growing north-west corridor.”

The RHTC expansion will increase the centre’s footprint to over 80,000 sqm, introducing a revitalised Town Green, upgraded amenities, including end-of-trip facilities, and 200 additional parking spaces. The project is expected to create more than 300 construction jobs and over 400 new retail positions upon completion.

Speaking at the event, Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said it’s wonderful to see work commencing on the Rouse Hill Town Centre expansion.

“As one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions, The Hills Shire is expected to welcome nearly 329,000 residents by 2041—an incredible 71 per cent increase in just 15 years. To support this growth, we need to enhance our parks, sports fields, roadways, schools, and retail opportunities.

“Rouse Hill Town Centre is already a beloved hub for coffee, shopping, and dining. It hosts one of our libraries and has been the backdrop for memorable events like our Orange Blossom Festival parade and the FIFA Women’s World Cup, thanks to our partnership with the GPT Group.

“The expansion will ensure it continues to serve as a key gathering place for residents for years to come.”

Commenting on the significant milestone for the Centre, GPT’s Head of Development Retail, Anthony Iannuzzi, said: “Rouse Hill Town Centre has long been the jewel in the crown for the region, serving as the leading retail hub for an area undergoing significant growth and transformation.

“With our continued investment in the Centre’s modernisation and expansion, we’re strengthening its role as a key asset for a dynamic and evolving community”

ADCO’s Managing Director, Neil Harding, said: “We are proud to partner with GPT on the expansion of Rouse Hill Town Centre, an iconic project that reflects the energy and growth of Western Sydney.

At ADCO, we are committed to delivering high-quality, community-focused developments, and this milestone represents a shared vision to build not just great spaces, but lasting value for the region. We are excited to bring our expertise to a project that will enhance the retail, lifestyle, and social fabric of the Hills district.”

As Western Sydney is forecast to experience significant population growth—including a projected 30% increase in Rouse Hill and the Hills Shire over the next decade—the expansion of RHTC reinforces GPTs commitment to investing in high-potential regions and supporting the needs of growing communities.

Setting new benchmarks for retail

With limited new retail supply in the market, RHTC– jointly owned by The GPT Group and GPT Wholesale Shopping Centre Fund (GWSCF) –stands out as one of the few centres in the country undergoing redevelopment to meet growing demand, setting a new benchmark for retail developments in Australia.

GWSCF Fund Manager, David Sleet, said the strategy to future-proof the RHTC asset continues to strengthen its quality and performance: “GPT’s strategic investment in Rouse Hill Town Centre reflects our strong confidence in the economic resilience and growth potential of Western Sydney.

“Just as the Centre is outperforming the industry benchmark, the GWCSF is also exceeding market performance—driven by the high-quality assets within our portfolio and our ongoing efforts to future-proof it.”

Development works at RHTC are scheduled to span 18 months, with completion expected by late 2026.