Australia’s oldest privately held property developer, Lewis Land, is entering the growing land lease community sector, securing development approval for its first over-55s project in Port Macquarie, New South Wales.
The 135-dwelling Sovereign Rise will form part of the group’s Sovereign Hills masterplanned community in Thrumster, which already includes a vibrant town centre, school, childcare facilities and more than 2,500 residents.
Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the company’s expansion into land lease communities was a natural progression for its mixed-use portfolio, which includes masterplanned communities, retail and leisure assets along the east coast.
“The inclusion of a premium over-55s lifestyle estate adds diversity and choice within Sovereign Hills to cater to the growing number of downsizers in the region who want to retire close to family and social networks,” Mr Long said.
Designed by BDA Architecture, Sovereign Rise aims to set a new benchmark for over-55s living, featuring larger lot sizes, boulevard-style streets, lush landscaping and a mix of two- and three-bedroom homes. The community will include premium lifestyle and wellness facilities such as a resort-style pool, bowling green, pickleball courts, gym, sauna, cinema and library.
“Lewis Land is 68 years old – that’s a similar age to many of the people who will call Sovereign Rise home…We’ve drawn on that history to create open, green and connected communities designed for healthy, social and active lifestyles.”
Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long
Demand for over-55s housing in Port Macquarie is strong, with 43% of residents aged 55 and over, compared to 29.5% nationally, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Land lease communities are increasingly popular among retirees, offering lower entry costs, no stamp duty, and the ability to retain capital gains, making them an attractive and flexible downsizing option.
Sales and construction for Sovereign Rise will commence in early 2026, with stage one delivering 60 homes and the central clubhouse and recreation amenities.
