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First 3D-printed social housing in NSW begins in Dubbo with Contour3D.
Construction has commenced on New South Wales’ first 3D-printed social housing development, an initiative by Contour3D in collaboration with the Minns Labor Government. Located in Dubbo, this project aims to address the state’s social housing needs by delivering homes more swiftly and cost-effectively. The development includes two-bedroom duplexes designated for Aboriginal social housing tenants and is projected to halve the build time compared to traditional methods. (main pic: Contour3D set to print social housing in Dubbo.)
The project is a result of the partnership between Indigenous company Aboriginal Sustainable Homes (ASH) and Contour3D, using Contourcrete, a custom 3D-printable concrete mix designed for durability and sustainability. The initial 3D-printed structure is expected to take just 16 days to complete, after which the roof and interior fit-outs will follow. With completion targeted for February 2025, the project signals a new approach to social housing construction in the state.
NSW Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson commented, “It’s very exciting that construction is now underway on the first 3D-printed social housing properties in the state, and I have high hopes that this approach can be replicated at scale. The Minns Labor Government is using out-of-the-box thinking and exploring every option to build more social and affordable homes faster, especially in our regional and remote areas where people are crying out for assistance.”
The Dubbo Regional Council has approved the project, which is estimated to be completed within 16 weeks—significantly faster than the approximate 40 weeks required by conventional building methods. Shayne Jessiman of Contour3D noted, “We are honoured to be partnering with the NSW Government and ASH Group to deliver these 3D-printed homes. We are excited to watch the build unfold and look forward to working closely with the Government on future projects using modern methods of construction.”
Watch a timelapse video of a Contour3D printed house.
The NSW Government hopes that this success will encourage further use of 3D-printing technology in social housing developments across the state. Hon. Stephen Lawrence, MLC, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s fantastic to see this innovative approach coming to Dubbo in a sensible way. 3D-printed technology can help us build some structures, including homes, faster and more sustainably. The key is using these sorts of new technologies when appropriate.”
As housing demand intensifies, especially in regional and remote areas, this project reflects an evolving approach to social housing solutions. “People are excited to see this project come to life over the coming weeks,” Lawrence added, “and by early next year, we will have delivered modern 3D-printed homes to local Aboriginal social tenants.”
See: Countour3D
