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Orana in the Spotlight: Leading Australia’s Shift to Greener, Cooler Communities
Orana is gaining national attention as a benchmark for the future of Australian living, following recent coverage by ABC news highlighting how the community is redefining suburban design through a pioneering “tree-first” philosophy.
Orana has been carefully planned so that nature is embedded from the ground up rather than added as an afterthought. This approach is already visible across the estate, where thousands of established and young trees are shaping a greener landscape and setting a new standard for growth communities.
A Tree-First Approach to Community Design
Unlike traditional developments, Orana prioritises canopy coverage as essential infrastructure. The community is targeting more than 30% tree canopy across public spaces, far exceeding typical benchmarks for new suburbs.
Every residential lot includes at least two trees, ensuring residents benefit from greenery at their doorstep. To support long-term success, specialised soils, irrigation support and dedicated root zones are integrated into construction and landscaping works.
More than 2,700 trees have already been planted, with many more scheduled in upcoming stages.
Why Tree Canopy Matters
Increasing urban greenery is about far more than visual appeal. Research shows shaded neighbourhoods can feel significantly cooler than areas with minimal canopy, helping counteract the urban heat island effect. For residents, this means:
- Cooler streets in summer
- More comfortable walking and cycling routes
- Increased biodiversity and birdlife
- Improved wellbeing and connection to nature
Green corridors and landscaped pathways also strengthen social connection, encouraging outdoor activity and neighbour interaction.
Setting a New Benchmark for Growth Areas
As the largest masterplanned community in the south-east growth corridor, Orana’s environmental initiatives have an impact beyond its boundaries. The scale of tree planting and landscape planning contributes positively to local ecology across the wider municipality.
Future stages will continue to be planned around existing natural features wherever possible, preserving habitats and strengthening biodiversity while delivering new homes.
Looking Ahead
With another 1,000 trees planned for planting in the coming year, Orana’s vision remains clear: to create a community that is greener, healthier and more connected with every stage of growth.
Orana isn’t just building homes — it’s cultivating a living landscape designed to thrive for generations.
