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Federal investment will support Built Living’s Neerabup manufacturing facility, designed to produce components for more than 2,000 apartments a year.
The Federal Government’s National Reconstruction Fund will invest $120 million in Built Living’s planned advanced manufacturing facility at Neerabup in Western Australia, adding substantial public backing to the Built–Wesfarmers joint venture. (main image: Built Living’s proposed precast manufacturing facility at Neerabup in Western Australia.)
The NRF is co-investing alongside Wesfarmers, which has announced a $100 million equity investment, while the Western Australian Government has committed a further $20 million grant and land. Construction of the pilot facility is expected to begin in the second half of 2026, with capacity to support production of more than 2,000 apartments annually once operational.
Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres said the investment was intended to build manufacturing capability as well as increase housing supply.
“Australia needs to build more homes, but we also need to build more capability. This project brings advanced manufacturing into the housing supply chain, lifting productivity and helping deliver more homes for Australians.
“That’s in our national interest. It means more skilled jobs and a stronger industrial base.”
Built Living was established earlier this year by Australian contractor and property group Built and Wesfarmers. Its model combines development, construction and manufacturing, using Design for Manufacture and Assembly methods and advanced production techniques for medium- and higher-density residential projects.
The Federal Government said the approach is expected to enable apartments to be delivered up to 20 per cent cheaper and up to 50 per cent faster than conventional construction.
Manufacturing tied to project pipeline
Speaking exclusively to Built Offsite when Built Living was announced in May, CEO Dale Connor said establishing a factory without control over demand was not the company’s strategy.
“You could build a factory and wait for orders,” Connor said. “We don’t see that as viable. What we’ve seen internationally is that success comes from having an end-to-end model.”
The initial system will focus on two-dimensional precast concrete components including floor slabs, wall panels, core elements and façade systems, with finishes and glazing incorporated during factory production. Built Living also intends to explore further DfMA elements including bathrooms, kitchens and services.
Federal Member for Perth Patrick Gorman said the investment would have benefits extending beyond additional housing supply.
“Investments like these have so many different benefits, which go to so many of the things my community has told me they care about; skills, jobs, housing and infrastructure.”
Connor has previously linked the manufacturing strategy directly to improving construction productivity and project feasibility.
“Time saving results in cost saving,” he said. “Offsite production reduces labour on site, reduces exposure to weather, and reduces the need for temporary works.”
The Neerabup facility is expected to create about 150 jobs during construction and a further 150 ongoing roles, including work in advanced manufacturing, robotics and automation.
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