Harbour Shores Named a Top 10 Finalist for Excellence in Sustainability in the 2026 Urban Developer Awards

World Leadership in Sustainability 

The finalist recognition reflects Harbour Shores’ standing as a 6-Star Green Star Communities development — the highest rating available, awarded by the Green Building Council of Australia, certifying World Leadership in sustainable development. 

At its core, Harbour Shores is a fully fossil-fuel-free precinct. Unlike conventional developments that rely on natural gas infrastructure, Lewis Land Group committed to 100% electric housing across the entire community — eliminating an estimated 1,602,808 kgCO₂-e in annual greenhouse gas emissions compared to a development of equivalent scale. 

A Blueprint for Sustainable Urban Living 

The sustainability credentials behind the finalist nomination span every aspect of the precinct’s design and delivery: 

• A 1,000kW solar photovoltaic system capable of generating 1,642,500kWh annually, reducing grid reliance and cutting peak electricity consumption by 34% 

• Two underground rainwater tanks capturing over 500,000 litres for on-site irrigation 

• Over 200,000 plants — the majority native — across 54% of the site dedicated to open space and landscaping 

• Low-emission concrete, recycled construction materials, and sustainable boardwalk timbers, with over 90% of construction waste diverted from landfill 

• Heat island mitigation through light-coloured roofs and native vegetation 

• Extensive pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, EV charging facilities, and accessible walkways to encourage sustainable transport 

High-performance appliances, smart metering, and energy-efficient glazing throughout all townhouses and apartments further reduce operational costs for residents — a tangible, day-to-day benefit of living in a community built to world-leading standards. 

Community at the Centre 

Sustainability at Harbour Shores extends beyond environmental metrics. By completion, Lewis Land will have invested over $12 million in community infrastructure, including a one-hectare public park, water play area, 500sqm of community gardens and orchard space, a gymnasium, pools, and a 1.2km sustainable timber public boardwalk — all privately owned and maintained for the benefit of residents and the broader public. 

The community’s focus on resident wellbeing is validated by its own buyers: a recent survey found that over 60% of people who enquired at Harbour Shores cited the development’s sustainability rating as a key reason for their interest. 

Setting the Benchmark 

Harbour Shores proves that going electric and achieving world-leading sustainability outcomes is not only possible — it’s repeatable at scale. The 2,000+ dwelling precinct serves as a replicable model for future residential communities across Australia, with Lewis Land already applying learnings from Harbour Shores across its broader portfolio. 

The Urban Developer Awards are judged by a panel of more than 30 independent experts drawn from property development, design, government, and technology. Judging commences following site inspections in June 2026. 

To learn more about life at Harbour Shores or to register your interest in available apartments and villas, submit an enquiry form on harbourshores.com.au or call 1800 870 554. The Sales Display is open 7 days, 9am–5pm, located within Harbour Town Shopping Centre, Biggera Waters.